Summary:

<ul>
	<li aria-level="1">The Regent revives Fitzroy’s historic Regent Theatre with modern design</li>
	<li aria-level="1">Studio Tate interiors offer two distinct styles with customisation options</li>
	<li aria-level="1">Prime location near cafes, dining, galleries, and tram connections</li>
	<li aria-level="1">Rooftop, guest suite, workshop, and dog wash to enhance resident living</li>
</ul>

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Melbourne developer SMA Projects almost doesn't see itself as a developer.

"We feel like we're more of a lifestyle creator," <a href="/developers/sma-projects">SMA Projects</a> Founder Martin Strode says, adding that they want to create spaces that enhance the way people live, through clever design, architectural features, and prime location of their projects.

When the opportunity to secure the former Regent Theatre site in <a href="/developments/fitzroy-vic-3065">Fitzroy</a>, it allowed them to tick all three of those boxes.

"While the Regent Theatre is long gone, we had a head start in the design phase because we knew how we wanted the building to look before we even secured the site. We had a bit of a blueprint as to the architectural integrity of the sites former life, and how we could reimagine it into a 21st century apartment building," Strode says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=24824 project_image_fid=304614]

SMA called on&nbsp;<a href="/architects/hayball">Hayball</a>, who they have been collaborating with across several architecturally-significant developments over the past two decades, to draw inspiration from the theatre's Art Deco past, incorporating arched ceilings and period-inspired details.&nbsp;

The Art Deco influence is immediately evident, beginning with the streetscape and extending into the lobby. Curved walls, elegant pendant lighting, and custom-designed, 70s-inspired mirrors capture the essence of a bygone era.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=24824 project_image_fid=304762]

It was important the apartment interiors followed the same style, so the brief to<a href="/interior-designers/studio-tate"> Studio Tate</a> was of a similar narrative.

While also wanting to be flexible and give buyers a level of customisation which SMA believes is incredibly important in off the plan purchasing, Studio Tate put together two distinct designs; the light and refined Classic Collection, influenced by Nordic minimalism, and the dramatic, moody Arthouse Collection, inspired by Fitzroy’s artistic edge.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=24824 project_image_fid=304606]

SMA’s philosophy is that buildings are about more than just the apartments. They make a conscious effort to create spaces where residents can gather, always staying true to their core belief of making life easier for those who live there.

Crowning the nine-level building will be a 315 sqm rooftop which will act as a shared space for residents to gather, eat, drink, and take in uninterrupted views of the Melbourne skyline.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=24824 project_image_fid=304765]

One of the more innovative features designed by SMA is the inclusion of a guest suite, exclusively available for residents to book. This thoughtful addition functions like a private spare bedroom, providing a convenient space for family or friends to stay.&nbsp;

In response to the 2023 Victorian pet census, which revealed that nearly 60% of Victorian adults own pets—particularly dogs—SMA also incorporated a dedicated dog wash facility within the building. Residents will enjoy the added convenience of a concierge service, available to handle everything from managing deliveries to making restaurant reservations and much more.

While SMA will be bringing doorstep convenience in the form of several retail spaces on the ground floor, of which at least one will likely be a cafe, <a href="/new-apartments/the-regent-fitzroy-340-fitzroy-street-fitzroy-vic-3065">The Regent</a> is strategically located in the cultural heart of Fitzroy.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=24824 project_image_fid=304612]

The Fitzroy Street address places residents just seconds from Johnston Street, one of Melbourne’s most popular areas for cafés, dining, galleries, and nightlife.&nbsp;

Johnston Street also serves as a convenient thoroughfare, connecting west to Abbotsford and east to Carlton. The 96 tram, located just five minutes from The Regent at the intersection of Johnston and Nicholson Streets, provides direct access through the CBD and all the way to St Kilda Beach.

Victoria's new off the plan apartment savings apply to all 64 one, two, and three-bedroom apartments at The Regent, but only for a limited time.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=24824]

SMA makes a conscious effort to create spaces where residents can gather, always staying true to their core belief of making life easier for those who live there.

Joel Robinson

The Regent Fitzroy: Where architecture and lifestyle combine

Queensland apartment developer Mosaic Property Group is intensifying its commitment to the Gold Coast’s apartment market, with three new projects valued at over $570 million.

<a href="/developers/mosaic-property-group">Mosaic</a> is poised to shortly launch <a href="/new-apartments/sophia-by-mosaic-1357-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach">Sophia by Mosaic</a> in <a href="/developments/palm-beach-qld-4221">Palm Beach</a>—a $135 million direct beachfront&nbsp;development with 32 apartments across nine levels. The project marks Mosaic’s entry into Palm Beach following success in the fast-growing southern coastal markets of Bilinga and Kirra Beach.

In <a href="/developments/burleigh-heads-qld-4220">Burleigh Heads</a>, Mosaic continues its successful trajectory, with a fifth site acquisition underway following the recent completions of Augusta by Mosaic and Florence by Mosaic. Plans are in place for a <a href="/news/qld/first-look-exclusive-mosaic-secure-another-gold-coast-apartment-development-site">$185 million ultra-luxury development on The Esplanade</a>.

Further expanding in Broadbeach, Mosaic has secured its third site and submitted a development application for a $250 million, 37-level tower on Mary Avenue, offering 59 expansive half and full-floor residences.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/qld/first-look-exclusive-mosaic-file-plans-for-fifth-broadbeach-apartment-development">First look exclusive: Mosaic file plans for fifth Broadbeach apartment development</a>

<img alt="Mosaic Broadbeach" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0ef8a2ac-1116-4bcb-9331-065d73278f67" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-01-21%20at%2011.02.57%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=v1s6B.GR6.rlRv4np8147NswQTmBHQgQ" />

Founder and Managing Director Brook Monahan said the new acquisitions underscored Mosaic's confidence in the resilience of lifestyle-driven markets and the enduring demand for its design-led, functional, and beautifully finished residences.

"The strength of these markets has been exceptional since the pandemic,"&nbsp;Monahan said.

"We continue to experience robust demand from both interstate and local downsizers who are seeking luxury apartments that offer thoughtful design, functionality, and exceptional quality.

“With limited supply and rising construction costs, Mosaic is well-positioned to lead in this market which is becoming more discerning following many stalled projects as a result of many developers not being able to deliver much awaited supply. Our long-established in-house construction arm enables us to manage costs effectively and seize key opportunities.”

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[smartcode_project:default project_id=145364 project_image_fid=322822]

Monahan said Sophia was shaping as an exceptional project for Palm Beach.

“Positioned on the dunes at the sought-after northern end of Palm Beach, Sophia occupies a premier beachfront site that we believe will be highly desirable. We already have a waitlist of Mosaic buyers from our existing database of previous and current owners, indicating another likely rapid sellout in this very unique location.”

Designed in collaboration with Bureau Proberts, Sophia&nbsp;will offer residents an array of five-star amenities, including a pool, spa, gym, and sauna.

“Sophia will provide a beautifully balanced lifestyle, merging iconic design with world-class amenities to cater to every resident's needs,” Monahan added.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145364 project_image_fid=322819]

Mosaic boasts an extensive $1.4 billion portfolio on the Gold Coast with nine completed projects and an additional four currently under construction.

“We are very fortunate that our entire project portfolio is consistently near sell-out, reflecting robust and ongoing demand driven by the market’s attraction to our design-led developments.

"Buyers are drawn not only to Mosaic’s exceptional quality, prime locations, and thoughtful, resident- focused designs but also to the assurance that we deliver as promised. Our unbroken track record instils confidence, with buyers reassured that Mosaic consistently upholds its commitments.

“The trust we’ve built in our brand over many years which we will never take for granted, continues to fuel this strong demand, as clients recognise the lasting value inherent in every project. Our reputation for excellence, reliability, and&nbsp; integrity positions Mosaic as a preferred developer, making our homes some of the most highly sought-after on the market.”

Since 2012, Mosaic has completed more than 65 developments across South East Queensland, establishing itself as one of the region’s most reliable and recognised developers.

Mosaic Founder and Managing Director Brook Monahan said the new acquisitions underscored Mosaic's confidence in the resilience of lifestyle-driven markets

Mosaic set sights on Palm Beach, Burleigh Heads, Broadbeach, for new $570m apartment pipeline

There are thousands of apartments which will launch next year, across some of the best Gold Coast suburbs. We've looked at the developers behind the next tranche of projects launching in 2025.

The top eight new apartment developers to watch on the Gold Coast in 2025

Prolific Australian developer Billbergia, in partnership with Homes NSW, is on track to deliver 1,300 new dwellings across Greater Sydney by 2026, including critically needed new social and affordable housing providing new homes for 3,000 people.

With a combined value of over $1.3 billion and spanning three mixed-tenure developments at <a href="/new-apartments/lidcombe-nsw-2141">Lidcombe</a>, <a href="/new-apartments/west-ryde-nsw-2114">West Ryde</a> and <a href="/new-apartments/arncliffe-nsw-2205">Arncliffe</a>, all three projects are designed, funded and delivered by <a href="/developers/billbergia">Billbergia</a> on NSW Government land sites adjacent to key transport hubs.

Presenting an innovative solution to the ongoing housing crisis, these mixed-tenure projects are the result of a partnership between Billbergia, Homes NSW and Community Housing Providers (CHPs) Evolve Housing Group and St George Community Housing (SGCH).

Both Lidcombe and West Ryde have been delivered in the past six months and over 1,300 residents have already moved into their 526 new homes. Both of the successful developments are working in partnership with Evolve Housing for tenancy management services.

<img alt="Ryde" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7e233d77-3c75-44db-ba4f-89d719fb9722" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-05-03%20at%208.56.06%20am.png?VersionId=WCwN_ewQN4Lw18A3mmw0ath9glqqL2bG" /> 
A building in the completed The Parade, West Ryde: Image supplied

Construction is also well underway on a third collaboration project – this time with two CHP’s - Arncliffe Central - comprising 804 new apartments in Sydney’s inner south and earmarked to be the largest-mixed tenure housing development to date – with both Evolve and SGCH.

The three projects are delivering diverse and affordable housing outcomes, with 41 per cent of dwellings at Lidcombe Rise being social and affordable, 20 per cent of The Parade at West Ryde dedicated to social housing, and project partners seeking support to deliver almost 75 per cent of dwellings at Arncliffe as social, affordable 
and essential worker rental housing.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134630 project_image_fid=206219]

Billbergia Development Director Rick Graf said the&nbsp;ability to deploy government land assets for redevelopment makes it uniquely feasible to deliver high-quality social, affordable, and private-market homes at scale, helping to address the housing shortage.

"Our partnerships with Homes NSW, Evolve Housing and St George Community Housing, allow us to redevelop government land into thriving and highly connected mixed-tenure communities,” Graf said.

With construction now well underway, Arncliffe Central is located next to Arncliffe train station and comprises 804 apartments over four individual towers.

Set above a retail podium with a new public park, a childcare centre, and a community centre and library, it will deliver a landmark 196 dwellings dedicated to social housing – and pending further support from government partners an additional 406 affordable and essential worker rental homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134630 project_image_fid=206231]

Private apartments rapidly sold off the plan within <a href="/buildings/lidcombe-rise-2-36-church-street-lidcombe">Lidcombe Rise</a> and The Parade, with almost 90 per cent sold to owner-occupiers, reflecting the strong market appetite for transport-oriented mixed-tenure developments.

Saul Moran, Development Director of Planning &amp; Design at Billbergia, said their projects are testimony to what can be achieved through private and public sector collaboration with community housing providers, unlocking significant social and economic benefits.

"It is clear that tri-party partnerships present a compelling solution to Sydney’s ongoing housing shortage and affordability issues."

Saul Moran, Development Director of Planning & Design at Billbergia, said their projects are testimony to what can be achieved through private and public sector collaboration with community housing providers

Billbergia to deliver 1,300 new dwellings across Greater Sydney by 2026

For developers in the off the plan apartment space, brand is everything.

Brand isn't just how many press releases you send out or how many record sales you make. True brand power is built on a legacy of delivering quality projects.

Some developers focus their brand on the level of architecture they bring to the market, some on the exclusivity of their product. For others, it's the human element of developing.

While being an established builder and developer of high-end apartments, townhouses, and luxury homes in Brisbane's inner-ring, <a href="/developers/siera">Siera Property Group</a> had to ensure their strong reputation for delivering quality projects transferred to the off the plan apartment market on the <a href="/developments/gold-coast-qld?sort=">Gold Coast</a>.

SIERA’s approach has never been about the bells and whistles, it has always been about well-designed projects, in a good location, and understanding the desired lifestyle requirements of their future residents.&nbsp;

Rather than having a string of projects on the Gold Coast they could point to, Siera's approach was more customer-facing, putting a face behind the brand.

SIERA Managing Director Brent Thompson, who is also on the board of the UDIA QLD Board of Directors, knew the importance of his role as the developer.

Since launching <a href="/new-apartments/tapestry-chevron-island-39-darrambal-street-chevron-island">Tapestry</a> on&nbsp;<a href="/developments/chevron-island-qld-4217">Chevron Island</a>&nbsp;back in early 2022, Thompson is regularly onsite at the display, speaking to both prospective buyers and those who have purchased in the project ensuring these purchasers understand what sets SIERA apart when it come to the detail and delivery of each project.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108641 project_image_fid=192964]

Thompson knew the importance of humanizing the process.

"Ultimately, people you don't know are putting faith in you that you're going to build them their home," Thompson says.

"It's important that they feel both comfortable and confident you'll deliver on what you've promised. That's the biggest hurdle when it comes to working in off the plan development. The more transparent a developer can be, the more faith buyers will have in your product."

While having a strong brand to support off the plan sales is important, the true value lies in building a brand that consistently delivers and exceeds residents' expectations—both at settlement and long after. A brand that goes beyond the transaction not only adds lasting value to residents but also contributes positively to the communities in which these developments are built.

John Lightbody, Senior Project Leader at <a href="/architects/bda-architecture">BDA Architecture</a>, who has been collaborating with developers on the Gold Coast for the past 13 years, shared that it's rare for a developer to come along that you are genuinely invested in beyond your role as the project architect.

SIERA engaged BDA following their purchase of Chevron Island, bringing a clear vision for what they wanted to achieve.

"The passion from the team was evident from the very first meeting," Lightbody said. "While first-time multi-residential developers might delegate these types of discussions or rely on local representatives, Brent and his team were fully engaged from the start."

The project needed to be distinctive and make a significant mark, and everything SIERA did leading up to the site purchase, from conducting extensive research across various suburbs to profiling potential buyers, played a key role in their success.

Lightbody emphasized that they had a strong understanding of the Chevron Island area and wanted to ensure every design element was connected to HOTA (Home of the Arts), reinforcing the concept of Chevron Island as an extension of this cultural hub.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108641 project_image_fid=192961]

Lightbody believes SIERA’s background in Brisbane provided them a solid platform to develop on the Gold Coast.

"The team is very much into urban design coming from Brisbane. They picked a few Brisbane projects and wanted to bring that level of community to the Gold Coast."

"It's a very creative pocket of surfers, and they really wanted to drill in and focus on that in the first instance, then it was about delivering really high-quality facilities, with the view residents would really be able to make the most of, and proudly show off to guests.

SIERA’s second project, Pipis in Bilinga, was secured with plans ready for a 19-apartment development on the beachfront Golden Four Drive.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138311 project_image_fid=217334]

Ellivo Architects Associate Director Matt Martoo said it was clear in the early conversations with Thompson following the site purchase how genuine the team was about creating something special.

"While there were already plans for the 11-level tower, the SIERA team came in and made some tweaks to make it more in keeping with their brand and what they wanted to be known by," Martoo said.

"The majority of the changes were in the amenity, where they carved out more space to create something even more aspirational than what was drawn up before."

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/qld/an-opportunity-not-to-be-missed-why-siera-property-group-couldnt-say-no-to-pipis-bilinga">"An opportunity not to be missed" Why Siera Property Group couldn't say no to Pipis Bilinga</a>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138311 project_image_fid=217340]

SIERA now has both its Tapestry project on Chevron Island and its <a href="/developments/bilinga-qld-4225">Bilinga</a> beachfront development <a href="/new-apartments/pipis-bilinga-303-golden-four-drive-bilinga-qld-4225">Pipis</a> under construction, with both slated to complete in 2025.

They have another approved project in Surfers Paradise, just off Northcliffe Beach, which they will be hoping to launch later this year.

Rather than having a string of projects on the Gold Coast they could point to, Siera's approach was more customer-facing, putting a face behind the brand

How SIERA created a trustworthy brand in the Gold Coast off the plan apartment market

We've taken a look at which developers are set to be contributing to Melbourne's new development space in 2024

The top 11 Melbourne off the plan apartment developers to look out for in 2024

High-end Sydney property developer <a href="/developers/abadeen-group">Abadeen</a> has officially launched its Victorian arm, commencing work with two projects in <a href="/developments/prahran-vic-3181">Prahran East</a> and <a href="/developments/malvern-east-vic-3145">Malvern East</a>.

The expansion into Victoria aligns Abadeen's national growth strategy, having successfully delivered 80-plus projects over the past 28 years totalling over $3 billion of premium commercial, residential, and mixed-use developments, predominantly in Sydney's Lower North Shore.

Andrew Leoncelli, the former CBRE Residential Projects Director in <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic">Melbourne</a> and development manager for Hamton Property Group, will be heading up <a href="/developers/abadeen-group">Abadeen</a> Victoria as their managing director. He's worked alongside Abadeen founder and chief executive Justin Brown for the last 15 years.

"<a href="/developers/abadeen-group">Abadeen</a> is renowned for crafting beautiful, lasting and aesthetically pleasing spaces that seamlessly blend with their surroundings and communities," Brown says.

"As we establish new standards for quality and collaboration in the Sydney market, our goal is to replicate this success in Victoria."

Brown says Leoncelli's&nbsp;wealth of local relationships perfectly aligns with their consumer-centric approach to development and placemaking, while Leoncelli says he holds a true&nbsp;appreciation for Brown's approach to bespoke development.

"I’ve worked in the property sector for over 20 years and have an appreciation and understanding of all aspects of the process-from identifying a site to bringing a project to life.

”Abadeen is backed by the strength of its people, partnerships, and an in-depth understanding of the Australian property market, and I look forward to elevating the business's success and creating more opportunities in Victoria.”

Abadeen Victoria recently unveiled its first luxury project,&nbsp;<a href="/new-apartments/malea-94-burke-road-malvern-east">Maléa</a> in <a href="/developments/malvern-east-vic-3145">Malvern East</a>, just seven parkside apartments designed by Ewert Leaf.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=141969 project_image_fid=222406]

They've also secured a site for their second project, 646 High Street in <a href="/developments/prahran-vic-3181">Prahran East</a>, where they're planning a 24 two and three-bedroom apartment development designed by Carr Design.

The four-level building, with city and bay views, is located in close&nbsp;proximity to Armadale, Hawksburn, and Toorak Villages.

Leoncelli says the timing of the launch of both the <a href="/new-apartments/malea-94-burke-road-malvern-east">Maléa</a> and 646 High Street projects aligns with Abadeen’s vision and strategy for Victoria, as the group seeks to capitalise on the current resurgence of interest in luxury off-the-plan residences, particularly among downsizers and right-sizers in the market.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=141969 project_image_fid=222393]

“There is an ever-growing appetite from local wealthy downsizers, wanting bespoke high-end apartment living," Leoncelli says.

"They have lived their entire adult life in the family home which they don’t need anymore. They want to upgrade their lifestyles whilst downsizing their maintenance and they want the very best of everything-all in walking distance to their favourite parks, restaurants, cafes and shops.

“The two sites we have bought demonstrate the very best of these ideals and the design teams we are working with, and the builders understand this market like very few can.”

Maléa celebrated its official launch to market on 18 November, with Stephen Bowtell, director of project sales for Jellis Craig in Stonnington, <a href="/developments/richmond-vic-3121">Richmond</a> &amp; Surrounds, leading the sales campaign.

Permits have been secured for both projects, with <a href="/new-apartments/malea-94-burke-road-malvern-east">Maléa</a> due to start construction at the end of March 2024. 646 High Street is due to be lodged for town planning applications in Q1 2024

Abadeen Victoria recently unveiled its first luxury project, Maléa in Malvern East, just seven parkside apartments designed by Ewert Leaf

Abadeen officially announce expansion into Victoria with two luxury projects

The age old adage is that the apple doesn't fall far from the tree.

That's the case at <a href="/developers/central-element">Central Element</a> (CE), the family-ran apartment developer who are venturing into the "ultra-luxury" in some of Sydney's best suburbs.

In the last few months they've announced development approval for the redevelopment of the <a href="/news/nsw/central-element-green-lit-for-coogees-ballamac-house-apartment-redevelopment">1860s Ballamac House in Coogee</a>, and an architecturally significant building on Hyde Park, while they also secured an <a href="/news/nsw/central-element-secure-prized-bondi-beach-site-for-new-apartment-development">arguably unrepeatable site in Bondi Beach</a>.

The three developments are likely to set not only new benchmarks for the suburb, but also for CE.

<a href="/developers/central-element">Central Element</a> Managing Director Nathan Chivas says&nbsp;setting new benchmarks in property development has been in Central Element’s DNA for decades.

"It was something my father always did in his development days," Chivas says. "Since founding <a href="/developers/central-element">Central Element</a> in 2011, we've continued to evolve every year we've operated, and now we're moving into what we're calling the 'ultra-luxury phase'."

Chivas says they only want to develop in the best locations. But with that, you need to create an A-grade product.

“If you find a location and create A-grade product that matches that location, then you know you’ll have strong demand no matter where the property cycle is at,” Chivas says.

"In this end of the market, you really need to bring a story to life, whether it's through brining in heritage or other luxury design elements. Ultimately these types of developments need to be a cut above the rest. They need to be more than an apartment in a great location. The money demanded by these projects, and the buyers of the projects, demand nothing less. That extra layer of detailed design and amenity is warranted for locations like Coogee and Bondi."

<img alt="CE Bondi" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="369c8542-743e-4154-96f0-ac28e77553b2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/CE%20Bodi.png?VersionId=l0SrfrPwkbTmHiL2PXHeQWeimU7DNxoG" />The Sandridge &amp; Wilga St site in Bondi. Image supplied

Chivas says the Hyde Park project at 271 Elizabeth Street will also be a step above what has ever been created in that area.

"They'll be some of the largest apartments Hyde Park has seen," Chivas says. "Not many other developments will be delivering house-like proportion residences like these. There's so little opportunity to build on Hyde Park, there's literally four streets, the majority of which is government-owned, so when you get that opportunity, you expect to never have one again in your lifetime, so you really have to push the boundaries to create something that will last."

It will suit those who want house-size city living, and demand for that kind of product far outstrips supply, Chivas says.

The mixed-use project, being developed in collaboration with equity partner MaxCap and the current landowner, will be designed by the renowned architects Murcutt&nbsp;<a href="/architects/candalepas-associates">Candalepas</a>&nbsp;and will home just 42 apartments across 14 levels, above&nbsp;hospitality spaces.

It will be the first time architecture legend&nbsp;Glenn Murcutt and Angelo&nbsp;<a href="/architects/candalepas-associates">Candalepas</a>&nbsp;will work together on a project for the&nbsp;<a href="/developments/sydney-nsw">City of Sydney</a>.

<img alt="Hyde Park" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c73dece3-cf4e-432a-a57f-04916aec9567" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-11-22%20at%2010.45.39%20am.png?VersionId=KTwQ1xCGqorv8NMYT_0N6PSBETA2CH7j" />The approved plans for 271 Elizabeth Street. Image supplied

These high end products don't often require traditional marketing methods, Chivas says.

"It's not like a typical on market campaign, the nature of the product bring with it a level of discreetness," Chivas says. There's already a handful of prospective buyers lining up that want to be a part of the Bondi site, and the only information available is the address.

"It so tightly held around the Bondi area, especially Ben Buckler and around to Icebergs. Those areas will likely never be able to be unlocked. Finding new product in that area really is a once in a lifetime opportunity for someone, which is why we've already been fielding enquiry from those high-net-worth individuals."

The groups will be the first to receive the early ideas for the project, and in this scenario will be able to work with CE and their chosen architect to tailor them to their liking.

CE recently launched their luxury Drummoyne waterfront apartment development, Bianca Drummoyne, which quickly garnered attention as a rare harbourfront offering, the first waterfront project to be released in Drummoyne since 2020.

<img alt="Bianca" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a653f348-6300-4549-87fb-5a023a122d9b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-11-22%20at%2010.43.15%20am.png?VersionId=y47RwMWs0jhaOJIJeCT4wCuxAKRvVGZ7" />Bianca Drummoyne will have just 12 luxury apartments on the harbour. Image supplied

There's been the expected demand from Drummoyne locals, as well as the affluent Hunters Hill area who are looking to downsize to the water. He says there's also been those from other areas who are closer to the Sydney Harbour precinct.

"Because of the price point, there's been enquiry from those who see value compared to if the project was in Double Bay or Mosman. Drummoyne still represents that luxury harbour lifestyle, a private beach, north-facing apartments with a resident swimming pool on the harbour and a ferry 100 metres away, without the price point of some of those more celebrity suburbs."

Chivas says waterfront coastal sites are always going to be top tier, and will never not have that demand factor.

"There's definitely a high priority to find those properties."

While many developers would be happy to be in the position CE are in with a work book of completed projects and a strong pipeline heading into 2024, Chivas says there's still the appetite to secure the next opportunity, although he says it's becoming increasingly more difficult to buy in Sydney's premium waterfront suburbs.

"It so tightly held around the Bondi area, especially Ben Buckler and around to Icebergs. Those areas will likely never be able to be unlocked. Finding new product in that area really is a once in a lifetime opportunity for someone, which is why we've already been fielding enquiry from those high-net-worth individuals."

<img alt="Coogee Central Element" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0f942326-813d-40dd-bdd1-c7891dd0fbb6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-11-22%20at%2010.44.28%20am.png?VersionId=VF7Y24F5bhi9oPhTsXFQggTMEJ.6r.5P" />The approved plans for Coogee's 1860 Ballamac House, to be launched in 2024. Image supplied

Chivas says sometimes there's no money in the world that would pry a family away from their land.

"All vendors have different ways of looking at things and expectations. They all have unique circumstances. Some are emotionally connected to their land parcels and want them to stay in the family name forever."

Chivas says there are some who have&nbsp;unrealistic expectations of what their land can be worth to a developer.

"Ultimately the land is worth what someone is willing to pay for it. But if it's a developer, and they want to create some sort of new development and come out of the other side higher than break even, then there's absolutely a ceiling as to how much the land is worth," Chivas says.

"There's always basic economics as to what you can achieve."

While not haven't to look much further than father Wayne for development inspiration, Chivas says he takes some learnings from Sydell Group, the hospitality and hotel operator famous for creating The Ned in London and the Park MGM in LAs Vegas.

"While they don't do residential development, they create these amazing stories in their developments where they've got the story telling factors, whether it's through celebrating heritage or hero-ing the location. It's definitely a brand we like and how they position themselves, their vision, delivery, and how they execute on a world class scale is certainly something we look to replicate.

"It's similar to what we do in a bit of a different way."

Chivas says he will be taking some inspiration from Sydell Group for their latest hospitality venture, the redevelopment of The Minerva in Potts Point, the iconic theatre which they're transofmring into a 63-key, five-star boutique hotel.

They were given the green light from the City of Sydney Council earlier this month.

Managing Director Nathan Chivas says setting new benchmarks in property development has been in Central Element’s DNA for decades

The story behind Central Element's push for ultra-luxury in Sydney's best suburbs: Five minutes with Managing Director Nathan Chivas

Since being founded over a decade ago, arguably no one has put more of a stamp on the luxury end of the Melbourne apartment market than Orchard Piper.

Three of their most architecturally-focused projects over the years have been in Toorak, which is not only one of Melbourne's, but one of Australia's most affluent suburbs.

More billionaires call Toorak home than Sydney's harbourfront Point Piper, which says two things: Land that can make financial sense for a project is incredibly hard to come by, and what you have to put together has to be right, because the buyer is someone who sits in Australia's top one per cent, and they won't settle for anything less.

Orchard Piper's latest play is in Toorak, and&nbsp;it's quite possibly their most strategic development yet.&nbsp;

For the last few years they've been putting together a site in Toorak Village where they've recently released just nine luxury apartments above office and retail. They've already sold five out of the nine apartments without any fanfare, with prices starting from $4,995,000. The 400 sqm penthouse sold off market for $12.5 million.

They had the Singapore-based Kerry Hills Architects design the building, their first project in Australia.

<img alt="Toorak Village" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4953e130-f411-43dc-8887-208add967ce5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/03.%20Toorak%20Village_External_Toorak%20Road%20copy.jpg?VersionId=9zqAGbbnyGnL7ZqACqLEk0XV.QLtBzsQ" />

I recently caught up with Luke McKie, who said that while Toorak has always attracted people looking for larger properties, the high street has lagged behind.

But McKie says the village is now starting to catch up.

"It's not too dissimilar to Double Bay in Sydney five years or so ago, where the whole village has undergone a repositioning," Mckie says.

"That's now well underway in Toorak and will bring the high street to the same level of what the suburb deserves."

Orchard Piper were clever in their planning phase. They knew the market in Toorak was for large apartments. Ones or twos won't have sufficed. So they created an incredibly exclusive development of just nine three-bed apartments, activating the streetscape below with hospitality spaces and office stock which will contribute to the transformation of Toorak Village.

McKie says every buyer has been from the Toorak postcode, and exclusively downsizers.

<img alt="Toorak" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3bcab178-3c64-4328-9c67-f91a619ab4ab" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Toorak%20Village_Commercial_Interior.png?VersionId=5_WpJiT0pDDpEHq3g6zXO5RAVAqFlY.H" />

"Anyone that's local knows how rare this opportunity is," McKie adds.&nbsp;

"It's a consolidation of land in Toorak Village which hasn't happened before, and will be difficult to ever replicate. Most of the buyers already knew the site, and knew we were going to do the project, it was then just a case of timing.&nbsp;

"We knew the play was to keep the local market up to date with what's happening, rather than looking to get in front of as many eyes as possible through traditional marketed methods. It's been a hyper localized campaign, serving individuals rather than the masses."

OP have a full book heading into 2024 with Toorak Village and a luxury apartment and hotel development on St Kilda Rd, the first time Orchard Piper has ventured into that type of product.

The project&nbsp;will include a contemporary 5-star hotel, along with&nbsp;<a href="/news/orchard-pipers-luke-mckie-discusses-the-shift-to-the-owner-occupier-market" target="">Orchard Piper</a>&nbsp;residences, a 500 sqm day spa, mezzanine restaurant and bar, street level café, and health and wellness amenities with conferencing and event facilities.

<img alt="St Kilda rd" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e0cf6291-c5a8-4232-94bd-3c05c9cf17a7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-11-16%20at%202.40.29%20pm.png?VersionId=fFeW_Qi6ysahdzA2FRewVPYQw9zFOLk8" />

They're teaming up with the Carter family, who have a long development history having developed the&nbsp;luxury boutique hotels Tingirana and Seahaven in Noosa, as well as the landmark residential project, Albert Tower in Melbourne.

"It's a perfect partnership because we bring the residential knowledge to the project, and the Carter family has the land and development expertise, and history in hospitality. Together it will make for a landmark project."

McKie says they very much see value in amenity and service to high end apartments, and hotels are a good way to do that.

"We certainly see there’s a market that’s demanding a higher level of service, not just an apartment in a good spot. We're adapting our model to suit that."

Orchard Piper's latest play is in Toorak, and it's quite possibly their most strategic development yet

Creating luxury apartments in luxury suburbs: Five minutes with Orchard Piper's Luke McKie

The Sammut name has been synonymous with property development in the Sutherland Shire for decades.

Paul Sammut started developing and building luxury houses back in the 1960s. His sons Allen and John Sammut then officially set up Sammut Developments in 1993.&nbsp;

Since then the Sammut family has been associated with over 300 residential development projects, both houses and multi-res, up and down the coast of Sydney.&nbsp;They even took their brand to Queensland, in what was arguably one of their most successful apartment developments to date.

A testament to their brand strength and recognition in the Shire, the <a href="/new-apartments/surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Surfers Paradise apartment development</a> Coast, on the dress circle <a href="/new-apartments/coast-surfers-paradise-43-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise">Garfield Terrace beachfront</a>, quickly garnered significant attention.

Within a few weeks of lodging their development application, they secured $110 million in conditional sales. More than half of the 53 apartments were spoken for, at an average sale price of more than $4.5 million. Now there's just a handful left.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=101672 project_image_fid=207678]

A number of purchases came from those in Sydney who knew what Sammut had delivered locally.

Julian Sammut, the third generation Sammut and the company's chief operating officer, said the company wanted to test themselves in a different market and had been looking at sites for a while before swooping on the 1,619 sqm beachfront block in the early stages of COVID.

He said that while sales were fast, it wasn't all sunshine and rainbows.

"We couldn't even get up to Queensland and transact physically on the site," Sammut recalled.

"Everything was done over the phone independently during the full lockdown."

Sammut said like any other developer at the moment, when construction prices started to rise, they got it.&nbsp;They had to adjust their pricing to what was the new reality.

"Even with prices rising, we still believed in the stock, and purchasers would understand the quality and price tag," Sammut says.

Multiplex kicked off construction of the 37-level tower in November last year, and are forecasting an early 2025 completion date.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=101672 project_image_fid=207680]

Sammut admits that while they had the full belief in their product working in a different space, the reaction from the market and the speed of the success was still a surprise.

"You always think you can develop anywhere and everyone will love it, but it's not always the case. There's still a lot of beachfront development on the <a href="/new-apartments/gold-coast-qld">Gold Coast</a> in that luxury space, so the fact Coast only has a handful of apartments left is pretty extraordinary," Sammut says.&nbsp;

While Coast out Sammut on the map in South East Queensland, their bread and butter for a number of years has been the Sutherland Shire, in particular the epicentre, <a href="/new-apartments/cronulla-nsw-2230">Cronulla</a>.

Sammut says Cronulla really does offer something nowhere else in Sydney can.

"It's the only beach in Sydney accessible by a train station. People love the fact they can be footsteps to the beach, have a great local amenity with retail and dining as well as great schools, while being a direct 40-minute train to the city."

Sammut's pipeline in Cronulla is extensive. Having predominantly developed for the high-end downsizer market, Sammut have been clever in recent years, diversifying their portfolio not by property type, but by density.

Their newest apartment development VUE, by no means high density with 112 apartments just more than the beachfront six-packs, has opened up the Sammut brand.

"VUE allowed us to offer something we haven't to a wider market for a while," Sammut says.

"It was one of the first chances first home buyers have had in a while to buy a Sammut apartment, and the one-bedrooms were snapped up, selling for around the $1.28 million mark, a huge price for a one-bedroom apartments in Cronulla."

<img alt="Vue Cronulla" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7b03eda8-f7a8-48e7-9729-1ff9e999daea" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-11-09%20at%208.55.34%20am.png?VersionId=VEwaXG0bDDPv69BeNlgXyl4tI.2UioGO" />

What they've done at Vue is cater for all aspects. While their more boutique stock caters for downsizers, Vue caters for a different kind of downsizer.

"Some downsizers want the privacy of being one of just two or three apartments on the beach, and have the budgets to back that up. But some want a swimming pool, gym, sauna, cafes on their doorstep, things you can't get in the luxury beachfront developments."

Vue has a large pool through the middle separating the two buildings, with a northern aspect all day to capture the sunlight. It's surrounded by cabanas, breakout areas with barbecues. There's a wellness centre with all of the trimmings including a gym, steam, sauna, even an ice plunge bath and a hot plunge. The towers will sit above extensive retail and office space, creating a new destination for Kingsway.

There's been significant interest in the two-bedroom apartments, with many young professionals who don't need to head into the city office every day, turning one of the bedrooms into an office. Sammut also designed the one-bed apartments to have study nooks to cater for the work from home trend.

A few months ago Sammut appointed Decode to build Vue, which is expected to be complete in 2025.

Sammut are continually on the look out for potential development opportunities, with the door open to more projects on the <a href="/new-apartments/gold-coast-qld">Gold Coast</a>, and even <a href="/new-apartments/brisbane-qld">Brisbane</a>.

Paul Sammut started developing and building luxury houses back in the 1960s. His sons Allen and John Sammut then officially set up Sammut Developments in 1993

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