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

Joel Robinson

First look: Level 33 upsizes Wollongong apartment towers

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

First look: Urban Property Group plans next major Wollongong tower

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

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

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

The inflation result the property market was waiting for

Commercial property group FiveX is doubling down on its move into the residential space.

The group, founded by Joshua and Marko Berger more than five decades ago, has followed up its plans for a 39-storey tower on North Sydney's Alfred Street with a proposed 61-storey tower in Chatswood.

The new tower at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/815-pacific-highway-chatswood-nsw-2067">815 Pacific Highway</a>, which would be one of the tallest proposed in Chatswood in recent years, will comprise 490 apartments, 76 of which will be dedicated affordable housing and managed by Evolve Housing for a minimum of 15 years.

The project will replace the long-standing Panorama Building, originally known as the BMA Tower, a 14-storey office building completed in 1972 and designed by Hungarian-born architect Hugo Stossel. At the time of its completion, the building was the tallest structure in Chatswood and became a local landmark due to its distinctive curved form and external glass lift.

<img alt="FiveX" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="956bd299-3864-47a0-8ea6-162b5524c5d8" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-24%20at%201.02.03%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=EWx7teUr7RcYrI9mgRytwppwt5AdUDtb" />

fjcstudio is behind the designs. Its Architectural Design Report argues the ageing commercial building no longer reflects Chatswood's role as one of Sydney's key strategic centres and that the site is ideally positioned to support significantly higher residential density.

"The site is located at the heart of Chatswood, within the TOD accelerated rezoning area that supports higher density development around the new Metro station," the report states.

"The site's role within a walkable 400-metre radius catchment is where housing, employment, retail and community uses are encouraged to cluster in support of transit-oriented living."

<img alt="fjc" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8d198f5e-cc71-4175-9357-be6ec7207473" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-24%20at%201.18.27%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=5WUFc3IYBPvhQMBUYLCsjJhzdcVeYodE" />

The proposal has undergone two rounds of review by the NSW State Design Review Panel, with the design evolving through an extensive assessment process focused on design excellence, public realm outcomes, residential amenity and the integration of affordable housing.

fjcstudio says the residential component provides a diverse mix of apartment typologies, supporting a broad demographic and contributing to housing supply in a highly accessible location close to major transport, employment and retail infrastructure.

The application follows FiveX's plans for a 39-storey tower at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/275-alfred-street-north-north-sydney-nsw-2060">275 Alfred Street</a>, which it <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/275-alfred-street-north-north-sydney-nsw-2060">submitted through the same NSW Government pathway</a> in December. That's for 184 apartments.

Recent activity in Chatswood includes Hyecorp launching its Archer Street project, Celine, and Develotek securing approval for a 34-storey tower.

First look: FiveX targets Chatswood skyline with 61-storey tower after North Sydney plans

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

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

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

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

Every First Home Owner Grant for new property by state

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

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

Staff Writer

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

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

alisonwarters@gmail.com

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

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

Ellen Walker

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

Development group <a href="/developers/giancorp-property-group">Giancorp</a> took to <a href="/developments/moonee-ponds-vic-3039">Moonee Ponds</a> to rejuvenate and reconnect the suburb's Puckle Street precinct with their apartment development Penny Lane, an arthouse cinema and arcade, and a laneway network that boosts walkability.

<a href="/buildings/penny-lane-moonee-ponds-6-14-young-street-moonee-ponds">Penny Lane</a> comprises a total of 109 completed apartments, each offering generous balconies or terraces. It is the focus on longevity, spatial planning, and environmental credentials that sets Penny Lane apart.

Designed by <a href="/architects/clarke-hopkins-clarke-0">Clarke Hopkins Clarke Architects</a> with carefully selected permanent materials and exceptional finishes throughout the building and residences, such as glass, concrete, steel, warm timbers, and soft feature stones.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1676 project_image_fid=268937]

"Penny Lane has been designed with longevity at the forefront of our thinking," Clarke Hopkins Clarke Architects Multi-residential partner Toby Lauclan says.

Materials of glass, steel and concrete are softened at street level by vertical planting, bluestone and recycled bricks salvaged from the site’s existing building.

"Robust, long-lasting materials including concrete, steel and glass, will ensure the building ages well, is low-maintenance and inexpensive to maintain over its entire lifespan. While concrete comes with high embodied energy it can also help reduce a building's carbon footprint by making add-on elements like cladding unnecessary."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1676 project_image_fid=268938]

Prioritising an ecologically sustainable development, Penny Lane achieves a 7.2 NatHERS rating, with energy-efficient double glazing, LED lighting, rainwater harvesting, and on-site 15Kw of renewable energy, making it a low maintenance and low impact development.

Each apartment has the kitchen as the heart of the home, well appointed with Miele appliances and stone benchtops, where homebuyers can choose between light or dark colour schemes.

The bedrooms feature built-in robes, while the bathrooms adopt an attractive neutral colour palette, maintaining a contemporary yet timeless aesthetic throughout.

Residents of Penny Lane also enjoy exclusive access to amenities on the level three podium garden, a full-line gymnasium, a private lounge, a designer kitchen, and dining rooms for social gatherings. Additionally, the level nine terrace provides expansive views and landscaped spaces.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1676 project_image_fid=268947]

The Penny Lane precinct also features Melbourne’s newest cinema complex complete with a luxury rooftop cinema, Platinum lounge and a range of cafes and casual dining options – the perfect place for a pre-movie dinner or a post-movie wine with friends.

Penny Lane is also conveniently located close to Moonee Valley Racecourse, the home of Australia’s most prestigious horse race, the Cox Plate, while also being just a few minutes from the Queen's Park, Moonee Valley’s oldest park that has a lake, a pool, cottage café, and an expansive gardens space.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=1676]

"Penny Lane has been designed with longevity at the forefront of our thinking," Clarke Hopkins Clarke Architects Multi-residential partner Toby Lauclan says

Inside Giancorp's Moonee Ponds apartment development, Penny Lane

With one in five Australians living in a multi-generational household, Melbourne developer Beulah has taken the concept of a future-proofed and multi-generational home to a new level with its newest project, <a href="/new-townhouses/brunswick-established-23-hodgson-st-brunswick-vic-3056">Brunswick Established</a>.&nbsp;

Recognising the significance of a home purchase for many individuals and the years to come, <a href="/developers/beulah">Beulah</a> aims to offer homes that seamlessly adapt to evolving lifestyles and cater to diverse needs – this allows purchasers to customise their homes to suit the stage of life they are currently in while acknowledging where they are heading.&nbsp;

Research from the UNSW City Futures Research Centre revealed that multi-generational living is on the rise with one in five Australians living in a multigenerational household; the most common complaint raised in multi-generational households is noise and lack of privacy. A large cohort driving this trend is men (54 per cent of men) and women (47 per cent of women) aged 18 to 29 years old still living under the same roof as their parents.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8804 project_image_fid=221153]

Comprised of 23 two-storey townhouses, Brunswick Established offers multiple typologies of townhomes to suit different living requirements, allowing residents to grow in place - the majority include ground-floor bedrooms for accessibility while others provide a detached room separated by a courtyard.&nbsp;

On top of that, Beulah will enable purchasers of Brunswick Established to customise their homes to cater to different phases of life - from changing the flooring to accommodate a home gym, creating the perfect home studio or home office to creating a grandparent’s (or kids) retreat - no two homes will be the same.&nbsp;

Beulah's Executive Director, Adelene Teh, said that when they launched&nbsp;Tailored Living within <a href="/new-apartments/sth-bnk-by-beulah-southbank-60-southbank-boulevard-southbank">STH BNK By Beulah</a>, it received so much interest as purchasers were eager to create their own dream home by amalgamating floorplans.

"We took this approach and catered it to a suburb such as <a href="/developments/brunswick-vic-3056">Brunswick</a>, where off the plan townhouses are few and far between. Purchasers are generally limited to choosing their preferred colour scheme and finishes when buying off the plan; we wanted to give them more flexibility to create a home that would grow with them.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8804 project_image_fid=221169]

In addition to longevity, Teh said multi-generational living arrangements can also offer opportunities to bolster psychological, social and financial well-being.&nbsp;

“From shared expenses in terms of utilities and groceries, family support during the early stages of starting a family or&nbsp; companionship through the later stages of life - there are multiple benefits to multi-generational living arrangements in terms of health and well-being.&nbsp;

“Other financial advantages include extending the home’s lifespan to the next generation and saving on significant renovations, ultimately reducing construction waste.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8804 project_image_fid=221160]

Further future-proofing the project, Brunswick Established will also become the first heritage townhome community to implement circular living in Brunswick.&nbsp;

Sustainable initiatives include being gas and fossil-fuel-free, solar panels for renewable energy and rainwater harvesting,&nbsp; 
energy-efficient lighting systems and appliances, and EV Charging infrastructure. Residents will also have access to an edible garden and composting facilities to assist in the continual growth of produce.&nbsp;

By taking a circular ecosystem approach, residents of Brunswick Established will reap the benefits socially, economically and environmentally, including lower energy costs and utility bills and a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.&nbsp;

Designed by leaders in social and sustainable architecture, Six Degrees Director Peter Malatt said it was important to design homes that are built to last.&nbsp;

“These homes have been designed for resident’s well-being, allowing couples and families to ‘grow’ in their own homes while ensuring they meet their needs for generations to come. Purchasers usually experience multiple lifestyle stages within one home and we’re looking forward to seeing these unique homes come to life,” he said.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=8804]

Further future-proofing the project, Brunswick Established will also become the first heritage townhome community to implement circular living in Brunswick

Beulah unveils future-proofed homes in Brunswick

Contreras Earl Architecture is continuing to bring its architectural smarts to Brisbane on behalf of developer Vista Projects.

Having submitted <a href="/news/qld/first-look-architectural-apartments-set-for-st-lucia">plans for Vista in St Lucia late last year</a> for five striking apartments, the Gold Coast-based architecture firm has put together a design for their next project in the neighbouring <a href="/new-apartments/taringa-qld-4068">Taringa</a>.

The project, dubbed La Flor at&nbsp;128-130 Swann Road, will replace two single-level houses on 1,042 sqm.

<img alt="Contreras" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fe2988ac-1388-45b3-8450-35e4bdbb7bfa" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-04-22%20at%208.32.03%20pm.png?VersionId=HeeqUErVssguFX_j7YbQb3AwAQUvGMVZ" />

"The elevated site presents an opportunity to create a building of significance on a street of iconic character in the established inner-west suburb, a leafy locality with panoramic views towards the city," the Architecture Statement submitted to the Brisbane City Council by <a href="/architects/contreras-earl-architecture">Contreras Earl Architecture</a> noted.

La Flor draws inspiration from nature, with its design metaphorically likened to the unfolding petals of a flower and translates into an architectural interplay between openness and enclosure.&nbsp;

The material palette, including coloured concrete, translucent glass, stone, and aluminium, further reinforces the concept of the building's petal form.

<img alt="New Taringa project, La Flor - Concept" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1179c3af-b902-4572-9a43-f717ab792b27" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/New%20Taringa%20project%2C%20La%20Flor%20Concept.png?VersionId=XDNrxF0M_IRmHCkZqdyU4bCB6D3FOJzs" />

"Creating a space of sanctuary in the suburban setting “La Flor” emanates sculptural presence, while also providing spaces of privacy and shadowy refuge from nature’s elements as well as from the street.

"This interplay of openness and enclosure amplifies the buildings’ honest character and feel creating a harmonious addition to the streetscape of Swann Road."

The six-level building will have eight three-bedroom apartments and a four-bedroom penthouse with its own private rooftop. The rest of the rooftop is reserved for resident amenity, comprising a resort-style pool, a sauna, extensive seating, barbecue spaces and sun lounges.

The design also takes the&nbsp;opportunity to use the undercroft area below the building with a unique wellness zone nestled amongst the gentle slope that includes an outdoor gym, outdoor yoga and entertainment areas distributed across different terraces immersed by lush landscape and vegetation.

<img alt="Contreras" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a453b2f1-b1a4-48ef-b519-c2d3aecdfa0e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-04-22%20at%208.32.15%20pm.png?VersionId=axXVW32r_DyNT1ZFLyGBSZCj1l6xzUZj" />

The architecture also incorporates cascading vegetation that complements the building's organic lines, strategically placed to enhance privacy internally and externally while fostering a stronger connection with the surrounding vegetation.

Contreras Earl has a long history on the Gold Coast. Led by Rafael&nbsp;Contreras and Monica Earl, the company has designed several buildings by Sunland including the luxury 272 Hedges Avenue in Mermaid Beach and 180 Marine Parade in Labrador.

First look: Contreras Earl pen new Taringa apartment project, La Flor

Fresh off the back of breaking the Coogee record for the most expensive piece of real estate in the beachside suburb, Sydney property developer Central Element (CE) has acquired its next development site.

They're heading to the Lower North Shore where they've paid $17 million for a site for a mixed-use seniors living project in&nbsp;<a href="/developments/greenwich-nsw-2065">Greenwich</a>.

The design will revolve around the concept of community, pushing the boundaries of form to facilitate shared living experiences and the coming together of those who share a passion for embracing life to the fullest in their later years.

The 1,232 sqm site at 126 Pacific Highway, sits in an elevated position with uninterrupted views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and CBD skyline. With three street frontages, the site presents an opportunity for a ground-floor retail offering.

<img alt="Central Element acquire $17m Greenwich site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="10f4b57f-711d-467b-8a19-1650b1bd497b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/image001.jpg?VersionId=_f4HCv7CsFQiU91187r5TgFZeflRorG4" />

<a href="/developers/central-element">Central Element</a> is planning an eight-level building with car parking, two and three-bedroom apartments, extensive communal space including internal amenity and a rooftop bar with expansive harbour views.

CE will work very closely with the Lane Cove Council having collaborated with them previously on its Aston and Battique developments in the local area.

<img alt="Central Element acquire $17m Greenwich site - view" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2d262201-9ea3-4ede-87ed-3e2d52414aa6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/image003_0.jpg?VersionId=WVekYv8JuMYK_gt0fnpdBXPd.Kn4jYge" />

Nathan Chivas, Managing Director of Central Element, said they&nbsp;recognised the opportunity the Greenwich site presented for a world-class mixed-use seniors living development.

"Our intention is to create an environment for those over 60, that is hyper-focused on ageing well and enjoying their third phase of life," Chivas said.

"It’s conveniently located within a five-minute drive or a short walk of St Leonards Railway Station, Crows Nest Metro Station and Royal North Shore Hospital."

CE has previously delivered in the senior living sector. They've developed The Balmoral Collection in Mosman and Malton in Beecroft.

"We look forward to further redefining the seniors living category by catering to the ever-changing wants and needs of older Australians. With Greenwich, we will take a holistic approach to wellbeing, with a design and amenity that will promote daily movement, a shared community and purpose for its residents.”

CE will lodge the application in July, with construction commencing mid-2026.

Central Element snap up $17 million Greenwich apartment site

The market for off the plan apartments is so tight in Hawthorn, the upcoming launch of Sculpt by Monolith Projects will make it the only off the plan development on the market in the sought-after inner Melbourne suburb.

Sculpt, crafted in&nbsp;collaboration with acclaimed design teams <a>Mim Design</a>, <a>Parallel Workshop</a>, and <a>Jack Merlo</a>, comprises just 18 two, three, and four-bedroom apartments in a <a href="/new-apartments/sculpt-hawthorn-43-riversdale-road-hawthorn-vic-3122">low-rise building on Riversdale Road</a>.

The development stands out with its sculptural curved form and a palette predominantly composed of neutral brick and bronze detailing.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144271 project_image_fid=270347]

John Xu, Max Bi of&nbsp;<a href="/architects/parallel-workshop-architecture">Parallel Workshop</a>&nbsp;said&nbsp;Sculpt is inspired by <a>Hawthorn</a>'s aura and aspires to seamlessly integrate nature into luxury living.

"The design responds artistically to its surroundings, employing an approach akin to the artistry of sculptors."

Miriam Fanning, Founder, and Principal of <a href="/interior-designers/mim-design">Mim Design</a>, described the interior design as "Inspired by the leafy streets of Hawthorn, the neutral interior palette reflects a sculptural boldness with refined bronze details and natural materials."

"With a meticulous approach to spatial planning, rooms transform into open-plan moments of luxury. Refined, tactile and warm, Sculpt is a residence to escape to."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144271 project_image_fid=270343]

The living spaces are distinguished by bespoke integrated bars, custom display plinths, and electric fireplaces, leading out to expansive terraces and a courtyard by the award-winning <a href="/architects/jack-merlo">Jack Merlo</a>.

Merlo's landscaping includes over 2550 new plants, carefully selected to reflect the elegant landscape character of the neighbourhood while ensuring low-maintenance living for residents.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144271 project_image_fid=270348]

The kitchens feature striking island benches with natural marble, gentle curves, and refined bronze accents, while also being fitted with integrated Miele appliances and well-appointed sculleries.

The master bedrooms offer luxury hotel-inspired designs with walk-in robes, bespoke dressers, and built-in booth seats.

Crowning Sculpt is the penthouse residence featuring palatial open-plan living areas beneath high ceilings and a stately kitchen.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144271 project_image_fid=270351]

Underpinned by an innovative design vision, Sculpt is also thoughtfully designed with sustainability at the forefront.

Sculpt prioritises passive features, with plans for a 10 kW Solar PV system on the rooftop, provision for AC electric vehicle charging, a 27kL in-ground rainwater tank for stormwater collection, and a comprehensive waste management system.

Jellis Craig Projects Director Stephen Bowtell is marketing <a href="/new-apartments/sculpt-hawthorn-43-riversdale-road-hawthorn-vic-3122">Sculpt</a>.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=144271]

Sculpt to launch as Hawthorn's only off the plan apartment development on the market

Queensland developer Azure has released the final apartments for its One Earle Lane development in Toowong.

The final eight apartments, including two penthouses, have hit the market in the building which is 90 per cent sold and under construction.

“We’re thrilled to release these final residences, especially considering how well received <a href="/new-apartments/one-earle-lane-by-azure">One Earle Lane</a> has been to date,” <a href="/developers/azure">Azure</a> Director&nbsp;Trent Kiernan said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112120 project_image_fid=206691]

“These residences showcase the commitment of Azure to delivering a unique blend of luxury and contemporary living, to <a href="/new-apartments/toowong-qld-4066">Toowong</a>.

“One Earle Lane’s final release delivers a diverse range of residences to cater for a range of buyers looking for a luxurious and sophisticated lifestyle that truly feels like home.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112120 project_image_fid=206686]

The two remaining penthouses are priced from $3.6 million, each adorning park and city views on the northern façade and provide spacious living areas that are enhanced by expansive balconies.&nbsp;

The final six remaining apartments are part of the Parkview Collection which feature three bedrooms plus multi-purpose room, 2.5 bathrooms and two-car parking.

One Earle Lane will provide residents with unmatched amenities and the ultimate level of sophistication just minutes from Brisbane CBD.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112120 project_image_fid=206692]

The project has an entry lobby with a concierge desk and a business lounge, as well as a rooftop residents club with resort-style facilities including a wellness area with a sauna, steam room, hot and cold plunge pools, gym, and a 25 metre heated lap pool.

Simon and Courtney Caulfield are selling the remaining eight apartments.

“The high-end apartment market is showing resilience despite recent fluctuations, and we’re noticing sustained interest from buyers, even in the face of tight supply conditions,” Mrs Caulfield said.&nbsp;

“In fact, Brisbane’s unit market has experienced the second-highest capital growth nationally, with a notable growth rate of 14.8 per cent over the past 12 months.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112120 project_image_fid=206697]

Simon Caulfield said buyers in the high-end property market are looking for more than just a place to live.

"They seek a lifestyle statement that encapsulates luxury, security, and convenience," he said.

“While amenities certainly play a role, recent growth rates in unit prices in Brisbane have heightened the sense of urgency among buyers, and we expect to see this consistent in One Earle Lane.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112120 project_image_fid=206698]

Azure is a privately owned real estate development and investment company that has delivered more than 1,400 terraces, units and residential lots since it was founded in 2014.&nbsp;

The company’s active portfolio of seven developments is valued at more than $500 million and includes One Five Six by Azure at New Farm which set a price record for the inner city in 2022 with its $11.4 million penthouse sale.

One Earle Lane, designed by&nbsp;Paul Conrad Architects and constructed by 5Point Projects, is on track for completion at the end of 2024.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112120]

Simon Caulfield said buyers in the high-end property market are looking for more than just a place to live

Azure release final apartments at One Earle Lane, Toowong

Harry Seidler's McMahons Point apartment development, Blues Point Tower, is one of the revered architects' most iconic projects.&nbsp;

It's in one of the best spots in the harbourside suburb, just off Blues Point Reserve on Blues Point Road.&nbsp;

They've got the advantage of extensive Harbour views, and residents have convenient access to the city via the McMahons Point ferry. But the tower also stands as a sign of the times in McMahons Point. Most of the apartment developments are decades old.&nbsp;It's been years since a new apartment project was developed.

Cue a new boutique project on a near 1,000 sqm site at 1 Warung Street, under 200 metres from Seidler's landmark.

Vince Squillace's&nbsp;Squillace Architects has put the plans together for seven owner-occupier apartments for a company tied to developer Theo Paradisis from Highbury Group.

<img alt="McMahons" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="81b631bf-fd88-4c39-9e38-9954603cd967" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-04-19%20at%203.07.55%20pm.png?VersionId=blVzhQ6BvkzWLL.sWxp.XSc2OSVCac3t" />The proposed building at 1 Warung Street, McMahons Point

Squillace's Design Report said given the given the locality and context of the site, the unit mix, of six three-bedroom apartments and a four-bedroom penthouse, is appropriate for the local market. One and two-bedroom units are less appropriate for the site, they said.

"The proposed seven units responds to the planning controls imposed on the site, appropriately considers the local market demands and reduces what was previously an overdeveloped site which provided a higher number of units but poor amenity and an inferior product."

The current 1960s building homes 12 units, and there had been approval previously for a nine-unit development on the site.

<img alt="Squillace" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9f4ef4a8-1561-4096-9f93-38e67ffc5b21" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-04-19%20at%203.08.13%20pm.png?VersionId=ZhRk2Ay5PpCdWi8erqaQTCtKX5aKIYTh" />The current building at 1 Warung Street, McMahons Point

Squillace said given the&nbsp;existing building is a 1960's residential flat building, it has been identified as an uncharacteristic item within the McMahons Point South Heritage Conservation Area, which is primarily a&nbsp;mix of Victorian and Federation 1920’s and 1930’s housing mixed with some Interwar residential flat buildings.

They said the aim is to "create a high-quality contemporary apartment building that makes a positive contribution to this unique and world-class harbour foreshore site whilst maximising views, sunlight, the natural beauty of this environment and enhancing the lives of its occupants."

First look exclusive: McMahons Point to get rare new apartment development

Luxury apartment developments on the Palm Beach beachfront are continuing to stack up.

The latest play is by Sydney-based developer Chanine Developments, who secured a large site across 1407 Gold Coast Highway and 402-404 The Esplanade through site amalgamation specialists GV Property Group.

Chanine, led by Marwan Chanine, has now lodged plans for a boutique eight-level building with 15 half-floor apartments and a massive five-bedroom penthouse.

Chanine said the vision&nbsp;is to bring the opulence of the Eastern Suburbs to Palm Beach, in both finishes and aesthetics."

"The team are consistently looking across the entire eastern seaboard, and we've always loved Queensland," Chanine said of their first project outside of New South Wales.

"We're not building anymore coastline, so there's always value on the water."

<img alt="Channine" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c75fd86b-ddce-448b-8e35-895604ab97b7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-04-22%20at%204.39.02%20pm.png?VersionId=zdlWU4_X0xdrUxJ9fLIk_a7mV9mQIwvi" />

Chanine had been working on securing the site for over a year. They're building the apartments on the 824 sqm The Esplanade site which has a 20 metre frontage. They will landbank the site fronting the Gold Coast Highway if a future development opportunity arises.

There will be 16 apartments in the building which has been designed by CDArchitects. The 15 three-bedroom apartments will sit beneath a massive 354 sqm, five-bedroom penthouse with its own&nbsp;rooftop pool, barbecue kitchen and alfresco space.

CDArchitects said the&nbsp;architectural concept draws inspiration from the dynamic interplay of shifting sands and ocean waves.

"Emulating the sinuous movements found in nature, the design manifests in a curvilinear facade that echoes the undulating contours of both sand dunes and waves."

They said the&nbsp;apartments themselves offer a superior level of luxury, boasting spacious interiors and uninterrupted sightlines to the beach and coastline.

"Far from imitating past architectural feats, the proposed building aspires to establish itself as an iconic landmark along the coastline, setting a new standard for design innovation and coastal living."

<img alt="GV Palm Beach" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b47dd4ce-9fc6-4128-986d-110db066a258" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-04-22%20at%204.38.57%20pm.png?VersionId=y4ALTq055_MU5Wgcg6pnUfQ6iLLkhQvj" />

There will be two basement levels with&nbsp;55 parking spaces and 18 bicycle spaces, as well as resident amenity on the ground floor in the form of a pool and spa.

GV Property Group's Luke Reaby&nbsp;says they're seeing an influx of developers coming back into the market following a slight lull in the market in 2023.

"Stock has dried up and record revenues are being achieved every week in the off the plan market," Reaby says, adding that the record revenue have assisted in beachside projects becoming more viable."

As for Palm Beach, where GV has sold seven sites in the last 18 months and their 17th in Palm Beach, Reaby says it's arguably one of the most demanded suburbs on the coast.

"Plenty of new development has and will continue to occur in and around Palm Beach which will result in a really vibrant neighbourhood."

<img alt="GV Palm Beach" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="db5f00df-3b86-4555-8ead-1eab0fab94a7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-04-22%20at%208.56.35%20am.png?VersionId=.OFRvI4eADMux8KKING7Fc8SRxWkd.1M" />

Chanine has around $1 billion worth of development in the pipeline across New South Wales and now Queensland.

Their main focus in Sydney is a 4,595 sqm site they have in Bellevue Hill where, subject to council approval, they'll be launching 36 three and four-bedroom apartments later this year.

The apartments will be spread across a trio of buildings at 186-192 Old South Head Road, on the corner of Banksia Road near where Bellevue Hill meets Bondi Beach.

Sydney developer eyes Palm Beach luxury apartments

Veteran Gold Coast developer Morris Property Group welcomed buyers to their Burleigh Heads apartment development, Sandbar, late last year.

The timing of the completion, as well as a clever design of the floorplans toward the top of the tower, hit an undersupplied section of the market, in an area that has been one of the most popular Gold Coast suburbs in the last five years or so.

While <a href="/new-apartments/burleigh-heads-qld-4220">Burleigh</a> has been a hive of activity, particularly since the onset of COVID-19 in early 2020, the majority of the apartment developments are beachfront, whole floor, and can start anywhere around the $5 million mark.

Those that do have slightly more affordable stock are either all sold out, or not under construction, so they're still at least three years away from being realised.

<a href="/developers/morris-property-group">Morris Property Group</a> launched <a href="/buildings/sandbar-burleigh-heads-1969-1971-gold-coast-highway-burleigh-heads">Sandbar</a> in 2018, and its late 2023 completion has given them a competitive advantage of having the largest, and newest, three-bedroom apartments in Burleigh Heads.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7013 project_image_fid=86642]

The apartments total nearly 190 sqm, with around 155 sqm of internal living space and a further 30 sqm of balcony space.

Morris Property Group designed the building in a way that the three-bed apartments fully maximise the coastal views, both north and south.

Morris Property Group Sales Director Travis Welsh says capturing significant view lines north and south is something a lot of other buildings can't offer.

"While prices always go higher on the beachfront, they don't offer the panoramic north-south views that we can," Welsh says.

"Because they're smaller buildings and half or full-floor apartments, the floorplan tends to prioritise the living, kitchen and dining rooms toward the front of the apartment facing the beach, keeping the bedrooms at the back. Every bedroom in our three-bedroom collection has significant ocean views, not just glimpses."

The three-bedroom apartments were designed to wrap around the front of the building, giving them extensive views and allow the maximum amount of natural light.

The three-bedroom apartments start from level 14, so they soar above any established buildings as well as any other developments that are currently in with the council.

<img alt="Sandbar" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4940406f-c3e8-4dbb-9edc-9119070f53ad" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-04-12%20at%202.19.42%20pm.png?VersionId=gOF_kNhe6z1Yef7K49PsnsYGVSGp3Q_Y" />

Welsh says the large apartments typically suit a more mature demographic given their price point. He adds however they're still incredibly undervalued in a Burleigh market which has seen exponential growth in recent years.

"We've found that Sydneysiders in particular are still seeing a lot of value in the three-bedroom apartments," Welsh says.

"They're comparing Burleigh Heads to Bondi Beach, in terms of lifestyle and the lack of supply of new apartments, however, prices in Bondi can be double what we've got on offer for something much smaller."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7013 project_image_fid=269973]

Welsh has fielded interest from several interstate buyers who have a view of three different uses for the apartment; a high-yielding holiday let, a holiday home for themselves, and a future retirement pad.

"Morris Property Group manages the whole building, so there's a level of ease when it comes to holiday letting that you don't get at other apartment developments," Welsh adds.

Residents at Sandbar have access to a suite of building amenities. The recreation deck features a swimming pool, fully-equipped gym, yoga deck, residents lounge, and a covered barbecue area.

The remaining three-bedroom apartments at Sandbar start from $3,449,900

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=7013]

Morris Property Group Sales Director Travis Welsh says capturing significant view lines north and south is something a lot of other buildings can't offer

Morris Property Group offer Burleigh Heads' biggest apartments at Sandbar Burleigh

Renowned Sunshine Coast developer Cube Developments is down to its last remaining penthouse at its under-construction Bokarina Beach apartment development, Oasis.

The two-level penthouse, priced at $5.6 million, spans 242 sqm internally and more than doubles in size given the generous amount of terracing and a private rooftop which takes the total space to well over 500 sqm.

<img alt="Oasis" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="174c9ada-40a7-4521-947d-1fe02aa7fe50" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-04-15%20at%203.13.22%20pm.png?VersionId=N3fPGSoM8PlqqQgAQ8DHy2YH_Z6G5FPw" />

Local Queensland architect Cameron Sheedy, responsible for the design of Oasis, emphasised the importance of prioritising airflow and natural light, creating what he described as "an extremely superior product" in the market.&nbsp;

The penthouse features soaring double-storey glass windows that provide expansive ocean and hinterland views.

<img alt="Oasis" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="061c14ec-b46f-4882-a5be-3138b800164a" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-04-15%20at%203.13.35%20pm.png?VersionId=nxjNi1i8.4DDKZnyeL5Np.xtvhgMtezy" />The view from the penthouse. Image supplied

Cube Developments' interior designer Sarah Busch spoke of the subtle yet elegant design choices within the penthouse, featuring soft and neutral tones that complement the expansive views.

The penthouse extends onto a private landscaped rooftop terrace complete with a pool, custom joinery with BBQ, kitchen garden and zoned entertainment seating spaces. 
 
The penthouse includes a large glass surround fireplace, with meticulously considered joinery designed to appear closer to an art piece addition. The kitchen features an integrated fridge, Smeg appliances, and a full suite of laundry appliances tucked away in a dedicated laundry space.

An elevated and private home office ensures future residents will be able to work from home with ease.

Buyers of the penthouse also have the option to add a window covering package, adding to the convenience and comfort of their new home.

Penthouse buyers will also benefit from Oasis’ boutique amenities, including open-air dining with pizza oven, gym, swimming pool, and an outdoor beach shower set among the secure and lush garden compound.&nbsp;Beyond this, the site boasts maximised access to almost 180-degree ocean views stretching north from Point Cartwright down to the Caloundra Headland.&nbsp;

Upon completion, Oasis will be home to 56 luxury apartments located on one of the last remaining beachfront blocks on&nbsp;<a href="/developments/bokarina-qld-4575">Bokarina</a> Beach.

<img alt="Oasis" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="545d5d82-6330-421d-a3a5-d62e7c20b7b7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-04-15%20at%203.13.41%20pm.png?VersionId=m9Rolt7k0I2SQs1001bpGPiPkPESRxI_" />

At the time of the purchase of the Kombi Street site, Cube Director Scott Juniper said the 3,215 sqm block, located between Caloundra and Mooloolaba and adjacent to <a href="/buildings/the-terraces-at-bokarina-beach-corner-lake-kawana-boulevard-birtinya-boulevard-birtinya">Bokarina Beach</a>, was earmarked for a six-level apartment building of up to 75 apartments.

But Juniper wanted to go the other way, planning something more boutique which would offer a point of difference to the other developments in the masterplan.

“Four of the six sites nearby are under construction and are quite large scale, large built form projects, some with over 100 units,” Juniper said, adding that those developments will have ground floor activation.

“We’re looking to go boutique, with larger format units, and really build to the strength of what Bokarina Beach has become,” Juniper said.

The other five two-level penthouses have been snapped up, with buyers ranging from locals to those from Brisbane, Sydney and even Singapore.

Oasis is over 90 per cent sold and is expected to complete in late 2024.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=109813]

Oasis is over 90 per cent sold and is expected to complete in late 2024

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