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Tasmania has not seen wide scale larger renovations or extensions, according to the June Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The valuation firm suggests that in locations across the nation, the downtime delivered by isolation has spurned on owners looking to improve their assets through maintenance and upgrade. 
This month's HTW residential report highlights where renovations are on the rise and the price points and outcomes those markets can expect.
"At the time of writing there are only 11 active Covid-19 infections in the state, four of those being hospitalised.
"Restrictions are slowly easing. Real estate agents can hold socially-distanced open homes and auctions," the valuation firm said. 
However it is going to be a while before the island state is open to tourists from the mainland again with the premier saying he will announce in July when we may expect the border restrictions to ease.
"Onto renovations and our ‘big green’ hardware stores have been the go-to during the last few months," the valuation firm said. 
"Like elsewhere in the country many Taswegians have been working from home (or being out of work at home) and thus have the opportunity to tend to those odd jobs. However we have not seen wide scale larger renovations/extensions." 
Builders have reported an increase in the smaller jobs but a decrease in quoting opportunities for those larger capital expenditure projects, the report noted. 
"Interestingly some Airbnb operators are taking this opportunity to undertake maintenance and upgrading works while their properties are having down time. 
"Initially we did see a rush of these types of properties into the traditional rental market. This transition has now slowed with owners now choosing to undertake maintenance and wait it out," the valuation firm said. 
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"The obvious withdrawal of mainland buyers from our market would be expected to open up opportunities for the local buyer and even local first home buyer." 
Headline reports had sales activity down a third in April in some markets. However we have not yet seen any discernible movement in pricing. Nor have there been a rush of first home buyers into the market, the valuation firm said.
"Perhaps the talk that the State Government is going to raise the FHG from the current $20,000 to $40,000 is the incentive this buying segment needs to keep their powder dry for the moment!" 
There is a general feeling with the easing of restrictions that the island with its natural ‘ocean barrier protection’ is well positioned to work its way out of the last few months. Hopefully the state will soon be virus clear, the report noted. 
"This can only enhance our clean/green image to the wider world and potentially encourage further migration from the mainland states and territories.
"Interesting times ahead!" 
A renovated Sandy Bay cottage has recently been sold for $860,000.
The five bedroom, one bathroom home is located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-tas-sandy+bay-133362182" target="_blank">75 Princes Street </a>(pictured below).
It features well-designed kitchen/living/dining area, French doors, patio and garden. 
<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/2020/7/6/sandy%20bay%201.jpg" alt="">
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A new listing is a fully renovated period weatherboard home <img src="blob:https://www.urban.com.au/7963b078-e2d5-4b52-a300-307aa98ce7e0" alt="page39image3795024" width="0.500000" height="0.500000">in Moonah priced at over $545,000.</div>
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<div class="section">The three bedroom, one bathroom home is situated at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-tas-moonah-133923330" target="_blank">28 Bayswater Road</a> (pictured below).</div>
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<div class="section">It comes with open plan kitchen, living and dining area, additional workshop and expansive paved area for outdoor entertaining. </div>
<div class="section"><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/2020/7/6/moonah.jpg" alt=""></div>
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Tasmania sees increasing Airbnb upgrading works: HTW residential 

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Local agents confirm Whitsunday is not seeing any reductions in sale values, however volumes of sales are lower than what was previously occurring prior to the pandemic, according to the June Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The valuation firm suggests that in locations across the nation, the downtime delivered by isolation has spurned on owners looking to improve their assets through maintenance and upgrade. This month's HTW residential report highlights where renovations are on the rise and the price points and outcomes those markets can expect.
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The report notes the Whitsundays are starting to reopen with cafes and some tours now operating within the government restrictions. Cafes and restaurants are still providing take away services. People are out and about enjoying the lightening of the restrictions.
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"Renovations in the Whitsundays! While I have not seen any contracts for renovations and or additions over the last couple of months, it must be happening as Bunnings appears to be the best shop in the Whitsundays! 
"The car park appears to be busy all week end. While we had to all stay at home it appears that the DIY home owners have been hard at work!
"We need to get our tourists back. Let’s hope that we can track on a positive note with limited to no cases new cases of Covid 19," the valuation firm said. 
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<img src="blob:https://www.urban.com.au/f7585dff-728e-4628-ae03-c0828bd0c00e" alt="page26image3754256" width="0.500000" height="0.500000">A current listing is a renovated Dingo Beach house with a price guide of $372, 600.</div>
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<div class="section">Set on an 839sqm block, the <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-dingo+beach-133788654" target="_blank">81 Pioneer Drive </a>home (pictured below) comprises two bedrooms, two bathrooms and double garage. </div>
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<div class="section">It also features modern kitchen, vinyl plank flooring and full A/C throughout. </div>
<div class="section"><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/2020/7/6/dingo%20beach%201.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div class="section">A recent sale was a renovated three bedroom house in Proserpine. </div>
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<div class="section">The family home at<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-proserpine-132372750" target="_blank"> 5 Kanandah Street </a>(pictured below) was sold for $321,000.</div>
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<div class="section">Set on a 1,343sqm block, it comes with three bedrooms, stylish kitchen, multiple living areas and lock up garage. </div>
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Whitsunday sees increasing DIY home renovation activities: HTW residential 

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Anecdotal evidence suggests that the supply of new stock being brought to Townsville market remains low as potential sellers hold off listing properties in the current environment, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The valuation firm suggests that in locations across the nation, the downtime delivered by isolation has spurned on owners looking to improve their assets through maintenance and upgrade. This month's HTW residential report highlights where renovations are on the rise and the price points and outcomes those markets can expect.
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"We are continuing to see sales occur, albeit at lower volumes compared to pre-COVID-19 and to date value levels appear to be holding," the valuation firm said. 
The report states over the past 12 months there has been a noticeable increase in the number of house flippers in the market, typically operating within the five to eight kilometre radius of the city centre in suburbs such as Railway Estate, Currajong and Gulliver.
 The buy in price for homes with renovation potential in these areas is typically in the low $200,000s with end values created in the high $200,000s to mid $300,000s depending on the extent and quality of the works undertaken.
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"The rise in popularity of lifestyle home renovation shows such as House Rules and The Block are also contributing to the increase in renovation projects being undertaken by home owners," the valuation firm said.
The reason behind this increase could be contributed in part to the change-over cost from their current home to an upgraded property, the report suggested. 
Furthermore, location seems to be a factor in the decision to renovate. Owners not wanting to take a gamble on location by moving are opting to stay where they are and renovate to accommodate their changing circumstances.
"Apart from upgrades to kitchens and bathrooms, we are seeing decks and outdoor living spaces added and house extensions to create more living space and utility," the valuation firm said. 
"The renovator market is likely to continue tracking on its current course during 2020 with the cost of borrowing remaining low and a preference from buyers at this time for renovated properties requiring little work with the age old saying of 'I’d rather be opening a can of beer (or bottle of wine), than a can of paint' ringing true," the valuation firm said. 
A renovated Queenslander cottage in South Townsville has recently been sold for $330,000.
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-south+townsville-133215230" target="_blank">36 Nelson Street</a> home (pictured below) comprises three bedrooms, functional kitchen, study and expansive undercover patio area. 
It features renovated bathroom, split air-conditioning and electric controlled gate. 
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A current listing is a three bedroom house in Railway Estate. 
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-railway+estate-133779006" target="_blank">71 Ninth Avenue</a> home (pictured below) comes with refurbished kitchen, renovated bathroom, open plan living and three generous bedrooms. 
It also features fresher painted interior and exterior, rumpus room, and traditional features including high ceilings and light timber floorboards. 
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Townsville renovators prefer properties requiring little work: HTW residential 

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The supply of housing stock on the Hervey Bay residential market has dropped considerably, however demand remains steady with some contracts considered to be at the upper end of market parameters, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The valuation firm suggests that in locations across the nation, the downtime delivered by isolation has spurned on owners looking to improve their assets through maintenance and upgrade. This month's HTW residential report highlights where renovations are on the rise and the price points and outcomes those markets can expect.
The report notes the Fraser Coast has slowly started to come alive again since the lifting of the first stage of restrictions, with day trips now permitted to Fraser Island. 
Small cafes have reopened at this stage, with some larger establishments only offering take away meals and bottle shop drive through service.
Some retail outlets which appear to be doing quite well in these tough times include the local fishing supply store, office supplies and printer refills due to so many working from home.
"Queensland Health reports that the Wide Bay had a total of 24 cases of COVID-19 with 24 now recovered and no active cases, which is very encouraging for the region. We look forward to stage two in June when caravan parks and camping will be permitted once more," the valuation firm said. 
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The vacancy rate for rentals remains low with rents stable. Property values are also stable, with no noted change across any price point, the HTW report noted. 
"Renovations have slowed over the past few months on the Fraser Coast as consumers appear to be conserving their dollars and energy.
Local builders have reported that the demand for new owner- occupier homes remains consistent with locals providing enough work for the rest of the year. Work in the construction industry has continued throughout the crisis which has been sobering for regional employment," the valuation firm said. 
A fully renovated home in Eli Waters has recently been sold for $155,000.
The two bedroom, one bathroom house is situated at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-eli+waters-133118442" target="_blank">89 Cherry Street Hazelmere Village 14 Ibis Boulevard</a> (pictured below).
It features modern kitchen, new carpet throughout the home, new TV aerial and new LEG lighting. 
<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/2020/6/29/eli%20waters.jpg" alt="">
A current listing is a renovated four bedroom house in the seaside suburb of Urangan.
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-urangan-133484134" target="_blank">73 Dayman Street </a>home (pictured below) has been listed for sale with a price guide of $675,000.
It comes with four bedrooms, open plan dining and living area, enclosed sunroom, study or office and outdoor entertaining area. 
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Hervey Bay renovation activities slow down: HTW residential 

What a lazy $700,000 can buy in Perth: HTW

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With broad features from surfboard lockers to exclusive wine lockers, the $70 million Flow Residences has been launched on the southern Gold Coast.
Flow is the project of avid surfer and local property developer Paul Gedoun and his S &amp; S Projects on the Snapper Rocks destination.
Jayde Pezet is sales and marketing director of KM Sales and Marketing.
“Nothing has been left to chance. It is a project of unpretentious but elegant luxury that connects beautifully with the iconic Snapper Rocks with sweeping views of the Gold Coast.
Positioned on an elevated north-facing site, 1 Petrie Street, and overlooking Coolangatta’s Rainbow Bay, the project will deliver 22 premium residences exclusively for owner occupiers.
Architect Cottee Parker has designed Flow Residences.
“Flow Residences will appeal to downsizers looking for lifestyle at its best,” said Mr Pezet.
“It really is a stunning collection of beachfront apartments that blend the simplicity once found in a traditional coastal shack with luxurious apartments, superior finishes and a unique approach to resident amenities.
The exterior design features uncluttered lines and curved corners to take advantage of the prime corner location of Petrie Street and Marine Parade. The site directly overlooks Greenmount Beach and Rainbow Bay and each apartment offers spectacular ocean views of the pointbreak and the Gold Coast.
There will be 12 levels plus three levels of basement parking will provide at least two car parks for each apartment.
Apartments are available in two, three and four-bedroom formats and are priced from $1.175 million.
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Flow $70 million beachfront Coolangatta project launched

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The 2020 Victorian Architecture Awards winners have been announced, showcasing the best architecture in the state.
Revivals of heritage projects featured heavily in the winners’ list as well as those that offer excellent design outcomes to the public.
Across 15 categories, 63 awards were given including named awards, architecture awards and commendations from 108 shortlisted entries.
A notable project in this year’s awards was the State Library of Victoria Redevelopment by Architectus + Schmidt Hammer Lassen, winning the Melbourne Prize and architecture awards for Heritage – Conservation and Public Architecture.
The redevelopment has opened up 40 per cent more public access space in a transformation of the much-loved institution that is a link between Melbourne’s past and future.
Victorian Architecture Awards chair of juries, Ingrid Bakker, says that the project’s redevelopment leads the way with its contribution to the public and the treatment of heritage buildings.
“Projects such as the State Library offer a major benefit to Melburnians and the way it has been brought back to life is a real gift to the city,” she says.
“The project has been highly collaborative and like all good architectural outcomes, there has been a significant focus on the diverse community users and the context of the building being in the heart of Melbourne.
“This landmark is something that can be enjoyed for generations to come and is an exemplar of the enhancement of existing buildings. It demonstrates the important consideration that needs to be championed by clients, architects, consultants and contractors in understanding the projects inherent value and impact of that building will have over time.”
Also featuring prominently in the awards was the Broadmeadows Town Hall by Kerstin Thompson Architects, receiving the Victorian Architecture Medal, a named award for Heritage Architecture and a commendation for Public Architecture.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2020/7/10/13_BroadmeadowsTownHall_Credit-JohnGollings1%20copy.jpeg" alt="" style="caret-color: #000000; color: #000000;">
Source: Broadmeadows Town Hall / John Gollings.
This year, Monash University has proven to be outstanding in the educational architecture realm with Monash University Chancellery and Gillies Hall both gaining recognition across three categories.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2020/7/10/13_MonashUniversityChancellery_Credit-RhiannonSlatter1%20copy.jpeg" alt="">
Source: Monash University Chancellery / Rhiannon Slatter.
Other noteworthy public projects in the winners’ list are the Penguin Parade Visitor Centre (main photo) by TERROIR and RMIT Capitol Theatre by Six Degrees Architects. 
In addition, the Ian Potter Southbank Centre University of Melbourne by John Wardle Architects received The Marion Mahony Award for Interior Architecture.
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Bakker continues, “The Ian Potter Southbank Centre is an excellent example of public architecture that strives for longevity and legacy. The project has actively sort to give back to the public realm.
“Outstanding design, as showcased by the projects recognised in these awards, is about much more than simple aesthetics. It is about creating resilient, sustainable and adaptive places, sensitive to their context that will be fit for purpose and serve our communities not just today, but for decades to come.
“We understand the importance of stimulating the economy with construction projects; with a national poll of Institute members revealing almost two thirds of respondents have had projects stalled due to COVID-19.
“However, much-needed stimulus and support must be delivered in a way that makes quality paramount so the enduring value of a project and its contribution to the public good can be fully realised.
“Rushed and ill-conceived projects with a short life span have disastrous ramifications when it comes to sustainability outcomes and preserving the identity of a public space.”
The Enduring Architecture Award, which recognises a significant project of at least 25 years old has gone to the MCG’s Great Southern Stand by Daryl Jackson in association with Tompkins Shaw and Evans for the experience it continues to offer sports spectators.
Projects that received an architecture award or a named award will now progress to compete in the National Architecture Awards program. The shortlist will be announced by the Australian Institute of Architects in the coming months.
The winners were announced via a digital ceremony on the evening of 10 July.
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Adaptive reuse featured in Victorian architecture awards 

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Melbourne house and unit rents fell over the June quarter, with unit rents recording the first annual fall in 15 years, according to the Domain Quarterly Report for June.
With Inner Melbourne seeing house rents drop by $40 and units by $35 a week over the June quarter, alongside a rapid increase in the number of properties for lease, tenants are in a strong position to negotiate prices as their options expand.
<img src="https://mcusercontent.com/b16c0b957ea98f662ab985606/images/51b2c04a-57ee-441b-b0ab-6e0af9823a5a.png" width="1087" height="362" data-imagetype="External"> June 2020 QoQ change for Melbourne rental prices
“Melbourne’s rental prices fell over the June quarter for both houses and units. While house rents remained stable over the year, unit rents recorded the first annual fall in 15 years. The drop in unit rents have pushed gross rental yields to a near-record low.”
“Inner Melbourne felt the brunt of price declines over the June quarter, median house asking rents dropped a staggering $40 and units $35 a week. Vacancies have surged in inner Melbourne, with advertised rentals lifting 64 per cent from March to June. This has created a discounting war, forcing one-third of inner Melbourne landlords to slash asking rents in an attempt to secure a tenant.
“Many short-term leases have converted to long-term, increasing rental choice. With significant job losses and wage cuts, tenants may have relinquished higher-priced rentals in favour of affordability or to move in with family. Though international border closures have weakened demand, Melbourne is particularly exposed to a drop in overseas migration, student population and tourism, as a significant proportion of rental demand comes from overseas. This is particularly evident in the CBD, which also has a greater exposure to the industries most vulnerable to the job losses associated with the coronavirus pandemic and has a high proportion of households renting.”
“Vacancies are likely to remain high in the coming months across metropolitan and tourist areas, which could result in further rent reductions. Any potential renewed short-term demand from interstate travel has been curtailed as Melbourne enters a second lockdown,” said Domain Senior Research Analyst, Dr Nicola Powell.
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Melbourne unit rents fell for the first time in 15 years: Domain

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A mortgagee house, in the Adelaide suburb of Enfield, has come onto the market with an asking price of between $545,000 - $565,000.
Located at 12b Silver Street, the property features four bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a double car garage.
It is situated on a 339 square metre block.
The home was built in 2012, and last sold in 2016 for $530,000.
Enfield’s median house price is $442,222.00.
Brad Stevens, from First National Riggall, has the listing.
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Enfield mortgagee house listed for sale

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One of Queensland’s most sustainable tourist destinations, Pumpkin Island, is up for sale.
The internationally award winning 6-hectare Pumpkin island, situated in the Southern Great Barrier Reef, hit the market in July this year.
The rolling lease for the island, situated in the Southern Great Barrier Reef’s Keppel Group of Islands, 14 kilometres off the coast of Yeppoon in Central Queensland and only 10 kilometres north of Great Keppel Island, will be taken to the market in a sale campaign run by Deborah Cullen of Knight Frank Prestige Residential NSW and Pat O’Driscoll, Knight Frank Partner and Head of Knight Frank Rockhampton and region.
Pumpkin Island is being sold by Sojourn Properties Pty Ltd, a Queensland-based company with a boutique collection of properties operated under the Sojourn Retreats brand.
This is just the second time Pumpkin Island has come to the market since 1961, with the last sale being to Soujourn Properties 17 years ago in 2003.
Pumpkin Island first opened to guests in 1964 and is a private whole island escape for couples, families or groups.
It offers eco-friendly accommodation for up to 34 guests in five fully self-contained oceanfront guest cottages and two bungalows with an open-air kitchen and bathroom facilities. The island is completely off grid and powered by solar, wind and with plenty of rain water storage.
The property also contains staff quarters, a large work shed, a double-storey lookout building, a bar lounge area, a manager’s cottage, a children’s playground, two registered moorings, a helicopter land pad and a custom built 36-passenger catamaran.
An oyster lease also belongs to the owner and can be sold with the island allowing guests to shuck their own oysters off the rocks.
Pumpkin Island was named Australia’s most sustainable hotel in Australasia in 2018 at the World Boutique Hotel Awards, and was the first beyond carbon neutral island in Australia, offsetting 150% of its annual greenhouse gas emissions.
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Queensland’s Pumpkin Island up for sale

The new <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/yarraville-green-42-stephen-street-yarraville-vic-3013">Yarraville Green</a> development in Melbourne's inner west is showing that landscaping can be just as influential as architecture, with buyers responding strongly to the garden-first approach adopted from the outset by developer Excelon Projects and the project's design team.

Excelon appointed Six Degrees Architects and landscape architects SBLA to work collaboratively on the development, with a brief to create "a sustainable, design-led building with a focus on community."

That approach has resonated with buyers. According to Next Chapter Director Tom Hirini, who is leading the sales campaign, the landscaped communal garden has become one of the project's defining features, alongside its boutique scale and European-inspired cluster housing concept.

Local downsizers, right-sizers and established families already living in Yarraville and surrounding suburbs have accounted for the majority of purchasers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144913 project_image_fid=297740]

Yarraville Green will comprise 53 homes, including apartments and townhomes, arranged around the shared central garden to maximise connections to the landscaped open space. Parking has been moved underground, allowing the ground plane to be dedicated to greenery, pedestrian movement and communal spaces.

The landscape extends well beyond passive planting. Productive garden beds, a pergola, communal gathering spaces, garden sheds and a pet wash have all been integrated into the masterplan, creating spaces designed to encourage everyday interaction between residents.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144913 project_image_fid=297741]

The interiors continue Excelon's focus on craftsmanship, incorporating bespoke elements by Melbourne artisans including leadlight detailing by Adadaz, hand-turned timber hardware by Auburn Woodturning and blown-glass lighting by Ruth Allen.

Sustainability has also been embedded throughout the project, with Yarraville Green targeting an average 7-star NatHERS energy rating through passive design principles, rooftop solar servicing common areas and rainwater harvesting for landscape irrigation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144913 project_image_fid=297735]

Construction continues to progress at Yarraville Green, with structural works well underway and framing works approaching completion under builder Balmain &amp; Co. The project remains on track for completion in mid-2027.

Apartments at Yarraville Green are currently priced from $625,000, while townhomes start from $1.4 million.

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Joel Robinson

Garden-led design drives buyer demand at Yarraville Green

National diversified developer Fortis has officially launched Crest &amp; Walker, its latest Brisbane apartment development, with construction now underway on the 20-storey Newstead project.

Award-winning builder BINAH has commenced construction on the Bureau^Proberts-designed building, which will deliver a limited collection of 65 two and three-bedroom apartments on Kyabra Street.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373556]

The project marks Fortis' fourth active residential development in Brisbane, following River House, which is nearing completion, alongside projects in New Farm and Hamilton as the national developer continues to expand its South East Queensland pipeline.

Fortis General Manager – Development Queensland Dan Boman said Crest &amp; Walker reflects the developer's long-term commitment to delivering design-led residential projects in Brisbane's established inner-city suburbs.

"We're proud to be strengthening our presence in Brisbane with Crest &amp; Walker, particularly in such a sought-after lifestyle destination as Newstead," Boman said.

"Every Fortis project is shaped by its context, and we approach each one with the respect and care it deserves.

"Our focus is always on creating places that feel connected to their neighbourhood and elevate the everyday experience for residents. Newstead continues to evolve as one of Brisbane's most sought-after urban communities, and Crest &amp; Walker reflects our ambition to contribute meaningfully to that story."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373559]

Positioned between Gasworks Plaza and James Street, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/crest-walker-newstead-12-kyabra-street-newstead-qld-4006">Crest &amp; Walker</a> has been designed as a boutique residential address offering privacy and generous living spaces within one of Brisbane's most established lifestyle precincts.

The building features a contemporary brick podium softened by integrated landscaping, while the upper levels are characterised by restrained architecture and enduring materiality. Interiors have been designed to maximise natural light, acoustic performance and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373583]

Residences comprise spacious two and three-bedroom floorplans, with two-bedroom apartments priced from $1.55 million and three-bedroom, half-floor residences from $3.95 million.

Residents will have access to a wellness-focused rooftop featuring a swimming pool, sauna, steam room, landscaped dining spaces and outdoor lounge areas overlooking Newstead and the Brisbane CBD.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373571]

Sales are being managed by Slaite Projects, with Fortis expecting strong demand from owner-occupiers seeking a high-quality, design-focused apartment in one of Brisbane's most tightly held inner-city suburbs.

Completion of Crest &amp; Walker is slated for late 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145922]

Fortis expands Brisbane pipeline with launch of Crest & Walker in Newstead

The enormity of delivering a true skyscraper in Australia's new development market is often overlooked.

It has taken the best part of a decade since plans for Chevron One were first unveiled, but the 41-storey tower is now complete, with residents collecting their keys and moving into what has become one of the Gold Coast's most recognisable new landmarks.

Rising 127 metres above Chevron Island, Chevron One stands almost twice as high as any other building on the island. Its scale places it alongside the trio of towers at Jewel, arguably the last truly significant addition to the central Gold Coast skyline when they were completed around six years ago.

While there are several developments underway around a similar height to Chevron One, they are more concentrated within clusters of the highest towers in the city. The fact Chevron One sits within a developing precinct, looking back at the other high-rise developments in Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach, makes it a different proposition altogether. It will certainly become a reference point on the Gold Coast skyline.

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Developer Bensons Property Group is behind the 41-storey tower, which has 229 apartments, along with an exhaustive list of resident amenity spread across what is the largest development site ever assembled on Chevron Island.

The tower has been the talk of the town for years, says Ray White Projects Gold Coast agent Caitlin Rosenboom, who is selling the remaining apartments.

"People have been watching Chevron One go up for years," Rosenboom says, adding that many prospective buyers have been surprised by the scale of the views once they step inside.

"It's only when they walk through a completed apartment that they truly understand the position of the building," Rosenboom says.

"The views are jaw-dropping. Whether you're looking east over the ocean, across Surfers Paradise, along the river systems or out to the hinterland, every level offers something different but equally impressive."

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One of Chevron One's defining advantages is its location on the eastern side of Chevron Island on Stanhill Drive, a position which protects the views forever.

"There's only one row of houses between Chevron One and the water, and the height restrictions along the river means views from Chevron One can never be built out,"&nbsp;Rosenboom says.

While new apartment developments continue to emerge across the Gold Coast, Rosenboom says opportunities to secure a completed apartment with this level of outlook are becoming increasingly rare.

"The size of the site is something that would be incredibly difficult to replicate today," she says.

"That's allowed Chevron One to deliver the sort of amenity, open space and resident facilities that very few projects can offer. There are not many completed apartment buildings on the Gold Coast right now that can compete with the combination of scale, quality and amenity."

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There's around 2,000 sqm of amenity solely for the use of residents of Chevron One. Club One features a uniquely shaped swimming pool that mirrors the footprint of the building itself, set within a extensively landscaped gardens. There's also an indoor pool and spa, a fully equipped gym with a Pilates room, a yoga garden, a bookable private dining area and lounge that can host up to 30 people, and a 24-hour concierge service.

As for the buyers, Rosenboom is fielding enquiry from everywhere: Sydneysiders and Melburnians looking at the new and off-the-plan market following the changes in the Federal Budget, as well as those looking to relocate, through to South East Queenslanders seeking either a permanent home or a weekender bolthole.

"The Gold Coast lifestyle continues to resonate with people relocating from the southern states, and when they see the views and the quality of what's been delivered at Chevron One, it becomes very easy for them to understand the appeal," Rosenboom says.

A diverse mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments remain available, with each offering "something a little different", be it the orientation and views, configuration, or level, to suit a wide variety of buyers.

The remaining apartments are ready to inspect in person, by appointment.

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A decade in the making: Residents to move into Chevron One as construction wraps up

A general rule of thumb in new apartment developments is that the penthouses get the rooftop.

It's a formula that's become commonplace across Australia's apartment market. Residents might have access to a pool, gym or barbecue facilities on a dedicated lower level, but the most desirable outdoor spaces are typically reserved for the highest-priced homes at the top of the building.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa Property Group</a> has taken the opposite approach.

Rather than dedicating the rooftop to a handful of buyers, the Gold Coast developer has made it the centrepiece of its Flourish collection, creating expansive shared spaces from the best vantage point in the building.

The philosophy has reached its most ambitious expression at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-palm-beach-1150-1160-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a> in Palm Beach, where two rooftop precincts connected by a skybridge will deliver one of the most extensive lifestyle offerings seen in a residential apartment project on the Gold Coast.

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"We're seeing a clear move toward developments that offer more than just an apartment," Sherpa Group founder Christie Leet said.

"People want spaces that support how they actually live, whether that's working from home, staying active, or spending time with family and friends.

"That's where amenity becomes critical. It's not just about what's included, but how those spaces are designed to be used every day."

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The breadth of amenity has already attracted buyers across multiple demographics. Younger first home buyers have been drawn to Soleira's one-bedroom apartments, a product rarely delivered in Palm Beach, while families have responded to practical inclusions such as the shallow children's pool adjoining the main lap pool and the extensive communal recreation areas.

Instead of a single rooftop, Soleira delivers two distinct lifestyle zones.

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The southern rooftop has been dedicated to wellness, featuring a gym, yoga and Pilates studio, work-from-home facilities, a wellness centre, spa, and hot and cold plunge pools.

The northern rooftop focuses on recreation and entertaining, incorporating a heated resort-style pool, private dining rooms, pizza ovens, barbecues, a golf simulator, children's recreation areas, and what is expected to be the Gold Coast's first rooftop basketball court, which will also double as a squash court.

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Beyond the rooftops, Soleira will introduce 1,500 sqm of curated retail beneath the towers, creating one of Palm Beach's first genuinely mixed-use lifestyle precincts where cafés, restaurants and convenience retail become part of residents' everyday lives.

Sherpa has also retained management rights across the development, allowing it to oversee the long-term operation of the building through a 24-hour concierge model. The developer is also exploring additional revenue streams within the precinct aimed at helping offset ongoing body corporate costs for residents.

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While Soleira is the largest project Sherpa has delivered, the rooftop-first philosophy has been evolving for several years.

It began with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/amargo-6-12-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Amargo</a>, the first project released under the Flourish brand. Rather than competing at the ultra-luxury end of the market with oversized half-floor and full-floor residences, Sherpa focused on creating lifestyle-driven apartments supported by resort-style shared spaces.

Amargo introduced more than 800 sqm of rooftop amenity, combining wellness facilities, heated pools, entertaining areas, cabanas, pizza ovens and private dining spaces into what was designed as an extension of residents' homes rather than a facility used only occasionally.

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That approach continued with Flourish Oasis, where the same amenity-led philosophy was refined into a more boutique development. Strong demand from Sherpa's growing VIP database saw much of the project sold before it reached the broader market, reinforcing buyer appetite for apartment communities centred around shared lifestyle experiences.

Flourish Amargo is slated for completion mid-way-through next year, with Oasis to be delivered by late 2027. Flourish Soleira is expected to complete in 2030.

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Sherpa takes amenity to the sky as Flourish Soleira captures booming Palm Beach demand

As apartment living continues to evolve across Sydney's growth corridors, the quality and distribution of shared spaces is increasingly shaping how residents experience home. Rather than functioning as add-ons, amenities are being embedded into the daily rhythm of a building, supporting everything from quiet retreat to social interaction, often within a single vertical community.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/aeris-melrose-park-nursery-street-melrose-park-nsw-2114">Aeris</a> in Melrose Park, this approach is resolved through a layered amenity offering that unfolds from ground level through to its upper podium. Developed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sekisui-house-australia">Sekisui House Australia</a> in partnership with Hankyu Hanshin Properties, the project introduces 468 apartments across two towers and a mid-rise building, positioned at the highest point of the broader masterplan.

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The amenity experience begins at street level, where two courtyards sit within a landscaped setting that connects residents to the wider network of parks and green spaces. These green spaces are not isolated pockets but part of a wider pedestrian network that links Aeris to the surrounding <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/melrose-park-nsw-2114">Melrose Park</a> precinct, including Central Park, future schools, and the Town Centre opening in July 2026. The result is a transition that moves from public to private without abrupt boundaries, allowing residents to pass through shaded, tree-lined environments before reaching the building itself.

Moving upward, the focus shifts to the level five podium, where the primary communal facilities are concentrated. This space brings together a 16-metre swimming pool, outdoor seating areas, and a communal BBQ zone arranged to take advantage of elevated outlooks. Seating is positioned beneath pergolas, creating pockets of shade that extend the usability of the space throughout the day. The pool edge aligns with views toward the wider district, reinforcing the sense of elevation that defines the project’s positioning.

In the adjacent building, this is complemented by quieter, more contemplative spaces, including an outdoor cinema set within the same level. Positioned to operate primarily in the evening, it introduces a different tempo to the shared environment, shifting from daytime activity to after-hours use without requiring separate zones.

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The podium also accommodates an intimate private resident gym. Located on the lower levels, it gives residents convenient access to fitness facilities without leaving the building.

Above, the elevated podium sky deck extends the amenity offering, providing additional open-air spaces with elevated outlooks across the surrounding landscape. While more restrained in program, this upper level reinforces the project’s vertical progression, from ground-level greenery to elevated outlook, allowing residents to move between distinct spatial conditions within a single address.

This distribution of amenities reflects a deliberate response to how residents use space across the day. Sekisui House Australia Sales and Marketing Director Peter Kalaf points to the role these shared areas play in shaping buyer demand. Aeris has been conceived as more than a collection of apartments, with the podium pool, gym and outdoor cinema forming part of a broader lifestyle offering that extends the home beyond each individual residence.

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What distinguishes Aeris is not the inclusion of these elements individually, but how they are arranged in relation to one another. Active, social, and passive spaces are layered vertically rather than separated, allowing residents to choose between them without leaving the building or moving far from their apartment. This proximity supports both routine use, such as a morning swim or evening workout, and more occasional gatherings, whether around the BBQ area or within the cinema setting.

The amenity design also sits within a broader framework of connectivity across Melrose Park. The Melrose Park Town Centre, anchored by Coles and Dan Murphys, features a mix of retail, dining, health and lifestyle offerings, bringing everyday convenience closer to residents. By the end of the year, more than five hectares of parks and open space, equivalent to around seven football fields of green space on residents' doorstep, will further enhance the precinct, allowing the internal facilities at Aeris to operate as an extension of the wider neighbourhood rather than a substitute for it.

Construction at Aeris continues to gather momentum, with ground floor slabs expected to be completed in late 2026 before the first sections of the buildings begin to rise above ground.

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