Buyers considering a residence at boutique Gordon townhouse development <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/lume-gordon-43-47-dumaresq-street-gordon-nsw-2072">Lume</a>&nbsp;now have another reason to bring forward their decision.

For a limited time, purchasers of a residence at Lume will receive a BMW iX3 50 electric SUV, valued at more than $120,000, as part of their purchase. The offer is designed to add value for buyers while complementing the lifestyle envisioned for the architecturally designed Upper North Shore development.

Scott Timmins, Development Manager at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/winim">WINIM</a>, said the partnership was created to provide buyers with a compelling reason to act.

"In today's market, buyers need a compelling reason to act now, and the BMW partnership was designed to create that catalyst. We wanted to add genuine value for our future purchasers. Choosing the all-electric BMW iX3 50 also reflects the values behind LUME, forward-thinking design, innovation and a more sustainable way of living. It's a premium incentive that complements the lifestyle our buyers aspire to and rewards those who commit early."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7354 project_image_fid=374893]

Delivered by WINIM in partnership with Burtonwood Investment Partners, Lume comprises 14 architecturally designed two, three and four-bedroom townhomes created for families seeking the space of a freestanding house with the ease of modern, low-maintenance living.

The three-storey residences, designed by award-winning architecture practice <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>, have been tailored for families and multi-generational living, featuring private internal lifts, flexible lower-level spaces, generous open-plan living and entertaining areas, media rooms, and landscaped outdoor spaces with custom outdoor kitchens.&nbsp;

Inside, engineered oak flooring, bespoke dining joinery with integrated wine fridges and backlit bars, sculptural porcelain bathrooms, Parisi freestanding baths and Astra Walker tapware create interiors that balance functionality with refined finishes.

Each townhome has been designed to combine generous internal spaces with sustainability initiatives such as EV charging infrastructure, while <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/arcadia-landscape-architecture">Arcadia</a>'s landscaped communal areas, centred around a restored creek line and native planting, encourage residents to connect with nature and spend more time outdoors.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7354 project_image_fid=269527]

Rothelowman's Gary Tsui said the architecture was conceived to respond carefully to its Upper North Shore setting.

"Our vision was to create elegant, uplifting homes that draw on and positively contribute to the local character through meticulously considered design and an interaction with the surroundings."

The communal landscape has been designed as more than an open space between homes. Arcadia's Ben Newell and Kate Phillips said the adjoining reserve provided an opportunity to create a distinctive natural retreat for residents.

"Just as waterways carve their way through Ku-ring-gai's landscape, a raised boardwalk weaves through the reserve, connecting the homes to this tranquil oasis."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7354 project_image_fid=374892]

Located just 300 metres from <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/gordon-nsw-2072">Gordon</a> Village and Gordon railway station, Lume offers convenient access to Sydney's CBD while placing residents close to some of the North Shore's leading schools, including Ravenswood, Pymble Ladies' College and Knox Grammar. Lane Cove National Park, Gordon Golf Club and a range of cafés and restaurants further reinforce the family-focused lifestyle on offer, with the BMW iX3 50 complementing everything from local trips around Gordon to weekend drives and city commutes.

Construction is underway with completion expected in mid-2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=7354]

Joel Robinson

Boutique Gordon townhomes now come with a BMW iX3 50

Two apartments have sold for more than $10 million at EADE Byron Bay, setting some of the highest apartment prices ever achieved in the coastal town and underlining the growing appetite for luxury beachfront apartments in Australia's most popular coastal locations.

The $210 million project by Vitale Property Group has now secured more than $70 million in sales, led by residences that changed hands for $12.75 million and $11.75 million.

The record-breaking transactions reinforce the shift occurring in Byron Bay's premium property market, where affluent downsizers and lifestyle buyers are increasingly opting for high-end apartments over large beachfront homes.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/eade-byron-bay-29-shirley-street-byron-bay-nsw-2481">EADE Byron Bay</a> occupies a rare 6,000 sqm absolute beachfront site on the corner of Shirley and Milton Streets overlooking Main Beach and The Wreck surf break, just 350 metres from Byron Bay's town centre.

The 25-residence development is the first beachfront apartment project approved in Byron Bay in more than a decade and is currently under construction, with completion expected in May 2027.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145590 project_image_fid=359521]

The project has attracted a mix of local Byron Shire residents downsizing from larger homes, alongside interstate buyers from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane seeking a permanent coastal lifestyle without compromising on space.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hayball">Hayball</a> and with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/alexander-co">Alexander &amp; Co</a>, EADE comprises&nbsp;10 garden apartments ranging from 284 sqm to 622 sqm, nine with private pools, five full-floor apartments and 10 rooftop residences with private plunge pools, expansive outdoor entertaining areas and uninterrupted ocean views.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145590 project_image_fid=359527]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/vitale-property-group">Vitale Property Group</a> Managing Partner Chris Vitale said the project's combination of scale, location and limited future supply was driving buyer demand.

"There isn't another beachfront holding in Byron Bay of this size and position that could be developed again," Vitale said.

"Buyers are responding to the scarcity and the irreplaceability of a site of this calibre and to floorplans they can't find elsewhere in the market.

"We are seeing buyers place significant value on quality, space, design, resort-style amenities and the rarity of the location. The sales achieved to date demonstrate that discerning purchasers recognise the long-term significance of what is being created at EADE Byron Bay.

"Many are coming from larger homes in the Byron region, or from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, and are after the space, security and convenience, without the upkeep of a house."

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145590 project_image_fid=359523]

The Byron Bay project follows Vitale Property Group's delivery of the Mondrian Hotel and Private Residences at Burleigh Heads, with EADE continuing the developer's focus on luxury coastal developments.

Residents will have access to a resort-style swimming pool, gymnasium, sauna, cold plunge pool, concierge services and dedicated workspaces, while the project is targeting an 8-Star Green Star rating.

EADE Byron Bay is being exclusively marketed by Projx Australia in conjunction with WHITEFOX Projects.

WHITEFOX National Projects Director Phillip Rand said demand had been driven predominantly by owner-occupiers.

"We are seeing buyers at EADE place significant value on quality, space, design, resort-style amenities and the rarity of this location," Rand says.

"The sales achieved to date demonstrate that purchasers at this level recognise the long-term significance of what is being created at EADE Byron Bay."

Residences at EADE Byron Bay are currently priced between $4.75 million and $15.95 million.

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[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145590]

Vitale breaks Byron Bay records with EADE sales flurry 

When buying an apartment, most people compare the big-ticket items first. Floorplans. Kitchens. Balcony size. Natural light. The view.

But there's one everyday consideration that often doesn't come up until after moving in: how parcels are delivered.

As online shopping has become part of everyday life, parcel deliveries have shifted from an occasional event to a regular occurrence. Australians spent a record $82.6 billion shopping online in 2025, with almost one in every four retail dollars now spent digitally.

For apartment residents, that can present a challenge.

If nobody is home to accept a delivery, parcels may be redirected to a nearby Post Office, left in a building lobby or common area, or require building management to step in. In higher-density buildings, where dozens or even hundreds of residents may receive deliveries each day, parcel management has become an increasingly important part of everyday living.

That can create a range of frustrations. A missed delivery often means making time to collect a parcel elsewhere, while packages left unattended in foyers or mail areas can create clutter and increase the risk of theft. What seems like a minor inconvenience can quickly become a recurring issue for residents who shop online regularly.

It's one of those details that rarely features in a display suite but can have a noticeable impact once residents move in.

As a result, buyers are beginning to look beyond traditional apartment features and consider how a building supports day-to-day convenience, including whether there are secure options for receiving deliveries.

Australia Post's Parcel Lockers provide one solution.

<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/CkF2oKmlACg?si=C50sDaoUUn2nuLmq" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Rather than having a parcel delivered directly to an apartment, eligible deliveries can be sent to a nominated Parcel Locker. Once the parcel arrives, residents receive a notification through the AusPost app or SMS and can collect it using a QR code or one-time PIN at a time that suits them.

The Parcel Locker network now includes more than 1,500 locations nationwide, with installations at Post Offices, shopping centres, transport hubs and an increasing number of residential developments. By providing a secure collection point, Parcel Lockers help reduce missed deliveries and avoid parcels being left unattended in common areas.

For developers, parcel infrastructure is becoming another way to improve the resident experience. Rather than relying on concierge staff or leaving parcels in communal spaces, secure collection points help streamline deliveries while preserving the presentation and functionality of shared areas.

For buyers, it's a reminder that the best apartment features aren't always the most obvious.

A generous floorplan or quality finishes might help narrow the shortlist, but the conveniences that simplify everyday life, whether that's EV charging, secure bike storage or reliable parcel delivery, often become the features residents appreciate most once they're living there.

The apartment feature many buyers don't think about, until their first missed delivery

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/hg-developments">HG Developments</a> is doubling down on Maud Street in Newstead, filing plans for a new apartment tower just a few doors down from its under-construction Aire Newstead development.

Recently submitted to Brisbane City Council, the proposal is for an 18-storey building designed by bureau^proberts, which has drawn heavily on Brisbane's subtropical design principles while referencing the suburb's industrial heritage.

A total of 64 apartments are planned for the amalgamated 1,518 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/17-21-maud-street-newstead-qld-4006">17–21 Maud Street</a>, a short walk from the Brisbane River and Newstead Riverwalk.

<img alt="First look: HG Developments plans 18-storey subtropical apartment tower for Newstead" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a400c7fd-bd15-48f8-a63b-10ede92efe00" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Maud%20st%20bldg.png?VersionId=.0vPmjpbC7CNP7kqGWa6L7rGIwsNExaw" />

"The building is defined by a series of vaulted motifs that reinterpret the arches, colonnades and layered facades evident throughout Newstead's historic built fabric," the Urban Design Report states.

"Combined with recessed glazing and generous balconies, these elements create a layered building envelope that provides shade, weather protection and opportunities for natural ventilation whilst establishing a distinctive architectural identity."

The proposal comprises 64 two, three and four-bedroom apartments across 18 residential levels, positioning it alongside a growing number of taller residential projects transforming Newstead's northern precinct. The tower incorporates extensive subtropical landscaping, with cascading planter boxes, deep planting at street level and a landscaped rooftop recreation area.

<img alt="First look: HG Developments plans 18-storey subtropical apartment tower for Newstead" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1d8140f4-8b98-45cd-b1b8-1efe8c8e266b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Maud%20st%20podium.png?VersionId=VAZtbCoD44YCJ57N99fQCAKeSJx7ldZs" />

Bureau Proberts has prioritised passive environmental design throughout the project, with generous balconies, recessed glazing and operable façades helping reduce solar heat gain while maximising natural ventilation. River views become available from the upper levels, while the building has been orientated to capture prevailing breezes from both the Brisbane River and the west.

The architects say landscape is intended to be integral to the building rather than an applied element.

"Vertical greenery, cascading planter boxes and elevated gardens are woven throughout the architecture, softening the built form and strengthening the connection between residents and the subtropical environment."

"Through the integration of landscape, high-quality materials and passive design principles, the development delivers a refined residential address that celebrates Newstead's heritage character while contributing positively to Brisbane's evolving subtropical identity."

Newstead has remained one of Brisbane's most active apartment markets in recent years, with a number of developers continuing to back the inner-city suburb.

HG Developments is currently delivering the 40-apartment Aire Newstead at 25 Maud Street. Fortis recently launched the 65-apartment <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/crest-walker-newstead-12-kyabra-street-newstead-qld-4006">Crest &amp; Walker</a> on Kyabra Street, while builder-developer BPG and Don O'Rorke's Consolidated Properties are both expected to launch their respective Newstead projects before the end of the year.

HG Developments doubles down in Newstead with second Maud Street apartment development

Walk past a new apartment development promoting its sustainability credentials and it's easy to picture rooftop gardens, mature trees, landscaped courtyards and residents surrounded by nature.

But in many cases, that's not actually what those sustainability ratings guarantee.

Australia's leading environmental rating tools have played a significant role in improving the energy efficiency and environmental performance of buildings. Yet despite their focus on reducing emissions, many don't require developers to include trees, biodiversity or meaningful green space.

In other words, a building can achieve one of the country's highest sustainability ratings while containing little more than concrete, glass and hard landscaping.

That disconnect has led to the emergence of a new movement across Australia's property industry: nature-based cities.

The concept goes beyond designing buildings that consume less energy. Instead, it encourages developers to treat nature as essential infrastructure, integrating biodiversity, tree canopy, living landscapes and green spaces into projects from the earliest stages of planning.

Research has consistently linked access to nature with better physical and mental health, cooler neighbourhoods, improved biodiversity, stronger climate resilience and more connected communities. As Australia's cities continue to become denser, advocates say those outcomes should be considered just as important as energy efficiency.

Nature Based Cities (NBC) was established in 2022 to help accelerate that shift.

Founded by Hamton Executive Chairman Paul Hameister OAM, the not-for-profit was created after research highlighted a significant gap in Australia's sustainability framework. While existing environmental rating tools rewarded energy performance and emissions reductions, they placed little emphasis on the inclusion of living landscapes.

"We've always wanted to do more, and we know other developers who want to do more, but the ESD rating tools just aren't there," Hameister says.

"In Australia, you can have a five-green-star rated building that's concrete and glass with not a blade of grass.

"The focus is on reducing emissions, which is laudable, but there hasn't been enough attention paid to protecting and re-establishing nature. We need both for the health of the environment and for communities."

Since its launch, NBC has developed independent design guidelines and accreditation frameworks that encourage developers to prioritise ecology, biodiversity, tree canopy, walkability and living landscapes alongside traditional sustainability measures. The organisation first focused on medium and high-density residential developments before recently expanding into precinct-scale communities and masterplanned neighbourhoods.

Jan Talacko, founder of sustainability consultancy Ark Resources and a member of the Nature Based Cities Advisory Council, says the initiative addresses an area that has largely been overlooked by the property industry.

"Throughout my 25 years of working collaboratively with all stakeholders in the property sector, I've always favoured a pragmatic approach to sustainable design which encourages initiatives that not only meet environmental expectations but also improve amenity," Talacko says.

"Whilst we are making steady progress in relation to energy and carbon emissions from buildings, there has been much less emphasis on encouraging biodiversity and tackling the urban heat island effect.

"The Nature Based Cities initiative responds to a gap in the suite of tools currently used by the property development sector, which don't provide sufficient incentive, or recognition, for the integration of landscaping and greenery."

For apartment buyers, the shift is also changing the questions worth asking.

Rather than assuming a sustainable building will naturally include abundant green space, buyers are increasingly being encouraged to look beyond environmental ratings and ask what nature is actually being delivered. How much tree canopy will the development create? Has biodiversity been considered? Are landscaped spaces designed for people as well as appearance?

As Australia's cities continue to grow upwards and outwards, the next generation of sustainability may not simply be measured by lower emissions, but by how successfully developments bring nature back into everyday urban life.

What does it really mean for a building to be 'green'?

Sydney’s property market is known for high prices, competitive bidding, and mounting pressure on first home buyers. But change is on the horizon.

From late 2025, eligible first home buyers in New South Wales will have access to a new federal government initiative aimed at addressing affordability: the Help to Buy Scheme.&nbsp;

<h2>What is the Help to Buy Scheme?</h2>

The program introduces a shared equity model intended to reduce the upfront cost of entering the property market, particularly in high-demand urban areas such as Sydney.

The scheme operates under a shared ownership structure in which the federal government takes an equity stake of up to 40 per cent for new homes, or 30 per cent for existing dwellings. This arrangement allows eligible buyers to significantly reduce their loan size and avoid the added cost of Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI).

Under this model, purchasers can enter the property market with as little as a two per cent deposit, well below the traditional 10 to 20 per cent usually required. The government’s contribution is not a loan but a co-ownership stake in the property. As such, there is no interest or rent charged on its portion.

Because the government’s equity combined with the buyer’s deposit typically meets or exceeds the 20 per cent threshold, LMI does not apply. The remaining balance, generally between 60 and 70 per cent of the property’s value, is financed through a standard home loan with a participating lender.

The government's equity in the property remains in place until the buyer chooses to repay it voluntarily or until the property is sold. Buyers can buy back the government’s share over time, in increments of at least five per cent, depending on their financial situation.

There is no fixed repayment timeline, but the amount to be repaid will be based on the property's market value at the time of repayment, not the original purchase price.

<h2>How do you qualify for the&nbsp;Help to Buy Scheme?</h2>

To qualify for the Help to Buy Scheme, applicants must meet the following conditions:

<ul>
	<li>Be an Australian citizen at least 18 years of age.</li>
	<li>Be a first-home buyer who does not currently own property.</li>
	<li>Intend to live in the property as their primary residence.</li>
	<li>Earn less than $100,000 per year for individuals, or $160,000 for couples.</li>
	<li>Purchase a property within the regional price caps, currently $950,000 in Sydney, though this is expected to rise to approximately $1.3 million ahead of the program’s launch.</li>
</ul>

While the Help to Buy Scheme does not solve affordability challenges across the board, it does offer a more accessible pathway for a defined segment of the market, particularly younger buyers with moderate incomes who have been priced out of traditional lending routes.

The scheme is expected to commence in NSW in late 2025, as part of a national rollout.

Under the new model, purchasers can enter the property market with as little as a two per cent deposit, well below the traditional 10 to 20 per cent usually required

Help to Buy Scheme: What first home buyers in NSW need to know

The First Home Owners Grant (FHOG) is a government initiative designed to help eligible first-time home buyers by offering financial assistance towards the purchase or construction of a new home.

While the FHOG is a nationwide program, it is administered separately by each state and territory, meaning the eligibility criteria, grant amounts, and property requirements can vary depending on your location. This means that the amount available and the conditions attached to the grant will differ, so it is important to check the specific guidelines for your state or territory.

It’s important to note that the FHOG is just one of several incentives available to first home buyers. In most states and territories, the grant is not linked to stamp duty exemptions or concessions, with the exception of the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). The FHOG is typically a one-off payment, reducing the overall cost of purchasing or building a new home before any stamp duty concessions are applied.

Below, we provide a breakdown of the First Home Owner Grants available across Australia, outlining the specific details for each state and territory.

<h2>New South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes valued up to $600,000. For land purchases and owner-builders, the threshold extends to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Benefits: Provides full stamp duty exemption for homes valued up to $800,000, with concessions available for properties up to $1 million.

<h2>Victoria South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Provides a $10,000 grant for first-home buyers purchasing or building new homes valued up to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Benefits: Offers full stamp duty exemption for properties up to $600,000, with concessions available up to $750,000.

<h2>Queensland First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers $30,000 for contracts signed between 20 November 2023 and 30 June 2025. The FHOG applies to new homes valued up to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Concessions: Provides additional concessions for properties valued up to $800,000.

<h2>Western Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

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First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes valued up to $750,000 in the southern regions and up to $1 million in the northern regions.

Stamp Duty Concessions: Available for homes valued up to $600,000 for transactions entered into on or after 9 May 2024.

<h2>Australian Capital Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Replaced by the Home Buyer Concession Scheme, offering full stamp duty concessions for eligible buyers.

<h2>South Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Provides up to $15,000 for new homes, including houses, apartments, and townhouses. As of 6 June 2024, there is no property value cap for eligibility.

Stamp Duty Relief: Available for new homes and vacant land purchases.

<h2>Tasmania First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes and off the plan purchases.

Stamp Duty Exemption: Between 18 February 2024 and 30 June 2026, first home buyers of established homes valued up to $750,000 receive a full exemption on property transfer duty.

<h2>Northern Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: The Northern Territory provides a $10,000 grant for new homes only. Additional government grants and concessions are available for first home buyers.

Stamp Duty Exemption: The only stamp duty exemption available to property buyers is the House and Land Package Exemption (HLPE).

Eligibility criteria and application processes differ across states. Prospective buyers should refer to their respective state revenue offices for full details on grant availability, conditions, and additional concessions.

Every First Home Owner Grant for new property by state

In the ever-evolving landscape of sustainable architecture and environmentally conscious design, systems and ratings in place can help determine the energy efficiency of residential buildings in Australia.

Australia has multiple building rating systems that evaluate energy efficiency and sustainability in existing and new building designs.

Some systems assess individual building components, while others provide an overall rating for the entire structure.

A rating system ensures that homes are comfortable and energy-efficient, whether you are buying, renovating, or building.

NatHERS (Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme) is a common way for new homes to meet energy efficiency requirements.

As new developments continue to shape the urban environment, understanding NatHERS ratings becomes essential for developers and homeowners. This article delves into the concept of NatHERS ratings, their significance, and how they contribute to creating energy-efficient homes.

<h2>What is NatHERS?</h2>

NatHERS is a national initiative implemented by the Australian government to promote energy efficiency in residential buildings. The scheme aims to provide a standardised method for assessing the thermal performance of homes, considering factors such as insulation, orientation, ventilation, and building materials.&nbsp;

NatHERS ratings are the most common way new homes meet the National Construction Code's (NCC's) minimum energy efficiency requirements.&nbsp;

NatHERS assessments provide thermal and whole-home ratings for new homes, townhouses, and apartments.

The rating helps evaluate the energy performance of buildings, guides homeowners and developers to make informed decisions about the energy efficiency of their properties, and encourages the construction of more sustainable, comfortable, and cost-effective homes.

<h2>How NatHERS Ratings Work</h2>

NatHERS ratings are determined through four accredited software tools (AccuRate, BERS Pro, FirstRate5, HERO) using a calculation engine CSIRO developed to predict building temperature based on various factors.

The tools can model complex effects of building mass, insulation, window size, and other elements.

The outcome is a star rating that reflects the building's overall thermal efficiency, indicating how well it can maintain a comfortable indoor temperature without excessive reliance on heating or cooling systems.

The star rating scale ranges from 0 to 10, with a 6-star rating being the minimum requirement for compliance with the National Construction Code (NCC).&nbsp;

Achieving a higher star rating demonstrates a commitment to energy efficiency and sustainability, as the building is better equipped to minimise its environmental impact and reduce long-term energy costs.

Anyone can use NatHERS tools, but accredited assessors can provide certified ratings and professional advice.

<h2>Benefits of Higher NatHERS Ratings</h2>

Energy Efficiency: Buildings with higher NatHERS ratings are more energy-efficient, requiring less heating and cooling energy. This reduces the structure's carbon footprint and lowers occupants' energy bills.

Cost Savings: Homes with higher NatHERS ratings are generally more energy-efficient, resulting in reduced energy consumption for heating and cooling. This translates to lower energy bills for homeowners, making sustainable living environmentally friendly and economically viable in the long run.

Environmental Impact: Lower energy consumption directly translates to a reduced environmental impact. Buildings with higher NatHERS ratings contribute to the overall goal of mitigating climate change by lowering greenhouse gas emissions associated with heating and cooling systems.

Improved Comfort: Buildings with high NatHERS ratings offer better thermal comfort to occupants. Proper insulation, well-designed ventilation, and optimal orientation maintain a consistent and comfortable indoor temperature, providing occupants with a more enjoyable and healthier space.

Market Value and Desirability: Higher NatHERS ratings can enhance the market value of a property. As energy efficiency becomes a more significant consideration for homebuyers, a well-rated building may attract a premium price and stand out in the real estate market.

Compliance with Building Codes: NatHERS ratings are a vital component of the National Construction Code (NCC), and compliance with these ratings is often a mandatory requirement for new developments. Local councils and planning authorities may set minimum energy efficiency standards that must be met to obtain development approval.

The Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) is a crucial initiative shaping the future of energy-efficient, resilient, and cost-effective homes. With its recent upgrades, NatHERS has evolved into a world-leading tool for the building sector, supporting the global commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

Staff Writer

What is a NatHERS rating in new off the plan apartment developments?

Mixed-use developments have gained significant popularity across Australia in recent years due to their unique blend of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces.

Unlike traditional single-purpose developments, mixed-use projects offer a harmonious integration of various functions within a single locale.

Residential units seamlessly coexist with commercial establishments, retail outlets, dining venues, entertainment hubs, and recreational facilities, with the combination not only enhances convenience but also fosters a vibrant lifestyle and a sense of community.

<h3>Convenience and accessibility</h3>

Mixed-use developments are designed with convenience in mind. They often integrate residential units with commercial spaces, retail outlets, restaurants, and recreational facilities, creating a self-contained community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114215 project_image_fid=204874]

The proximity allows residents to enjoy the convenience of having essential amenities and services within walking distance. Whether it's grabbing a cup of coffee, going grocery shopping, or accessing healthcare services, everything is conveniently located, saving residents time and effort.

<h3>Vibrant lifestyle and community</h3>

One of the major advantages of mixed-use developments is the vibrant lifestyle they offer. With a diverse range of amenities and communal spaces, residents have ample opportunities to interact, socialise, and build a sense of community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107714 project_image_fid=214122]

The presence of parks, community centres, and shared spaces fosters a lively atmosphere, encouraging residents to engage in various activities and events. The vibrant lifestyle within these developments creates a unique sense of belonging and camaraderie among the residents.

<h3>Potential for higher rental yields and property value appreciation</h3>

Mixed-use developments tend to attract a broad range of tenants and buyers due to their versatile nature. This high demand can result in higher rental yields for investors and potentially lead to property value appreciation over time.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139989 project_image_fid=212887]

The integration of commercial and retail spaces attracts businesses, which can provide a stable rental income stream. Additionally, the popularity of mixed-use developments often drives up property values, making them a potentially lucrative investment in the long term.

<h3>Enhanced security and maintenance</h3>

Mixed-use developments typically have comprehensive security measures in place. With controlled access points, CCTV surveillance, and professional security staff, residents can enjoy enhanced safety and peace of mind.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108019 project_image_fid=212658]

Additionally, these developments often have dedicated maintenance teams responsible for the upkeep of common areas, landscaping, and infrastructure. This ensures that the overall appearance and functionality of the development are well-maintained, creating a pleasant living environment for residents.

<h3>Live-work-play balance</h3>

One of the key attractions of mixed-use developments is the ability to achieve a desirable live-work-play balance. The integration of residential and commercial spaces allows residents to live closer to their workplaces, reducing commuting time and improving work-life balance.

The proximity to various amenities and recreational facilities encourages an active and healthy lifestyle. Residents can easily access fitness centres, parks, restaurants, and entertainment options, all within the same development, leading to a more fulfilling and convenient way of life.

alisonwarters@gmail.com

The top five reasons to buy in a mixed-use development

When buying a property, everyone needs to be aware of the additional costs that come as part of the buying process.

Often the largest outlay, after the deposit which goes to the bank, is stamp duty.

<h2 style="line-height: 1.38;">What is Stamp Duty?</h2>

Stamp duty is an extra tax to pay the government when you buy land, a property, and other certain assets.

It happens when the legal ownership is transferred. It can also be known as property transfer duty or transfer duty.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/C32BWkB5--c" title="YouTube video player" width="660"></iframe>

<h2>Who pays Stamp Duty?</h2>

In some circumstances, you may get an exemption. For some states, you won’t have to pay for stamp duty if you are a first home buyer or a pensioner for houses under a particular price. There are also stamp duty concessions, where you may be entitled to a discount.

<h2>How much does Stamp Duty cost?</h2>

Each state has different rules which affect how much you need to pay. These rules can affect the rate you pay, and the timeframe you will need to pay in. Before you buy land or a property, make sure you check the up-to-date information for your state’s stamp duty.

You can use a free stamp duty calculator online to see approximately how much you’ll need to pay. Find out if you’re eligible for an exemption by enquiring on a project via Urban!

Overall, the stamp duty you need to pay will depend on:

<ul>
	<li aria-level="1">How much your land/property is worth</li>
	<li aria-level="1">Where your land/property is located</li>
	<li aria-level="1">What type of land/property it is</li>
</ul>

Want to find out more? <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@UrbanAustralia?utm_source=YouTube&amp;utm_medium=Video&amp;utm_campaign=Subscribe&amp;utm_id=Subscribe">Subscribe to our YouTube channel</a> for more property videos.

Ellen Walker

Off-the-plan property explained: What is stamp duty?

Prominent New Zealand apartment and hotel operator, <a href="/developers/safari-group">Safari Group</a>, is offering up a prime investment opportunity for Australians to purchase off the plan in one of the world’s most popular ski destinations.

They recently took to market Mountain Oak Queenstown Apartments, in the growing precinct of Remarkables Park in Frankton, near the airport and at the foot of The Remarkables - the mountain range the locals like to call “The Remarks”.&nbsp;

Sydney investors have shown interest in the one, two and three-bedroom apartments that secure high-season occupancy six months over the year, primarily over summer and winter months.

They average 90 per cent occupancy across their portfolio over January, February, March, August, November and December, while shoulder season months of April, July, September and October are still occupied 70 per cent of the time, with the growing appeal of Queenstown becoming not just a hotspot for the snow, but a lifestyle destination.

Even in the low seasons of May and June, occupancy levels reach around 40 per cent.

<img alt="Safari Group’s Mountain Oak Apartments brings new investment potential to Queenstown" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_auto/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Ext_Cam15_Sunny.jpg?VersionId=SJAROUM_1s.Tr5ciMk4EEj5oAt_Vewmv" />

Safari’s Safari Hotels arm can also manage the holiday letting for an investor, from the listing on holiday accommodation websites such as Airbnb and Booking.com to the cleaning and maintenance of the investment. They’ve been in the short stay management business for 15 years and offer 24/7 support for investors, an important convenience benefit for any overseas investor

Another major drawcard for Australians is that New Zealand doesn’t have a stamp duty policy - so the entry price of NZ$639,000 (AU$586,000), is all that is payable on completion.

<img alt="Safari Group’s Mountain Oak Apartments brings new investment potential to Queenstown" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/313_Livingv2_WEB.jpg?VersionId=nV229fM0ZeYpoxOrX372HyGjfwY_LR8c" />

Safari is starting construction of the 141 apartments in Q2 this year, with a two-year build estimated to complete in mid-to-late 2027.<img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="15" src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXczFpFAb7WuA6f4f9TtKWcqXyNwR8qqtakWv352ERkpqNlP3KwIo8YKxw67jZNHfpjEGIZGv5MQTbnvLZwNt8iu9IVdOrswOjCvBZ4zhSoOOLrpt6etVEZTN1gkBho0r_R72zdHNA?key=yq3daOanqHSb88QFd8jGYKdb" title="Click and drag to move" width="15" />​

The apartments will feature modern amenities and contemporary designs with expansive windows capturing sweeping views of The Remarkables mountain range.&nbsp;

Interiors are equipped with modern finishes, premium appliances, and secure electronic key-locked doors, ensuring a comfortable living experience for residents and guests alike.

With its strategic location near Coronet Peak and Cardrona Alpine Resort, as well as key retail and dining precincts such as Market Street, Five Mile Shopping Centre, and Remarkables Market, Mountain Oak offers a strong proposition for investors seeking high rental yields and capital appreciation in one of New Zealand’s most sought-after locations.&nbsp;

Queenstown’s sustained demand for visitor accommodation and rental properties is underpinned by a shortage of housing options, attracting both local and international buyers.

Safari Group offers low-touch investment proposition in Queenstown’s popular ski fields district

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Real estate offices and real estate agents will diminish by 20 percent-30 percent in the next year.
With property (for-sale) listings, so low and a phenomenon never experienced before in parts of Sydney; how can real estate agencies survive? 
For a large number of Real Estate Offices (REOs), sale of property commissions, makes up to 60 percent-80 percent of their revenue. Some rely purely on sales commission, to keep their doors open for business.
After recently, reading numerous articles and LinkedIn discussions about low property numbers that are on the market for sale I began to reflect on discussions I held as far back as 12-15 months ago with industry colleagues.
At the time I made the following prediction, and that it would eventuate by end of financial year 2016. 
<ul>
<li>We will see at least 20 percent of REOs close down.</li>
<li>These will be made up of REOs that rely on pure sales to keep their doors open.</li>
</ul>
One brand I have been particularly observant of is McGrath Real Estate. This brand even listed on the ASX and mostly due to its success accredited to: reported high sales figures. How will they cope in a changing landscape where sales become scarce?
The crux of the discussions with colleagues, were in relation to the shrinking property market, due to various market forces:
1)     Property-Marketing companies on the one hand ramping up sales of property; and
2)     The financial institutions on the other, also selling real estate.
Both sectors moving into the real estate sales due to high commissions, paid out directly by developers. I can say, even in the good times, the average real estate selling agent missed out on listings. Most listing of new developed property went, has gone to and is still going to property-marketers. The local Real Estate Agents miss out.
Property that is new to the market, where commissions can be inflated, became attractive for “direct sales campaigns” to unsuspected investors. In essence, the typical local real estate office has lost 30-40% of sales due to “marketeers and the financial sector invasion.”
Now, add to the invasion of our industry, the current low numbers in secondary stock sales as evidenced in article/photo below. Also as reported across the media and journals.
I refer to historical low number of sales listings in Sydney. 
These are established properties that have almost disappeared overnight. Parramatta alone has had an attrition of up to 47 percent less property on market. These figures were calculated across June-to-August. The number of agents has not changed however.
Parramatta, has 176 registered real estate offices according to the Yellow Pages. According to Domain, there are 172. Either way, it is a concern that should not be taken lightly. Specially when we can safely say that there are 2.5 selling real estate agents in each office.
A concerning trend also witnessed across the face of Sydney metropolitan area.
Some agents are commenting on a 30 percent drop in numbers across the Lower North Shore and other areas. These numbers are generated by comments on LinkedIn, made by agents that have worked in these areas for 10-20 years.  
Only last week, I sat with a colleague from Blackktown and she informed me and was troubled by the fact that her office only had two properties for sale. She doesn’t have a small operation, and runs a well-established brand.
In the same area, other brand-name agencies have reduced their local paper advertising from 3 pages down to half a page. They just don’t have any property listings for-sale in their books. What they do have is 5 selling agents in their office.
Notably, the above becomes the recipe or the ideal conditions for an attrition of selling agents and very tangibly, offices that only rely on sales to survive.
It will be a hard fall for many, and for others that place a lot of trust in property-sales-offices. Another call, another prediction; all in a day as I share my thoughts over a coffee with friends.  
Warning to the industry
Keep an eye on other Industry-Disruptors such as Purplebricks RE. Don’t underestimate what they are doing and focus on how you can best serve the diminishing clientele base you have. That is, if you want to survive the for-sale listing famine.
If you want to stand out from the many agencies in your patch; do something different. Offer a level of service that others will find hard to match. Again, only if you want to stay in the industry past EFY 2016 and not be a casualty of the changing face of real estate.
EDWIN ALMEIDA is licensee in charge of <a href="https://www.just-think.com.au/" target="_blank">Just Think Real Estate</a>.<a href="https://www.just-thin.com.au/"> </a>
He is also the creator of <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/JustThinkProperty" target="_blank">Oz Real Estate.TV</a> and a presenter for <a href="https://propertyinvestingvault.com/" target="_blank">propertyinvestingvault.com</a>.
 
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ealmedia-arK4DBYLjS

Real Estate offices closing down in Sydney

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The latest office market briefing for Parramatta from Savills notes the market will see an increase in supply over the medium-term as various office buildings currently being constructed are completed.
According to the report, Savills is currently tracking approximately 220,000 square metres of commercial development within the Parramatta market, especially Parramatta square.
"Rousing commercial development activity is Parramatta Square; a three-hectare precinct right in the heart of Parramatta’s CBD. Parramatta Square can transform the city with a new civic heart. The project is expected to add approximately 171,000 square metres of prime office space across four buildings which will house up to 13,000 jobs upon completion," it said.
"The first building to be delivered within the Parramatta Square development, is One Parramatta Square (1PSQ), currently under construction and reaching its highest point in June 2016. 
"1PSQ comprises 26,500 square metres of commercial A Grade space, over 14 levels with ground floor retail. The commercial component has been fully pre-committed by Western Sydney University, to accommodate their new multi-level campus. 
"The asset is held in two separate Charter Hall managed funds, Core Plus Office Fund (CPOF) and Direct Office Fund (DOF). Completion is expected in the last quarter of 2016."
<a href="/images/2016/09/13/Screen%20Shot%202016-09-13%20at%203.58.13%20PM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/09/13/Screen%20Shot%202016-09-13%20at%203.58.13%20PM.png" alt="">
 
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Parramatta office construction shores up supply 

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A Melbourne developer has paid $2 million for a Prahran industrial property through Teska Carson.
The property, 11-13 Regent Street, sold on a yield of 1.6 percent. 
The property features a single-level, 210 square metre office/warehouse building on a 245 square metre site with 14 metres street frontage. It was sold subject to a short term lease at a current rental of $32,096 per annum net.
Four bidders from a crowd of around sixty pushed the price to $550,000 above the reserve and to a land rate of $9000 a square metre. 
George Takis from Teska Carson said Prahran has fast become one of Melbourne’s most desirable inner city locations attracting numerous commercial and residential developments and that has been largely driven by its location.
"Add location to the Commercial 1 zoning, which opened up a plethora of new options for the purchaser, obviously including redevelopment, and you have a property that appealed to a lot of buyers,’’ he said.
 
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Prahran industrial sells on yield of 1.6 percent

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A premium-grade office tower at 171 Collins Street in Melbourne’s CBD has got a 6 Star NABERS energy rating, making it the first commercial building in Victoria to achieve the grade.
It is also one of three commercial office buildings in Australia to get the rating without green power or renewable energy back up (such as solar, wind, or geo-thermal), said a media release.
The property – developed and owned by Cbus Property and Charter Hall – is managed by Knight Frank’s Asset Management Services team. 
It comprises an 18-level office called the Tower building, plus seven levels of PCA A-grade boutique offices within the Mayfair building. 171 Collins Street features an atrium, a high-end ground-floor lobby, along with retail tenancies to Collins Street; subterranean retail tenancies to Flinders Lane; and basement car parking. 
According to Knight Frank’s Nick Mavropsi, head of sustainability, Asset Management Services, Australia, the 33,136 square metre property was designed for a 5 Star NABERS energy rating.
“The property achieved its design at 18 months after practical completion, with only 65 per cent occupancy. The challenge was to try and improve the 5 Star NABERS energy rating to possibly 5.5 or 6 stars, while maintaining premium environmental conditions to all tenants and complying with all lease commitments,” said Mavropsi. 
<img src="/images/2016/09/12/171CollinsSt2.jpg" alt="">
Leader of the on-ground team in charge of the works, Knight Frank’s senior Facilities and Engineering Manager, Harshana Wijewardane, said, “Fine-tuning all of the services was crucial to maximise the efficiency of the installed plant and equipment, including the utilisation of the smart tools available. These include highly-refined EMS, under floor air distributed system (UFD), access control high level integration and the co-generation system.”
“These initiatives resulted in 171 Collins Street becoming one of just a handful of commercial office buildings to achieve a 6 Star NABERS energy rating without green power,” said Wijewardane. 
Knight Frank’s Managing Director, Asset Management Services, Australia Aaron McGhee said the company wants to replicate its success nationally to all buildings it manages.
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171 Collins Street office achieves 6 Star NABERS energy rating

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No capital city or regional city in Australia can claim to be at the peak of market cycle in valuation firm Herron Todd White's property clock for September 2016, but a number of them are rising markets.
The clock is a simple broad brush means to suggest where property markets are and what direction prices are moving in.
The closest to peak of the market is the NSW's Newcastle, which is approaching the peak of the market, according to the clock.
Among the capital cities, Sydney and Melbourne remain at the rising market position, while Canberra is at the start of a recovery cycle.
Adelaide and Hobart remain at the bottom of the market, while Brisbane and Perth are approaching the bottom. Darwin is just starting to decline.  
<a href="/images/2016/09/09/Screen%20Shot%202016-09-10%20at%2010.55.30%20AM.png" target="_blank"> Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/09/09/Screen%20Shot%202016-09-10%20at%2010.55.30%20AM.png" alt="">
 
HTW has also put together an overview of office market indicators, as evidenced in the following table: 
<a href="/images/2016/09/09/Officemarketindicators.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/09/09/Officemarketindicators.png" alt=""> 
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No office markets at peak, but plenty are rising: HTW office property clock

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Increasing capital flows into Australia's major office markets in 2016 has resulted in competition for quality assets heating up, with property experts predicting continued yield compression and rising sales volumes in the second half of the year.
Competition for prime metropolitan office investments in the eastern seaboard markets of Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane is rising among large offshore investors, according to Colliers International research.
The biggest jump in metropolitan office investment volumes to date in 2016 has been recorded in New South Wales, with $2.3 billion of sales recorded in Sydney’s metropolitan market year-to-date compared to $1.8 billion in the Sydney CBD. 
“Whilst there is still healthy investor appetite for CBD assets with four months to run in the calendar year, the narrowing gap between CBD and metro investor volumes points to increasing attention being paid to non-CBD office assets,” said John Marasco, Colliers International managing director of Capital Markets &amp; Investment Services.
“Analysis of sales volumes in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, when comparing metro office to CBD office markets, sees investment levels weighted towards CBD markets. However, as CBD office yields have compressed sharply, capital has begun to shift to metropolitan office investment in 2016.
“The focus and competition for prime office grades is moving into the metro markets. The recent tussle for control of GPT’s metropolitan office fund, which contained seven A Grade fully leased assets, is a sign of the sentiment to come for securely leased, high quality metropolitan assets, which is likely to lead to a further sharpening of yields.”
<a href="/images/2016/09/12/OfficepropFundamentals.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/09/12/OfficepropFundamentals.png" alt="">
 Luke Dixon, Colliers International director of Research, said the combination of lower vacancy, falling supply and higher total returns would typically correspond with a similar fall in initial yields and tight pricing. However, in the case of A Grade metropolitan office, yields had remained firmly higher relative to their CBD counterparts and compressed at a slower rate over the past three years. 
“CBD A Grade yields have compressed by over 120 basis points across the east coast, whereas east coast metropolitan A Grade yields only compressed by 60 basis points,” he said. 
“A significant factor in the strong performance of A Grade CBD yields has been the volume of domestic and offshore capital pursuing opportunities. 
“Enquiry volumes for investment sales of CBD assets, is almost double that seen in metropolitan sales campaigns. This weight of capital can in part can be explained by the volume of stock available between the two markets. 
“A Grade office in the Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane accounts for a total of 11.7 million square meters versus 6 million square meters in their metropolitan counterparts, reducing the available pool of assets for investors.
<a href="/images/2016/09/12/MetrovsCBD.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
 <img src="/images/2016/09/12/MetrovsCBD.png" alt="">
“CBD ownership is highly concentrated amongst institutional owners, with over 50% of Premium and A Grade CBD stock owned by longer term investors such as super funds, REITs and wholesale funds. Metropolitan markets are more diverse in their ownership, with higher numbers of private investors who may be more motivated to sell as investor demand for high quality metropolitan office assets increases”.
“However, the sharp compression of CBD office yields has seen capital begin to shift to metropolitan office in 2016.”
A comparison of offshore and domestic transactions in these key metropolitan office markets points to momentum tipping back towards offshore investors in 2016. Significant metropolitan transactions year to date have been led by offshore investors such as Deutsche Bank, Ascendas and Blackrock.
“Total investment volumes are still heavily skewed towards domestic investors, with local knowledge and teams on the ground giving them a strategic edge on offshore competitors,” Marasco said. “However, with the increasing maturity of Asia Pacific and European investors in the Australian market we anticipate rising levels of offshore interest in the medium term.”
“Yield spreads will prove too attractive, and metropolitan spreads relative to CBD spreads will narrow under the weight of increasing investment.
“Based on the rising volume of investment sales in metropolitan office markets, and strong fundamentals supporting rental growth and valuation uplift, we anticipate strong investor activity in the metropolitan office market resulting in capital rates across these markets compressing sharply over the next 12 to 18 months.”
<a href="/images/2016/09/12/MetrovsCBDoutlook.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
 <img src="/images/2016/09/12/MetrovsCBDoutlook.png" alt="">
Competitive acquisition conditions in major eastern seaboard markets are already being seen. The recent tussle for control of GPT’s metropolitan office fund, which contained seven A Grade fully leased assets, is a sign of the sentiment to come for securely leased, high quality metropolitan assets. 
According to Colliers International’s new H2 2016 Metro Office Research &amp; Forecast Report, rental growth has been seen in most major metropolitan office markets this year, with demand for space generally improving, resulting in decreased vacancy.
The report found residential conversion remained a key issue in most markets, in particular those markets which were not protected with a commercial zonings.
Residential conversion-driven withdrawal is shrinking the pool of available metropolitan assets,” Dixon said.
 
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Office markets on the eastern seaboard heat up on investment inflows 

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<img src="https://counter.theconversation.edu.au/content/64734/count.gif" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1">
GUST OBSERVER
If we all work side by side in an open-plan office or “hot desk”, moving from place to place, it’s sure to increase collaboration!
It turns out that may be wrong. If you don’t have your own space, perhaps you are better off working remotely with your cat for company.
Our research found that in shared working spaces there were increases in “employee social liabilities”; distractions, uncooperativeness, distrust and negative relationships. More surprisingly, both co-worker friendships and perceptions of supervisor support actually worsened.
Although prior researchers have claimed shared work spaces can improve social support, communication and cooperation, our results indicated that co-worker friendships are of the lowest quality in hot-desking and open-plan arrangements, when compared to those with their own offices or who share offices with just one or two others.
They are significantly worse when compared to those who mainly work at home or on the road. It is possible that these shared offices may increase employees’ use of coping strategies such as withdrawal and create a less friendly environment in a team.
As part of our research we surveyed 1,000 working Australians. We asked them whether they shared their office space with others, what sort of co-worker friendships and supervisor support they had, in addition to any negative relationships (such as lack of cooperation or distrust).
Shared environments did not improve co-worker friendships and, in addition, were associated with perceptions of less supportive supervision. The finding may be because employees who receive either too much monitoring or only informal supervision, perceive their supervision to be of lower quality than those who have dedicated supervision meetings.
It could also be that, as employees become more irritated, suspicious and withdrawn in a shared workplace, their relationships with their supervisors and colleagues deteriorate.
Other research also supports the idea that the benefits associated with shared spaces are aren’t all they are cracked up to be. Instead, it showed that cooperation became less pleasant and information flow did not change in a shared office space.
This is not great news for employees in an age where shared space and hot-desking is increasing alongside the use of mobile technology like laptops, smartphones and tablets. This, together with the high cost of office space, has brought about a desire to use physical office space more flexibly.
So, if this trend towards shared space is not likely to be reversed, how do employees survive?
Surviving a shared office space
If you can have your own office, share with just one or two others, or work from home, these are the best situations for workers we studied. However, we’re not all that lucky.
One way to combat visual distractions from nearby co-workers can be to use panels, book shelves, or “green walls” of plants. Noise from the office can be cancelled out with headphones.
However, these interventions will depend on whether they are suited to your job, workplace or your fellow employees. One option can be to create a mix.
Researchers Pitt and Bennett describe a large office redesigned to include not only hot-desking, but also “touchdown areas” (free desks to allow quick access to information), “bookable offices” (rooms that can be booked in advance), “collaborative workspaces” (for group work, possibly with teleconferencing capabilities) and finally “break-out workspaces” (relaxed couches and low tables for spontaneous, informal collaborative work).
We are not suggesting workers should be afforded unlimited privacy and solitude. Some spontaneous interaction is needed for many types of activity-based work to succeed. Too much and the distractions will outweigh any potential collaborative benefits. Too little and the benefits are not evident.
Rachel Morrison is senior lecturer, Business School, Auckland University of Technology and author for The Conversation. She can be contacted <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/rachel-morrison-296325" target="_blank">here</a>.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Get out of my face! We're more antisocial in a shared office space

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An office building in Queensland’s Logan City with major tenant as the city council has sold for $3.85 million.
‘The Exchange’ at 106 City Road, Beenleigh was put up for sale via expressions of interest earlier this year. 
The deal was brokered by Tania Moore and Mark Witheriff of Knight Frank along with RM Realty.  
The seven-level office building is a “landmark asset” in the Beenleigh CBD, according to the property’s description.
Located on the eastern side of City Road, it is a short freeway-drive to Brisbane or the Gold Coast. 
The building has a net passing income $290,136 pa. 
The net lettable area is 1,695 sqm.
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prateek24-ezbwHMbNAk

Building leased to council in Queensland's Logan City fetches $3.85 million

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A largely tenanted office building in the Gold Coast suburb of Bundall recently sold for $4.8 million.
The office at 91 Upton Street has a good mix of tenants on various leases, according to the property’s description.
The freehold property, which is leased almost 90 percent, earns a net income of $338,742.41 p.a. plus GST and has the potential to earn $392,742.41* p.a once fully let out.
The building has a net lettable area of 1,555 sqm and was recently upgraded.
The selling agent was Michael Willems of Ray White Commercial.
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Tenanted office building in Gold Coast snapped up for $4.8 million 

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One of Sydney’s oldest hotels, Cremorne Point Manor, has just undergone a full makeover for about $1 million, combining modernity with heritage.
The upgrade was the first for the <a href="https://www.cremornepointmanor.com.au/" target="_blank">four-star hotel</a> in more than a decade. The full décor sweep includes all 29 bedrooms, bathroom and communal guest area. 
Hospitality entrepreneur Jean Claude Branch incorporated quality bedding, interiors and accents in each room and common rooms while maintaining affordable nightly rates. 
Jean-Claude has a carved a niche for himself in restoring heritage buildings which include Dalziel Lodge and Glenferrie Lodge.
<img src="/images/2016/09/13/CPM%20King%20Suite1.jpg" alt="">
As the hotel is a heritage building, Jean Claude commissioned Aboriginal artist Winston Walford to create artwork, reproduced into handmade mosaic tiles. 
The tiles are 6 meters long and 2.7 meter high. There are approximately 65,000 hand-laid tiles: 6 meters long x 2.7 meters high with nearly 65,000 x 2 cm hand laid tiles.
Winston also utilised his signature right thumbprint image to form glass mosaic tiles. The tiles faithfully replicated the original artwork as painstakingly hand laid in Huizhou, China. The process took three artisans eight weeks to complete, working full time to perfect the installation in the main guest dining room.
“The renovation, while not absolutely required, was part of our ongoing need to provide the best possible guest experience,” said Jean-Claude. 
 <img src="/images/2016/09/13/CPMArtwork2.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2016/09/13/CPM%20Artwork1.jpg" alt=""> 
“Including Aboriginal art through my long term China business connections, we believe this is the first instance of a local Aboriginal artists installation being commissioned into unique center pieces.” 
He said the refurbishment compliments Winston’s heritage piece and marries modern design approach with historic art.
Rex Winston Walford belongs to the Gamilaroi language group and resides on the North Coast. He has won awards and accolades for his work, including being a finalist on multiple occasions in the Parliament of NSW Aboriginal Art Prize, commended in 2010.
 
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Safari Group offers low-touch investment proposition in Queenstown’s popular ski fields district

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