Developers and apartment buyers have a narrowing window of opportunity before Brisbane's Olympic infrastructure pipeline begins competing directly with residential construction, pushing up costs, tightening labour supply and making new projects increasingly difficult to deliver.

While Brisbane's apartment market continues to benefit from strong population growth and limited housing supply, industry research suggests the years leading up to 2027 could prove to be the most important period for developers looking to secure builders and buyers hoping to purchase before the next wave of price increases.

A new Colliers report, Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games: Creating Solutions, highlights the scale of the challenge. While thousands of new homes are planned across South East Queensland, the Brisbane Olympic Athletes Village alone will deliver more than 10,500 beds during the Games before being converted into around 1,750 to 2,000 apartments. Equivalent to almost two years of typical inner-city apartment supply, the project will also absorb a significant share of the construction workforce and building materials.

The broader construction pipeline paints an even clearer picture.

Construction Skills Queensland's Horizon 2032 report forecasts Queensland's annual construction pipeline will average $69 billion over the coming years before peaking at $75 billion in 2027-28. Demand for construction workers is expected to increase by 17 per cent to almost 150,000 people, with the industry facing an annual shortfall of around 19,000 workers that could blow out to as many as 35,000 during the peak construction period.

The Olympic venues, athletes village and supporting infrastructure will account for billions of dollars worth of work across South East Queensland through to 2032, creating intense competition for labour at a time when Australia's residential construction sector is already under pressure.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150489 project_image_fid=373834]

Colliers Queensland Residential Director Andrew Scriven said the convergence of these projects is creating a clear window of opportunity for both developers and buyers.

"From 2027 onwards, the market will shift dramatically," Scriven said.

"Labour will increasingly be locked into government-led infrastructure and Olympic projects, which means private residential developments will face higher costs and tighter margins. The developers who move now are the ones most likely to get projects off the ground."

Scriven said the same dynamic would also affect buyers, with fewer apartment projects expected to launch once construction capacity tightens.

"If you're looking to change your lifestyle over the next five years, now is your window of opportunity to buy."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150713 project_image_fid=373827]

Developers are already positioning themselves ahead of that window.

Following the success of Monarch at Toowong, Consolidated Properties is preparing to launch two new Brisbane apartment projects in the second half of 2026. They include <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/gloriette-30-bedivere-street-yeerongpilly-qld-4105">Gloriette</a> at Yeerongpilly Green, a 25-storey tower within one of Brisbane's key Olympic precincts, and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/castile-47-skyring-terrace-newstead-qld-4006">Castile</a>, a recently approved 25-storey riverfront development at 47 Skyring Terrace in Newstead.

Hutchinson Builders will deliver both projects, with early works already underway at Yeerongpilly and Newstead expected to commence later this year.

The timing comes as Brisbane's fundamentals continue to strengthen, with strong interstate migration, population growth and vacancy rates remaining below 1.5 per cent.

Colliers Queensland researcher Pragya Sharma said Greater Brisbane is forecast to require around 40,000 new apartments between 2021 and 2031.

"There's a real mismatch emerging between when housing is needed and when it will be feasible to build," Sharma said.

"As a result, the period leading up to 2027 presents a key window of opportunity for developers to secure approvals, funding and construction capacity, while buyers will have greater choice before supply constraints intensify."

Colliers research outlines a critical pre-2027 window to start residential projects before labour squeeze: now is the time to buy

Joel Robinson

Developers, buyers on watch in South East Queensland ahead of construction crunch: Colliers

It's taken less than nine months for developer Sherpa Property Group to sell out all 51 apartments in its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-oasis-palm-beach-7-9-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Oasis</a> development in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/palm-beach-qld-4221">Palm Beach</a>, over a year before its anticipated completion.

&nbsp;

Located at 7-9 Sixth Avenue, the $67 million development has resonated strongly with both local owner-occupiers and downsizers seeking high-quality apartments within walking distance of the beach, dining precincts and everyday amenities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151449 project_image_fid=357458]

Christie Leet, Founder of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa Group</a>, said the sell-out reflected both the strength of the Palm Beach market and the success of Sherpa's community-first approach to development.

"The sell-out of Oasis is a fantastic outcome and reinforces the strong demand we're seeing for thoughtfully designed apartments in lifestyle locations," Leet said.

"From the outset, our vision was to create a development that genuinely enhanced the Palm Beach community while providing residents with exceptional homes and wellness-focused amenities.

"We've been incredibly encouraged by the level of local support throughout the campaign, 72.5 per cent of buyers are locals, with a significant proportion of purchasers choosing Oasis as their future home rather than an investment."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151449 project_image_fid=357463]

Construction is now progressing following development approval, with trusted builder LPS Group delivering the project and completion anticipated in Q3 2027.

Oasis forms part of Sherpa Group's successful Flourish collection, which has become recognised for its focus on wellness, community and elevated coastal living.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151449 project_image_fid=357469]

Residents will have private access to a rooftop amenity space featuring a pool, gym, sauna, steam room, hot and cold plunge pools, spa and barbecue facilities.

"The success of Oasis demonstrates that buyers continue to prioritise quality, location and lifestyle," Leet said.

"We are proud to have delivered a project that has resonated so strongly with the market and look forward to bringing Oasis to life for our future residents."

Sherpa recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-palm-beach-1150-1160-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a>, its third instalment of the Flourish brand in Palm Beach following Flourish Oasis and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/amargo-6-12-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Amargo</a>.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151449]

Sherpa sells out Flourish Oasis in booming Palm Beach

Urban Property Group's <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/la-vera-macquarie-park-94-talavera-road-macquarie-park-nsw-2113">La Vera</a> is leading the next phase of Macquarie Park's residential evolution, with the new apartment development set to become the first of several new apartment projects in the precinct to complete.

The 169-apartment building has now topped out ahead of its scheduled completion in the third quarter of 2026, as new residential investment continues to reshape one of Sydney's largest employment hubs into a true mixed-use precinct.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=368645]

Cox Architecture has designed La Vera to capture the best of its unique positioning on Talavera Road, orienting the building towards Lane Cove National Park.&nbsp;The building features a sculpted northern façade with flowing curves inspired by the surrounding landscape, while its city-facing elevation adopts a more structured architectural expression to maximise skyline views.

"The vision for the project was to conceive a building that adopted an organic and curvilinear form to the northern portion that faces the Lane Cove National Park," <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">Cox Architecture</a> Director Felipe Miranda said.

"The residents that reside in the northern portion of the building benefit by having beautifully crafted curved balconies that speak to the natural context and heighten the relationship of their internal living spaces to the external balconies."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=358802]

La Vera offers a diverse mix of one, two, three, and four-bedroom configurations, with prices currently starting from $740,000. Buyers so far have been a mix of Sydney-based investors,&nbsp;metro commuters, owner-occupiers and downsizers from surrounding North Shore suburbs.

Both investors and owner-occupiers have been drawn to La Vera's proximity to Macquarie University, Macquarie University Hospital, Macquarie Centre and the Sydney Metro, infrastructure that supports both strong rental demand and a convenient lifestyle for residents.

The apartments feature full-height glazing, timber flooring throughout living areas, stone kitchen benchtops, SMEG appliances, floor-to-ceiling bathroom tiling and ducted air conditioning.

Residents will have access to a rooftop recreation level featuring a swimming pool, sauna, barbecue facilities and landscaped relaxation areas, complemented by additional communal space at ground level. Many apartments enjoy uninterrupted views across Lane Cove National Park, reinforcing the project's connection to its natural setting.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=364551]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a>, a family-owned developer and builder with nearly four decades of experience, holds a 4.5-star iCIRT rating and was Australia's first developer to introduce 10-Year Latent Defects Insurance (LDI). La Vera is the first apartment development in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/macquarie-park-nsw-2113">Macquarie Park</a> approved to offer the additional insurance protection, alongside a five-year warranty on SMEG appliances.

Urban Property Group CEO Patrick Elias said the additional protection reflects changing buyer expectations in the off the plan market.

"Consumers are a lot more weary and a lot more concerned in buying off the plan than they ever have been. Having LDI is a tool to portray the confidence that we have in our product, and a confidence we want buyers to share," Elias said.

Following completion of the building later this year, buyers will move into their apartments well before Christmas.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134951]

La Vera closes in on completion as Macquarie Park continues residential transformation

Brisbane developer Red &amp; Co's decision to include dual key apartments in its debut Gold Coast apartment development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/como-varsity-lakes-22-lake-street-varsity-lakes-qld-4227">COMO Varsity Lakes</a>, is proving to be one of the project's biggest drawcards, with buyers quickly snapping up the flexible residences.

More than half of the project's 36 dual key apartments have already sold, helping drive COMO beyond the 50 per cent sold mark within the first month of launch.

The strong response highlights growing demand for apartment designs that can adapt to changing lifestyles, with buyers increasingly looking for homes that accommodate multi-generational living, provide rental income opportunities or simply offer greater flexibility over time.

Located on the shores of Lake Orr, COMO will deliver 156 apartments across 16 levels, with the dual-key residences forming a limited release within the broader development.

Each combines a primary two-bedroom apartment with a fully self-contained studio on a single title, connected by a shared foyer and lockable internal door. The design allows owners to house ageing parents, adult children or guests while maintaining privacy, or lease the secondary residence to generate additional income.

Just 17 of the original 36 dual key apartments remain available.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135546 project_image_fid=367096]

The innovative configuration combines two fully self-contained residences on a single title, typically comprising a primary two-bedroom apartment alongside a separate studio residence, connected via a shared foyer and lockable internal door.&nbsp;

The model is proving particularly attractive to owner occupiers navigating changing family dynamics and the realities of the current housing crisis.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135546 project_image_fid=363511]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/npa">NPA</a>&nbsp;CEO Andrew Erwin said dual key living was resonating strongly with modern buyers because it delivered both financial flexibility and practical lifestyle benefits.&nbsp;

“The housing crisis and rising cost of living are fundamentally changing how Australians think about home ownership,” Erwin said.&nbsp;

“Dual key apartments provide a genuine solution for families who want to stay connected while maintaining independence. Parents can help adult children save for a future home, ageing parents can remain nearby without moving into aged care, and owners still retain privacy and flexibility.

“Importantly, buyers are also recognising the financial advantages. It creates the opportunity to generate additional income from part of the home without the holding costs associated with owning a separate investment property.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135546 project_image_fid=363509]

Unlike traditional dual occupancy arrangements, the residences operate under a single title, meaning owners only incur one set of body corporate fees, council rates and holding costs.&nbsp;

The secondary residence can also evolve over time - functioning as guest accommodation, a home office, creative studio or private retreat before later becoming an income-producing asset.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/red-co">Red &amp; Co</a>&nbsp;Director and Co-Founder David Laverty said the strong early sales reflected growing buyer urgency and changing priorities within the market.&nbsp;

“Securing more than half of COMO’s residences within such a short timeframe is an outstanding result and a clear endorsement of both the design and location,” Laverty said.&nbsp;

“Buyers are responding to the combination of location, connectivity and amenity, but ultimately it’s value relative to other East Coast markets that is driving enquiry.”&nbsp;

“We’re also seeing strong interest from owner occupiers looking for homes that can adapt with them over time. Flexibility has become one of the most important considerations for buyers in today’s market.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135546 project_image_fid=363515]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bda-architecture">BDA Architecture</a>, COMO features a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom residences with 2.7-metre ceilings and larger-format floorplans aimed at owner occupiers, downsizers and lifestyle-focused buyers.&nbsp;

The development will feature an extensive rooftop recreation and wellness offering including a 25-metre lap pool, sundeck, barbecue and dining areas, gym, sauna, plunge baths, landscaped gardens, wellness spaces and rooftop pickleball and paddleball courts.

The remaining dual key apartments range from 137 sqm to 167 sqm and include generous three-bedroom layouts with separate self-contained studio accommodation and dual parking.&nbsp;

Erwin said the dual key concept represented a broader shift in how Australians would live in the future.

“People want homes that can evolve with their lives,” he said.&nbsp;

“A dual key apartment can suit a family today, support an ageing parent tomorrow, and potentially generate income later on. That adaptability is becoming incredibly valuable in the current environment.”

Prices currently range from $2,115,750 to $2,583,000.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135546]

Inter-generational living drives demand for COMO’s dual key apartments as housing pressures reshape buyer priorities 

Builder-developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ceerose">Ceerose</a> has doubled down on its Leichhardt ambitions, lodging its second State Significant Development Application (SSDA) in the suburb in the last six months.

Their newest proposal seeks to transform a former industrial precinct into a new residential community centred around the adaptive reuse of one of the site's heritage warehouse buildings.

The new project, on a 6,930 sqm block at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/40-76-william-street-leichhardt-nsw-2040">40–76 William Street</a>, will bring more than 200 apartments to a suburb that has seen little to no new supply in recent years. It follows Ceerose's late 2025 SSDA for a mixed-use apartment project on nearby Parramatta Road, signalling the developer's growing investment in Sydney's Inner West.

Ceerose Founder Edward Doueihi told Apartments.com.au the developer’s long-standing presence in Leichhardt and the Inner West had given it a strong understanding of how the area has evolved and where its future opportunities lie.

“Ceerose has had a long-standing presence in Leichhardt and the Inner West, giving us a unique understanding of the area’s evolution and future potential,” Doueihi said.

“Having delivered projects throughout the region, we have witnessed the suburb’s transformation first-hand and understand the opportunities for its continued growth.”

Doueihi said that understanding also informed the planning process, with a comprehensive Stakeholder Engagement Outcomes Report prepared before the application was lodged.

The report identified the key issues and concerns raised by neighbouring residents and other stakeholders, allowing those matters to be considered and incorporated into the design where appropriate.

He said the delivery of additional housing would also play an important role in supporting the revitalisation of Norton Street and the Italian Forum.

“By increasing the local residential population, the development is expected to strengthen demand for local businesses, encourage further investment, and help restore the vibrancy that made the precinct a thriving destination in the early 2000s.”

<img alt="First look: Ceerose returns to Leichhardt with 203-apartment adaptive reuse proposal at former warehouse site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7258c54c-8167-479e-8361-2d5fca9915b4" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Appendix%2010B%20-%20CGI%20-%20View%202.jpg?VersionId=S9DQfxu_jpcB5LrAEYFUbyMzg5odW6i5" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a>, the redevelopment would involve the demolition of four existing industrial buildings while retaining and adaptively reusing the site's most significant warehouse. The retained structure would anchor a new residential precinct comprising five interconnected buildings arranged around a large central landscaped courtyard, with heights stepping from five storeys along the surrounding residential streets to 11 storeys at the William Street corner.

According to the Architecture Design Report by Woods Bagot, the proposal "seeks to create a residential village centred around a generous green heart while celebrating the site's industrial heritage through the adaptive reuse of the existing warehouse building."

The development would comprise 203 apartments, with 188 proposed as build-to-sell residences, alongside 15 affordable housing apartments.

Rather than treating the retained warehouse as a standalone heritage object, Woods Bagot has sought to weave the site's industrial history throughout the masterplan. The proposal retains the north and west facades of the landmark corner warehouse, while new buildings reinterpret the site's brick-and-steel industrial language through their material palette and architectural expression.

<img alt="First look: Ceerose returns to Leichhardt with 203-apartment adaptive reuse proposal at former warehouse site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9e8c64c2-881b-49e1-8c90-6b6acaaa45b6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Appendix%2010C%20-%20CGI%20-%20View%203.jpg?VersionId=Qm8_8H_Xrg_sc4Mdjc59vlAcKF_5wRTb" />

The design is organised around what Woods Bagot describes as a "green heart", a landscaped communal open space that reinstates the leafy character removed when the site became an industrial storage facility. A new pedestrian laneway running through the site would improve permeability between William, North and Francis streets, linking residents through landscaped public spaces while activating the ground plane.

Residents would have access to communal gardens and shared recreation areas distributed throughout the development. Sustainability has also been prioritised, with the project targeting an average 7.9-star NatHERS rating. Proposed initiatives include rooftop solar generation, rainwater harvesting, passive solar design, naturally ventilated lobbies, extensive cross-ventilation and the reuse of existing building fabric to reduce embodied carbon.

The adaptive reuse strategy became a defining feature of the application after heritage investigations found only one of the site's industrial buildings could feasibly be retained. The Heritage Impact Statement concludes that preserving the key warehouse façades while referencing the site's industrial character throughout the new development provides an appropriate balance between renewal and conservation.

<img alt="First look: Ceerose returns to Leichhardt with 203-apartment adaptive reuse proposal at former warehouse site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="efffafdb-594f-4e2b-a067-921fd51c05e1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Appendix%2010D%20-%20CGI%20-%20View%204.jpg?VersionId=DPmE4.k16YRt0i27hEZVtJAffarpvUfx" />

"Retention and adaptation of the site buildings has been explored but found not to be feasible except for the tallest building, whose street facades will be retained," the heritage report states.

"The proposed building will interpret the brick and steel character of the subject site, including reuse of some components and construction of a large 'sawtooth' structure in the proposed open space."

<img alt="First look: Ceerose returns to Leichhardt with 203-apartment adaptive reuse proposal at former warehouse site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3bfef2b5-83f5-40cd-9cab-767092f34266" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Appendix%2010E%20-%20CGI%20-%20View%205.jpg?VersionId=7asb3i_ql4ybbuJOUb5UHBEIy0Q9t.DF" />

The William Street site is located around 300 metres from Leichhardt North Light Rail station and a short walk to Norton Street's retail, dining and hospitality precinct. The surrounding area has increasingly become a focus for urban renewal given its proximity to public transport and the Parramatta Road corridor.

Doueihi founded Ceerose in 1998 and has grown the business to become one of Sydney's more active apartment developers in recent years, with completed projects including The Alex Collective in Alexandria, Abbie's Lane in Annandale, and the award-winning Munro House in Elizabeth Bay. They are currently delivering Belgravia, 17 luxury apartments in Potts Point.

First look: Ceerose doubles down in Leichhardt with adaptive reuse of former warehouse site

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?

The dynamic and sought-after inner west suburb of Ashfield is set to bring in a wave of new residents, with developers BuildHub offer stamp duty incentives in light of their project launch, AshLife.

With 74 apartments across the six-storey building, buyers can select between a range of one and two-bedroom floorplans, which are set to redefine urban living in the suburb.&nbsp;

Designed by the architects at Urbanlink, each apartment maximises the influx of natural light throughout, while the seamless integration of the kitchen, living and dining areas are enhanced by details such as marble benchtops and engineered timber flooring.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106721 project_image_fid=210324]

The living spaces spill out on to expansive outdoor balconies or terraces, adding additional living space into each of the apartments, with the outdoor areas taking in views of the lush landscape surrounds.&nbsp;

The kitchens feature high-quality appliances and integrated refrigerators, while the bathrooms include frameless showers, brushed gold tapware, and feature tiling.

AshLife prioritises green spaces and natural landscapes, ensuring a harmonious blend of urban living and nature. Sweeping pathways connect private residences to three interconnected outdoor spaces.

The lush fern garden provides a serene retreat, while the vast residents-only park offers ample opportunities for exercise and relaxation, equipped with barbecues and ample seating.

Convenience takes centre stage in AshLife's prime location. Situated within walking distance of Ashfield station, residents will enjoy easy access to express trains connecting directly to the CBD, which is just eight kilometres away.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106721 project_image_fid=210326]

Taking place at 328 Liverpool Road, the&nbsp;location also places residents on the doorstep of a vibrant mix of culinary delights, village centres, and a wide range of amenities catering to diverse tastes.

Renowned throughout Sydney for its authentic and humbling Asian cuisine, Ashfield draws visitors from far and wide who crave Asian-inspired flavours, with a plethora of diverse and eclectic eateries lining the streets.&nbsp;

If you're in the mood to explore a bit further, neighbouring areas like Croydon and Summer Hill also offer a range of amenity, with One Penny Red a favourite among Sydney foodies, in addition to the nearby Excelsior Jones which is hailed as one of the best cafes in the Inner West.

With construction underway at AshLife, completion is slated for late 2024.&nbsp;

Prices for a one-bedder begin from $650,000, which includes one-bathroom and one car space.&nbsp;

The two-bedders are priced from $840,000 and feature two-bathrooms and one car space.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=106721]

Project launch stamp duty incentives on offer at Ashfield apartments, AshLife

DASCO, a 30-year-old family-run construction and development business, was one of the first companies to achieve a coveted 4.5-star iCIRT rating in NSW – and they are now among the first to go through the rigorous assessment process for the second time.

The Independent Construction Industry Rating Tool (iCIRT) was created by Equifax in consultation with the public and private sector. The tool pulls together thousands of data points to understand the character, capability, capacity and other vital aspects of developers and building professionals and provides a rating of between one and five stars.

It’s an investment that DASCO co-owners Daniel and Sam Nicolas are more than happy to make, with the group having achieved their rating in February 2022, and now preparing for their rating review.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=94147 project_image_fid=203070]

With many developers now realising the importance of the rating, DASCO are seeing the benefits, receiving engagements to help attract confident purchasers to their projects.&nbsp;

“We have had situations where buyers have come to us specifically because of the rating, and even getting deposits on other competing projects refunded so they can buy with us. We’ve always been confident in our quality, but having the rating to prove it gives buyers incredible confidence and that’s definitely translating into sales,” Daniel said.&nbsp;

“The trust from buyers is returning – the industry has gone through some significant challenges in the past few years, and we see the iCIRT as key to restoring trust in and revitalising the industry.”

With more than 1,200 dwellings in the pipeline, DASCO sees the rating tool as an integral part of building and protecting their brand and reputation.

“The iCIRT rating was an extremely detailed process to go through, however, the benefits that we’ve seen and how we’ve improved our systems have already started to pay off."

‘We have had developers tell us that they’ve entrusted their projects to us as builders because the iCIRT rating has given them confidence in our ability to deliver. We’ve also heard from sales agents that our 4.5 star rating has given off-the-plan buyers assurances about our reliability,” Salim said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=24509 project_image_fid=203619]

DASCO is working with Kassis Homes on 192 apartments with 2,000 sqm open space at Grand Rève at Castle Hill. Managing Director Sam Kassis signed up with DASCO before the iCIRT was awarded based on his knowledge of the company and its good reputation.

“We have known the DASCO team is innovative and experienced with a proven track record, but the iCIRT rating has provided a real edge over others in the market. It really means something to buyers, and we can see that confidence reflected in the strength of early sales at Grand Rève,” said Kassis.

DASCO is also working with Top Spring on 323 apartments at The Newlands in St Leonards, a luxury mid-rise development in the Lower North Shore.

A Stage 2 DA for an approved masterplan consisting of 376 apartments, with circa 800 sqm of retail, indoor gym and rooftop pool and many other amenities, such as an outdoor boot camp, walking trails and communal garden and barbecue areas, in Epping is currently under assessment with the NSW Department of Planning.

The rating tool was introduced in response to reforms introduced in NSW in recent years and is intended to improve transparency and assist in lifting construction capability and consumer confidence in residential buildings within the state.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=94147 project_image_fid=203071]

NSW Building Commissioner David Chandler joined a recent industry forum hosted by DASCO where their rating journey was shared with financiers, competitors, trade contractors, real estate marketers and insurers. Chandler told the forum that the NSW industry reforms were having a profound effect at all levels.

“There is an obvious shift in the respect now being given across the entire building ecosystem from designer to contractors and manufacturers. Suddenly sharing the imperative to restore trust in the industry and reverse the previous race to the bottom has taken hold,” he said.

The Building Commissioner also pointed out the growing value being placed on the new rating system by financiers and insurers. Having rated players delivering complex projects, like the integrated developments involving apartments, improves the quality of the debt that is required to fund and own these assets.

The iCIRT scheme is restoring confidence and building momentum in the construction industry, particularly at a time of rising demand for high-quality housing developments.

Equifax's Head of Product and Rating Services, Brad Walters said&nbsp;iCIRT brings much-needed visibility to an industry where reliable&nbsp;objective data has up until now been hard to come by.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=24509 project_image_fid=203623]

"It applies an independent, holistic and evidenced-based assessment, boosting trust in the industry and giving more confidence to buyers,” Walters said.

“The iCIRT system is building momentum with more than 91 companies already rated and 238 more in the pipeline. I want more companies to be like DASCO and look critically at their business and respond to feedback in the iCIRT process,” Chandler said.&nbsp;

ICIRT ratings are giving insurance providers and financiers extra confidence to engage and invest with highly-rated companies.

“As more small and large companies take the time to invest in their business and get certified, we’re going to see longer-term business resilience, more confident buyers and investors, and more reliable, trustworthy buildings that will stand the test of time,” said Chandler.

DASCO joins group of highly-rated builders and developers in NSW with iCIRT rating

The demand for residential development in Sydney's suburbs has been on the rise, particularly in the Lower North Shore area, as more and more Sydneysiders look for a place to call home outside the city centre.

St Leonards in particular has been a hot prospect for many, given its connectivity and proximity to the CBD, without the price tag of the city or the eastern suburbs.

Developer New Hope Evergreen, who has history in the suburb having developed The Landmark just a few years ago, have just launched their new apartment project.

In relation only by name, they're now selling The Landmark Quarter, a collection of three towers on Marshall Avenue, about 500 metres away from the completed The Landmark.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139897 project_image_fid=212566]

Renowned architecture firm Rothelowman has designed the trio of towers in The Landmark Quarter, which will offer a mixture of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, as well as a handful of four-bedroom penthouses. There's also a small number of townhomes, sculpted to sync with the harbour's edge.

Many of the apartments benefit from city and harbour views, which can be taken in from either the balcony or living area, given all apartments have floor-to-ceiling glass doors to the balcony.

The townhouses have three bedrooms, each with their own private entrance. The homes are crafted with herringbone timber floors and sweeping natural stone, bestowing a timeless quality to the signature private homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139897 project_image_fid=212577]

The penthouses are defined by their grandeur and awe-inspiring views. The interiors are elegant, tailored, and refined, with natural stones, textural timbers, fluted glass, and bronze accents all standard features among the bespoke offering.

The Landmark’s Grand Luna penthouse has already been sold and settled, setting a suburb record at $14 million. Featured on Sydney Lux Listings, the remaining penthouses are set to complete this month and will be on the market from June 2023.&nbsp;

Like The Landmark, Landmark Quarter is focused on resort-style resident experiences and first-class amenities.&nbsp;

Resort-inspired landscapes by Arcadia run between, within and atop the building, with the masterplan offering it's own private parkland, as well as an oasis pool, sauna and hot spa, cinema room, private dining and games room, outdoor dining and barbecue areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139897 project_image_fid=212667]

There'll also be a range of recreational areas, along with a kids' playground, a nature walk and a dog wash station.&nbsp;

The Landmark Quarter residences will be just moments from the future Metro Station, as well as St Leonards Train Station and bus links. Crows Nest Village is also nearby, as is St Leonards shopping plazas.&nbsp;

CBRE are handling the sales at The Landmark Quarter.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=139897]

St Leonards in particular has been a hot prospect for many, given its connectivity and proximity to the CBD, without the price tag of the city or the eastern suburbs

New Hope Evergreen launch second St Leonards apartment development, The Landmark Quarter 

Neutral Bay is one of the priciest suburbs in the Lower North Shore.

But there's long been a gap in the market for brand new downsizer stock. A number of local developers however have sought to plug that gap over the last 12 months, with the likes of WINIM, Abadeen, and Podia seeking to create apartments that will suit those checking out of their grand family homes.

The latest development application, <a href="/new-apartments/palmaria-5-7-lower-wycombe-road-neutral-bay">Palmaria</a>, will no doubt turn heads, given the site is located above the Hayes St Beach Foreshore, the only beach in the suburb.

Just six apartments are planned across the 1,306 sqm site at 5-7 Lower Wycombe Road, the location giving residents direct access through a small laneway to the beach. PBD said in their Design Verification Statement that&nbsp;Neutral Bay has seen a growth of new residential development within the area, and with the sites close proximity to the city as well as unique Foreshore waterfront, it provides the opportunity for an improved new development to residents.

They said they took into account the&nbsp;existing building, with its bulk and scale being informed by the predominant front and rear setbacks.

<img alt="Neutral Bay" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ab6a1992-2464-4e2d-8a94-66c83a6cefa7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-05-17%20at%205.34.07%20pm.png?VersionId=ysTD7C8I3gXpnDebdSMrASXH40U_tHW4" /> 
The existing building at 5-7 Lower Wycombe Road. Image credit: PBD

"By conforming to the existing setbacks, it has allowed for a harmonious integration of the new structure with the surrounding environment. The front setback has been carefully considered in terms of the buildings approach and how it will present itself to the street."

A Heritage Statement prepared by Weir Phillips Heritage and Planning suggested the building could have stood for over a century, with listings from as early as 1912 showing an unnumbered property Conisboro, later known as Conisburgh Flats.

The new building will home just six apartments, each with three bedrooms. The lower ground floor apartment and the penthouse are the largest units on offer in the project. The lower ground floor apartment has 256 sqm of liveable space, an extra rumpus room, and a spa on the balcony. The penthouse has 247 sqm of living area and a full width balcony.

The four half-floor apartments on levels on the ground floor and level one range between 150 sqm and 162 sqm.

Residents will have a communal wine cellar on the lower ground floor, and a private swimming pool overlooking the beach.

There will be two basement levels with&nbsp;11 parking spaces.

<img alt="Lower Wycombe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3fdd92de-5d63-4ac8-9448-2d8b54b5753c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-05-17%20at%205.33.14%20pm.png?VersionId=i7VJyAX_8jFMfuAL9JEMp4srTHutKpJl" />The proposed entry from Lower Wycombe Road. Image credit: PBD

PBD said the apartments are generous in size, aligning with the density provided by other new developments of a similar upscale design.

"The density of the development is considered sustainable within the existing and future availability of infrastructure, public transport, community as well as culturally significant facilities and environmental qualities on the site.

"Furthermore, the proposed design provides an appropriate density for a residential development in the immediate context. The bulk and scale as well as the density of the proposed building, fits organically within its surrounding context and will contribute to the neighbourhood’s atmosphere rather than obstruct the streetscape or view from Hayes St Beach."

The plans were filed by the St Leonards-based Vergome Pty Ltd, directed by Killara and Mosman locals Robert Virgona and Kathleen Quinlivan.

Last year saw a number of development applications submitted targeting the local downsizer.

Local developer Podia is expected to be the next to launch a project to the market, a 23-apartment development at 96 Ben Boyd Road.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/nsw/podia-lodge-plans-for-six-storey-neutral-bay-apartment-project">Podia lodge plans for six-storey Neutral Bay apartment project</a>

North Shore developer WINIM is working with Rothelowman to redevelop a landmark 1905-built duplex at&nbsp;112-114 Wycombe Road.

They're seeking to blend original character with a modern extension to create The Wycombe, which will have just nine apartments across three levels.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/nsw/winim-to-redevelop-1905-neutral-bay-building-into-luxury-apartments--114126">WINIM to redevelop 1905 Neutral Bay building into luxury apartments</a>

Just six apartments are planned across the 1,306 sqm site at 5-7 Lower Wycombe Road, the location giving residents direct access through a small laneway to the beach

First look: Luxury apartments Palmaria planned above Neutral Bay's only beach

The transformation of a vacant site in West Ryde is well underway, as the NSW Government invests $55 million into a new residential development by Billbergia.&nbsp;

The project consists of three apartment buildings, collectively housing 150 units, including 30 designated for social housing tenants.

The first building in the project, Parade, is situated on a narrow site to the north of West Ryde's railway station.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=90223 project_image_fid=143368]

Designed by PTW Architects, the architecture of Parade pays homage to the surrounding street context, drawing inspiration from Sydney's traditional brick apartment typology, the three-storey walk-up. Each of the six-storey buildings features a cubic brick base that serves as a tripartite anchoring element.

While the project initially offered a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, only the one-bedroom floorplans remain available, with prices starting at $695,000.&nbsp;

The design of The Parade combines the solidity of the brick bases with taller curved and glazed levels that feature pronounced and rounded horizontals, with the architectural approach reflecting the movement of nearby rail tracks.

Inside The Parade, the interiors have been designed to provide a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor spaces, enhancing the overall living and dining experience.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=90223 project_image_fid=143373]

The apartments boast high-end features such as stone kitchen splashbacks and reconstituted stone countertops with a 20 millimetre solid edge, along with Artusi appliances, including an electric oven, microwave, dishwasher, gas cooktop, ducted rangehood, and combination washer and dryer, all of which are Australian branded and backed by a 5-year warranty.

The development also emphasises sustainability and community well-being. Open spaces with thoughtfully landscaped areas are incorporated between each building, providing residents with access to greenery and outdoor leisure spaces, in addition to a rooftop terrace.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=90223]

Designed by PTW Architects, the architecture of Parade pays homage to the surrounding street context, drawing inspiration from Sydney's traditional brick apartment typology, the three-storey walk-up

Limited supply of one-bedroom apartments remain at Parade, West Ryde

The Entrance, the picturesque tourist town located halfway between Newcastle and Sydney, is set for a rare new apartment development.

Sydney-based&nbsp;Bathla Group has unveiled grand plans for a major residential project on The Entrance Road.

The $102 million plans are set to transform 15 parcels of land at 9-33 The Entrance Road into a vibrant eight-tower community, which will take place across two stages.&nbsp;

The project, on a sprawling 19,294 sqm site, has been designed by architectural firms Embece and BVN, with the mixed-use proposal encompassing eight buildings, ranging from six to nine storeys.&nbsp;

Five of the buildings will be dedicated to residential purposes with one specifically designed to accommodate serviced apartments for a proposed hotel.

The plan consists of 308 residential apartments and 45 serviced apartments, offering a mix of 123 one-bedroom units, 155 two-bedroom units and&nbsp;129 three-bedroom units. There are also a number of four bedroom apartments.

The project also includes 11 food and retail premises on the lower floors.

A central aspect of the proposed development is the creation of a through-site link, aiming to establish a connected ground plane between the Clifford Street Roundabout to the southwest and the Entrance Road frontage to the north.

The through-site link will feature a landscaped design that preserves existing trees and vegetation, incorporating curved buffer planting for a meandering path that defines the site's character. Additionally, outdoor seating areas will be strategically placed, while decomposed granite pathways will be retained between existing trees, further enhancing the natural ambiance.

<img alt="Render of the proposed The Entrance Road development" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="95b437ab-d548-48c0-8c45-4e0939e37dd5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-05-16%20at%209.48.13%20am.png?VersionId=Ph6P0Oc.fJOmwPQ.zeTRqNqfjXHUG979" />Render of the proposed The Entrance Road development. Credit: BVN

The development showcases a robust material palette with BVN taking inspiration from the site's proximity to the water.

"The podium, designed as a ribbon of textured masonry, draws inspiration from the warmth and movement of the silt and sand found at The Entrance," BVN said in their design report.

The buildings situated atop the podium continue the language of the base, with the continuity of masonry columns, expression of concrete slab edges, and textural elements in the screens.

"These upper-level structures adopt a more open and lightweight materiality and colour scheme to distinguish and articulate their presence. Glazed balustrades contribute to an open, inviting built form, while light-weight perforated screens provide privacy, solar protection, and uninterrupted views for the residents."

"Landscaped rooftops serve as a soft and natural overlay to the buildings, creating a harmonious integration with the surroundings."

The design approach for Buildings A, C, and E follows a tectonic style, employing vertical incisions to elongate the forms and curved corners to soften their appearance. These buildings will be predominantly white or shades of white, with battens, grooves, and privacy blades strategically incorporated to introduce texture, contrast, and unique interplay of light across the facades.

Buildings B and F will be located at the entry points to the site, adding an element of contrast and hierarchy to the overall precinct.

While they draw on similar materials as Buildings A, C, and E, they incorporate a greater variety of textures and colours.&nbsp;

Building D stands out as a unique structure within the complex, as it is the only building dedicated to serviced apartments. It also serves as the primary vehicular access point to the basement parking area.

In response to the changing lifestyle trends resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, most apartments have been designed to accommodate a study nook, providing residents with flexibility and space to work from home.

The orientation of the apartments has been carefully considered to maximise access to the views surrounding the site. Solid spandrels in the podium and perforated screens have been integrated to address privacy concerns while ensuring ample daylight and uninterrupted views for the residents.

By separating the built form into distinct buildings, the design maximises cross ventilation, offering an increased number of corner apartments and two-story units with access to ventilated skylights.&nbsp;

The landscape design of the development pays homage to the unique character of The Entrance, aiming to create inviting and vibrant spaces for both residents and visitors to enjoy the outdoors. The ground floor features retail spill-out areas that offer connections and views across Tuggerah Lake. New street tree planting provides shade to the plaza and building awnings, further enhancing the pedestrian experience.

On level two, residents will have access to communal open spaces that provide opportunities for play, social gatherings, and relaxation amidst lush gardens. There'll also be rooftop communal space provided, with seating options, outdoor dining, yoga and exercise space, and even a communal kitchen garden.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=140106]

The $102 million plans are set to transform 15 parcels of land at 9-33 The Entrance Road into a vibrant eight-tower community, which will take place across two stages

Bathla Group unveil grand plans for new apartment development in The Entrance

Developer Toohey Miller is continuing to make its mark on the well-heeled Elizabeth Bay market.

Having filed plans for a boutique project of six apartments on Onslow Place, Toohey Miller, led by Nick&nbsp;Couloumbis, has submitted an application for a similar small-density project on the prestigious Barncleuth Square.

He's seeking to create a slightly more modest four-level building with nine apartments designed by SJB.

Couloumbis says&nbsp;it took about 12 months to put the site together. Currently on the 428 sqm block is&nbsp;a mid-1960s building which has over 20 apartments.

"Elizabeth Bay is a very desirable area,"&nbsp;Couloumbis says.

"It's a stones throw from the best restaurants in Sydney. Some people call it the Soho of Sydney."

The proposal is for nine apartments, the majority three bedders spanning 137 sqm internally. The penthouse spreads across the whole of the top level, offering four bedrooms and 284 sqm of space. It also has a private rooftop terrace with a spa.

<img alt="Barnclueth" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="773a251d-7ae7-4659-9639-962ac1e2f3c8" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-05-22%20at%2012.27.15%20pm.png?VersionId=T2XSoTbivDFWh4xaUSCXDbxJt4nArfXk" />

In their Design Statement submitted to the City of Sydney Council, SJB said that Elizabeth Bay is part of the densest urban area in Australia with its own population of around 5,000 people.

"With limited space, many apartment buildings are vying for high levels of amenity," the report noted.

"This proposal offers relief to the density, with only 9 apartments proposed for the site."

The design is in keeping with the Art Deco apartment-style which boomed in the 1930s. A significant number of those buildings developed nearly a century ago are now heritage-listed.

SJB says the facades of the surrounding four to seven-storey apartment buildings&nbsp;are intricately detailed in playful arrays of textures and patterns.

"In this detailing, they carry a rhythm along the street front that continues a horizontal datum, punctuated by moments of vertical emphasis.

"The proposal responds to this with a five storey brick apartment building inspired by the evocative forms of its Art Deco neighbours."

The building will be in good company. To the south is Barnclueth House, heritage-listed duplex houses in the Victorian Italianate-style. North is a brick apartment building in a restrained Art Deco-style, and opposite is the apartment building Marlborough Hall.

<img alt="Barnclueth" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6954823a-4ee9-4b8b-9834-a5e7c5a5b344" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-05-22%20at%2012.27.19%20pm_0.png?VersionId=Bl7bx1qUmMd4zlZiZa16ISaaz7v2Tojn" />

"In addition to responding to its natural, urban and historical context, the proposal aims to lie within the scale and formal rhythms defined by the surrounding built context."

The proposal complies with height controls that apply to the site under both City of Sydney LEP and DCP and sits under the 18m heigh limit.

There's been a focus on sustainability within the new project. A green roof will reduce building energy, 100 per cent of apartments are cross-ventilated, and the bricks to be used the create the building will be sourced locally from Australian manufacturers.&nbsp;Compared to more standardised concrete heavy facades, bricks are a far more sustainable option, SJB suggest.

Toohey Miller has had a long history in Elizabeth Bay.&nbsp;<a>Couloumbis' grandfather founded the company back in 1955 when it was an architectural business. They lived on the exclusive St Neots Ave.</a>

SJB said that Elizabeth Bay is part of the densest urban area in Australia with its own population of around 5,000 people.



First look exclusive: Toohey Miller file for Elizabeth Bay apartments

Sydney's Lower North Shore is renowned for its leafy landscapes and panoramic views, and Greenwich's newest apartment development, Akoya, is set to take advantage of both.

Akoya, a&nbsp;collaboration between Alceon Group and NGS Super, will boast sweeping vistas of Sydney Harbour, including iconic landmarks such as the Harbour Bridge, Opera House, and the city skyline.

Designed by&nbsp;Marchese Partners, the project offers&nbsp;one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, with every detail considered to create a sense of elegance and sophistication.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=94146 project_image_fid=165484]

The Signature Collection at Akoya has been designed to be sumptuous yet functional, boasting modern interiors with bespoke joinery, a fireplace, and marble benchtops adorned with a full suite of Sub Zero &amp; Wolf Appliances, including a full-height wine fridge.&nbsp;

The Harbour Front Collection at Akoya takes luxury to new heights, offering sun-drenched light and uninterrupted views of Sydney's most sought-after vista. These three-bedroom apartments exude an air of opulence and practicality, featuring two bathrooms, two car spaces, secure basement storage, and a dedicated cellar for wine enthusiasts.

The 270-degree views stretch from the Greenwich Peninsula towards Balmain, over Goat Island, and eastward to the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House.

The Sky Villa collection at Akoya represents the epitome of regality and luxury. The exclusive apartments feature bespoke details, including natural stone, marble, and brass, which complement the limitless views of Sydney Harbour that are on offer from their prime positioning within the development.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=94146 project_image_fid=165483]

Akoya also offers residents a range of five-star amenities that are rarely seen in Sydney.

Residents can indulge in the luxurious infinity edge lap pool, which floats above the harbour, providing sweeping city views, with the space complete with resort-style sunken sunbeds.

The lush landscaped rooftop terrace also features built-in dining pods, creating private spaces for hosting friends and family, in addition to two outdoor kitchens.

Akoya is also home to an in-house bar and lounge, a wine cellar that offers individual storage spaces for residents' personal wine collections, with the space able to be transformed into a private dining room, complete with a finishing kitchen.

For those with a passion for golf, Akoya features its own golf simulator room, allowing residents to play a round of golf&nbsp;all year round, regardless of the weather. The golf simulator room is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and offers a small lounge area as well.

In addition to the golf simulator, Akoya boasts a boutique cinema, along with office suites, providing private spaces to work or hold meetings.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=94146]

Akoya, a collaboration between Alceon Group and NGS Super, will boast sweeping vistas of Sydney Harbour, including iconic landmarks such as the Harbour Bridge, Opera House, and the city skyline

Akoya Greenwich: World class amenities overlooking Sydney Harbour

The&nbsp;Peter Campbell-led development group, Lindsay Bennelong is one step closer to bringing their Crows Nest development, Delano to fruition, appointing a builder to the project.&nbsp;

The group has sought the work of Bondi-based construction company, Ultra Building Co, with the group behind a number of residential and commercial developments across the Eastern Suburbs, including the 1788 Residences and North Shore in Double Bay, as well as The Balmoral Collection in Mosman.

Located on the fringe of Crows Nest village, Delano pays homage to the Art Deco architecture that is prolific in the area while showcasing contemporary innovation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134072 project_image_fid=212760]

The development features three boutique buildings set amidst landscaped gardens, consisting of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, as well as an exclusive collection of just seven townhomes.

Celebrated architecture firm, AJC Architects has taken charge of the project's design, which features&nbsp;timeless aesthetics that are brought to life through the use of robust and enduring materials such as steel and face brickwork.

The buildings are distinctly characterised in response to their street frontage and local heritage items, with stepped forms and landscaped terraces that avoid overshadowing while offering a transition between the nearby commercial centre and conservation neighbourhood.

The development's centrepiece is a five-storey tower that steps down to three-storeys along Falcon Street, with the three-storey townhouses fronting Hayberry Lane.

All the residences are optimised for natural light and cross-ventilation and feature energy and water-efficient fixtures and fittings. The communal lobbies and corridors are naturally ventilated and lit, and there is bicycle parking for residents and visitors.

Herringbone engineered timber floors, plush broadloom carpet, and deluxe Miele kitchens, with natural stone benchtops and integrated fridges, are just some of the features residents can expect to enjoy, while the spacious balconies, rooftop terraces, or private courtyard gardens will offer a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134072 project_image_fid=212756]

Upper-level apartments will benefit from leafy views over North Sydney or Mosman, while a communal grassed lawn and gardens with seating and barbecue areas provide the perfect outdoor space for relaxation.

Sustainability was another key consideration throughout the design process, with site-wide water harvesting systems in place along with a reuse system.&nbsp;

Residents of Delano will enjoy a short five-minute stroll to the forthcoming Crows Nest Metro Station, which is due to open in 2024, the same time Delano is due for completion.&nbsp;

They'll also be just a 400 metre walk to Woolworths and just three-minutes from Crows Nest Village's lively cosmopolitan culinary scene.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134072]

Builder appointed to Lindsay Bennelong Crows Nest development, Delano

Independent Sydney property developer Central Element and joint venture equity partner MaxCap Group officially marked the commencement of construction on their $150 million luxury residential development, Ethos Chatswood.

With a billion-dollar portfolio of developments, the privately owned group has delivered more than 500 apartments in almost 20 years across Sydney metropolitan locations.

Ethos was the first residential offering to be released in Chatswood’s CBD in a number of years and is now the first 
development to commence construction.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=93751 project_image_fid=213496]

The momentous occasion was commemorated through a ground-breaking event held alongside project leaders and key stakeholders in attendance, including Wayne Chivas and Shane Smollen, Directors of Central Element, Joe Vincent, Director of Direct Investment at MaxCap Group, Adam Haddow, Director of SJB, and Colin Rahim, joint CEO of Growthbuilt.

Wayne Chivas said the months to follow will be an exciting time, and we can't wait to witness Ethos emerge as a stunning addition to the Chatswood skyline

“At Central Element, we strive to create exceptional living spaces that invigorate communities and shape the future of Australian living," Chivas said.

"With Growthbuilt, we have partnered with a team that shares our vision and is committed to delivering exceptional high-quality sustainable buildings."

Demand for the SJB designed collection of ultra-luxury one, two, three and four-bedroom residences has been significant.

In October 2022, off-the-plan sales for Ethos were launched, with 60 per cent of the development sold in the opening weekend.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=93751 project_image_fid=213498]

The state-of-the-art display suite located at 3 Spring Street in Chatswood is open daily, providing visual insights into the project, advanced through digital technology where customers can visualise the quality of finishes by viewing the kitchen and bathroom display.&nbsp;

Colin Rahim, joint CEO of Growthbuilt said they are delighted to collaborate with Central Element on Ethos Chatswood bringing our expertise, experience, and passion to deliver a world-class, luxury living experience.

“At Growthbuilt, we share a strong vision with Central Element on creating exceptional living spaces that enrich communities and shape the future of Australian living," he said.&nbsp;

Completion of the development is anticipated for early 2025.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=93751]

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