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The Victorian Government has approved the construction of new Air Apartments, which are to be built on the site of heritage-listed Pentridge Prison.
Located in Coburg at 21 Pentridge Boulevard, Pentridge Prison was first established to house criminals in 1851 and officially closed in May 1997.
The forthcoming development by Shayher Group will transform the historical prison into a mixed-use urban village for the local community.
Its approved masterplan outlines a blueprint for a diverse community comprising a range of housing styles, as well as retail and community facilities.
“The site’s centralised location makes it the perfect spot for an activated centre to enhance residents’ overall liveability, providing the opportunity to introduce new integrated residential, food and retail offerings into the existing area,” commented project spokesman Anthony Goh.
“This building is a part of our vision to create a new urban village within the iconic walls of Pentridge, attracting locals who are keen to get on the property ladder and downsizers and those who wish to live in the centre of it all - with a Palace Cinema, cafes, restaurants and retail stores right on their doorstep,” he said.
Shayher Group is ensuring future plans are in line with the site's character and heritage by investing more than $2 million through various restoration works, including restoring the iconic guard towers.
The Air Apartments contribute to the approved masterplan for the site, which requires high density to ensure it is economically viable in the long term. It also provides much-needed parking over three of its levels for residents.
“A site like Pentridge not only requires high density housing to ensure its economic viability in the long term, but it is also suitable for a higher density development due to its close proximity to public transport infrastructure, shops and schools, thereby reducing the number of cars on our roads and encouraging residents to walk to nearby facilities,” Goh added.
The next stage will be the commencement of the retail precinct and Adina Hotel, which will directly contribute to the estimated 8000 jobs that will be generated thanks to the redevelopment. 
These projects are currently being assessed by the Moreland Council and Heritage Victoria.
“The Victorian Government’s decision to approve the Air Apartments will ensure the site’s heritage will be celebrated, while being enjoyed by the wider community for many years to come, as will the mixed-use retail precinct and Adina Hotel once approved,” Goh said.                     
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Pentridge Prison site approved for Air Apartments

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Western Australia's new Labor government has cut the $5000 boost payment to first home buyers in a bid to save $20 million. 
State treasurer and finance Minister Ben Wyatt said on Wednesday the government would end the boost payment on 30 June, six months ahead of the December deadline set by the previous Coalition government.
It was introduced as an extra payment last December.
In December, the grant was increased by $5000 up from $10,000 and took effect from January 1,2017.
It was to remain in place for 12 months.
My Wyatt said the previous government’s pre-election decision to boost the grant to $15,000 was just an “election cash splash”.
First-home buyers buying a new home worth up to $750,000 after 30 June will still be eligible for the first-home owner grant of $10,000. 
"The boost is not an effective mechanism for stimulating additional construction of homes and given the disastrous state of the finances which we have inherited, we need to remove any ineffective spending," Mr Wyatt said.
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WA cuts first home owner boost

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A four bedroom house at Trinity Gardens has been sold for $1.47 million making it Adelaide’s most expensive weekend auction result.
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-sa-trinity+gardens-125273854" target="_blank">115 Ashbrook Avenue</a>, the property sits on a 841 sqm block of land.
Extensions have been made to include an open-plan kitchen with Caesar stone benchtops along with Smeg 6 burner gas cook top and integrated Bosch dishwasher and walk-in butler’s pantry.
The master suite is complimented by a spacious walk-in robe as well as ensuite featuring Villeroy Boch double vanity, double shower and travertine underfloor heating.
<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/2017/05/14/115%20Ashbrook%20Avenue-2.jpg" alt="">
Positioned on Ashbrook Avenue, the property is close to Norwood Parade, Magill road and the city.
Public transport, shops, parks, restaurants and oval are all nearby.
The property was offered through Klemich Real Estate agent Steve Alexander.
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Trinity Gardens house sold for $1.47 million

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A fully restored 19th century, six bedroom property in the Melbourne suburb of Ascot Vale listed for auction with a price guide between $2.1 million-$2.3 million, now has a $2.55 million asking price.
The 1012 sqm late Victorian-era residence at <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/75-maribyrnong-road-ascot-vale-vic-3032-2013523824" target="_blank">75 Maribyrnong Road</a> was originally built in 1887.
It was last traded back in 2010 for $2.1 million.
Ascot Vale is an inner-city suburb located 5 km north-west of Melbourne’s CBD. The home sits upon Rothwell Hill, within walking distance to the station and trams, as well as the Puckle St precinct and Union Road cafes.
The area’s median house price rose above $1 million in May this year. 
Architecturally designed, this property combines Italianate heritage and contemporary restoration. It offers three bathrooms, formal lounge, library, wine cellar and a basement garage with a gym.
Family living areas include a renovated kitchen with all-European appliances, stone surfaces and timber cabinetry. Bi-fold doors open up to an alfresco deck, highlighting the landscaped gardens.
Upstairs contains three bedrooms and a luxury bathroom that is enveloped by a balcony with views to the northwest.
A five bedroom residence at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-ascot+vale-125174282" target="_blank">8 Anderson Street</a> sold for $2.1 in May 2017.
The home is listed by Jellis Craig selling agent Simon Mason.
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Victorian era residence listed in Ascot Vale

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Round The Twist author Paul Jennings and actor Mary-Anne Fahey have sold their four-bedroom St Kilda property, in advance of its scheduled auction through Whitefox Real Estate. The home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property/20-acland-st-st-kilda-vic-3182">20 Acland St</a> sold for an undisclosed amount between its $1.9 million to $2.09 million asking price, after two early offers had been made. 
It is located only one block from the St Kilda beach foreshore.
Built in Art Deco style, the terrace home offered two master wings with their own walk in robe and ensuite. 
Downstairs includes multiple living zones with an open fireplace, centrally located kitchen, guest bedroom and bathroom with laundry. An open plan family room opens onto a private courtyard garden which captures the North-East sunlight. 
Jennings has sold more than 8.9 million books, including Unreal!, Grandad’s Gifts, The Cabbage Patch Fib, The Gizmo and Round the Twist, which spawned an iconic TV series.
The couple, who originally paid $1.55 million for the house, are looking to downsize to a single-level home.
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Paul Jennings sells St Kilda property prior to auction

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Stockland chairman Tom Pockett has announced Andrew Stevens will join the Stockland Board, effective from 1 July.
Stevens has 30 years of experience in business and technology, most notably holding senior leadership roles at IBM for 12 years. 
As the managing director of IBM Australia and New Zealand from 2011 to 2014, Stevens led the transformation of the business to become a leader in cloud-based computing, helping blue chip clients to derive business benefits from new and emerging technologies.
“I’m pleased to welcome Andrew to the Stockland Board,” Pockett said of the appointment.
“Andrew is a highly regarded director with significant commercial experience and extensive expertise in the technology sector. He will strengthen the breadth and depth of knowledge and leadership capabilities on our Board and I look forward to his contribution.” he said.
Stevens is currently a non-executive director of MYOB Group Limited and Thorn Group Limited, chairman of Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre Limited, director of committee for Economic Development Australia, and a board member of the Greater Western Sydney Giants.
He is also a member of the Advisory Board of the Australian School of Business at the University of New South Wales, a member of the Professional Conduct Oversight Committee of Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand, a member of the Chief of Defence’s Gender Equity Advisory Board and a member of the Male Champions of Change.
As required by the Stockland Constitution, Stevens will offer himself for election by securityholders at the 2017 Annual General Meeting, to be held on 25 October.
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Andrew Stevens appointed to Stockland board

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Di Jones Real Estate has appointed Chantal Hooper to join its Eastern Suburb’s team, from her most recent role at Savills Luxury Residential.
Di Jones Real Estate CEO Rob Ward said Chantal’s international experience, network and ability to work across cultures sees her as a valuable addition to the team.
“With a wealth of experience servicing prestige clients in Sydney, we’re delighted to have Chantal joining us at Di Jones,” he said. 
Working across the full range of property services, Hooper has a focus on luxury and creating an exceptional client experience.
Hooper added that she was thrilled to be joining the Di Jones team.
“Di Jones is an agency that respects women and their value in the workforce, which is somewhat rare in what is a fairly male dominated industry.”
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Di Jones Real Estate hires specialist luxury agent

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Residential vacancy rates across the Sydney metropolitan region remained at 1.7 percent for April despite a decline of 0.2 percent at 1.2 percent in Middle Sydney, according to the REINSW.
John Cunningham, president, REINSW , said a vacancy rate under 2.0 percent signals that there are supply issues across Sydney.
“This is particularly being seen in the middle suburbs which are 10km-25km from the CBD, where we have vacancy rates at the lowest level since March 2011," he said.
"Inner Sydney vacancy rates fell 0.1 percent at 1.5 percent and outer Sydney bucked the trend to rise 0.1 percent at 2.2 percent.”
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/05/17/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-17%20at%2010.28.11%20am.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<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/2017/05/17/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-17%20at%2010.28.11%20am.jpg" alt="">
"The Hunter rose 0.3 percent to 2.3 percent, largely due to an increase of 0.3 percent in Newcastle to 2.3 percent.
"In the Illawarra, vacancy rates slipped 0.1 percent at 1.4 percent despite a rise of 0.1 percent to 1.3 percent in Wollongong.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/05/17/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-17%20at%2010.28.48%20am.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<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/2017/05/17/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-17%20at%2010.28.48%20am.jpg" alt="">
"Across regional areas, Albury’s vacancy rate jumped 0.8 percent to 3.0 percent, Coffs Harbour rose 0.9 percent to 3.8 percent and New England rose 0.9 percent to 3.0 percent.
"The Northern Rivers added 0.1 percent to 1.1 percent, while the South Coast fell 0.2 percent at 1.2 percent."
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Sydney's middle suburbs post vacancy rates lowest since March 2011

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A new study has revealed Sydneysiders are harbouring deep-seated fears that the Australian property market is being driven by ‘super-rich’ Chinese investors.
Almost 900 Sydneysiders were asked about their perception of foreign investors in the real estate market in a study led by Dr Dallas Rogers, housing researcher for the University of Sydney’s School of Architecture, Design and Planning.
The results found that there remains a high level of public concern and discontent about foreign investment, with more than half of respondents believing that government regulation of foreign investment is ineffective.
There was a view that Chinese investors are ‘super-rich,’ as perceived by 58 percent of respondents.
Around 63 percent identified Chinese as the majority of Sydney investors, which is likely given Chinese investment is concentrated in Sydney and Melbourne but within particular suburbs.
“The recent federal budget saw the government come down hard on foreign investors, which demonstrates the dilemma that the government is facing as it attempts to manage foreign investment alongside a disenchanted Australian public,” Dr Rogers said.
“Historically there has always been cultural tension over land and home ownership in this country that began with the arrival of British settlers in the late 1700s, the Chinese gold rush in the 1850s, and the White Australia policy in the early 1900s.
“In the 2000s, we again face significant societal change due to economic, political and social forces from Asia which, given its proximity to Australia, is reshaping our cities. This is the first time we have sought the individual opinion of Australians on the ground about the impact they believe foreign investment is having in their communities.” More than 64 percent of respondents cited foreign investors as the main reason for driving up house prices, despite little data on the inflationary impact of foreign investment on property. 
This is in spite of National Australia Bank data in 2016 showing that Australian residents and investors still make up a greater proportion of real estate buyers in Australia, accounting for 52 percent of sales, while only 14 percent were foreign investors.
The other most cited triggers for driving prices were low interest rates (37 percent of respondents), planning (36 percent) and local residents/domestic investors (32 percent).
The real estate industry recognises that the sale of established properties plays a big role in shaping housing prices, but there are strict conditions placed on foreign investors. Foreign investors can buy new properties, but can only purchase established homes if they meet certain criteria, such as a property that will be used for foreign student accommodation.
Domestic residents and investors therefore still make up almost 60 percent of this market, compared to 8.6 percent who are foreign investors.
The study has followed a 2014 Australian Government Parliamentary Inquiry into individual foreign investment in residential real estate due to mounting public pressure.
“The skills and cultural contribution of migrants to Australian society are so often overlooked by an ingrained historical desire to achieve the great Australian dream of homeownership,” Dr Rogers concluded.
A full report has been published in the <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/00049182.2017.1317050" target="_blank">Journal of the Australian Geographer</a>.
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Australians' deep-seated fear of foreign investment in housing remains: Sydney University research

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ASIC has noted the decision of the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions (CDPP) to discontinue the prosecution of mortgage broker, Ms Jenny Mao.
Ms Mao was charged with giving documents to a lender that were materially misleading.
The prosecution had been listed for a summary trial in April 2017.
On 20 March 2017, the CDPP sought to adjourn the summary trial order to allow a key and overseas-based prosecution witness to attend to give evidence.
The Court refused to adjourn the hearing.
On 10 May 2017, the CDPP formally offered no evidence on the charge and the charge was dismissed by the Southport Magistrates' Court.
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Former Brisbane mortgage broker goes free

Apartment buyers in New South Wales are set to gain a decade of insurance-backed protection against major building defects, after the NSW Parliament passed the Fair Trading and Building Legislation Amendment Bill 2026.&nbsp;

The Bill establishes decennial defect insurance, known in the market as Latent Defects Insurance (LDI), as an alternative to the existing two-year strata building bond. It cleared the Legislative Council with amendments on Tuesday evening (August 4, 2026), with the Legislative Assembly agreeing to those amendments shortly after.

Under the reform, eligible developers can satisfy their statutory bond obligation by taking out an approved decennial-style policy that gives owners 10 years of cover for major structural defects from completion, claimable directly, without first having to pursue developers or builders through costly legal action.&nbsp;

The change forms the final tranche of amendments arising from the 2021 statutory review of the Strata Schemes Management Act 2015 and related legislation.

Resilience Insurance, which originated the cover in Australia and has delivered it in NSW since 2022, welcomed the passage and credited the NSW Government for delivering it.

“This is protection apartment buyers have needed for a long time, and the credit for delivering it belongs to the NSW Government,”&nbsp;said Corey Nugent, CEO of Resilience Insurance.

“Minister Chanthivong and his team have shown real leadership in replacing an outdated two-year bond with cover that matches the lifespan of the buildings people are buying into. Reform like this is what good, evidence-based regulation looks like.”

Resilience has delivered LDI in NSW since 2022, protecting thousands of apartments, giving the State, and now the country, real-world evidence of how decade-long, no-fault protection works in practice.

The reform also places NSW within a wider national shift.

NSW is the third jurisdiction to put decennial cover into law. The ACT legislated for it in 2024, with the scheme taking effect in late 2025, and Victoria passed its own framework on 17 June. Between them, the three cover the majority of Australia's apartment market.

The reform commences once the legislation is proclaimed, which is expected in the coming weeks. From that point, developers of Class 2 residential apartment buildings can meet their statutory obligation with an approved decennial policy in place of the bond.

Buyers who purchased into projects that took out the cover early are among the first in the country to take keys to apartments carrying decade-long structural protection.

“With the legislation passed, the focus now turns to making it work for buyers,”&nbsp;Nugent said.

“There are already thousands of apartments in NSW covered by this insurance, bought by developers who moved early. The question every buyer should be asking in a display suite is a simple one: does this building come with 10-year defect cover, and who stands behind it?&nbsp;

“We look forward to working with the Government and the Building Commission in coming weeks as the framework moves to implementation, and to sharing what we have learned over the past four years so the protection reaches owners as smoothly and quickly as possible.”

Other states are working through their own reform programs. Western Australia has indicated that decennial cover is within consideration a later stage of its reform sequence, and Queensland has been examining the settings as it looks at the development pipeline ahead of the 2032 Olympics.

Resilience Insurance acknowledges the NSW Government’s continued focus on strengthening consumer protection while supporting housing delivery across the State.

Fast Facts: What the reform means

<ul style="color:#222222; font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:small; font-style:normal; font-variant-ligatures:normal; font-weight:400; text-align:start; white-space:normal; background-color:#ffffff; text-decoration-thickness:initial; text-decoration-style:initial; text-decoration-color:initial">
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Proven at scale:&nbsp;Decennial cover has operated in NSW since 2022, protecting thousand of apartments.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">10 years of cover:&nbsp;Protection for major structural defects runs for a decade from completion, claimable directly and with no legal action required.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">An alternative to the bond:&nbsp;Eligible developers can meet their statutory obligation with an approved decennial-style policy in place of the 2% strata building bond.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Part of a national shift:&nbsp;The ACT has had decennial provisions in force since 2025 and Victoria passed its framework in June. NSW now joins them.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">No-fault, first resort:&nbsp;Owners corporations claim directly from the insurer without first having to establish who is liable for the defect.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Cost-competitive:&nbsp;At approximately 1.8% of build cost, LDI is typically priced below the 2% bond while offering broader, longer protection.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Market position:&nbsp;Resilience originated LDI in Australia and has delivered it in NSW since 2022.</li>
</ul>

Fast Facts: What is Resilience LDI?

<ul style="color:#222222; font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:small; font-style:normal; font-variant-ligatures:normal; font-weight:400; text-align:start; white-space:normal; background-color:#ffffff; text-decoration-thickness:initial; text-decoration-style:initial; text-decoration-color:initial">
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Resilience Latent Defects Insurance (LDI):&nbsp;Covers major structural defects for 10 years from completion.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Consumer-first:&nbsp;Direct claim access, no need for lengthy legal action.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Cost advantage:&nbsp;At approximately 1.8% of build cost, LDI is typically priced below the traditional 2% Strata Bond while offering broader protection.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Market leader:&nbsp;&nbsp;Resilience Insurance originated LDI in Australia and is the national market leader.</li>
</ul>

Joel Robinson

NSW parliament passes 10-year defect insurance laws for new apartment buyers

Builder-developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mcnab-developments">McNab</a> has wasted little time reshaping one of South Brisbane's most significant undeveloped apartment sites after acquiring the property earlier this year.&nbsp;

McNab has lodged plans to scrap an existing approval for two 30-storey towers and instead deliver a single 28-storey residential building, preserving part of the site for a future development opportunity.

The proposal, lodged over <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/64-peel-street-south-brisbane-qld-4101">64 Peel Street and 9 Cordelia Street</a>, is for a residential-led mixed-use development comprising 124 apartments above a landscaped podium, alongside a boundary realignment that preserves part of the land for a future residential project.

<img alt="First look: McNab resets decade-old South Brisbane approval with 124-apartment tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="743bf564-3f8f-45fc-b8d3-bbf18f5b628f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/mcnab%20Peel%20st%20podium.png?VersionId=EhCxGrVn_VFH3qTbKnI4WppGwaMnOn0t" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hayball">Hayball</a>, the development will deliver 119 two-bedroom and five three-bedroom apartments across 23 residential levels. A five-level podium will accommodate 135 car spaces, while the ground floor will include a 66 sqm commercial tenancy, an activated residential lobby with work-from-home spaces, and a publicly accessible landscaped plaza linking Cordelia and Peel streets.&nbsp;

Communal amenities will span Level 6 and the rooftop, including indoor and outdoor recreation spaces, a swimming pool, barbecue facilities, kitchen and dining areas, lawn space, sauna, steam room and yoga facilities.

The application also proposes a boundary realignment to create a standalone 1,290 sqm development lot while retaining an adjacent parcel for future redevelopment, allowing the balance of the site to contribute additional housing over time.

Hayball said the architecture has been shaped by the site's elevated corner position at the intersection of Peel and Cordelia streets and Brisbane's subtropical climate.

The design incorporates generous landscaped setbacks, a masonry podium wrapped with planting, large north-facing balconies, and a slender tower profile intended to maximise natural light, cross ventilation and long-range views. The rooftop has been conceived as a wellness-focused retreat overlooking Brisbane, with amenities positioned to capture views towards Mount Coot-tha and the CBD.

<img alt="First look: McNab resets decade-old South Brisbane approval with 124-apartment tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c5f99e84-6ad8-4a87-82d1-869685b754d2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/mcnab%20tower%20perspective.png?VersionId=Gw0IuJaSAlk.tvGBxInhZOcQAdIB..2b" />

The planning submission positions the proposal as a response to both changing market conditions and Brisbane's Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct planning reforms.

McNab acquired the site after the previous approval was granted, with the existing scheme no longer reflecting current residential market demands, economic conditions, construction challenges, construction efficiencies or the quality of development outcome now being pursued, the planning report noted.

McNab continues to expand its residential development pipeline across Brisbane and the Gold Coast. The developer recently launched The Tannery in West End, securing more than 60 per cent of apartments before the project's public release. It is also delivering Elements Budds Beach in Surfers Paradise and Lucia Highgate Hill, an eight-apartment boutique development overlooking the Brisbane River.

McNab resets decade-old South Brisbane approval with 124-apartment tower

A steeply sloping Bellevue Hill site is set to accommodate a new mid-rise apartment development, with plans lodged for 20 homes that respond to the site's dramatic topography.

The proposal for the consolidated land at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/138a-140-bellevue-road-bellevue-hill-nsw-2023">138A-140 Bellevue Road</a> has been designed by Sydney architecture practice Common Office, which has used the site’s substantial fall to distribute the building’s scale and unlock 20 apartments without presenting the full height to the street.&nbsp;

“The unique design strategy leverages the site’s substantial topographical fall to facilitate increased density, presenting a seven-storey profile to Bellevue Road while rising to 10 storeys at the rear,” Common Office said in its architectural design report.

The apartment mix spans one, two, three- and four-bedroom residences. Four two-bedroom apartments are designated as affordable housing, while the plans also include two adaptable dwellings. The mix is majority three-beds, with the typical three-bed apartment offering around 144 sqm internally, with balconies of around 15 sqm.

The affordable housing component represents 15 per cent of the residential floor area and allows the project to access additional height and floor space under the NSW Government’s in-fill affordable housing provisions. The site also falls within the inner area of the Low and Mid-Rise Housing Policy because it is within 400 metres walking distance of Double Bay Town Centre.

<img alt="First Look: Plans lodged for topography-led affordable housing project in Bellevue Hill" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b1230d0f-3bfa-4a11-abaf-0928c66ef345" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Bellevue%20da.png?VersionId=dZeMK3P.OutGjN8ycjsxm8uNsj_QFWQv" />

Common Office has arranged the building around a masonry podium and a lighter upper volume, drawing on two recurring elements of Bellevue Hill’s established architecture: sandstone bases and the vertical proportions of local Inter-war Art Deco apartment buildings.

“The proposal is governed by a holistic design language that reconciles the solid horizontal masonry of the neighbourhood’s podiums with the elegant verticality of its Art Deco heritage,” the architect said.

“The building maintains a consistent rhythmic logic utilising deep recesses and a sophisticated material transition to break down the 10-storey scale into a series of articulated, human-scale volumes.”

<img alt="First Look: Plans lodged for topography-led affordable housing project in Bellevue Hill" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0147f503-1af1-4d51-97fb-c2f1cba63a9d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Bellevue%20bldg.png?VersionId=GoW7q3NlK67OpnePXhk7zvklrlKb72Qc" />

Large-format sandstone tiles will define the lower levels, establishing a robust base that negotiates the change in elevation from Bellevue Road. Above, red-tinted precast concrete frames, recessed balconies, anodised aluminium screens and expanded metal details will create a more vertically expressed façade. Integrated planter beds will introduce greenery across balcony edges and recessed sections of the building.

The elongated northern façade has been divided into three recessed vertical masses to reduce its perceived length. Triangular window elements and metal privacy screens reference the geometry of nearby Art Deco buildings while controlling overlooking toward surrounding homes. The southern elevation will incorporate further privacy screening, landscaped edges and deep balconies to maintain light and ventilation.

<img alt="First Look: Plans lodged for topography-led affordable housing project in Bellevue Hill" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e8679cf1-18bc-4447-8a0f-0052b94ab83c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Bellevue%20da%20rooftop.png?VersionId=5SQqQqRFf76rvE2p1TbxJSweMN70AIbc" />

Private and communal landscaping is distributed throughout the development. A landscaped garden apartment is positioned within the lower portion of the site, while a communal terrace on Level 5 will include a central timber deck, barbecue facilities, resident planting plots and areas for outdoor dining and informal gatherings.

Common Office described the terrace as an elevated sanctuary designed to capture district views and sunlight. Its planting strategy incorporates endemic species associated with the Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub, extending the landscape vertically through the building and providing habitat for local flora and fauna.

A second communal outdoor area is proposed at roof level, with built-in seating, paved gathering areas and perimeter planting.

Bellevue Hill is enjoying renewed momentum in the new apartment market, with several boutique developments recently launched and currently under construction. Positive Investment Enterprise is delivering the 16-apartment Kew Palm House on Birriga Road, while Chanine Developments is also under construction at Florian, a 36-apartment project on Banksia Road.

&nbsp;

Bellevue Hill is enjoying renewed momentum in the new apartment market, with several boutique developments recently launched and currently under construction.

First Look: Apartment development pitched for Bellevue Hill, Double Bay fringe

South Brisbane's apartment pipeline continues to build momentum, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/trk-property-group">TRK Property Group</a> lodging plans for a 161-apartment tower on Montague Road as developers accelerate investment across the Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct.

The proposal for 176–186 Montague Road would replace an existing office building with a 20-storey residential tower designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, adding to a growing pipeline of high-density projects reshaping one of Brisbane's fastest-evolving inner-city precincts.

The project has been conceived as a "living building", featuring a flowing tower form, extensive vertical landscaping, and generous communal spaces that respond to the evolving Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct.

TRK Property Group Development Director Matt Kan said the project reflected the confidence developers have in South Brisbane's long-term future.

"South Brisbane is entering an incredibly exciting period, and we see Montague Road sitting right at the heart of that evolution," Kan said.

"With the former Visy site directly opposite us and significant investment planned throughout the broader Kurilpa precinct, there is a real sense of momentum around this part of the city and what it will become over the coming years.

"For TRK, this is an opportunity to be part of that next chapter and deliver a project that responds to where the precinct is heading, while contributing to the continued evolution of Brisbane's river edge."

<img alt="First look: TRK Property joins South Brisbane apartment surge with Montague Road tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="590fe1ad-f892-4446-a679-80e33a16d029" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/TRK%20tower%20facade.png?VersionId=uOJStrcKpyHFcPE1w6_9SMAFzVMCcZll" />

The scheme includes a mix of one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, incorporating multi-purpose rooms in selected residences to provide additional flexibility for home offices or expanded living areas. The proposed mix comprises 15 one-bedroom, 13 one-bedroom plus MPR, 73 two-bedroom, 26 two-bedroom plus MPR, 30 three-bedroom, and four four-bedroom apartments.

Rather than adopting a conventional rectilinear tower, COX Architecture has developed a sculpted form inspired by the movement of the Brisbane River.

"The proposal has been designed by COX Architecture as a 'living building' that responds to the site's riverine setting, floodplain history and evolving urban context within the Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct," the planning report states.

"The architectural form draws from the fluid nature of the Brisbane River, with a curved and undulating tower form that creates a varied architectural edge and avoids a conventional rectilinear tower expression."

The podium has also been designed as an architectural feature rather than a conventional parking structure, with cascading planting, screening and natural-toned materials softening its appearance. Resident parking is elevated above ground level to address the site's flood constraints, while habitable apartments sit above flood planning levels. Upper-level communal facilities are designed to accommodate shelter-in-place arrangements during major flood events.

<img alt="First look: TRK Property joins South Brisbane apartment surge with Montague Road tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="01fa15d0-90df-46c7-9555-7941fc45373c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/TRK%20podium.png?VersionId=mHyua.w1pHGBt9qEdWzrlsv.leztUCwO" />

Communal amenity is a major focus of the proposal. Around 1,815 sqm of shared resident space is proposed across the ground floor, level 19 and the rooftop, including co-working areas, indoor and outdoor recreation spaces, wellness facilities, dining and gathering areas, lawn spaces, a rooftop pool and spa, and extensive landscaping. At street level, a landscaped forecourt and approximately 345 sqm of publicly accessible open space along Montague Road are intended to improve the pedestrian experience while activating the building's frontage.

The development will provide 163 car spaces, including 152 resident bays and 11 visitor spaces, together with 144 bicycle spaces incorporating resident storage, visitor parking, bicycle maintenance facilities and e-mobility charging infrastructure.

The site sits within one of Brisbane's fastest-changing inner-city precincts, less than two kilometres from the CBD and within easy reach of South Bank, West End, the Queensland Cultural Centre and extensive public transport connections. The Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct planning framework is encouraging higher-density residential development to help meet Brisbane's housing supply targets while supporting walkable, transit-oriented neighbourhoods.

TRK Property joins South Brisbane apartment surge with Montague Road tower plans

Article summary

<ul data-end="785" data-start="311">
	<li data-end="459" data-section-id="5hbcyr" data-start="311">Pikos Group has released the five-penthouse collection at Skye Kangaroo Point, headlined by a two-storey sky home spanning more than 1,000 sqm.</li>
	<li data-end="561" data-section-id="1p7lq8n" data-start="460">Early buyer interest suggests the residences could set a new Queensland apartment price record.</li>
	<li data-end="667" data-section-id="1y70z0l" data-start="562">The collection includes four move-in ready penthouses and the highly customised Skye One residence.</li>
	<li data-end="785" data-section-id="yvm0y1" data-start="668">The release caps one of Bri​sbane's most ambitious luxury apartment developments overlooking the Brisbane River.</li>
</ul>

<hr data-end="790" data-start="787" />
Pikos Group has released the five-penthouse collection at its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/skye-residences-by-pikos-kangaroo-point-8-river-terrace-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">Skye by Pikos</a> development in Kangaroo Point, with early buyer interest indicating the flagship residences could eclipse every apartment sale previously recorded in Queensland.

The collection crowns the luxury riverfront development with five residences, including four completed penthouses and Skye One, a two-level sky home spanning more than 1,000 sqm that will be tailored to its eventual owner.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=90059 project_image_fid=374075]

Wanting to offer a fully customisable home, Pikos is offering Skye One as a blank canvas, allowing the buyer to work alongside the developer's design team to customise the home's layout, finishes and internal spaces.

The residence will feature a 247 sqm private rooftop terrace with its own swimming pool, sauna, steam room, outdoor kitchen and multiple entertaining areas overlooking the Brisbane River and CBD skyline.

The remaining four penthouses have been completed and are ready for immediate occupation, each offering four bedrooms, expansive open-plan living areas, soaring ceilings and private lift access.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=90059 project_image_fid=374059]

One of the defining features throughout the project is its use of Roman Classic Travertine, with more than 20,000 sqm of the natural stone imported from Italy after being personally selected by Pikos Group Founder and Executive Director Pedro Pikos, interior designer Julie Williamson and third-generation stone specialist Mario Caucci.

Pikos said the penthouse collection represented the culmination of the company's long-term vision for Skye.

"True legacy isn't measured by what we build today, but by what endures tomorrow," Pikos said.

"Our ambition is to create places that become more valuable with time, enrich the lives of generations, and stand as timeless landmarks long after we've stepped away."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=90059 project_image_fid=374060]

Williamson said the interiors were inspired by the natural character of Kangaroo Point and the Brisbane River rather than international design trends.

"Materiality tells the story of a place," Williamson said.

"We looked to the movement of the Brisbane River, the texture of the cliff face and the warmth of the surrounding landscape to create interiors that feel understated, enduring and unmistakably Brisbane."

Positioned above the Kangaroo Point cliffs, Skye places residents within walking distance of Howard Smith Wharves, South Bank and James Street while offering uninterrupted river and city views.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=90059]

Staff reporter

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