A trio of Queensland property groups have unveiled plans for a $300 million mixed-use redevelopment of the former Noosa Bowls Club site, a proposal that would deliver more than 200 new homes in one of the Sunshine Coast's most supply-constrained markets.

Kilter Property, Frank Developments and Calile Malouf Investments are behind the plans for the 1.8-hectare site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/99-noosa-drive-noosa-heads-qld-4567">99 Noosa Drive</a>, which would transform the long-vacant site into a new residential precinct featuring 208 apartments, retail, hospitality and public space.

The proposal comes as Noosa continues to grapple with housing affordability and a shortage of permanent accommodation, particularly for key workers. The site's location in Noosa Junction, close to shops, public transport and employment, aligns with the direction of Noosa Council's Housing Strategy, which encourages higher-density housing within established activity centres rather than continued urban expansion.

The draft plans include 48 affordable-by-design apartments and 48 rooming accommodation units aimed at key workers. Around 2,000 sqm of ground-floor retail and food and beverage space would activate the street frontage, alongside a new public town square and landscaped open space.

<img alt="Noosa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2dd02f53-1360-4e51-801e-bfd61a6c980e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-26%20at%208.44.34%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=x1iNs3BSMN6Jy7YUwaBZMHRrrKX2hMpy" />

&nbsp;

Frank Developments Founder and Director Frank Licastro said the development would continue the company's focus on architecturally-led residential projects while addressing one of the region's biggest challenges.

"Not only will this project exude a sense of luxury, it will also enhance not only the built environment but also the surrounding community," Licastro said.

"Noosa's success relies on the people who live and work here. Providing well-designed accommodation for key workers is critical to supporting the local economy and ensuring the Shire can continue to thrive."

Kilter Property Co-Founder Huw Williams said the focus was on delivering additional permanent housing while creating a mixed-use destination that benefits both residents and the wider community.

"Our focus is on delivering a well-considered mixed-use project that provides more permanent housing options, supports local workers and businesses, and delivers an exceptional product for the local market," Williams said.

"The redevelopment vision aligns with the long-term evolution of Noosa Junction as a vibrant activity centre, creating a destination that enhances the area's character while delivering significant economic and community benefits."

Calile Malouf Investments, best known for its role in Brisbane's James Street precinct and The Calile Hotel, will bring its place-making experience to the project. The company recently commenced construction on The Calile Noosa hotel and says the residential development will complement its growing investment in the region.

CMI Director Cal Malouf said the aim was to create a walkable precinct combining housing, retail and hospitality while remaining true to Noosa's character.

"We see a similar opportunity in Noosa to deliver a vibrant, walkable destination that combines exceptional housing, hospitality and retail in one integrated project," Malouf said.

Brisbane-based Cavill Architects has been appointed to design the project.

Joel Robinson

Noosa Bowls Club to be redeveloped into mixed-use apartment precinct

One of Brisbane's last major riverfront redevelopment opportunities has taken a significant step forward, with Lendlease selected as the Queensland Government's preferred development partner for the former Visy site in South Brisbane.

The seven-hectare industrial site, positioned between South Bank and West End and 1.3 kilometres from the Brisbane CBD, will be transformed into a mixed-use precinct expected to deliver more than 4,000 new homes alongside extensive public open space and riverfront parkland.

The project is one of the largest urban renewal opportunities currently planned in Brisbane and is expected to play a key role in accommodating the city's growing population ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Plans for the precinct include a network of riverfront promenades and boardwalks, new public plazas, parkland, amphitheatre-style gathering spaces and shared pedestrian and cycling links designed to reconnect the long-isolated site with the Brisbane River.

The Queensland Government is targeting delivery of the first homes and key public spaces before the 2032 Games, allowing the precinct to begin contributing new housing and public amenity well before the broader masterplan is complete.

The redevelopment is also expected to support more than 3,000 jobs across planning, construction and ongoing operations.

For Lendlease, the appointment adds another major urban regeneration project to its Queensland portfolio. The developer has operated in the state for more than 70 years and has delivered a number of large-scale mixed-use precincts in partnership with government.

Lendlease Development CEO Claire Johnston said the project represented one of Brisbane's most significant redevelopment opportunities.

"The transformation of the former Visy site represents a rare opportunity to reimagine one of Brisbane's most significant riverfront locations, deliver thousands of much-needed homes, and create long-term legacy," Johnston said.

"In partnership with the Queensland Government, we have the opportunity to create a new riverside destination that will help shape Brisbane's growth and how people experience the city for decades to come.

"This is exactly the type of large-scale, city-shaping development that will provide lasting benefits for Queensland, bringing together housing, jobs and world-class public spaces."

Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jarrod Bleijie said the riverfront transformation would deliver a thriving new community precinct.

“The Crisafulli Government is delivering this golden opportunity to unlock a riverfront jewel for all Queenslanders,” Deputy Premier Bleijie said.

“This is a once-in-a-generation moment to reshape a significant slice of Brisbane and deliver lasting benefits – thousands of new homes, and public spaces for all Queenslanders to enjoy well beyond the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games – unlike Labor’s plan which would have delivered zero benefits and zero new homes.

“Queensland is well and truly open for business and through partnership with the private sector, we are accelerating delivery while ensuring strong housing, community and economic outcomes."

Early works on the precinct are expected to commence in April 2027.

Lendlease selected to deliver transformative South Brisbane riverfront precinct

Eddy Haddad's <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/level-33">Level 33</a> is levelling up its approved Wollongong development, as the coastal city south of Sydney continues to prove popular in the high-density development space.

Level 33, a longtime developer in the Wollongong area, has gone through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority to upsize its approved two-tower development on the corner of Crown Street and Gladstone Avenue, just 100 metres from Wollongong Station.

The developer currently has approval for 252 apartments across two buildings rising to 19 storeys. It is now seeking approval for 33 and 38-storey towers that would deliver 467 apartments, including 67 affordable homes.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bka-architecture">BKA Architecture</a>, the development would comprise apartments above a three-level podium with around 1,100 sqm of retail space, along with basement parking for 448 vehicles.

According to the Urban Design Report by BKA, the proposal has the capacity to "reinforce the precinct's identity by strengthening links between health, education, and transport services, while also contributing to Wollongong's ongoing evolution as a key regional centre."

Wollongong is somewhat in vogue. Between Level 33 and Urban Property Group, the two developers have several thousand apartments planned across the city.

Level 33 is currently delivering Easterly Wollongong, one of its most boutique projects to date with just 21 high-end apartments, as well as Atchison &amp; Kenny, a 329-apartment development due for completion later this year.

The developer plans to redevelop the 13,088 sqm WIN Grand megasite into <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/crown-square-216-238-keira-street-wollongong-nsw-2500">Crown Square</a>, a new $500 million precinct with nearly 600 apartments. It also has more than 900 apartments planned for the former Bunnings Warehouse site at the intersection of Gipps and Flinders streets.

Urban Property Group is also playing a major role in the city's transformation. Its five-tower Keira Place precinct will deliver more than 800 homes, and it has recently lodged plans for a further 300 apartments near Wollongong Station.

First look: Level 33 upsizes Wollongong apartment towers

Just a week after filing plans for the final stage of its major Keira Place masterplan, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> has unveiled another significant housing proposal in Wollongong, this time targeting a prominent site opposite North Wollongong Station.

The developer has lodged a State Significant Development Application for a 38-storey mixed-use tower at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/4-4a-flinders-street-north-wollongong-nsw-2500">4-4A Flinders Street</a>, around one kilometre north of the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/keira-place-wollongong-120-122-smith-street-wollongong-nsw-2500">Keira Place precinct</a> currently taking shape on the edge of the CBD.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group plans 38-storey North Wollongong tower as Keira Place expansion gathers pace" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2b6428f1-6405-4038-8476-897de440e90d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/flinders%20podium.png?VersionId=QLqEvK0OuCEwRC47oHNftrw2B1YqaHF8" />

Designed by Studio.SC, the proposal comprises a 38-storey mixed-use development containing 303 apartments, including 45 affordable housing units, alongside 174 co-living residences. The scheme also includes ground-floor retail space, extensive landscaping and public domain improvements.

Studio.SC noted in the proposal it "outlines a vision for a landmark transit-oriented mixed-use development centred around North Wollongong Station, designed to support the city’s future growth while responding to the NSW Government’s housing and planning reforms."

The architecture firm said the proposal responds to the opportunities and constraints shaping future growth within the 400-metre catchment of the station and represents "a coordinated and future-focused approach to urban intensification, contributing to the long-term evolution of North Wollongong as a connected, walkable and high-density station precinct."

The site occupies a strategic corner bounded by Flinders Street, Station Street, Stafford Street and the Princes Highway, directly opposite North Wollongong Station.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group plans 38-storey North Wollongong tower as Keira Place expansion gathers pace" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7863adad-1f71-4022-b850-f44b252738fd" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/flinders%20podium%20a.png?VersionId=WsU7av0g8_8R2tGHWxgHeFSlhu7yeY1V" />

The proposal follows Urban Property Group's recent submission for the second and final stage of Keira Place, which would deliver a further three buildings comprising 657 homes opposite Beaton Park. It builds on the first stage, which features 150 apartments across two towers and recently commenced construction.

Urban Property Group CEO Patrick Elias said breaking ground on the first stage marked a significant milestone for Wollongong and reflected the developer's long-term commitment to regional cities.

"Today's groundbreaking is about turning approvals into homes and moving quickly to deliver much-needed housing in Wollongong's city centre," Elias said.

"Keira Place will provide a diverse mix of homes close to jobs, transport and services, while setting a high benchmark for quality, durability and consumer protection."

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/urban-property-group-unveils-trio-of-towers-for-next-stage-of-new-wollongong-precinct-keira-place">Urban Property Group unveils trio of towers for next stage of new Wollongong precinct, Keira Place</a>

First look: Urban Property Group plans next major Wollongong tower

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/arada">Arada Australia</a> has wasted little time expanding its ambitions in Campsie, lodging plans for a second major project in the rapidly transforming town centre just months after unveiling its three-tower One Campsie proposal on Beamish Street.

The UAE-backed developer has now taken aim at one of the suburb’s most strategically positioned sites, filing a State Significant Development Application for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/10-north-parade-campsie-nsw-2194">33-storey mixed-use tower</a> at 10 London Street and 43 North Parade, directly opposite the future Campsie Metro Station. The proposal is currently on public exhibition and represents another significant vote of confidence in Campsie's emergence as one of Sydney’s key transit-oriented growth centres.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a>, the development would deliver 156 apartments above a podium containing retail and commercial space, creating a new residential and commercial gateway to the town centre. The scheme also includes a four-level above-ground parking podium and a dedicated residential amenity floor featuring wellness and recreation facilities. At least 10 per cent of the apartments would be allocated as affordable housing for a period of 10 years.

The proposal occupies a 1,631 sqm site bounded by London Street, North Parade and Dispensary Lane, immediately adjoining the future Metro station precinct and just metres from Beamish Street’s retail and dining strip. According to the Urban Design Report, the project seeks to deliver "a great place that prioritises human-scaled experience and provides spatial improvements to the area."

<img alt="First look: Arada doubles down in Campsie with 33-storey Metro-front tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="175a8324-015b-4856-abe3-ce6f23199fa7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/podium%20campsie.png?VersionId=742UGwXFhFBX4GEl6wX4PYIWREAgn6il" />

Woods Bagot describes the tower as a key marker within Campsie's next phase of growth.

"Located directly opposite the new Campsie Metro Station on North Parade, 10 London Street is a thoughtfully composed 33-storey mixed-use tower that contributes to the ongoing transformation of the town centre," the Architectural Design Report states. The report says the project is intended to provide "high-quality homes within a vibrant, connected urban environment, while helping define Campsie's future skyline."

A strong emphasis has been placed on the public realm. The ground floor incorporates over 500 sqm of retail space and active frontages along both London Street and North Parade, while the podium is wrapped by extensive landscaped planting intended to soften the building's scale and strengthen the pedestrian experience. The development would also widen surrounding footpaths and improve connections between the Metro station and the broader town centre.

Above the podium, residents would have access to more than 1,400 sqm of communal amenities, including a pool, gym and landscaped recreation spaces. A distinctive green-wall treatment extending across four podium levels forms a major architectural feature, helping differentiate the project within the emerging high-density precinct.

The tower's design is closely tied to the broader Campsie Town Centre Master Plan and the arrival of Sydney Metro. The Urban Design Report notes the proposal "directly supports the Campsie Town Centre Master Plan by delivering new homes in a location explicitly identified for growth, improved accessibility, and high-quality urban renewal." It adds that the project contributes to the master plan's vision for a strengthened town centre supported by thousands of new homes around the future Metro station.

<img alt="First look: Arada doubles down in Campsie with 33-storey Metro-front tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bfd17654-253e-489a-bade-6278d63db412" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/base%20campsie.png?VersionId=3roJPMQGs36dazpkhvpvbDDP73Ld.Ica" />

The application follows Arada Australia's recently lodged One Campsie project at 124–142 Beamish Street and 16–18 Ninth Avenue, where the developer is seeking approval for 346 apartments across three towers rising 24, 32 and 39 storeys. Together, the two proposals would cement Arada Australia as one of the most influential developers shaping Campsie's future urban form.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-arada-files-for-trio-of-apartment-towers-in-campsie-town-centre">First Look: Arada Australia files for trio of apartment towers in Campsie town centre</a>

Arada Australia entered the Australian market in 2024 and has rapidly assembled a significant development pipeline across Sydney. Alongside its Campsie holdings, the developer is soon to launch <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/wattle-green-2-fishburn-crescent-castle-hill-nsw-2154">Wattle Green</a> in Castle Hill, and has expanded its local operations following its acquisition of construction firm Roberts &amp; Co.

Located around 14 kilometres south-west of the Sydney CBD, the site sits at the centre of one of Sydney's fastest-changing middle-ring precincts. The Metro conversion of Campsie Station, combined with Canterbury-Bankstown Council's master planning framework, is driving significant residential intensification around Beamish Street and North Parade, with thousands of new homes expected over coming decades.

First look: Arada Australia doubles down in Campsie with 33-storey Metro-front tower plans

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>

&nbsp;

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?

For the first time in a long time, Australia's inflation story is starting to look more like a landing than a fight.

The latest Consumer Price Index figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics showed annual inflation eased to four per cent in May, down from 4.2 per cent in April. On the surface, that might not seem like a major move. Inflation remains above the Reserve Bank's target range and some categories continue to record stubborn price growth.

But the significance of this result lies less in where inflation sits today and more in what it means for where interest rates are likely heading next.

The biggest takeaway is that inflation continues to move in the right direction.

Markets had been bracing for another sticky result after a period where progress appeared to stall. Instead, headline inflation came in softer than expected, helped by falling fuel prices and easing transport costs. Annual transport inflation halved from 6.6 per cent in April to 3.3 per cent in May, while automotive fuel prices fell 11.9 per cent during the month following lower oil prices and the impact of reduced fuel excise measures.

While petrol prices don't solve Australia's affordability challenges, they are one of the most visible and immediate costs for consumers. Falling fuel costs feed through the economy quickly, helping ease pressure on household budgets and business operating expenses.

The ABS data also showed headline inflation is now sitting at its lowest annual level in several months, reinforcing the broader trend that price growth is gradually moderating.

That trend is important because it aligns with what many economists and lenders have been saying for the last month.

Prior to this week's inflation data, ANZ, NAB and Commonwealth Bank had all shifted their forecasts, now believing the Reserve Bank had likely reached the peak of the interest rate cycle. Following the May inflation release, ANZ reaffirmed that view.

In its latest economic update, ANZ said it expects quarterly trimmed mean inflation to come in at 3.7 per cent for the June quarter, slightly below the Reserve Bank's forecast of 3.8 per cent. Importantly, the bank said that outcome, when combined with slowing economic activity, "supports our view that the cash rate has peaked".

The Reserve Bank has spent the better part of three years attempting to bring inflation under control through higher interest rates. If Australia's major banks are correct and rates have now peaked, the conversation shifts from how much higher rates could go to when they might begin coming down.

Westpac's caution comes from underlying inflation. The trimmed mean, the measure most closely watched by the Reserve Bank, increased from 3.4 per cent to 3.6 per cent annually. Housing inflation remains elevated at 6.5 per cent, reflecting ongoing increases in rents, electricity costs and new dwelling construction.

Electricity prices remain particularly problematic, rising 21.1 per cent over the past year following the removal of government rebates.

Housing construction costs are also showing signs of renewed pressure. ANZ noted new dwelling costs rose 0.9 per cent in May and are now running at an annualised pace of 8.6 per cent over the past three months. Builders continue to face higher labour, fuel and material costs, a reminder that inflationary pressures have not completely disappeared.

Housing affordability has deteriorated largely because of higher interest rates rather than higher property prices alone. Even modest reductions in mortgage rates would improve borrowing capacity, increase buyer confidence and reduce repayment pressure on existing homeowners.

While August is far from a certainty, the latest inflation result has strengthened the view that the next move in rates is more likely to be down than up. For borrowers, buyers and the development sector, that alone represents a significant shift from the conversation that dominated much of the past two years.

The inflation result the property market was waiting for

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GUEST OBSERVATION
Recycling in Australia used to be fairly simple. Our older readers may remember bottle drives, paper and cardboard collections, and the trip to the scrap metal merchant to sell metals.
This is called, in recycling parlance, sorting the “streams”. It creates very clean recycling that requires little sorting at a plant.
But recycling got more complicated. As councils organised kerbside collection, it made less economic sense to sort at the kerb. Instead, trucks collected mixed recycling and took it to centralised sorting facilities.
The materials also changed, with glass often replaced by plastics. Plastics like the PET in drink bottles and HDPE in milk bottles were easy to separate and had a ready recycling market.
Then, when developing countries like China opened the floodgates to paper and plastics, there was no need to separate the seven categories of plastics. It was cheaper and easier for Australian companies to bundle it all up and send it to China for “recycling” – in 2017, some <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/http://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-12-10/china-ban-on-foreign-rubbish-leaves-recycling-industry-in-a-mess/9243184" target="_blank">600,000 tonnes</a>.
When China found they were the world’s dumping ground they <a href="https://theconversation.com/heres-what-happens-to-our-plastic-recycling-when-it-goes-offshore-110356" target="_blank">shut the door</a> and demanded only clean, separated plastics – and then only the ones that had a secondary market in China.
Suddenly Australia was expected to separate more carefully – and this cost money. Now the federal government has pledged <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com.au/australias-recycling-industry-is-getting-a-20-million-boost-but-at-least-one-environmental-group-says-the-government-is-all-talk-2019-8" target="_blank">A$20 million to boost Australia’s recycling industry</a>.
But what is Australia’s recycling industry?
Right now, there are 193 material recovery facilities in Australia. Most are hand-sorted; nine are semi-automated, and nine are fully automated. These are <a href="https://theconversation.com/the-recycling-crisis-in-australia-easy-solutions-to-a-hard-problem-95231" target="_blank">nowhere near sufficient</a> to sort Australia’s annual recycling.
There are two basic ways to sort recycling: mechanical-biological treatment plants, which sort mixed waste into low-grade recycling, and material recovery facilities, which have a stronger focus on extracting reusable stuff.
Here’s how they work.
Mechanical-biological treatment
MBT plants are in various stages of development in Perth, Melbourne, and Sydney. These plants take the rubbish we generate every day and inject it into a rotary drum (a bioreactor) that spins and is heated to 60–70℃.
The process shreds the waste and the organic wastes are stabilised and homogenised. Most of the water evaporates through a fermentation process in which microorganisms break down the organic material and release heat – much like a composting system.
The material then leaves the reactor and passes over a screen that separates the organic waste. The organic waste then fermented and composted, then separated again using a smaller mesh screen. The smallest particles are sent back to the bioreactor drum to provide the microorganisms.
Meanwhile, the larger material from the first screening is sent to a wind separator where the lightweight material, like plastics, are blown the furthest, medium-weight materials, such as textiles, fall in the middle and the heaviest, like metal, glass and stone, fall immediately. The heaviest fraction is sent along a conveyor and metals are separated by a magnetic separator.
The remaining material is sent to another wind separator, along with any remaining material from the other fractions that cannot be separated, which separates combustibles and debris.
The debris (about 10% of the original waste) goes to landfill, and combustibles are sent to a facility that compresses the material into blocks for industrial fuel.
Material recovery facilities
Material recovery facilities accept mixed recycling. The first step is putting recyclables on a conveyor belt where they are carried up to a sorting line.
In the more mechanical processes, people line up along the belt and rip open bags and remove contaminants such as non-recyclable plastic, used nappies and other rubbish, which then goes to landfill.
In the more automated systems, ripping open the bags can be done by machines and the sorting is done in the next stage.
The material then goes onto a scalping screen that sorts out the small foreign objects before passing over a screen in which flat materials such as cardboard pass over and the others drop down. The paper and cardboard go off to storage. Meanwhile, the material that has dropped through hits another screen that breaks any glass, which drops through the screen and is taken by conveyor belt to a recovery bin.
The leftover material goes to fibre quality-control stations where the fibre materials (such as paper) pass by operators who pick off any contaminants before the paper goes into another bin for baling and recycling.
This leaves the cans and plastic containers. Passing this stream over a magnet means any steel cans will be removed from the stream and collected.
Next, any fibre that has made it through the process is removed manually and the plastics are then sorted manually into individual types. The bottles are perforated mechanically so they do not explode when compressed.
With the plastic containers removed, the next step is to divert the aluminium. Powerful magnetic fields created by an eddy current separator throws non-iron metals, like aluminium, forward from the belt into a product bin and non-metals fall off the belt into a separate bin. Finally most of the materials are compressed and baled for efficient transport.
Automated sorting systems
The nine more modern facilities in Australia use optical sorting systems to take out the manual and mechanical sorting. The optical sorters detect anywhere between three and eight varieties of material.
A new facility in New South Wales can detect eight different types of material: aluminium, cardboard, glass, <a href="http://www.pbpackaging.com.au/artGlossary.aspx" target="_blank">HDPE plastic</a>, mixed paper, newspaper, <a href="http://www.pbpackaging.com.au/artGlossary.aspx" target="_blank">PET plastic</a>, and steel. The combined stream passes through a light beam which then instructs a set of high pressure air jets to direct the material to one of eight collection bins.
As worldwide demand for high quality, clean recycling material increases, Australia must upgrade its technology. Incentives and financial help for recycling companies may be necessary to see Australia develop a viable domestic recycling industry.

<img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/121120/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1">

Jeff Seadon, Senior Lecturer, Auckland University of Technology.
This article is republished from <a href="http://theconversation.com" target="_blank">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/how-recycling-is-actually-sorted-and-why-australia-is-quite-bad-at-it-121120" target="_blank">original article</a>.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

How recycling is actually sorted, and why Australia is quite bad at it

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Brooklyn, the 1880s built heritage-listed Fitzroy property currently operating as a four star hotel, has hit the market for the first time in a decade. 
It is currently owned by filmmaker and designer Maggie Fooke who runs The Brooklyn Arts Hotel, a convivial European-style four star hotel.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/8/30/fitzroy%201%201.jpg" alt="">
Fooke paid $1.5 million for the landmark property in 2006.
The George Street building was constructed in 1865 and later extended in Ecclesiastical Gothic style with a double loggia façade by the New York entrepreneur and shoe importer Joseph Levy.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/8/30/fitzroy%202%201.jpg" alt="">
The seven bedroom property with 14 principle rooms has also previously been ran as a boarding house.
Nelson Alexander agents Arch Staver and David Sanguinedo, who have a $4.2 million to $4.5 million guide for its September 14 auction, suggest it is suitable for conversion into a luxury family home.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/8/30/fitzroy%203%201.jpg" alt="">
This article was first published in the Weekend Australian. 
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firstname1-iYD4UYzvBa

1880's heritage-listed Brooklyn Arts Hotel in Fitzroy hits the market

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EXPERT OBSERVATION
The most recent consumer sentiment result comes as somewhat of a surprise given that the survey was conducted against a turbulent backdrop with global financial markets roiled by escalating trade tensions between the US and China, the ASX down 3.4% and the AUD off 3c US since the July survey.
However, the result does come in the aftermath of an unexpected 4.7% fall in the Index in June/July that came despite consecutive rate cuts from the RBA and the restoration of political certainty following the May Federal election.
At the time, particularly following the July fall of 4%, we speculated that households may have been unnerved by the unusual sequence of consecutive rate reductions, implying that there might be some alarming drop in confidence in official circles around the economic outlook.
Realising that lower rates are in the offing but that there is no need for further consecutive changes might be a more encouraging signal for households than a rapid sequence of rate cuts.
Indeed part of the gain is consistent with firming expectations for additional interest rate cuts. The RBA left rates on hold at its August meeting, pausing after the two cuts in June and July but retained a clear easing bias.
The media and economic forecasters now expect a further lowering in the official cash rate in coming months.
This is influencing consumer views. Responses to an additional question on expectations for mortgage interest rates, run every six months, show just 31% expect rates to be higher in a year’s time compared to 43% when the question was last run in February and 50% this time a year ago.
This is the most dovish mix of responses seen since mid-2012 when the RBA was moving through a significant policy easing cycle.
This less alarmist but nevertheless confident view on interest rates appears to have calmed expectations for the economic outlook.
The sub-index tracking expectations for the ‘economy, next 12 months’ rallied 9.6% in August, reversing most of last month’s 12.3% slump but still down 8.3% since May.
Longer term expectations for the economy also recovered, the ‘economy, next 5 years’ sub-index rising 4.5% after recording a 6.7% fall last month.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2019/8/14/consumer%20sentiment%20.jpg" target="_blank">Click here</a> to enlarge: 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/8/14/consumer%20sentiment%20.jpg" alt="">
Views around family finances have shown a more muted improvement. The sub-index tracking consumers’ expectations for ‘finances, next 12 months’ rose 0.7% but remained in slightly pessimistic territory.
The ‘finances vs a year ago’ sub-index lifted 0.9% to a five month high, although at 86.5, the sub-index remains at weak levels overall.
The muted gains are despite further signs of improvement in Australia’s housing market and the “Federal government’s tax relief which may be starting to see cash flow to some households.
Spending attitudes showed a firmer gain, the ‘time to buy a major household item’ sub-index is up 2.8% in August to the highest level in over a year.
A major influence on the near term economic outlook is going to be the mix between spending and saving as households receive their increased tax rebates. With sentiment flat and households remaining risk averse we expect consumers to favour saving over spending so this lift in ‘time to buy’ is an encouraging sign for retailers.
Consumers’ job loss fears eased slightly in August. The Westpac-Melbourne Institute Unemployment Expectations Index improved slightly recording a 0.8% decline to 133.3 (recall that lower readings indicate that more consumers expect unemployment to fall in the year ahead).
While the Index is around its long run average level, it has risen 10.3% since May, a significant deterioration from what were consistently better than average readings seen over the six months to February.
Housing-related sentiment continues to show a clear positive response to lower interest rates with assessments of both ‘time to buy’ and house price expectations recording further gains in August.
The ‘time to buy a dwelling’ index rose 3.0% to 126.9, comfortably above the long run average of 120 and the highest level since early 2014.
Sydney and Melbourne continue to lead the turnaround although buyer sentiment posted particularly strong gains in WA and SA this month.
Buyer sentiment has been notably softer in Queensland, the state index down 6.4% this month and down 11.6% on a year ago.
The Westpac-Melbourne Institute Index of House Price Expectations Index posted a solid 5.1% increase. At 125.4, the Index is up 40% since May and back on a par with levels in mid-2018, although still 18% below its previous peak in March 2017. All major states recorded a lift in price expectations this month.
The Reserve Bank Board next meets on September 3. Westpac expects that the Board will decide to keep rates on hold in September before cutting rates by another 25bps at the October meeting with a final 25bp move taking the cash rate to 0.5% in February.
Signals from the RBA are quite clear. In its recent Statement on Monetary Policy the RBA lowered its forecasts for inflation, wages and growth, while lifting its forecasts for the unemployment rate. Those forecasts were despite basing them on the technical assumption of adopting market pricing, which anticipates two more rate cuts.
Accordingly we feel reasonably comfortable that the RBA Board will be cutting rates at least twice more in this cycle.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2019/8/14/consumer%20sentiment%20aug%20.jpg" target="_blank">Click here</a> to enlarge: 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/8/14/consumer%20sentiment%20aug%20.jpg" alt="">
BILL EVANS is Chief Economist for Westpac.
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bevans-rYk9SxEa4r

August house price and consumer sentiment bounce back: Bill Evans 

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The Ray White Randwick office premises just off Randwick high street have been listed for sale through Savills.
The premises had initially been listed by the Ray White office, however the ground floor space at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-retail-nsw-randwick-503291458" target="_blank">126-128 Avoca Street</a> failed to sell when asking $1.5 million.
Savills agents Tom and Nick Tuxworth, as well as David Hickey, are now marketing the property for a September 12 auction.
Ray White Randwick have a lease in the 145 sqm office space until December 2021 which yields $94,000 per annum gross.
Holding a prominent corner location on Avoca and Alison Road, the floor area is spread across three separate titles which provides future subdivision potential.
It has an 18 metre corner frontage with exposure to high levels of vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
 
 
 
 
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

Savills list Ray White Randwick office

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Today, there are more than <a href="https://www.traveltrends.biz/ttn555-Airbnb+By+The+Numbers+in+Australia+2017">180,000 Airbnb listings</a> available across Australia – some of which earn upwards of $1 million per year by listing their home or even just a spare bedroom. If you're currently in the market for an investment property or you travel frequently and <a href="/developments">own an apartment</a>, Airbnb could be a great option for you to ensure your home remains occupied year-round. The best way to get started in the Airbnb game is to make sure you have a decent set of photos of your apartment, which can be easily achieved by following a few simple steps. There are many photographers that will offer great Airbnb photography services, but if you'd like to give it a go yourself, here are a few surefire tricks that will boost the quality of your listing instantly. 

<h2>1. Use a wide-angle lens</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/jakob-owens-zl2y734oreg-unsplash.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="426" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/jakob-owens-zl2y734oreg-unsplash.jpg?itok=KrncYa9s" width="580"></a></figure>The first step before you begin photographing your home is to choose a lens which is 35mm or smaller for the widest possible angle. The wider your angle, the more you'll fit in the frame which will create more space and breathing room in your image.

<h2>2. Opt for natural lighting</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/daniil-silantev-nbuilbz_j4a-unsplash.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="385" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/daniil-silantev-nbuilbz_j4a-unsplash.jpg?itok=LZzshAgj" width="580"></a></figure>An interior photograph that has been taken using harsh pop-flash or utilising the rooms regular tungsten bulbs will often look unnatural and/or create unappealing shadows. Instead, opt for natural light where possible, and use warm lamps to add more fill light to create a less jarring aesthetic.

<h2>3. Photograph at dawn or dusk (also known as "golden hour")</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/tadej-skofic-vwxiakn-lvc-unsplash.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="382" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/tadej-skofic-vwxiakn-lvc-unsplash.jpg?itok=-anx0Hsk" width="580"></a></figure>Ask any photographer when the best time of day to take photos is, and they will most likely tell you "golden hour". This is the time of day that occurs in the early morning and evening, where the sun is low, and radiates a diffuse golden glow, making everything look luminous. If possible, observe the light patterns in your apartment leading up to the day of your photoshoot, and take test shots to figure out when your home looks it's best. If you are pushed for time and have to photograph in the middle of the day when the sun is at it's highest, position lamps in the areas of shadow, and pull blinds/drapes across to shade areas which are too "hot" or bright.

<h2>4. Position your camera as far into the corner as possible</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/nastuh-abootalebi-jdcjn85xd2k-unsplash.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/nastuh-abootalebi-jdcjn85xd2k-unsplash.jpg?itok=PgAiv_Vd" width="580"></a></figure>If you've got a nice telephoto lens, you're off to a good start, however, to maximise the space in your photo, cram your camera (or yourself and your camera) into each corner of the room to take your photos. You can then complement these wide shots with detail images of special features such as the collection of books in a bookcase, or board games on a coffee table. 

<h2>5. Shoot from a low angle without distorting perspective</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/dan-gold-4hg3ca3ezww-unsplash.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/dan-gold-4hg3ca3ezww-unsplash.jpg?itok=Uwf6KWi2" width="580"></a></figure>While a downwards perspective will make your room appear smaller, a very slight upward angle can actually have the reverse effect. Be careful not to get too low as this can distort the perspective, however, a few inches below eye level can create the desired aesthetically perfectly.

<h2>6. Dress the room with homely accessories</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/deborah-diem-pnvpggk4az0-unsplash.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="870" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/deborah-diem-pnvpggk4az0-unsplash.jpg?itok=t7JXLkI_" width="580"></a></figure>The photographs of your home may be beautiful, but chances are so are 500+ other homes in your area. Show your creativity by displaying plush rugs, quirky ornaments, art, a snack platter, bottle of wine, or vase of flowers to make your listing stand out. One thing to bear in mind is that your guests may not be keen to arrive at a treasure trove of clutter and dusty ornaments after a 15-hour flight, so do show your personality but also maintain a sense of minimalism. How can you achieve this? Turn your camera to "live view" and add/remove items to decide which styling looks best. 

<h2>7. Show off any on-site amenities  </h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/nick-karvounis-u6-y8vpac24-unsplash.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/nick-karvounis-u6-y8vpac24-unsplash.jpg?itok=qSjiu3wC" width="580"></a></figure>Got a pool in your apartment building? Post a photo of it and you could win a booking over an equally great house that doesn't have a pool. If you offer free bicycle use, paddleboards, breakfast or access to a tennis court, take photos of these too! Photos are often the first thing people look at before reading the description, so this is a great way to make your listing stand out from the rest. 

<h2>8. Utilise symmetry and leading line </h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/hutomo-abrianto-9mpl0zo7_gq-unsplash.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="870" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/hutomo-abrianto-9mpl0zo7_gq-unsplash.jpg?itok=pXzWEdoW" width="580"></a></figure>According to <a href="http://users.rider.edu/~suler/photopsy/symmetry.htm">photographic psychology</a>, symmetry creates a sense of calmness, relaxation and order. To avoid the photo looking too artificial or boring, subtle differences between the two sides of symmetry can add some points of interest and provide the perfect balance for the eye to travel around the image naturally. Leading lines will draw the viewer's eye into the subject, such as balustrades, pathways, table edges or any other diagonal lines which lead to a pivotal focal point.

<h2>9. Brighten and bump up the contrast in post-production</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/alexandra-gorn-w5dsm9n6e3g-unsplash.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="869" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/alexandra-gorn-w5dsm9n6e3g-unsplash.jpg?itok=OjRtKXkK" width="580"></a></figure>Finally, once you've taken all your photos, you may wish to boost the brightness and up the contrast in post-production to give your photos some vibrancy. When editing, ensure you keep all the settings the same across your batch of images for consistency and refrain from adding filters. 
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Olivia Round

How to photograph your apartment for Airbnb (9 simple tips)

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So you have <a href="/new-apartments">just purchased your first apartment</a>, and you are ready to move in. How to decorate your first apartment is the next issue. You obviously want something as stylish and modern as your new apartment, but you also want it to feel comfortable and essentially, like you.

You have also just spent possibly one of the most considerable sums of money in your life in buying the apartment, so <a href="/">Apartments.com.au</a> are here to ensure that you master apartment decorating on a budget, without leaving out any of the essentials.

There are many apartment decorating styles to help provide inspiration in case you don't know what you want your space to look like, but the important thing to remember is that your apartment does not need to be fully furnished the second you move in. Take your time, collect pieces that you love and build your design over time to a point where it brings you joy. You will likely tweak and change it as you go anyway, so treat it as a fun activity rather than letting it bring you stress.

<h2>Start with the entryway</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/startwiththeentryway.png" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="557" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/startwiththeentryway.png?itok=Eq1zwBbT" width="580"></a></figure>Decorating a space from scratch with modern apartment decor is easier when broken down into sections. Since we will walk through the entryway first, and it's one of the smaller spaces, let's start there.

Before you start, you may benefit from a design or <a href="https://www.pinterest.com">Pinterest board</a> that collates elements or designs that you like along with a list of prices to help you budget. If you are buying larger pieces, you may want to order them ahead of time to allow for shipping. Smaller pieces, like storage and lighting, can be left until a little later.

The entryway is the first impression people will have of your place, and if you are trying to figure out how to decorate a one-bedroom apartment, this area is crucial. The best approach for the entry is ensuring that it is organised and welcoming, complete with some element of storage. 

This can be a multipurpose coat rack or some kind of tray where you sit your keys and wallet, or whatever else you need to have on you before heading out. For this reason, and if you have room, you may want to include a table or bench, topped off with a small runner. Lighting, mirrors, <a href="/expert-insights/buying/10-benefits-of-having-plants-in-the-house">a range of plants</a> and art are added after the essentials to bring a sense of personality and design into the space.

<h2>Making the most of your kitchen</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/makingthemostofyourkitchen.png" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="367" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/makingthemostofyourkitchen.png?itok=Rfo7jAif" width="580"></a></figure>Many couples first apartment decorating ideas are hindered by size, <a href="/expert-insights/buying/small-kitchen-design-ideas">and the kitchen is one area that takes a big hit</a>. This is mainly because it's unavoidable to have many things that need to be stored in the kitchen, from pots and pans to crockery and food. The best, and cheapest way, to effectively upgrade a kitchen is with hardware and paint. 

You can add a small dining table and include plenty of storage containers to increase the amount of storage you have. Elements like art and herb planters will help to give the area a little more zest, but for the most part, you need to declutter as much as possible to ensure that this is a practical and functional space.

Kitchen storage is crucial. Look for ways to make the most out of the storage spaces you have available, along with any opportunities to create more. Remember, in an apartment when you can't go out, go up. Plus shelves above windows and add cupboards higher up for items that won't need to be accessed regularly.

<h2>Comfort in the bedroom</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/comfortinthebedroom.png" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="384" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/comfortinthebedroom.png?itok=5TtQ_9LA" width="580"></a></figure>In case you were considering it, apartment living does not mean your mattress should sit on the floor. You will need something that creates a bed frame, and those on a budget may wish to consider a DIY solution using old (but clean) pallets. 

The next crucial element is some kind of window treatment to not only offer privacy but also to create darkness. Remember than when designing the layout of your bedroom, this is the space where you need to be most comfortable so you can rest. Third on the list will likely be a nightstand or two if you have the space, followed by new bedding, lighting, and you will increase the comfort levels and visual appeal of the area with a rug.

You will also need to consider storage options if your apartment does not have built-in robes, and while having some clothing items on open hangers can create a good look, you don't want to overplay this design strategy as things will <a href="/expert-insights/buying/decluttering-experts-share-effective-downsizing-advice-for-apartment-living">end up looking and being, cluttered</a>.

<h2>Fun in the bathroom</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/funinthebathroom.png" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="441" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/funinthebathroom.png?itok=T-VZ3gHn" width="580"></a></figure>Many people miss the opportunity to have a little more fun when decorating the bathroom. Keep in mind this room is rarely seen by other people, so if you want to get a little crazier by painting one of the walls bright pink, have at it.

Before you get to that, however, remember that you will need to worry about some pretty important items for your bathroom, including bath linens, something that offers wall storage, and a vanity mirror. Things like bath products and accessories can be added later to spruce things up, but the essential daily items should be top of the list.

You can then add plants and if room some artwork, just be aware that the space will get wet so ensure all art is framed instead of block mounted. Try not to go overboard as this handy apartment decorating guide <a href="/expert-insights/buying/decluttering-experts-share-effective-downsizing-advice-for-apartment-living">is very against clutter</a>. The minimalist aesthetic is modern, stylish, and far more accessible <a href="/expert-insights/buying/how-to-spring-clean-your-home">when it comes time for a spring clean</a>.

<h2>The living room</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/thelivingroom.png" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="332" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/thelivingroom.png?itok=R6wNGdIa" width="580"></a></figure>Considering the fact that the living room is probably where you'll spend the bulk of your time, it should also be where you allow the most budget. Split the large purchases over multiple months if necessary and never put yourself into financial strain purely for your dream apartment fit-out. <a href="/guides/how-much-should-you-spend-on-your-first-house-in-2020">You've already spent a fair bit on your first home as it is</a>.

The crucial elements of the living room are:

<ul>
<li>
	A place to sit
	</li>
	<li>
	A small coffee table
	</li>
	<li>
	A light source
	</li>
</ul>
We left a TV or record player off the crucial list as these are subjective, but you will likely have some sort of entertainment source in the living room, it could even be a significant bookshelf.

Once the crucial elements of the living room are in place, you can add rugs and pillows, artwork and plants, and space permitting, some kind of accent chair. Just always remember that the fun little things should come after the important big things.

<h2>Apartment decorating on a budget</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/apartmentdecoratingonabudget.png" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="361" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/apartmentdecoratingonabudget.png?itok=nrjwVYe1" width="580"></a></figure>We live in an age where creating a stylish, comfortable, and modern apartment fit out doesn't need to cost the earth. You may even have more fun if you look to antique stores and flea markets for vintage items to repurpose, which will not only help with recycling but give your apartment a more unique look.

The key is not to overcommit to too many purchases for the sake of having your whole apartment ready to go when you first move in. Take your time, <a href="/expert-insights/buying/essential-household-items-for-your-new-apartment">and prioritise the essential items first</a>. Then, ensure you are spending your money on things that you love, and remember that it is YOUR apartment, you can bring out your personality with the design and create a space that is truly home.

 
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urban.com.au

How to Decorate Your First Apartment

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The hallway is an integral part of any home or apartment as it gets you to all of the other parts; this we know. What we may not know, however, is how to make our hallways look inviting, stylish, and just all-around great?

You have the opportunity to set the tone for your home with a hallway, which is why <a href="/">Apartments.com.au</a> have put together the 20 best hallway decorating ideas considering the current decor and design landscape. These ideas can serve as the inspiration you need to turn your hallway into a vibrant and welcoming space with a focus on small hallway decorating ideas, as these can be the trickiest to deal with.

There are a number of ways to achieve an impactful hallway, no matter what your budget may be, so let's look at some of the best ways to make the most out of the transitional spaces of your home.

<h2>1. Darkness</h2>

It is important to note that this first point is not suitable for all spaces, but if you have an abundance of natural light, a dark hallway can create a striking effect. If you choose this option, colourful accessories or light wooden fixtures are critical. You can also include large indoor plants to create a comfortable tone against the darker background. This is also an excellent option for hallways with large windows.

<h2>2. Gallery Artwork</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/2galleryartwork.png" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/2galleryartwork.png?itok=wDe6Ln_7" width="580"></a></figure>The opposite of a dark hallway is an all-white one that you can turn into a mini gallery with a range of artwork, pictures, and photos. The best thing about gallery walls is that the frames and sizes need not match, and they will become a focal and talking point of your home when you have visitors.

<h2>3. 80s baby</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/380sbaby.png" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="274" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/380sbaby.png?itok=7FzN9HCJ" width="580"></a></figure>A popular trend that is striking in a hallway is a touch of neon, which doubles as a practical source of light for the late-night trips to the bathroom. A little bit of neon injects character into your hallway and can be quite a unique inclusion into your space.

<h2>4. Indoor plants</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/4indoorplants.png" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="383" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/4indoorplants.png?itok=b4L5ApLm" width="580"></a></figure>It's <a href="/expert-insights/buying/10-benefits-of-having-plants-in-the-house">hard to go wrong when bringing the outdoors in</a>, and a range of plants in your hallway provides a natural feel while injecting a splash of colour that will work with any paint choice of decorative style. You can get adventurous with your pot choice or keep it neutral, so the foliage pops.

<h2>5. Bright hallways</h2>

A bright hallway is best achieved with neutral colours and making the most of the natural light available. You can also add a large mirror to give the illusion of more making the hallway seem a little more spacious.

<h2>6. All white</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/6allwhite.png" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="557" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/6allwhite.png?itok=_QUAN0KZ" width="580"></a></figure>A clean white hallway certainly looks crisp and gives a positive feel, just keep in mind that this is a thoroughfare, so keeping it in a white state can be tricky. To really make the most of this look <a href="/expert-insights/buying/decluttering-experts-share-effective-downsizing-advice-for-apartment-living">you will want to keep the hallway clutter to a minimum</a> and aim for the minimalist aesthetic.

<h2>7. Minimalism</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/7minimalism.png" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="474" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/7minimalism.png?itok=vYvZBO9L" width="580"></a></figure>Following on from that last point, it should come as no surprise that the minimalist trend is a popular one, as it has been for some time. It also works very well in hallways as it can be practical to keep things out of the way in a predominantly transitional space. Do away with the furnishings and decor to create an open space that pushes visual focus to the other rooms <a href="/expert-insights/buying/how-to-spring-clean-your-home">while making your spring clean much simpler</a>.

<h2>8. Functionality</h2>

The opposite idea to the last point, which can be suitable for <a href="/expert-insights/buying/small-kitchen-design-ideas">smaller apartments and spaces which need to be wary of room</a>, is maximising the room of a hallway for storage. There is a range of hallway storage solutions that can still keep things looking neat and stylish, plus who doesn't expect to see a coat stand in the hall when they walk through the door?

<h2>9. High ceilings</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/9highceilings.png" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="389" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/9highceilings.png?itok=xHrwxIRw" width="580"></a></figure>Hallways with high ceilings are a great chance to create an impressive ambiance with light fittings. Directional lights can add height to a room, and you can light up particular works of art as a focal point in the hall. Smaller ceilings, on the other hand, are great for spotlights or floor lights. All hallways work well with free-standing lamps as well if you have the room.

<h2>10. The rustic feel</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/10therusticfeels.png" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="377" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/10therusticfeels.png?itok=_RJVsU7u" width="580"></a></figure>Apartments in the city often enjoy the juxtaposition of rustic country-style elements like wooden benches and boxes or choosing paint in a natural, earthy tone. Keep in mind that your hallway can set the tone for the rest of your home, so if you are picking a theme, make sure it flows throughout your entire space.

<h2>11. Painting the back of your door</h2>

We always seem to forget about the back of the front door, but in respect to the hallway, it's an opportunity to create a feature point along the wall. Add a splash of colour by painting it something bright, or match the colour with another element in the hallway or a nearby room to help tie various spaces together.

<h2>12. A grand entrance</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/12agrandentrance.png" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="338" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/12agrandentrance.png?itok=4bOuvZfp" width="580"></a></figure>This point is once again dependent on space, but if you really want to make an impact on your guests when they walk in the door, add a chandelier or statue. Now, it's crucial that these additions make sense to the rest of the home and space that they occupy, a giant statue in a tiny hallway has the opposite effect to impressing a visitor, so be careful here.

<h2>13. Personal expression</h2>

Your home says a lot about your personality, and it is a place that you can <a href="/guides/14-steps-to-making-your-brand-new-apartment-feel-like-home">indeed be comfortable and yourself</a>. Use the hallway as an opportunity to express this with artwork and colours that are inextricably you.

<h2>14. The more natural light, the better</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/14themorenaturallightthebetter.png" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="393" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/14themorenaturallightthebetter.png?itok=wdcsQGqI" width="580"></a></figure>Opening up the hallway with natural light is always a great option and is very inviting. It also doesn't hurt to extend the life of whatever plants you may have living in the space. If possible, you may want to consider installing some skylights to increase the brightness.

<h2>15. Sectional painting</h2>

Adding a colourful paint to your hallway does not mean you need to commit to covering the whole space no matter how large or <a href="/guides/why-micro-houses-why-not">small it may be</a>. Paint a section, or create a pattern that focuses on the top half of the wall, or an angled area to add some colour to the space without going over the top.

<h2>16. Don't forget about the floor</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/16dontforgetaboutthefloor.png" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="372" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/16dontforgetaboutthefloor.png?itok=V7s1kxr6" width="580"></a></figure>That's right; all hallways also have floors, so the focus doesn't need to always be on the walls. Use geometric floor tiles or another design to not <a href="/expert-insights/buying/11-small-apartment-ideas-create-more-space-following-these-simple-steps">only create the illusion of space</a> but offer a different focal element to the hallway area.

<h2>17. A colour mix</h2>

Mixing dark and light shades can be great if you have a narrow space but like the idea of deeper tones. Lighting and splashes of bright colour in a predominantly dark hallway also help to make the area seem like it is longer.

<h2>18. Colour tones</h2>

A popular design trend at the moment is the use of different tones of the same colour. When doing this in a hallway, it creates a sense of cohesion while looking ultimately stylish.

<h2>19. Wallpaper</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/19wallpaper.png" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="431" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/19wallpaper.png?itok=xYRW2z3R" width="580"></a></figure>Another way to really make the walls of your hallway pop is a patterned wallpaper. Feel free to get extreme with this if you have a larger space and if you choose a print with a floral design; you are helping to create the same illusion <a href="/expert-insights/buying/essential-household-items-for-your-new-apartment">as having real plants</a>, the two even work well together.

<h2>20. Keep it monochrome</h2>

If you are worried about any of the ideas dating, black and white hallway design provides longevity.  Keep things simple and elegant with a monochrome hallway, where you can opt for a stronger white and light or <a href="https://www.realhomes.com/completed-projects/dark-decorating-ideas">dark and atmospheric</a>. You can also paint the banisters for a striking effect.

<h2>Having fun in the hallway</h2>

Hopefully, some of the above ideas have served as the inspiration you need to figure out what to do in your hall while designing <a href="/developments">a new apartment or house</a>.

Just remember to stick to an idea that can be replicated throughout the rest of the home and you will be on your way to an impressive hallway.
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20 Best Hallway Decorating Ideas

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It is hard to ignore the fact that our spaces are getting smaller. The explosion or apartment and minimalist living are working to take the stress out of people's lives by lowering the necessary maintenance of a home, <a href="/guides/why-micro-houses-why-not">even micro houses are a thing</a>, but this doesn't solve the issue of space for the things we need.

<a href="/">Apartments.com.au</a> have collated 25 kitchen storage ideas for small spaces to help you make the most out of a limited amount of room. Minimalist living does not mean you need to go without, as these handy tips can prove.

<h2>Increasing your shelving</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/increasingyourshelving.png" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="377" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/increasingyourshelving.png?itok=LylpBtBR" width="580"></a></figure>1. Make the window a shelf

When <a href="/expert-insights/buying/11-small-apartment-ideas-create-more-space-following-these-simple-steps">it comes to small kitchens</a>, every inch matters, so you need to look for slightly out-of-the-box places for storage. If you happen to have a window, place a shelf above it as this provides more display space or a spot to stack plates, bowls, and even artwork.

2. Shelves on the backsplash

The backsplash occupies a significant amount of space, so why not make the most of it by <a href="https://www.pinterest.com.au/pin/69524387982024788/">installing some glass shelving</a>. This can help make more of a visual out of this necessary area and keeps items tucked underneath a cabinet. If you do use glass shelving, you can store your glasses in this spot as the materials will match, creating a near-invisible effect.

3. Use a pot rack

A pot rack is great for freeing up cupboard space, showing off your pot collection and makes it easy to access these implements that you are likely using daily. Plus, if this is placed above the sink area, they can be put away immediately for drying.

4. Floating shelves

Floating shelves are very handy for any space that has enough room for them. This modern solution looks neat and provides plenty of space for dishes and glassware. They are available in a range of sizes, which is perfect if you only have a small amount of wall space available offering <a href="/expert-insights/buying/essential-household-items-for-your-new-apartment">an extra spot for some of your must-have items</a>.

5. Vertical storage

When we are restricted by sides, we need to go up. Storage should not be limited to within arms' reach. If possible, you can use a sliding ladder to reach ceiling-height cabinets where you store items that are used less often. This can also create a unique look for your kitchen.

<h2>Increasing your storage</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/increasingyourstorage.png" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="382" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/increasingyourstorage.png?itok=nra-BMde" width="580"></a></figure>6. Use wooden boxes

A great way to declutter, <a href="/expert-insights/buying/small-kitchen-design-ideas">and increase storage</a> with an attractive and stylish aesthetic is the use of woven or wooden boxes which can sit in an open-shelving style set-up. This is a great way to store more in a neat way that saves the look of too much clutter.

7. Add cabinets

If possible, you can add cabinets to areas that usually wouldn't have it due to being in an awkward spot, but if these spaces are used to store lesser-used items, then convenience is less important. Look to add higher cabinets above hoods and windows.

8. Hangers

Popping a range of hooks up to hang coffee cups and cookware frees up space and has a chic look about it. Just ensure to follow the no-clutter rule and avoid going overboard.

9. Add an open-shelving unit

Open shelving units create a lot more storage without taking up too much space. If possible, you can find something like an antique étagère to hold bowls, creating a feature piece as well as more storage room.

10. Install a pull-out pantry

You can create a more spacious pantry for dry goods inside of a cabinet that slides out, creating more space and room. You can even look to install more than one, having them side by side for extra room.

<h2>Thinking outside of the box</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/thinkingoutsidethebox.png" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="588" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/thinkingoutsidethebox.png?itok=PI6--FIu" width="580"></a></figure>11. Antique cabinets

If you can track down a large antique cabinet, you are ticking both a design box and a storage box. Give your kitchen a vintage feel with a functional centrepiece that can hold a lot of stuff.

12. Don't display the fruit

Fruit bowls are an old idea, and in small kitchens, they make things look cluttered. Use pull-out baskets to hold fruit and vegetables and limit the colourful mess that gives an unnecessary visual distraction.

13. Crockery drawers

Install a <a href="https://organised.hsw.com.au/makeovers/organising-the-crockery-cupboard-the-organised-housewife/">crockery drawer</a> that has movable pegs to hold various sized dishes and keep all of these implements tucked away safely, ready for easy access.

14. Swing stools

Swivel stools are a great addition to the underside of benchtops as they pop out when you need somewhere to sit, then tuck away when not in use.

15. Cabinets that look like drawers

If you love the look of cabinets but the space of drawers, have your cabinet doors designed to look like stylish drawers. Really when they pull open, you have all the added space that a cabinet affords.

<h2>Practical where possible</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/practicalwherepossible.png" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="419" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/practicalwherepossible.png?itok=-X38-RpH" width="580"></a></figure>16. Pull-out cutting boards

The pull-out cutting board is a practical way to have one less thing that you need to store while having easy access to an implement you will likely use daily. The designs also usually involve a hole so you can easily push the scraps into a bin below. Alternatively, opt for cutting boards that can also be serving plates instead of plates, just one less thing to store.

17. Store the whole kitchen

If you have a particularly tiny apartment, you may want to tuck away the entire kitchen with folding doors. This way, you don't have to worry too much about minimising or decluttering the actual kitchen. It’s the design version of sweeping the whole thing under the rug.

18. Champagne cases

Old wooden Champagne cases look great and are very practical for storage. Use them to neatly tuck away things like teabags or utensils and do a little recycling while you are at it.

19. Repurpose a door

You can turn a slatted wooden door into a handy hanging rack. Just give it a unique paint job and add a range of hooks to the various slats for a stylish and practical pegboard.

20. Office organisers

Office organisers aren't just for storing files; they are also great for cleaning supplies or small plants, or anything that may need to drip-dry into the sink.

<h2>Keeping everything neat</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/keepingeverythingneat.png" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="493" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/keepingeverythingneat.png?itok=x0bOwVlN" width="580"></a></figure>21. Container systems

When in doubt, put it in a container. Whether your container is clear plastic or a metal tin, you are always better off with one. Not only do they allow more things to be stored in a space, they keep everything neat. And a neat and organised small kitchen is a stylish kitchen.

22. Keep cleaning items in a corner

To keep a clean kitchen, <a href="/expert-insights/buying/how-to-spring-clean-your-home">you need some cleaning implements</a>. It's best to section these off to a particular corner, not only for safety, so they don't accidentally mix in with your food, but also to keep the things that keep your kitchen neat, neat.

23. Make your countertop work

Did you know that you can get a countertop with an integrated bowl? This makes prep time more manageable, creates less chance for spills and messes, and is a unique tweak to your space. 

24. Use those countertops

You may not be able to see your kitchen cabinet tops and just assume they are full of dust, but they are actually the perfect place to stash things you don't have room for or use a lot. Think picnic baskets or extra cutting boards.

25. Stack where possible

If you are using baskets or tins, stack to a safe height. It will still look neat while providing even more storage. Remember, in small apartments; you may need to head towards the ceiling.

<h2>Making small spaces work</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/makingsmallspaceswork.png" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="369" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/makingsmallspaceswork.png?itok=ElVAFl1R" width="580"></a></figure>You may be the type of person who loves spending time in the kitchen and having a plethora of ingredients and tools to help whip up all sorts of culinary delights. Hopefully, some of the above tips have shown that this can be done even in a small space, meaning you can <a href="/new-apartments">reconsider that new apartment purchase</a> that you previously thought was too small.

Small spaces can feel like bigger spaces when used wisely, and a low maintenance, minimalist lifestyle need not be full of sacrifice.

 
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25 Kitchen Storage Ideas for Small Spaces

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A Kallangur, Queensland house has sold under the mortgagee auction hammer for $325,000.
The vendors made a loss of $37,250 three years on from when they purchased the home in 2016.
Liam Booker of LJ Hooker marketed the property.
Situated at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-kallangur-131548042" target="_blank">211 Duffield Road</a>, the abode is comprised of two storeys with three bedrooms and two bathroom within.
Set on 645 sqm, the house features a large rear deck, drive through carport, double bay lockup shed and a garden shed. 
The property was originally listed for $376,500+ in January 2019 and was unsuccessful during an auction at the end of January.
Last sold in 2016, the home transacted for $362,250.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/subscribe" target="_blank"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/1/Subscriber%20strip%20ad.jpg" alt=""></a>
The median sale price for a unit in <a href="/developments/kallangur-qld-4503">Kallangur</a> is $397,000, according to CoreLogic data.
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Kallangur, Queensland mortgagee home sold for $40,000 loss

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The apartment at 1/247 Oberon Street, Coogee sold at recent auction for $1,421,000.
It was $321,000 above reserve.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/8/30/coogee%202%201.jpg" alt="">
The listing had 12,000 online views. 
Some 235 groups of buyers physically inspected the two bedroom apartment with 36 contracts issued. 
There were 13 buyers registered for auction.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/8/30/coogee%203%201.jpg" alt="">
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