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McGrath had a scheduled <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-umina+beach-130068382" target="_blank">Umina Beach auction</a> last weekend.
There was a price guide of between $750,000 and $825,000.
It is now for sale with the same price guide.
The Umina Beach home sparked summer interest appearing on the realestate.com.au report as the second most popular searched auction property in Australia.
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The newly renovated property at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-umina+beach-130068382">97 Greenhaven Drive </a>when the vendors purchased the four-bedroom property as an original 1970s red brick home.
Most of the limited weekend auction stock was at coastal localities around Australia.
Through in Brisbane, a Carseldine home - marketed as "make no mistake, this property WILL be SOLD" - was passed in at $750,000.
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<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/1/14/Unima%20drive%202.JPG" alt="">
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-carseldine-130091778" target="_blank">51 Dannenberg Street</a> homes (pictured above) attracted two bidders for it's 700 sqm.
The five bedroom, four bathroom home last sold at $275,000 in 2006.
This weekend sees a home close to the surf at Peregian Beach for auction.
Agent Kerry Glover of North Shore Realty described Lorikeet Drive as arguably one of Peregian’s most prestigious addresses.
It was being offered as perfect for renovation.
There is also an investment block in Mission Beach.
The 21-23 Porter Promenade offering consists of four apartments made up of two titles listed through Dick Williams of Ray White Mission Beach.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Coastal auctions dominate limited January weekend offerings

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GUEST OBSERVATION
The saga of <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-01-15/opal-tower-needs-significant-rectifiaction-work-report-finds/10713054" target="_blank">Opal Tower</a>, the 36-storey Sydney apartment building evacuated on Christmas Eve after frightening cracking, has helped to expose the deep cracks in Australia’s approach to building apartments.
An <a href="https://www.planning.nsw.gov.au/-/media/Files/DPE/Reports/Opal-Tower-Investigation-Draft-Interim-Report-2019-01-15.pdf" target="_blank">interim engineering assessment</a> <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-01-15/opal-tower-needs-significant-rectifiaction-work-report-finds/10713054" target="_blank">released yesterday</a> indicates concrete panels cracked due to their manufacture and assembly deviating from the original design. Though the building is structurally sound and in no danger of collapse, repairing the faults will be costly, slow and disruptive to residents.
The tower’s size, age (it is less than six months old) and the timing of its cracks might have made it particularly newsworthy, but badly built apartment blocks are far from unusual. Right now across Australia’s cities many buildings have significant leaks, cracks and fire safety failings.
So we can’t just address faults in individual developments. We need to identify the systemic flaws in how “compact city” policies have been planned and implemented.
Cracks in the compact city
The consequences of these flaws increasingly affect us all.
As the population of Australia’s capital cities grows, <a href="http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/Lookup/by%20Subject/2071.0%7E2016%7EMain%20Features%7EApartment%20Living%7E20" target="_blank">more of us are living in apartments</a>. Governments have been promoting greater housing density as an alternative to sprawl <a href="https://theconversation.com/density-sprawl-growth-how-australian-cities-have-changed-in-the-last-30-years-65870" target="_blank">for decades</a>. But they haven’t always ensured this density has been done well, including in terms of building quality.
In the aftermath of the Opal Tower saga, experts have pointed to <a href="https://theconversation.com/there-are-lessons-to-be-drawn-from-the-cracks-that-appeared-in-sydneys-opal-tower-but-they-extend-beyond-building-certification-109428" target="_blank">many reasons</a> why building defects can occur.
These include the fact that developers owe buyers few legal obligations once the apartments are sold, which limits their risk if they get things wrong. There are also significant market pressures, particularly in boom times, to build quickly and cheaply. And there are gaps in how the construction process is overseen, meaning errors go unnoticed.
These are not new observations, but getting regulations in place to address them has proven challenging. A case in point is NSW’s new defects bond, requiring developers to put aside 2% of the building value to fix defects down the track. The bond’s introduction was <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/news/nsw-government-delays-introduction-of-defect-bond-system-to-rectify-building-faults-20170611-gwo6hb/" target="_blank">delayed for years</a>, and it will be a few more years yet before we know if it works.
Scoping the problem
So just how severe is the situation? Right now, we don’t know for sure.
In 2012 a City Futures Research Centre <a href="https://cityfutures.be.unsw.edu.au/research/projects/governing-the-compact-city-the-role-and-effectiveness-of-strata-management-in-higher-density-residential-developments/" target="_blank">project</a> surveyed apartment owners in NSW. Out of more than 1,000 respondents, 72% knew of defects in their strata-title complex. Among those whose apartments had been built since 2000, the percentage was 85%.
That project only looked at building defects as one of a number of issues facing apartment owners, however, so it didn’t document the issue in detail.
Our new <a href="https://cityfutures.be.unsw.edu.au/research/defects-strata" target="_blank">research project</a> will examine just how prevalent building defects are, the reasons they occur, and how strata-titled housing can be improved.
While the research will focus on Sydney, we hope it is a step towards changing planning and development policies to ensure better quality apartment buildings nation-wide.
Increasing inequality
A system allowing defective apartment buildings not only creates huge financial and emotional stress for residents but much wider economic and social risks.
Poor building practices undermine confidence in the <a href="https://cdn.aigroup.com.au/Economic_Indicators/Construction_Survey/2018/construction_outlook_Nov2018.pdf" target="_blank">multibillion-dollar construction industry</a>, the <a href="https://cityfutures.be.unsw.edu.au/research/projects/national-strata-data-analysis/" target="_blank">strata management industry</a> and in the planning system.
They also contribute to <a href="https://theconversation.com/this-is-why-apartment-living-is-different-for-the-poor-82069" target="_blank">inequality</a>. This is because apartment residents are <a href="https://cityfutures.be.unsw.edu.au/research/projects/national-strata-data-analysis/" target="_blank">more likely</a> to be younger, renting, on lower incomes, and from non-English speaking backgrounds.
Amid growing concerns about the widening gap between housing “haves” and “have nots”, there is <a href="https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/labor-promises-a-6-6-billion-housing-boom-to-bring-down-rents-20181215-p50mi9" target="_blank">renewed political interest</a> in housing policy. Certainly this is a crucial issue for governments to tackle, but it goes beyond a focus on housing supply and prices. Addressing quality must also be a priority.
At the same time, we also need to step back and reconsider how we do compact-city planning <a href="https://cityfutures.be.unsw.edu.au/research/projects/planning-in-a-market-economy/" target="_blank">more broadly</a> - including the roles governments and the private market play. With <a href="http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/lookup/Media%20Release10" target="_blank">two-thirds</a> of us now calling our biggest cities home, we need to have a serious public conversation about what we want our cities to be and how we can best achieve those goals.
We can’t afford to ignore the growing evidence that our cities are cracking under the strain. Because like the Opal Tower owners, we’re all going to bear the cost when things go wrong, and we’ll all have to live amid the wreckage.<img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/109722/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1">
Authors: <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/laura-crommelin-15376">Laura Crommelin</a>, Research Lecturer, City Futures Research Centre, <a href="http://theconversation.com/institutions/unsw-1414" target="_blank">UNSW</a>; Bill Randolph, Director, City Futures Research Centre, Faculty of the Built Environment, UNSW; Hazel Easthope, Associate Professor, City Futures Research Centre, UNSW, and Martin Loosemore, Professor, Construction Management Program, Built Environment, UNSW
This article is republished from <a href="http://theconversation.com" target="_blank">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/the-big-lesson-from-opal-tower-is-that-badly-built-apartments-arent-only-an-issue-for-residents-109722" target="_blank">original article</a>.
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The big lesson from Opal Tower is that badly built apartments aren’t only an issue for residents

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Ray White have their big January 2019 auction, The Event scheduled for January 28.
Around 100 offerings are set to go under the hammer.
<a href="http://theauctionevent.com.au/" target="_blank">The Event</a> has been going for 24 years.
"This year’s could be the most interesting so far,” says Andrew Bell, chief executive officer of Ray White Surfers Paradise Group.
The Ray White Surfers Paradise Group is gearing up for its big annual auction program which is set to cap off the busy Australia Day long weekend on the Gold Coast.
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<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/1/18/Surfers%20apt%202.JPG" alt="">
One property being taken to The Event is <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.rwsp.net/properties/residential-for-sale/qld/broadbeach-4218/apartment/2019205" target="_blank">610/22 Surf Parade, Broadbeach</a> (pictured above), a two bedroom two bathroom apartment with city and hinterland views.
With 93 sqm the unit has an estimated weekly rental income of $468 per week and outgoings for body corporate at $5,970 per year, GCCC rates: $3,570 per year and GCCC Water at $1,775 per year.
The home was last sold in 2006 for $485,000.
The property was listed for 675 days from 2013 to 2015 listed AT $249,000.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/1/18/Surfers%20apt%201.JPG" alt="">
Another property being taken to auction is <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.rwsp.net/properties/residential-for-sale/qld/surfers-paradise-4217/apartment/2024000" target="_blank">109/1-8 Paradise Island Drive, Surfers Paradise</a> (pictured above), a one bedroom one bathroom unit being taken to auction.
With an estimated weekly rental return of $360 to $390 per week, the apartment's outgoings are body corporate of approximately $95.00 per week, council rates of approximately $59 per week and water of approximately $27 per week.
Located within easy reach Surfers Paradise beaches and the entertainment precint the listing notes that the owner is "extremely motivated and will even sell prior to auction."
Bell expects 2019 to be a pivotal year for the property market due to a looming federal election.
“We’ve taken a different approach to The Event next year for a number of reasons,” said Ray White Surfers Paradise (RWSP) CEO Andrew Bell.
“As always, sellers will still be taking advantage of the peak holiday season on Gold Coast,” he said.
“January remains our best month for tourism, and with more accommodation coming onto the market we’re expecting record numbers again next year accompanied by another strong buying season.
“We’re holding The Event on a Monday for the first time, taking advantage of the full long weekend to give prospective buyers more time to view properties ahead of the auction.”
“Inquiries traditionally are up 60 per cent during January and we’re expecting this year to be no different.
“However, next year’s program will be even more important from an investor’s perspective, especially with changes to property rules expected under a potential new government.
“We know from history that elections tend to distract the market anyway, but this time around there is the added uncertainty over the future of negative gearing on established properties should Labor win the election.
“Combined with the interest we are expecting from our traditional visitors to the Coast, this provides a compelling reason for many property owners to sell in January.
“We have no doubt that investors who depend on the negative gearing rules that exist today also will be looking closely at established properties.
“We’re expecting more buyers to take advantage of the proposed grandfathering provisions for negative gearing of established properties ahead of any official changes to the regulations.”
The Event, run in conjunction with the Gold Coast Home &amp; Living Expo, is being held at RACV Royal Pines Resort on January 28 from 10am.
 Last year's auctions eventually led to the sale of 108 properties, following over 3 million online property views, 2500-plus registered property inspections and more than 170 registered bidders on the day.
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Ray White's The Event auction anticipates pre-election investor spike for Surfers Paradise 

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Mortgage brokers settled 59 per cent of residential home loans in the 2018 September quarter, which was up from 53 per cent in the same quarter of 2017.
The escalating credit crunch implemented by the big banks in the wake of the banking royal commission triggered the largest year-on-year increase for any quarter over the last four years. 
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The data from CoreLogic also revealed that settled broker volumes slipped between the September 2017 and September 2018 quarters from $51.77 billion to $50.19 billion, a three per cent fall.
Mortgage brokers provide their potential clients access to a panel of 34 lenders on average.
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The new statistics reporting a sharp rise in broker market share came from the research group Comparator, a CoreLogic business.
Deloitte Access Economics issued a report last July which said the industry employed an estimated 22,215 people, which included 14,230 active brokers and 7,985 support staff.
Mortgage brokers, on average, have 13.8 years of experience in the industry.
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Australian mortgage brokers are settling 59 per cent of residential home loans

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Quade Cooper and Laura Dundovic’s renovated Brisbane house has been given a $2.65 million price tag after failing to sell at its late 2018 auction. 
The rugby star and former Miss Universe Australia listed the near riverfront Bulimba house in November following Cooper’s signing to the Melbourne Rebels. 
Ray White has listed the 446 sqm property for $2.65 million.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/1/17/COOPER4.jpg" alt="">
Cooper bought the property for $1.845 million in 2015. 
In 2017 the celebrity couple commissioned Graya Construction to give the property a facelift.
The property has four bedrooms, three bathrooms, a pool and a 12m marina berth on the Brisbane River.
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Rugby star Quade Cooper's luxury Bulimba home gets asking price

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A colonial era school property at Bandon Grove in the Dundog district of New South Wales has been listed for sale. 
Dating back to 1882, Bandon Grove public school and teacher's house have been converted and renovated since it last traded for $652,000 in 2014.
Accommodation consists of the four bedroom school house and a bunk house.
The double brick home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-bandon+grove-130118818" target="_blank">1230 Chichester Dam Road</a> has formal and informal living areas and a commercial gourmet kitchen in the original school hall. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/1/14/BANDON%20GROVE%202.jpg" alt=""> Other features including a tennis court, charming sleeping quarters, and a five-bay shed made from local ironbark timber on its near 8,000 sqm land parcel. Accommodation consists of the four bedroom schoolhouse as well as a bunkhouse capable of sleeping up to 15 people.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/1/14/BANDON%20GROVE%203.jpg" alt="">
Bandon Grove School House is situated 15 minutes north of Dungog, and one hour from Newcastle airport.
Offers are due January 25 through Ray White Rural Lifestyle Sydney agent Scott Hunter.
Currently used as a weekender and Airbnb accommodation, its estimated return is $1400 to $1500 per weekend or $40,000 to $50,000 per year.
 
 
 
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Bandon Grove schoolhouse listed with $50,000 annual accomodation prospect

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A three bedroom Huntfield Heights home in South Australia has been listed by its mortgagee.
The home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-sa-huntfield+heights-130189546" target="_blank">10 Auldstone Place</a> in the AV Jennings estate has an asking price of $419,000.
Set on 829 sqm the house features ducted R/C cooling and two garage spaces.
The three bedroom two bathroom home is situated within 2 km of numerous schools.
Last sold in 2013, the home fetched $125,000 a $25,000 increase on its 2010 vacant lot sale price.
The median price for a home in <a href="/developments/huntfield-heights-sa-5163">Huntfield Heights</a> is $282,750, according to CoreLogic data.
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Three bedroom Huntfield Heights, SA home listed by its mortgagee

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De Bortoli Wines has acquired the Rutherglen Estates vineyards, winery and tourism facility in Victoria.
The purchase takes De Bortoli’s total Victorian vineyard holdings to 820 hectares, with 700 ha bearing fruit and 120 ha being in development.
The acquisition is part of its growth strategy.
The 185 hectare Rutherglen purchase was from its Hong Kong owner, Eternity International Enterprise Holdings.
The Rutherglen vineyard purchase complements the family’s existing premium Victorian vineyard holdings in the Yarra Valley, King Valley and Heathcote wine regions.
Rutherglen Estates provides De Bortoli Wines with a third winemaking facility in addition to the business’ Riverina and Yarra Valley sites.
The De Bortoli family anticipates that premium quality Victorian red wine with density, freshness and interest will increasingly be in high demand domestically and internationally.
The family said it estimates that its Victorian vineyards will produce over seven million bottles of wine by 2025 as it looks to make the most of the "premiumisation trend" which is key part of the Australian market.
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De Bortoli Wines acquires the Rutherglen Estates vineyards

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A Melbourne woman has faced court accused of passing herself off as a conveyancer to transfer property into her own name.
Marina Loprese, 56, is charged with 159 offences dating from 2015, including allegations she stole the title to a $2 million Black Rock property and made and used false documents to transfer it into her name.
The Derrimut woman's case came before Melbourne Magistrates' Court today, is also accused of making false documents including bank statements and lease agreements to obtain false mortgages from AET Corporate Trust and Advantage Financial Services.
Between March 2016 and May last year Loprese dishonestly obtained $1.526 million by deception, police allege.
It's alleged she falsely lodged exemptions with Victoria's State Revenue Office in the name of multiple conveyancing clients, allowing her to keep money paid to her by clients who intended the funds to cover the stamp duty on land transfers.
The consumer watchdog issued a public warning about Loprese, who also allegedly used the names Marina Dawson and Marina Dankovic, operating under the name Marina's Conveyancing.
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Alleged conveyancer Marina Loprese alleged to have stolen title to $2 million Black Rock property

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A Jan Juc property listed with a $5.25 million to $5.75 million price guide has been sold.
“It is a new record by over $1 million,” Great Ocean Properties agent Marty Maher said.
It was listed last November by vendors who've been there since the mid 1980s.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/1/16/JAN2.jpg" alt="">
The prior record in Jan Juc was $4.25 million for 8 Rip View Close last year.
The local paper, The Geelong Advertiser indicated <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-jan+juc-129974434" target="_blank">the buyers were trading up locally</a>.
The 4901 sqm property has a four-bedroom early 1990s-built house, that looks like it was inspired by sails.
A gate joins the Surf Coast Walk and a path that leads down to the water. It is also walking distance to shops and cafes.
The expansive property gives the option to add a swimming pool.
 
 
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Jan Juc record price set by house inspired by sails

The long-awaited redevelopment of the former Eastlakes Shopping Centre site has reached a major milestone, with Conquest's plans for a new mixed-use precinct officially placed on public exhibition.

The State Significant Development Application would transform the 1.7-hectare site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/19a-evans-avenue-eastlakes-nsw-2018">19A Evans Avenue</a> into one of Sydney's largest urban renewal projects, delivering 736 apartments above a new shopping centre anchored by Woolworths, alongside specialty retail, dining, commercial space and new public open spaces.

The public exhibition marks the next chapter for the project after <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/conquest">Conquest</a> acquired the stalled Stage Two development from Crown Group, who completed the first stage across the road prior to their voluntary liquidation.

<img alt="First look: Conquest unveils plans for 736-home Eastlakes Shopping Centre redevelopment" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5fca22c5-d1ed-4e2c-8801-03f7df1eafc8" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/eastland%20podium.png?VersionId=uomwr41nF8CmLUZRDcu3mHQechlbxucS" />

&nbsp;

Designed by DKO Architecture, the proposal comprises four residential buildings ranging from 14 to 18 storeys above a two-level retail podium. The development would deliver 736 apartments, including 74 affordable homes, 215 Build-to-Rent apartments and 521 market residences. Provision has also been made for dual-key apartments, which could increase the total number of dwellings to 877.

At ground level, the shopping centre has been designed as the suburb's new meeting place, anchored by a full-line Woolworths and complemented by a curated mix of fresh food retailers, cafés, restaurants, health services and everyday convenience shopping. Generous pedestrian links and landscaped public spaces will connect the retail precinct through to Jack Mundey Reserve, creating a more walkable and connected neighbourhood.

Conquest CEO Michael Akkawi said the redevelopment was about far more than replacing a shopping centre.

"Eastlakes has been overlooked for too long, and this is the community’s moment. We are building a shopping centre and homes, a genuine heart for the suburb, and we genuinely want locals to help shape it."

"We enrich communities through the creation of homes, places, and experiences designed for life, built to last, and owner for generations. That starts with listening, so we warmly encourage everyone with a connection to Eastlakes to view the plans and share their thoughts."

<img alt="First look: Conquest unveils plans for 736-home Eastlakes Shopping Centre redevelopment" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="22f6fb20-54fb-4bd7-8a92-48fafdd00608" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/eastland.png?VersionId=cugp7s9hrMHGJJdYzkeAkrFoQgnF4GXf" />

DKO said the design had been shaped by the site's landscape setting and surrounding open space.

"Our vision for the site embraces its unique Bidjigal identity by blending the residential living with generous landscaping and a material palette inspired by the Bidjigal locality, and celebrating the panoramic views to Botany Bay and the wetlands reserves."

"Taking cues from Country, we seek to harmonise built form with the landscape and lightly touch the earth. By reconnecting, retaining and regenerating existing ecology, and weaving in natural elements, we can deepen our connection to Country."

The landscape strategy extends across the podium and rooftops, incorporating communal gardens, children's play areas, lawns, community gardens, family gathering spaces and extensive tree planting. New landscaped links will also strengthen the connection between the precinct and Jack Mundey Reserve, while publicly accessible open spaces have been integrated throughout the development.

The proposal builds on Conquest's broader placemaking strategy for the site. Through an ongoing partnership, local artist Joe Rashbrook has been appointed Urban Art Curator, working alongside young residents to transform the project's site hoardings into a public art gallery that allows the community to engage with the redevelopment before construction is complete.

Conquest has rapidly expanded its development pipeline since acquiring the Eastlakes site, with more than $6 billion worth of mixed-use projects now in planning across Sydney, including Stanmore, Castlecrag and Waterloo.

Conquest CEO Michael Akkawi said the redevelopment was about far more than replacing a shopping centre.

Joel Robinson

First look: ‘Far more than replacing a shopping centre’ as Conquest unveils 736-home Eastlakes redevelopment

Abadeen has lodged a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for one of Mosman's largest apartment developments in recent years, seeking approval to transform the former Honeysuckle Garden and Midas site on Military Road into a 100-apartment mixed-use development.

The SSDA, lodged with investment partner Phoenix Property Investors, proposes around $230 million worth of new housing on the prominent <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/494-516-military-road-mosman-nsw-2088">494-516 Military Road</a> site.

The proposal comes as Mosman Council continues to progress its recently endorsed Masterplan, which identifies the precinct for increased housing density while maintaining the suburb's established character.

Designed by DKO Architecture, the development would comprise 100 apartments above ground-floor retail, with a rooftop wellness precinct including a gym, sauna, entertaining areas and landscaped communal spaces.

Rather than pushing to the full 12-storey height identified in Council's Masterplan, the proposal ranges between five and nine storeys, stepping down towards Hale Road. A tenth level would accommodate resident amenities rather than additional apartments.

The project has been designed to appeal to a broad range of buyers, from first home buyers and young professionals through to families and local downsizers looking to remain on the Lower North Shore.

<img alt="Mosman" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5dada03f-5b4c-43ba-ba62-2868add31440" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-27%20at%209.57.55%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=7LBy0B.Jo8_iWAFJsClcV7Q3UnXrv49r" />

Abadeen Executive Chairman Justin Brown said the apartments had been designed as genuine long-term homes rather than investor-focused stock.

"The apartments have been designed as genuine long-term homes, with efficient floorplans that maximise usable living areas, generous storage, natural light and strong connections between indoor and outdoor spaces," Brown says."

"We've focused on creating homes for a broad range of buyers, from first home buyers and growing families through to downsizers who want to remain in Mosman."

The rooftop wellness offering forms a key part of the proposal, with residents set to have access to a gym, sauna, outdoor entertaining spaces, communal dining areas, landscaped gardens and a multi-use recreation court overlooking Sydney Harbour.

<img alt="Mosman" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d37c2d6b-583a-4a0f-b7a9-9f46b893d2f4" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-27%20at%209.58.06%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=FPoa5FCm2RtzjhAh2w5FTWJbV6GHfY8D" />

DKO drew heavily on the site's natural and cultural history, undertaking a Connecting with Country process with local Aboriginal Elders to inform the architectural and landscape design.

Senior Associate Matthew Ritchard said the design sought to create a building that responded to both the site's landscape and its cultural significance.

"The architectural language of the project is a deep expression of Connecting with Country, where the materiality and colour palette serve as a bridge between the site's geological history and its future as a residential sanctuary."

The proposal also retains the site's established blue gum tree as the centrepiece of the communal landscaped gardens, while introducing activated retail fronting Military Road to strengthen the connection between Mosman and Cremorne villages.

If approved, the project would deliver 100 new homes within walking distance of shops, public transport, schools and local amenities, adding to the limited pipeline of new apartments on the Lower North Shore.

<h2>Project Snapshot</h2>

Project: Honeysuckle Garden Redevelopment

Address: 494-516 Military Road, Mosman

Developer: Abadeen and Phoenix Property Investors

Architect: DKO Architecture

Lead Architect: Matthew Ritchard

Value: $230 million

Residences: 100 apartments

Key features:

<ul>
	<li>
	Ground-floor retail
	</li>
	<li>
	Rooftop wellness precinct
	</li>
	<li>
	Gym and sauna
	</li>
	<li>
	Outdoor entertaining and BBQ areas
	</li>
	<li>
	Landscaped communal gardens
	</li>
	<li>
	Multi-use recreation court
	</li>
	<li>
	Retained mature blue gum tree
	</li>
	<li>
	Connecting with Country design process
	</li>
	<li>
	Harbour, CBD and Balmoral views from upper-level apartments
	</li>
</ul>

Abadeen Executive Chairman Justin Brown said the apartments had been designed as genuine long-term homes rather than investor-focused stock

First look: Abadeen plans 100 apartments on former Honeysuckle Garden site in Mosman

The wave of apartment proposals sweeping through Mosman shows no signs of slowing, with another major residential development lodged through the NSW Government's State Significant Development pathway.

Developer First Quadrant Properties, which recently completed Willoughby Grounds and has several projects in planning across the North Shore, has unveiled plans for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/cove-on-ourimbah-40-56-ourimbah-road-mosman-nsw-2088">Cove on Ourimbah</a>, a 63-apartment development on Ourimbah Road, adding to the growing pipeline of projects reshaping one of Sydney's most tightly held harbour suburbs.

The proposal would consolidate nine properties at 40-56 Ourimbah Road into a part eight, part nine-storey apartment building, continuing the momentum created by the NSW Government's accelerated planning pathways that have seen several significant developments emerge across Mosman over the past 12 months.

Designed by Doroch Architects, the project would deliver 63 apartments, resident wellness facilities including a gym, pool and sauna, landscaped communal spaces and basement parking, while using recessed upper levels, generous setbacks and extensive planting to reduce the perceived scale of the building.

<img alt="First look: First Quadrant Properties eyes nine-storey Mosman apartment project under State Significant pathway" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="32ee68e4-141e-4a10-8f83-48e961a5e71e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Ourimbah%20Road%2C%20Mosman%20a.png?VersionId=CUeILFc6APlwXPc.iplElbxHvREKwjig" />

Doroch Architects said the building had been designed to reinforce Mosman's established character.

"The building's aesthetic is grounded in the existing residential character of Ourimbah Road and the broader Mosman context," the architect noted in the planning documents submitted to the NSW Government.

The design adopts a contemporary material palette of natural stone, textured concrete and brown concave metal cladding, complemented by integrated planters and deep balconies. The podium incorporates softened curved concrete forms, while increased setbacks have been provided adjacent to the heritage-listed property at 60 Ourimbah Road to create a more sympathetic transition.

The site sits around 330 metres from Mosman Town Centre, placing it within the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy area, where increased residential density is being encouraged close to shops, transport and services.

The proposal follows a string of major apartment projects lodged or declared State Significant in Mosman in recent months, including Abadeen's 100-apartment Honeysuckle Garden redevelopment on Military Road and several other developments across Awaba Street, Redan Street and Muston Street from the likes of Time &amp; Place, HELM and Prosker Property.

&nbsp;

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/time-place-to-take-on-mosman-apartment-market">Time &amp; Place to take on Mosman apartment market</a>

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-abadeen-plans-100-apartments-on-former-honeysuckle-garden-site-in-mosman">First look: Abadeen plans 100 apartments on former Honeysuckle Garden site in Mosman</a>

&nbsp;

First look: Another major apartment proposal signals Mosman's development boom

A new State Significant Development Application (SSDA) could reshape a prominent vacant site in Gosford's CBD, with Ming Tian Real Property proposing a mixed-use precinct that combines affordable housing, retail activation and a new public plaza.

The proposal for 43-45 Beane Street and 2 Keevers Lane would deliver a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/43-45-beane-street-gosford-nsw-2250">two-building development</a> comprising a 26-storey residential tower and a five-storey affordable housing building above ground-floor commercial space. A key focus of the project is the delivery of dedicated affordable housing alongside new public domain improvements designed to transform Keevers Lane into a more active urban destination.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/tony-owen-partners">Tony Owen Partners</a>, the development would provide 130 apartments, including 20 affordable housing dwellings managed by a registered community housing provider for at least 15 years. The market housing component comprises 110 apartments across a mix of one, two and three-bedroom residences, while the affordable housing includes six one-bedroom, 13 two-bedroom and one three-bedroom apartment. The proposal also incorporates 416 sqm of ground-floor retail, three basement levels accommodating 140 car spaces, 42 bicycle spaces, communal open space and extensive landscaping.

<img alt="First look: Ming Tian Real Property plans landmark affordable housing tower for Gosford city centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9b858791-9060-4ee7-9178-44cb9e640a85" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Beane%20Street%20b_0.png?VersionId=_jbY0mqPEs7.jBZxozR7d6T4u85FoPmb" />

The affordable housing component has been distributed across both buildings, with four apartments located within the main tower and a dedicated five-storey building delivering a further 16 affordable homes. The project also includes 12 adaptable apartments and 24 dwellings designed to Silver Level Liveable Housing Guidelines.

The architectural design draws inspiration from Indigenous storytelling.

"The design is based on the indigenous motif of the Rainbow Serpent," Tony Owen Partners said in the Design Verification Statement.

"The Rainbow Serpent is a traditional totem of coastal eastern Australia. It represents natural forces, creation, change, and rebirth and is often associated with bodies of water. This motif can be seen in the undulation of the balconies rising on the building," Tony Owen Partners said in the Design Verification Statement.

Beyond the residential offering, the proposal seeks to revitalise the surrounding public realm, particularly Keevers Lane.

"The ground floor streetscape includes a commercial and dining precinct which will significantly improve the amenity of the area. This strategy transforms a currently inhospitable laneway into a thriving centre of urban renewal and day and night time activation to compliment the new adjoining UNC facilities," the architects said.

<img alt="First look: Ming Tian Real Property plans landmark affordable housing tower for Gosford city centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="36b0ca6b-af15-424c-81db-9f3049c07b0c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Beane%20Street%20podium.png?VersionId=QCAv7bCitrg3zIGZUHI2z_HR8qVfKbp1" />

The Environmental Impact Statement notes that the project aims to "improve the provision of diverse housing options within Gosford City Centre, enhancing the mixed-use precinct by delivering high quality residential development, whilst concurrently providing a diverse range of housing choices through the provision of affordable housing, which is in growing need within the Gosford City Centre."

The site occupies approximately 2,070 sqm in the Gosford city centre, around 250 metres from Gosford Railway Station and within walking distance of Gosford Hospital, Mann Street's retail precinct and the University of Newcastle's Gosford campus currently under construction. The currently vacant site previously received approval for a lower-scale residential development, with the new proposal leveraging the NSW Government's in-fill affordable housing pathway to increase density while introducing dedicated affordable housing.

First look: Rainbow Serpent inspires bold new Gosford apartment tower

Developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/bottega-property-group">Bottega House</a> has secured council approval for its first Brisbane project - a $270 million luxury residential development on an absolute riverfront site in leafy St Lucia.&nbsp;

The 15-storey project, known as <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/st-lucia-by-bottega-house-180-macquarie-street-st-lucia-qld-4067">St Lucia by Bottega House</a> , will occupy a prime north-facing site at 178-180 Macquarie Street, directly fronting the Brisbane River in the established inner-west suburb known for its rowing clubs, golf courses and sprawling University of Queensland campus.&nbsp;

St Lucia by Bottega House will feature a suite of amenities including dedicated wellness spaces, a mineral pool and cold plunge. The project has been positioned to attract affluent owner-occupiers seeking high-quality, house-sized apartments.&nbsp;

Bottega House has been set up by co-directors Nick Malloch, Louis Mennes and Craig Marsh.

Malloch said the project drew inspiration from its Brisbane River setting and leafy inner-west surrounds, while responding to the demands of discerning locals looking to transition from freestanding homes into apartment living.&nbsp;

"With an expansive river frontage and lush green surrounds, we knew we had to create something special that reflects the natural beauty of the location while offering residents masterfully crafted homes," said Malloch.&nbsp;

"Our intent was to complement the project's quiet, private setting by introducing residences that offer a calm retreat and sanctuary from the everyday. The result is a harmonious blend of architecture, interiors and amenity that emphasises wellbeing, comfort and beauty without excess."&nbsp;

Malloch added that project consultants had been carefully selected in alignment with Bottega House's commitment to care, quality and attention to detail. The design team includes architects <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-studio">Plus Studio</a>, interiors practice <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/mim-design">Mim Design</a> and landscaping by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/urbis">Urbis</a>.&nbsp;

Three-bedroom apartments are expected to start around $5 millio. Selling agents Keenan &amp; Byrne said the pricing strategy for the project was anticipated to achieve upwards of $25,500 per square metre.&nbsp;

The project's development approval this week follows the success of Bottega House's inaugural Queensland project - a 22-storey collection of full-floor sky homes at Broadbeach on the Gold Coast which included the sale of a two-storey penthouse at a record price for a beachside residence.&nbsp;

St Lucia by Bottega House is expected to launch to market in November, with construction anticipated to be completed mid 2029.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151826]

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