<html><body>
The ACT-government’s goal of promoting Canberra as an international destination has received a boost with the completion of the Canberra Airport’s first luxury hotel.
The Bates Smart-designed Canberra Vibe Hotel, operated by Toga Far East Hotels, has a  circular form inspired by the geometry of Walter Burley Griffin’s Canberra.
The hotel has 191 rooms, including 12 suites over six levels and nine apartments. Other features include conferencing facilities, a restaurant and bar and lounges. 
The $50 million, 4.5 star hotel is close to the airport terminal and Parliament House and is part of a resurgence of new hotel developments in Australia.
Canberra Airport Group CEO Stephen Byron said the hotel’s completion was a key piece of the puzzle in attracting international flights. 
He said as the only 24-hour airport between Brisbane and Melbourne, Canberra Airport was strategically positioned to expand internationally and expected to draw its first international carrier in 2016.
“This hotel is on a key strategic site of great importance to the future growth of the airport and is why we held a major design competition to arrive at the perfect outcome,” he said.
“In terms of expanding internationally, it is a question of when not if. Our strategy is to connect to a key Asian hub and every day we get closer to that. We expect it to become a reality in 2016.”
Appointed to the project after winning the 2013 design competition, Bates Smart based the design around a dramatic full height circular atrium that draws references from Griffin’s plan for Canberra with its circular and radial geometries.
“We have created a unique destination for travellers to be, one that will attract visitors with its timeless design that combines circular and axial geometries to create a distinctive form, drawn from its context,” Bates Smart director Philip Vivian said.
“A signature space for the hotel is its striking black and white atrium rising above a large-scale ground floor entertaining space catering for intimate gatherings as well as large-scale events.”
Vivian said Bates Smart had a number of hotel projects on the cards, including a new hotel at Barangaroo in collaboration with the UK’s Wilkinson Eyre Architects.
“It’s no secret that new hotel developments have been scarce in recent years due to the expense associated with purchasing sites in Australia,” Vivian said.
“New hotel developments are on the increase and we’ve been looking at a number in the Sydney CBD. The economy here is performing well, stimulating business travel, and the lower dollar is attracting the tourist market. Consequently, hotel occupancy rates are up, stimulating the need for new supply.”
</body></html>

j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Bates Smart unveil new Canberra Vibe Hotel, as new build hotel industry gains momentum

<html><body>
A local private investor has snapped up a prominent retail complex in Perth's Bayswater for $5.45 million at auction.
The 497 Guildford Road complex is anchored by Red Rooster and Snap Fitness.
The deal was brokered by CBRE agents Ben Younger and Michael Milne.
The sale price translates to an estimated yield of 5.87%.
The 3,137 square metre site has expansive frontages to Guildford Road and Slade Street and on-site parking.
The site was sold with secure leases to four well-established tenants, which provide an estimated income of about $320,367 per annum.
The auction was well bid with eight parties.
</body></html>

Bayswater retail complex sells under the hammer

<html><body>
A South Yarra address leased to MasterChef Australia patissier Adriano Zumbo’s Fancy Nance and Little Frankie’s eateries has sold for $3.705 million before auction.
The Fridcorp-developed Lilli building at 21 Daly Street, South Yarra is spread across 410 square metres and is located on the ground floor.
Zoned Commercial 1, it was sold with a new 10-year lease with two five-year options to Zumbo’s high tea restaurant Fancy Nance and Little Frankie’s, returning a rental of $197,514 per annum plus outgoings and GST.
The yield works out at 5.3 percent.
Fitzroys' Chris Kombi and Andrew Hewett handled the selling campaign.
“This is an enormously successful location with a huge catchment of over 3,000 residents and workers immediately surrounding the property, with high growth prospects for the future,” said Kombi.
The building had been on the market for 48 days before Zumbo snapped it up.
</body></html>

Adriano Zumbo-leased restaurant sold prior to auction for $3.7 million in Melbourne

<html><body>
The last of nine prime retail shops at the base of the EXO apartment building in Melbourne’s Docklands precinct has sold for $1,128,000 to a private investor.
Shop 5A at 860 Collins Street is spread over 140 square metres and was the last retail space available on the ground floor of Lendlease’s EXO apartment tower.
The selling agents were Daniel Wolman, Oliver Hay and Chris Ling of Colliers International. 
It follows the recent sale of the 251 square metre corner site at EXO, tenanted by ASX-listed Flight Centre on a 10-year lease, for $2.51 million, also by Colliers International.
“Anchored by the national headquarters of ANZ, NAB, Lend Lease and Myer, Victoria Harbour is becoming increasingly sought after," said Wolman.
The nine ground floor shops at EXO range from 85 to 402 square metres.
Wolman said investment activity in the area was being supported by increasing foot traffic from a growing catchment of commercial office tenants.
“Since its completion in mid-2013, EXO at 860 Collins Street, and the Victoria Harbour precinct more broadly, has undergone significant uplift and growth as a result of Melbourne’s increasing population and the CBD growing towards Docklands with more affordable retail and office space,” he said.
Ling said record low interest rates, a soft Australian dollar and volatility in overseas Asian markets were combining to position the Australian commercial property as a safe haven for investors and owner-occupiers alike.
“Investor appetite for prime retail space in the Melbourne CBD continues unabated. We expect it will drive strong demand for a range of assets we are currently marketing, including a freestanding retail investment at 471 Eliizabeth Street, two strata retail shops at 1 Little Collins Street and the Belgian Beer Café site at the base of Eureka Tower at 3-7 Riverside Quay.”
</body></html>

Final retail shop sold at Melbourne's EXO apartments for $1.128 million

<html><body>
NSW Fair Trading Commissioner Rod Stowe has issued another public warning not to deal with Christopher Wayne Stanley Boyce, a removalist against whom the commission is taking action based on many complaints of losing, breaking and damaging household goods in transit. 
Boyce has previously traded as Bustamove Removals and now trades as Interstate Relocation Specialist at <a href="https://www.interstaterelocationspecialist.com/" target="_blank">www.interstaterelocationspecialist.com</a>, the note said.
The Commissioner issued a public warning about Boyce and Bustamove Removals in July last year after which Boyce started trading under the unregistered business name Interstate Relocation Specialist.
According to the notice, Boyce’s business practices pose a threat of consumer detriment due to him:
· failing to arrive at all for pick-up after taking a deposit or full payment
· failing to arrive for pick-up on time or within a reasonable time
· losing items and delivering broken and damaged items and furniture
· not providing receipts for payments
· not providing the services the consumer pays for such as an empty truck or a truck with requested dimensions
· not providing contracts or insurance (when requested)
· purporting to include insurance in the services but not obtaining any  
· not providing the accompanying packaging services such as boxes or protective packaging material the consumer pays for
· charging extra for storage and the subsequent delivery of 'stored' items
· requiring payment before accepting to provide a service.
The Commissioner said Boyce habitually has not returned calls, emails or text/SMS messages when consumers tried to contact him.
“Fair Trading takes the view Mr Boyce has breached provisions of the Australian Consumer Law and consumers who deal with him could suffer a significant financial loss,” he said.
“Moving is a stressful enough experience and the last thing consumers need is to suffer the insult of lost and damaged goods and inappropriate trader behaviour.
“Consumers should check internet product and service reviews for traders they are intending to deal with before committing to contracts or payment of any money. They are also advised not to automatically accept the lowest price quoted without further inquiry. In addition, consumers should not feel compelled to purchase based upon undue sales pressure from traders.”
This is also the case if consumers are using trader (removalist) locating or brokering (removalist) services on the internet and those businesses recommend Interstate Relocation Specialist.
NSW Fair Trading has started enforcement action against Boyce and his businesses. 
</body></html>

Property 101: NSW Fair Trading issues warning against removalist Christopher Wayne Stanley Boyce

<html><body>
Parramatta City Council is acquiring four sites along Phillip Street that it deems key to its River Strategy programme worth $200 million.
The council has zeroed in on Willow Grove, St Georges Terrace and other commercial buildings that will cost $35.5 million.
The council’s River Strategy envisions a makeover of the foreshore between Gasworks Bridge and Rings Bridge, O’Connell Street with better space for walking, cycling, recreation and the hosting of events such as New Year’s Eve.
The acquisitions are expected to improve the CBD’s connection to Parramatta River.
"These purchases will allow Council to provide a critical civic link within the City from Parramatta Square through to Riverbank and the foreshore. It allows Council to be more flexible in its activation and rejuvenation of a core precinct in our CBD," Lord Mayor of Parramatta Cr Paul Garrard said. 
The River Strategy would be an economic injection into the city, he added.
“Historic Willow Grove will be included in of our plans to activate the Riverbank precinct which is a crucial part of Council’s River Strategy adopted earlier this year.”
A blueprint for the Riverbank is currently being considered by council.
It has also resumed control of the former David Jones car park site, which together with the four purchases will make up an 18,000 square metre foreshore site planned for mixed use such as cultural venues and apartments.
The project will be completed in stages over a 20-year timeframe with funding from a range of sources including the council, state government and the private sector.
</body></html>

Parramatta Council buys four properties for its River Strategy plan

<html><body>
The $228 million redevelopment and expansion of Stockland Wetherill Park is a measure of confidence in the economic strength of Western Sydney and is part of by Stockland’s $2 billion investment in New South Wales over the next five years.
Stockland’s Wetherill Park shopping centre was completed three months ahead of schedule, just in time for the Christmas and New Year high sales period.
“Our $228 million investment in Stockland Wetherill Park is a strong vote of confidence in the economic strength of Western Sydney,” said Stockland managing director and CEO Mark Steinert.
The second and final stage of the redevelopment saw the addition of 5,600 square metres of retail space with 20 new fashion and homewares retailers together with an 800-seat indoor-outdoor dining precinct, which features 14 new restaurants, cafes and food operators.
Post-expansion, the gross lettable area (GLA) has increased to 70,000 square metres.
Stockland Wetherill Park has more than 210 retailers, including JB Hi-Fi Home, Dick Smith, Industrie, Napolean Perdis and Lorna Jane. 
The centre has more than doubled its fresh food and casual dining offering with brands such as Nandos, Grill’d, San Churro, Thai Rock and Rashay’s Pizza Pasta and Grill. Stockland Wetherill Park is also home to the first Jamie’s Ministry of Food in NSW, a new Fit n Fast gym and upgraded 12 screen Hoyts cinema.
Joining them is a new Coles supermarket with adjoining Liquorland.
The shopping centre’s Facebook page had 15,334 Likes as on February 22.
The Stockland Wetherill Park redevelopment is expected to achieve an incremental internal rate of return (IRR) of more than 15 per cent in the 10 years post-completion and an incremental, stabilised funds from operations (FFO) yield of just over 7.25 per cent.
The redevelopment started in September 2013, creating more than 2,250 jobs.
The opening in December was well attended, with Hon. Chris Bowen MP, Member for McMahon, Shadow Treasurer, Dr Hugh McDermott MP, Member for Prospect and Mayor of Fairfield City, Frank Carbone among those present. 
The parking space was also increased by 30 percent to accommodate 2,700 cars.
</body></html>

Early completion of Stockland Wetherill Park expansion vote of confidence in Western Sydney's economic strength

<html><body>
A private Stewart Island eco-sanctuary spread over 172 hectares is up for sale at an asking price of $2.25 million.
The Dancing Star Reserve, which adjoins Rakiura National Park, is on the market after 15 years as a private, protected ecological refuge for native flora and fauna.
Encompassing mountainous terrain, garden meadows, five beaches and some of the oldest native forests in New Zealand, the property features a high-tech, ecologically engineered fence to exclude predators, as well as state-of-the-art electronic and video surveillance.
The listing brings a rare opportunity for anyone to own a piece of prehistoric New Zealand, says listing agent Matt Finnigan of New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty.
Wildlife preservation and biodiversity conservation have been the core focuses of the property’s current owners, the California-based, not-for-profit Dancing Star Foundation. The refuge now hosts well over 126 native species and contains one of the highest concentrations of kiwi in New Zealand.
“This particular property is quite special - it’s one of the largest pieces of privately-owned land on Stewart Island, and with the work done by the vendors, it has the potential to lead the world in conservation efforts,” says Finnigan.
Buildings within the reserve include a 230-square-metre barn and an environmental education centre with a shower block and kitchen. A full-time conservation manager currently lives on site to maintain the property and its inhabitants.
Finnigan says the reserve presents a unique opportunity for tourism operators and corporates, as well as private owners looking to balance their impact on the environment. It would also be of interest to individuals wanting a secluded and amazing holiday retreat or innovative stewards seeking a project with conservation attributes. 
“It would appeal to someone who would like to appreciate and preserve what the land was several hundred years ago. There are very few places like this remaining in New Zealand - or the world, for that matter,” he said.
</body></html>

Stewart Island eco-sanctuary up for sale

<html><body>
Imagine walking through the doors of your new apartment even before a brick has been laid, feeling its interiors and the spaces... 
Brisbane’s Blue Sky Private Real Estate is using Oculus Rift 3D technology to give prospective buyers a walk-through of its apartments at its latest Kangaroo Point development, The Duke, before construction even begins.
Visitors to <a href="https://www.blueskyfunds.com.au/the-duke/" target="_blank">The Duke's display suite at 444 Vulture Street</a> can inspect the property in 3D, where you see photo-realistic impressions of the apartment interiors, by wearing the Oculus Rift headset.
The software has been created by Australian architectural 3D visualisation studio, Binyan.
Blue Sky development manager Edan Norris said the new Facebook-owned technology was a game changer for the industry.
“Oculus Rift got gamers very excited at first, but the potential for the architecture and real estate industry is enormous,” he said.   “Buying a property is a huge decision, one that is very emotional. We want to give prospective owners the ultimate preview into our apartments to ensure they make an informed decision, as we know buying off-the-plan can be daunting.   “As buyers become more sophisticated, the Oculus Rift walk-through will give people a much better sense of space than any artist impressions, and allow them to take in the impressive view from the rooftops.”   Situated close to the Gabba, at the corner of Vulture and Duke streets, the new 15-storey development features 125 one, two and three bedroom apartments targeted at owner occupiers.
One-bedroom apartments range from $375,000 to $450,000, two-bedroom from $475,000 to $655,000 and three-bedroom from $790,000 to $830,000.   Blue Sky Private Real Estate is injecting $185 million in Brisbane’s south side with five residential developments underway to capitalise on rising demand.
The Duke is one of its most luxurious developments. Its will feature marble look benchtops, soft timbers and leather trim. Two landscaped rooftop terraces allow views of the city skyline, while resident facilities include a lap pool, BBQ dining and lounge areas, a herb and citrus garden space, an outdoor cinema screen and a tiered timber grandstand with direct views into the Gabba stadium.   “The architects, Rothelowman, have created a development that is contextually relevant,” Norris said.   The Duke is two kilometres from Brisbane CBD, with Kangaroo Point cliffs, Brisbane River, South Bank, the Story Bridge and the Pacific Motorway all a short walk.     Blue Sky Private Real Estate is a division of Blue Sky Alternative Investments (ASX: BLA).
</body></html>

Brisbane's Blue Sky gives buyers a virtual realty check

<html><body>
<div>Properties sold in Australia without an agent account for less than one percent of all property sales in Australia, according to research by real estate comparison service Which Real Estate Agent.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>In figures, of the half-a-million homes sold in Australia in the 12 months to November, just 5,300 were sold by an owner without an agent.</div>
<div> </div>
<div><a href="/images/2016/02/19/properties-for-sale.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div><img src="/images/2016/02/19/properties-for-sale.png" alt=""></div>
<div> </div>
<div>The UK’s property market is more mature than Australia's, and local property analysts often use UK data to predict Australian trends, it says.</div>
<div>
According to the research, for sale by owner has similar market penetration in the UK as in Australia. Of the 1.2 million properties sold in the UK every year, just 10,000 are sold by owners who don’t use agents. That’s less than one percent of all property sales.
This suggests that unless a disruptor arrives and turns the entire property industry on its head, Australia’s for sale by owner market isn’t about to change. It hasn’t happened in the UK, and it’s unlikely to happen here.
<a href="/images/2016/02/19/For-sale-by-owner-property-sales.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/02/19/For-sale-by-owner-property-sales.png" alt="">
Other key findings include: 
<div>
<ul>
<li>Half of the for sale by owner websites analysed had sold fewer than 200 properties in the past year</li>
<li>For sale by owner websites sold an extra 300 properties this year compared to last, but that growth dwarfs when compared to the thousands of homes sold every year by agents. </li>
</ul>
For the research, Which Real Estate Agent examined sales data for 12 for sale by owner websites to see how many properties sold in the last 12 months (December 2014 to November 2015), and in the 12 months before that (December 2013 to November 2014).
<a href="/images/2016/02/19/growth.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/02/19/growth.png" alt="">
To derive sale numbers, they counted the number of sales listed on each website’s agency profile on realestate.com.au.
While hiring an agent will cost you, it is probably better to hire one if you are not experienced in the property market. There's also the downside risk of selling for a lower price than what you could have achieved with an agent. 
The full article can be found <a href="https://whichrealestateagent.com.au/ultimate-guide-australias-sale-owner-market-sell-agent/" target="_blank">here</a>.
</div>
</div>
<div> </div>
</body></html>

Homes sold without an agent make up only 1 percent of Australia's property market: research

ASX-listed developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/stockland">Stockland</a>&nbsp;is continuing its push back into the new apartment market, filing plans for a prominent gateway site between Collingwood and East Melbourne.

The development giant, which moved back into the new apartment space when it announced Stanton Place in Sydney's Rosebery and have since filed plans for a 50-storey tower, are jumping into the off the plan Melbourne market.

They are hoping to create a mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/79-81-victoria-parade-collingwood-vic-3066">79-81 Victoria Parade</a>, replacing an existing commercial building with a scheme by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/john-wardle-architects">Wardle</a>&nbsp;for 478 apartments,&nbsp;ground-floor retail, new public open spaces and a publicly accessible pedestrian laneway.

<img alt="First look: Stockland plans new mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for Collingwood gateway site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="72dbbca9-3918-4073-afad-a0c0c35be8e7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/stockland%20pers.png?VersionId=bzMVUKKxvwuNK1m0v_td126Rgct32uk_" />

The design report identifies the public realm as a central driver of the proposal.

"Collingwood has limited access to high-quality parks and public open space, and the proposal delivers valuable new areas for respite, social interaction and fine-grain retail activity."

The development would deliver a diverse mix of housing, including studio, one, two and three-bedroom apartments alongside townhouse-style residences. Two basement levels are proposed beneath the development, providing resident and retail parking as well as extensive bicycle facilities.

Wardle's design draws heavily on Collingwood's industrial character, using articulated building forms, brickwork and robust materials inspired by the suburb's warehouse and manufacturing heritage. The built form has been broken into a series of smaller volumes to better respond to the surrounding streetscape while extensive communal gardens, rooftop amenities and shared resident spaces are integrated throughout the project.

<img alt="First look: Stockland plans new mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for Collingwood gateway site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7b2135ed-65df-4253-ad53-f216f06bd467" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/stockland%20podium.png?VersionId=l1B6Hqn8zs772VxH6L1fDPg0KHshan9v" />

The planning documents describe the existing office building as offering little engagement with the public realm, with the redevelopment intended to create a more permeable and active neighbourhood destination.

"The proposed scheme presents a significant opportunity to deliver a vibrant retail plaza and a local neighbourhood hub serving both existing and future Collingwood residents."

The 79–81 Victoria Parade site occupies a strategic location about 1.5 kilometres east of Melbourne's CBD, at the threshold between Collingwood and East Melbourne. It is well served by tram services along Victoria Parade and sits within walking distance of St Vincent's Hospital, Fitzroy Gardens, the Fitzroy activity centre and a broad range of employment, retail and hospitality destinations.

Joel Robinson

Stockland plans new mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for Collingwood gateway site

An 1880s timber cottage that has survived Kangaroo Point's transformation from riverside suburb to high-density apartment precinct is set to become the centrepiece of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/zephyr">Zephyr Group</a>'s proposed Banksia development.

Rather than see the locally heritage-listed Alpha Cottage as an obstacle to navigate, plans integrate the landmark home into a new 18-storey residential tower, giving one of the suburb's oldest surviving residences a new role as the project's communal hub.

The development application covers a 1,177 sqm amalgamated site at 127-133 Lambert Street and 30 Shafston Avenue, where Zephyr Group plans to deliver 64 apartments above three basement levels. Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/joe-adsett-architects">Joe Adsett Architects</a>, the proposal carefully weaves the retained heritage cottage into a contemporary residential scheme, with the tower elevated above the historic building to preserve its presence within the Lambert Street streetscape.

<img alt="First look: Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f9dc5bdb-d691-4c60-bf2b-c3ed405a3e75" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Banksia.png?VersionId=Jh4bjlewU.o8HXWt0V4KaFA_lPcF7KWM" />

Named after the native Australian Banksia flower, the project draws inspiration from its distinctive form through curved balconies, sculpted planter boxes and cascading subtropical landscaping that soften the building's profile.

As the design report explains: "The tower's identity is defined by its feature facade, drawing direct inspiration from the Banksia wildflower. The building departs from traditional rigidity through the use of elegant, GRC-moulded planter boxes that appear as if shaped by the breeze."

Plans propose 64 apartments, comprising 32 two-bedroom and 32 three-bedroom residences, across an 18-storey tower. Residents would have access to rooftop amenities including a swimming pool, spa, gym, sauna, private cinema, dining spaces and landscaped recreation areas, while more than half the site is dedicated to planting and open space.

<img alt="First look: Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="16041b5f-033e-47fa-8fbe-9886e072c1f2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/pool.png?VersionId=kpx5w4EbLx0_TdWfDoD1vrSs0_cZ5Ao1" />

The heritage component is the defining feature of the proposal. Constructed in the early 1880s and occupied from at least 1883, Alpha Cottage is recognised by Brisbane City Council as an important surviving example of Kangaroo Point's nineteenth-century residential development and as a representative transverse-gable timber cottage. Despite extensive redevelopment across the peninsula, the building has retained a high degree of its original form and internal fabric.

As part of the redevelopment, the cottage will be carefully relocated a short distance within its original allotment to facilitate construction before being returned to a prominent position along Lambert Street. Original verandah elements will be dismantled, catalogued and reinstated, while significant internal features, including timber flooring, wall linings, joinery, doors, windows and hardware, will be retained. Later additions, including the enclosed rear verandah, will be removed to better reveal the building's original form.

Once restored, Alpha Cottage will accommodate the building manager's office, mail room and parcel facilities, providing an active everyday use that supports its long-term conservation rather than preserving it as a static display. The heritage strategy also maintains landscaped space around the building, allowing it to remain visually distinct beneath the new tower.

<img alt="First look: Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="43b027e1-576e-4624-a66c-7cc54ea8b7be" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/banksia%20tower.png?VersionId=2W6E2yfkj2AQlWlLeV986grA5zB9f817" />

The Heritage Impact Assessment concludes that "the proposal secures the ongoing occupation, maintenance and conservation of Alpha Cottage," finding the development would result in "no more than a minor impact on the cultural heritage significance" of the building while ensuring its long-term future.

Joe Adsett Architects have designed the tower to sit above the heritage building rather than overwhelm it, creating a clear visual separation between old and new. The development's flowing balconies, integrated planting and organic façade respond to Brisbane's subtropical climate while complementing the restored cottage below.

Banksia occupies a prominent corner in Kangaroo Point within walking distance of the Kangaroo Point Bridge, Brisbane River, ferry services, QUT, the CBD and the Woolloongabba precinct. The site also benefits from direct access to active transport infrastructure and sits within an area earmarked for continued higher-density residential growth.

Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage

Buying into a masterplanned community often means committing to a vision still years from taking shape. At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a>, that vision is already visible.

Residents have moved into the completed first stage, landscaped spaces are established, and the next chapter is now underway. Stage 1 has been completed and settled, with Stage 2 now selling off-the-plan.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/pbd-architects">PBD Architects</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> combines attainable apartment living with sustainability initiatives rarely seen at this price point, including rooftop solar, battery storage and a resident EV-sharing program.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6RNt3AvtBpI?si=JUhuCV2ZRXsYaoJZ" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Located on Schofi​elds Road, just moments from Tal​lawong Metro Station and Schof​ields Train Station, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> has been designed to appeal to a broad mix of buyers, from first-home purchasers looking for a foothold in Sy​dney's property market to downsizers seeking a connected, low-maintenance lifestyle.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> has been conceived as a thoughtfully planned masterplanned community that will evolve over multiple stages, with buyers now able to secure one, two and three-bedroom apartments within a neighbourhood that is already beginning to establish its identity.

One of the project's defining features is its focus on sustainability. Solar energy systems, battery storage and future EV charging infrastructure have been incorporated throughout the development, reflecting a long-term approach to both environmental performance and everyday convenience.

Sustainability sits at the centre of the development's vision, with solar energy systems, battery storage and future EV charging infrastructure integrated throughout the community.

That emphasis on future-ready living extends beyond the technology. Landscaped communal gardens, outdoor gathering spaces and plans for a future retail precinct aim to create a neighbourhood where residents can access daily conveniences without travelling far from home.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149637 project_image_fid=351027]

The apartments themselves have been designed with liveability front of mind. Rather than chasing maximum density, the focus has been placed on creating practical homes with generous natural light, usable layouts and strong connections to outdoor space.

Importantly, these design principles have been applied consistently across the one, two and three-bedroom apartment offerings.

The appeal of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> is also closely linked to its location within Syd​ney's rapidly evolving north-west growth corridor. Over the past decade, major infrastructure investment has transformed the area, with new transport links, business precincts and community facilities reshaping suburbs like Talla​wong and Schofiel​ds.

The agent says buyers are increasingly recognising the area's long-term potential.

"Typical buyers that we're finding across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> especially are your first-home buyers, your investors, your upsizers as well as your downsizers," Hawes says.

Connectivity remains one of the project's strongest drawcards. Residents have access to both Tallaw​ong Metro Station and Schofi​elds Train Station, providing links to the Sydn​ey CBD, Norw​est Business Park, Macquari​e Park and other major employment hubs. Retail centres including Rous​e Hill Town Centre and Sch​ofields Village are also nearby, alongside schools, parks and future healthcare infrastructure.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149637 project_image_fid=351031]

For Stage 1 resident Roji, it is the balance between convenience and comfort that has defined the experience of living at Kew.

"For me, it's a balance of quality and convenience," she says. "Everything I need is right here."

"If I wanted to catch the train, Scho​fields Station is just around the corner. Tallaw​ong Metro connects me to the city."

More importantly, she says, the development has delivered something that cannot be measured in floorplans or specifications.

"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> feels like home."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149637 project_image_fid=351024]

As Stage 2 enters the market, that lived experience may be one of the project's strongest selling points. Buyers are not purchasing into an untested concept or a future promise. They are joining a community that is already taking shape.

Ongoing investment in transport, retail, healthcare and public open space continues to strengthen the appeal of Syd​ney's north-west growth corridor, while <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a>'s established first stage provides buyers with a tangible sense of the community's future direction.

For a limited time, buyer can secure a new home at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> with just a $10,000.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=149637]

Kew Tallawong: A growing community taking shape in Sydney's north-west

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/freecity">Freecity</a> has received development approval for its 51-storey mixed-use tower at 153-157 Walker Street, North Sydney, set to be one of the tallest mixed-use residential-led buildings in one of Sydney’s most sought-after commercial and residential addresses.

Lodged as a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) through the Housing Delivery Authority (HDA) pathway and approved by the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure following a comprehensive public exhibition and submissions process, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/153-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">the project</a> will deliver 296 apartments, alongside a 170-room, luxury hotel, activated retail and significant public domain improvements.

Situated just 200 metres from Victoria Cross Metro Station, on one of the largest developable sites in North Sydney, the development will rise to 234 metres, making it one of the tallest buildings in the suburb. With an end value of approximately $1.5 billion, the project responds directly to the NSW Government’s mandate to accelerate housing delivery in well-located, transit-connected areas.

<img alt="Freecity gets green light for mixed-use residential and hotel tower in North Sydney" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="192ec455-94bf-4e01-83ef-922b1b269d67" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Freecity%20-%20Walker%20Street%20North%20Sydney%201%20RESIZED%20.jpg?VersionId=Bzqp0SBHCDvLAHjA4QXkjuGoOEIh73Jl" />

The apartment mix will cater to a broad range of buyers, with 65 studio and one-bedroom apartments, 139 two-bedroom residences, 35 three-bedroom apartments, 48 four-bedroom homes, and nine penthouses. Residents will have access to a dedicated amenity level on Level 33, featuring a swimming pool with views towards the Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House and North Sydney CBD, as well as a gym, library, shared kitchen, lounge and outdoor entertaining areas.

The hotel will occupy the lower six levels of the building and include meeting and function spaces, a wellness centre with gym, yoga studio, swimming pool and sauna, further strengthening North Sydney's growing hospitality offering.

At ground level, the development has been designed to improve pedestrian connections through the precinct. More than 700 sqm of retail space will activate the street frontage, while a landscaped through-site link connecting Walker Street, Little Walker Street and Doris Fitton Park will provide new public open space with seating, paving and extensive native landscaping.

Freecity Group Co-Founder and Joint CEO Tony Sun said the project represents one of the most significant development opportunities currently available in North Sydney.

"This is one of the most significant development sites in North Sydney and it comes at a pivotal moment for the precinct," Sun said.

"North Sydney is undergoing a genuine transformation, and this project will contribute housing the city urgently needs while creating a landmark destination."

Executive Director of Development Michael Romano said demand for both residential and hotel accommodation would continue to strengthen as the Metro precinct matures.

"The structural demand for high-quality housing and hotel accommodation in North Sydney is compelling, and will only grow as the precinct continues to evolve around the new Metro station," Romano said.

Architectus has designed the tower, orientating the apartments to maximise views towards Sydney Harbour while introducing a sculpted façade intended to respond to light, wind and the surrounding skyline.

Architectus Principal Marko Damic said the design sought to create a tower that contributes to the public realm as much as the skyline.

"We wanted to design a tower that doesn't just sit in the skyline but actively participates and contributes to city life," Damic said.

First look: Freecity gets green light for mixed-use apartment and hotel tower in North Sydney

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen">Abadeen</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/perifa">PERIFA</a> have celebrated the topping out of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf,</a> marking a significant milestone in the delivery of one of Syd​ney's most anticipated waterfront communities.

Located on Sydney's harbourfront at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/putney-nsw-2112">Putney</a>, the project has now reached its highest structural point, with construction progressing strongly towards completion in 2027. 
&nbsp; 
The milestone was celebrated on-site with project partners Phoenix Property Investors, Mitsubishi Estate Asia, Versatile Construction, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, consultants and stakeholders, to recognise the collective effort behind the transformation of the historic waterfront site into a vibrant new residential, marina and lifestyle destination.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362240] 
&nbsp; 
<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> will deliver a mix of waterfront residences and terraces, complemented by a private 36-berth marina, waterfront dining opportunities and a revitalised foreshore designed to reconnect the community with the river's edge. 
&nbsp; 
Abadeen Executive Chairman and Founder Justin Brown said the project represented a rare opportunity to create the next chapter in Sydn​ey's long history of successful waterfront precincts. 
&nbsp; 
"Throughout Sydney, some of the city's most sought-after addresses have emerged from carefully considered waterfront precincts such as Woolloom​ooloo Wharf, Walsh Bay and Breakfast Point," Brown said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362566] 
&nbsp; 
"What makes these places so successful is that they become much more than residential developments," Brown said.

"They bring together homes, hospitality, marina facilities, public spaces and a strong sense of community in locations where future supply is incredibly limited."

Brown has long described absolute waterfront land in Sy​dney as "finite."

"Once these opportunities are developed, they are rarely replicated. That's why Syd​ney's waterfront precincts have consistently demonstrated strong demand and long-term value growth over many decades. 
&nbsp; 
"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> is one of the few remaining opportunities to secure a residence within a masterplanned waterfront community that combines direct water access, marina ownership opportunities and a genuine village lifestyle just moments from the Sy​dney CBD."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362564] 
&nbsp; 
PERIFA Founder and Managing Director Fabrizio Perilli said the project reflected a shared commitment to delivering exceptional places that create long-term value for residents and the broader community. 
&nbsp; 
"The topping out milestone is a significant achievement for the Versatile Group and a testament to the collaboration between all project partners, consultants and contractors involved," Perilli said. 
&nbsp; 
"Beyond the residences themselves, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> will establish a new waterfront destination that celebrates the history, character and lifestyle of this unique location while creating a lasting legacy for future generations."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=291195] 
&nbsp; 
Construction is being delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/versatile">Versatile Construction</a>, with structural works now substantially complete across the precinct. Attention will progressively shift to the construction of the waterview terraces, apartment façades, services and interior fit-out works over the coming months. 
&nbsp; 
With limited residences and marina berths remaining, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> continues to attract strong interest from owner occupiers and downsizers seeking a premium waterfront lifestyle within close proximity to Putne​y Village, Rh​odes, Top Ry​de and the Syd​ney CBD. 
&nbsp; 
As one of the last opportunities to secure a residence within a new masterplanned waterfront community on Sy​dney Harbour, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> is expected to remain a highly sought-after address for years to come.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=13962]

Staff reporter

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News