<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/smith-by-valli-collingwood-224-228-smith-street-collingwood-vic-3066">Smith Collingwood</a> is a new boutique apartment development bringing a refined, design-led approach to one of Melbourne’s most established inner-city neighbourhoods.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/pandolfini-architects">Pandolfini Architects</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/lisa-buxton-interiors">Lisa Buxton</a>, Smith by Valli sits on iconic Smith Street and comprises just 22 residences tailored toward owner-occupiers seeking a more considered style of apartment living.

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The design of Smith focuses on a north-facing orientation across all residences, a relatively uncommon feature in dense inner-Melbourne settings. Each apartment has been planned to maximise natural light and outlook, alongside a material palette defined by warm tones, custom joinery, and a full suite of Gaggenau appliances.

The development comprises a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, with pricing currently ranging from just under $1 million to around $4.85 million for the premium penthouse-level residences, reflecting growing demand for luxury owner-occupier product in Melbourne’s inner urban market.

Residents will also have access to a private rooftop garden designed as an elevated retreat above the city, &nbsp;featuring curated landscaping, veggie boxes, intimate seating areas and spaces for relaxed gatherings. Sustainability has also been integrated into the project through a 7-star energy rating and two secure bicycle facilities for every residence.

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Smith by Valli sits in the heart of one of Melbourne’s most established retail and hospitality strips, within walking distance of venues such as Falco Bakery, Carnation Canteen and Alimentari, alongside parks and everyday services. With a Walk Score of 99, the location reinforces the project’s positioning toward buyers prioritising walkability and access over car dependency.

With only a limited number of residences, Smith reflects growing demand for smaller, highly curated apartment developments that prioritise design quality, liveability, and connection to neighbourhood character.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=140747]

Joel Robinson

Smith by Valli delivers a refined collection of luxury residences to Melbourne’s inner north

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/far-east-consortium">Far East Consortium</a>’s 640 Bourke Street stands as a testament to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">Melbourne</a>’s ability to bridge its storied past with a bold vision for the future.&nbsp;

Rising above the heritage-listed Eliza Tinsley building, the development reflects a broader shift toward adaptive reuse in the city, where historical assets are retained and reinterpreted as part of new residential development.

Designed by <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/640-bourke-street-melbourne-640-bourke-street-melbourne-vic-3000">640 Bourke Street</a> incorporates the Eliza Tinsley building as its foundation, housing a grand gallery and lobby space that serve as both a functional and symbolic centrepiece. The heritage façade informs the tower’s design, creating a connection between Melbourne’s past and its contemporary skyline.

"It's a significant asset and wants to be celebrated and experienced by all residents every single time they go in and out of the building," Rothelowman Principal Stuart Marsland said.

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Above this historic base, the 68-storey tower will deliver just over 600 residences, a notable reduction from earlier schemes, reflecting a deliberate move toward larger-format apartments and a stronger owner-occupier focus.

Unlike traditional CBD developments that prioritised investor stock, 640 Bourke Street has been repositioned to respond to changing buyer expectations.

"The discussion was all around making 640 Bourke Street the best residence to live in, to be much more focused on the people in the building rather than people looking at the building," Marsland explained.&nbsp;

This shift is evident in the development’s interiors, which emphasise practical luxury with spacious layouts, high ceilings, and floor-to-ceiling windows framing sweeping views of Melbourne and Port Phillip Bay.&nbsp;

“What it's meant for 640 Bourke is we've actually reduced the number of apartments. We've increased the overall size of the apartments. We don't have any studios in here, and what that does for a project is it elevates it," Lauren Sheldon, Far East Consortium’s Director of Sales and Marketing, said.&nbsp;

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Rothelowman Associate Jun Chang added, "We were given the opportunity to be more generous. The apartments became bigger and squarer than any other apartments which had been designed in the CBD before that."&nbsp;

Amenities spanning more than 3,000 sqm across multiple levels further reinforce this focus on resident experience. These include a pool, gym, co-working areas, and a range of hospitality-inspired spaces such as a whisky lounge, library, and private dining rooms, many drawing reference from traditional bathhouses and Melbourne’s laneway culture.

"We wanted to make both the pool and the gym area to be absolutely destinational, and when you traverse across to these spaces, there is a gentle familiarity to the beautiful notions of the hammams and the Roman baths, a gentle nod to history," Chang noted.

At street level, the project contributes to the ongoing transformation of the western CBD, with upgrades to Langs Lane and the introduction of retail, hospitality, and gallery spaces designed to activate the precinct and strengthen its connection to the surrounding city fabric.

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The location places residents within walking distance of Southern Cross Station, Flagstaff Gardens, Queen Victoria Market, and the Docklands waterfront, positioning the development within a rapidly evolving inner-city neighbourhood.

"We believe it's the best site left in the city of Melbourne," Craig Williams, Executive Director at Far East Consortium, said.&nbsp;

640 Bourke Street is Far East Consortium’s 14th building in Melbourne’s western CBD.

"A very elegant designed building. It's going to be a Melbourne statement for many, many years to come."

One-bedroom apartments are priced from around $640,000, with 640 Bourke Street targeting completion in 2029.

Renders shown are Artist's Impressions correct as of May 2026.

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Heritage-led design anchors Far East Consortium’s 640 Bourke St, Melbourne

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mayd-group">MAYD Group</a> has set a new residential price record in Queensland with the $30 million sale of the penthouse at its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/one-burleigh-88-the-esplanade-burleigh-heads-qld-4220">ONE Burleigh</a> development in Burleigh Heads.

The sale equates to around $37,500 per sqm.

The two-level, 800 sqm penthouse, featuring five bedrooms, five bathrooms, five car spaces, and a private infinity pool overlooking the Pacific Ocean, was acquired by a Gold Coast-based entrepreneur, highlighting continued demand for ultra-premium beachfront product.

Selling agent Freddie Tehle of PRD Burleigh Heads said the result reflects tightening supply of high-quality, large-format apartments in Burleigh.

“There’s very limited opportunity to secure this level of scale and absolute beachfront position in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/burleigh-heads-qld-4220">Burleigh Heads</a>,” Tehle said.

“Buyers are increasingly seeking apartments that genuinely replace a standalone home, and this penthouse delivers that with its size, privacy, and direct ocean frontage.”

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The sale comes as construction progresses on ONE Burleigh, a boutique development of 17 full-floor residences at 88 The Esplanade, scheduled for completion in early 2027.

Developed by MAYD Group and designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/mas-architecture-studio">MAS Architecture</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/sici-design">Sici Design</a>, the project has been positioned as a collection of house-sized beachfront apartments, each occupying an entire floor with around 381 sqm of internal and external living space.

When construction commenced, MAYD director Todd Mould pointed to the long-term resilience of premium coastal real estate as a key driver behind the project.

“Real estate, particularly at the premium end, remains one of the most resilient and proven long-term investment avenues,” Mould said.

“Our ambition is that anyone who buys a MAYD-built product can genuinely feel the care, craftsmanship and commitment we bring to every detail.”

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Each residence has been configured with four bedrooms, multiple living zones, a private office, and expansive ocean-facing terraces. Interiors draw on a restrained material palette, including travertine stone, timber joinery, and integrated premium appliances.

Interior designer Sici Design said the approach was to reflect the project’s coastal setting through both materiality and spatial planning.

“ONE Burleigh is our vision of luxury living, designed to bring the essence of Burleigh Heads' vibrant coastal beauty into an unparalleled residential experience.”

Residents will have access to a suite of wellness-focused amenities, including pools, sauna facilities, and dedicated relaxation spaces, reflecting a broader shift toward lifestyle-driven apartment design on the Gold Coast.

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The project occupies a southern Esplanade site with uninterrupted beachfront frontage, an increasingly rare offering in Burleigh Heads, free from the Norfolk Pines that line much of the coastline and often limit direct ocean outlook.

Mould said the design intent was to balance that outlook with a sense of retreat.

“Living at ONE Burleigh is about how your day naturally unfolds, morning light across the ocean, coffee on the balcony, and being in Burleigh but elevated above the noise.”

The result further reinforces Burleigh Heads’ emergence as one of the Gold Coast’s most tightly held and supply-constrained beachfront markets, where boutique, owner-occupier-focused developments are increasingly setting new price benchmarks.

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MAYD Group sets Queensland record with $30 million penthouse sale at ONE Burleigh in Burleigh Heads

Apartment developers in the Gold Coast are finding new, creative ways to differentiate themselves from competing projects, as new supply starts to flow through up and down the Coast.

Developer BIG Projects brought in the renowned Sydney-based design studio YSG Studio to craft the interiors for The Frederick, BIG Projects' new Mermaid Beach project and YSG Studio's first move into the multi-residential development space.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110588 project_image_fid=5346]

It was a strategic move for BIG Projects to bring in a Sydney eye to the development.

“Our role is to give our design partners the space and freedom to explore,” says Matt Barrett, Director of BIG Projects.

“We wanted YSG Studio to capture the essence of Nobby’s, to design a building that embraces life, light and connection, while creating a genuine sense of place.”

There are only 39 apartments in The Frederick, including a striking beach house, just 100 metres from the booming Nobby Beach precinct.&nbsp;

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Yasmine Ghoniem, Director of YSG Studio, says their vision&nbsp;for The Frederick "reinvents coastal living."

“Nobby’s has such an iconic energy, it’s one of those rare pockets of the Gold Coast where the community, the beach, and the streets all feel connected,” Ghoniem says.

"Responding to the neighbouring coastline, soothing curves add a relaxing regional overlay, while unique detailing really sets it apart. It’s a place that feels lived in from the moment you step inside.”

A standout feature of The Frederick is its rooftop terrace, an uncommon inclusion for a boutique, low-rise building, where amenity is typically concentrated at ground level.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110588 project_image_fid=5360]

Positioned to capture panoramic views from the hinterland to the ocean, the rooftop has been designed as a series of intimate zones. It includes a pool, sauna, sun decks, workspaces and dedicated entertaining areas.

“The rooftop was conceived as a collection of spaces where residents can unwind and connect, an extension of the Nobby’s lifestyle,” Barrett says.

Architecture for the project was led by Plus Studio, with landscape design by LDG Landscape Architecture.

SRQ Projects Director Nick Clydsdale, who is handling sales at The Frederick, says the majority of enquiry is coming from South East QLD and Victorian buyers who have been actively searching between Broadbeach and Mermaid Beach for some time.

"They’ve reviewed a number of projects, however this one has stood out for its unique detailing and compelling design,"&nbsp;Clydsdale says.

Site demolition is slated for this month, with construction commencing soon after. BIG Projects is targeting a late 2027 completion.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=110588]

Sydney’s YSG Studio makes Gold Coast multi-residential debut with BIG Projects at The Frederick

Melbourne-based property developer ALTA Property has this week achieved planning approval for the adaptive re-use of a former commercial tower into a $200 million, 169-apartment project at 10 Queens Road, one of the last developable sites along the Albert Park Lake-fronting boulevard.&nbsp;

Set within one of Melbourne’s most sought-after precincts and designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fraser-partners-0">Fraser and Partners</a>, the illustrious building will offer unparalleled views across Albert Park Lake, Port Phillip Bay and Melbourne CBD.&nbsp;

The mix of 1, 2 and 3-bedroom residences will be complemented by a ground-floor amenity featuring private dining, a lounge bar, gym and wellness spaces, co-working, outdoor communal gardens, and retail.&nbsp;

The 17-storey building is a masterclass in adaptive re-use, with the existing commercial building’s façade, shell and internal structure to be retained, before high-end residences are built from the ground up in a newly built Albert Park facing addition to the building.&nbsp;

Sitting atop the building will be two 320+sqm penthouses with private rooftop terraces, which are expected to be priced between $9 - $11 million.&nbsp;

<img alt="ALTA Property achieves permit approval for $200 million Queens Road tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="aa11211b-5581-43f9-940c-fc84d30a0e61" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/C_04.png?VersionId=Yhf5p_1EgGDu_zOIMFgvA8Ug8j3sTFQs" />

Architecturally, the building will feature a curved, geometric façade that celebrates and elevates the existing structure, with warm, muted tones which were selected to extend the materiality of the existing building rather than contrast it.&nbsp;

Interiors will bring together three metre high ceilings with waffle concrete in some spaces, natural timber, granite and Australian materials, culminating in crafted, generous and considered spaces that are defined by authenticity.&nbsp;

The adaptive re-use means that the Queens Road project will be a sustainability led, high-quality finished product, with a 62% saving in carbon emissions by re-using the existing structure rather than knocking it down and rebuilding.&nbsp;

ALTA Property was launched by Nigel Givoni in 2023, bringing over 25 years of experience in multi level residential delivery.&nbsp;

Melbourne’s property market growth is currently led by apartments. According to RPM VIC Apartments &amp; Townhomes Market Report (April 2026), units are outpacing houses, especially in the middle ring suburbs where median prices hit $757,500 – a four-year high that represents 2.9 percent growth quarter-on-quarter.&nbsp;

<img alt="ALTA Property achieves permit approval for $200 million Queens Road tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="647e13d7-b4bc-433a-9bc9-fe3c3dd4f2ec" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/V_06.png?VersionId=ou4NUCWUgA3NAy.6CQJlEdKX50j3dOk6" />

For ALTA Property Founder Nigel Givoni, this performance speaks to the confidence he has in the Melbourne market.&nbsp;

“Queens Road represents a rare opportunity to continue to shape our presence in the Melbourne market.,"&nbsp;Givoni says.

"With a considered project team and a premier site along one of the city’s most sought-after boulevards, we look forward to contributing to the fabric of this established address.

“Other Australian markets are getting a lot of attention, but I believe the depth of value in Melbourne is being overlooked. The fundamentals are strong, population growth is steady and, based on our preliminary conversations with a leading builder, construction costs are beginning to normalise, creating further opportunity."

Givoni says the project is a&nbsp;highly considered example of adaptive re-use, delivering quality, high-end residences, premium hotel-inspired amenities and an architecturally striking façade, all achieved without the need to remove the existing structure.

"We are really looking forward to the market’s response,” he said.&nbsp;

ALTA Property to deliver $200 million Queens Road apartment tower

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?

Sydney-based developer Sloane Place has introduced Stonequarry Residences, a masterplanned community of 51 designer townhomes in Picton, the&nbsp;a small town in the Macarthur Region not far from Campbelltown.

The townhomes&nbsp;have been designed by the Quinlan Group and offer different configurations which are most likely to be sought-after by local families.

Prices for the three-bedroom townhouses start at $759,000, while the four-beds start at $825,000. There are a handful of four-bedroom cottages, priced from $979,000.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=142877 project_image_fid=235451]

With an emphasis on light, warmth and space, Stonequarry Residences balances timeless character with the needs of a modern family. Various layouts and living areas allow homeowners to choose their preferred lifestyle.

The expansive windows in each residence welcome ample natural light and ventilation and bring the outdoors inside—allowing a modern interpretation of alfresco dining in each home's private courtyard.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=142877 project_image_fid=235468]

The kitchen, a focal point in each townhome, is designed for practicality and style, complemented by impressive dining areas for entertaining guests and family.

The master bedroom is more than just a place to sleep—featuring large windows providing ample natural light and ventilation and an ensuite for a more private and convenient bedroom experience.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=142877 project_image_fid=235463]

The bathrooms at Stonequarry Residences feature natural timber vanities, full-height tiles, brush nickel tapware and bathroom hardware from PARASI to ensure a timeless and luxurious environment.

Beyond the comforts of the townhomes, Stonequarry Residences presents a vibrant local atmosphere. Not far from Campbelltown, Stonequarry Residences are ideally located with parklands on one side and Menangle Street on the other.

Stonequarry Residences is estimated to be completed in early 2025.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=142877]

Stonequarry Residences have been designed by the Quinlan Group and offer different configurations which are most likely to be sought-after by local families.



Rare new townhouse development launches in Picton village

EG Funds Management are bringing over 550 apartments to the vastly undersupplied Brisbane apartment market.

They're splitting their approved Fortitude Valley building in half, vertically not horizontally, creating two towers, one with 326 build to rent apartments, the other with 225 build to sell apartments across 33 levels.

The vast 3,582 sqm block stretches across 80 McLachlan Street and 801 Ann Street, while also having street frontages to Moregan and Connor Streets. the BTR tower will face Ann Street and the BTS tower McLachlan Street.

The Town Planning Report by Urbis said&nbsp;the Rothelowman-designed proposal delivers an exemplary design outcome that offers choice and diversity for both the apartment and rental market in Brisbane.

<img alt="EG" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f87be608-8e20-4b6b-8ad2-2a55af6b947e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-11-27%20at%203.45.10%20pm.png?VersionId=frciwo0Om0LJL5Bj53P54k0S9Mz2rNQa" />

"The development provides a memorable marker to the inner-city skyline, with vertical landscaping dispersed generously and use of contrasting colour palettes between the two towers," Urbis noted in their Assessment Report.

"The materiality creates a modern residential development with subtropical components that suitably respond to the site’s context and are unique to Brisbane."

Urbis said a key aspect of the development proposal is its building height.

"The proposed concept relies upon the existing approved height of the commercial scheme and enhances the design to provide a more refined outcome for the site involving two separate towers with greater setbacks and separation as well as reduced tower site cover."

<img alt="EG Funds" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fd17c6e1-c060-4abd-89d6-2124547dfb90" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-11-27%20at%203.44.50%20pm.png?VersionId=3eG1_QsuiRkmT7uRGqkZN1Zf9iqVqlPr" />

They said significant events have occurred since the receipt of the two previous approvals, including COVID-19, population growth, and confirmation of Brisbane as the host city for the 2032 Olympics.

"These significant events have stimulated changes to policy direction for planning and development of Brisbane.

"Recent federal, national and local strategic policies are expressing a consistent direction whereby increased height and density is supported in appropriate locations, particularly to address a critical economic and community need for housing supply.

"The proposal is aligned with this emerging policy direction, as the site is a large island site with no adjoining sensitive uses and receivers and highly accessible to public transport, employment and goods and services.

"It is of an appropriate scale and density that can accommodate significant on-site population to support the day- and night-time economy of Fortitude Valley."

<img alt="EG" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fabcd145-42f6-4c2b-947b-77f5f4eb69d3" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-11-27%20at%203.50.41%20pm.png?VersionId=_lLRzKvOl8DwEDn6YXUhCU2bdA.Agjwh" />The former approval, left, vs the new plans, right

Architecture firm Rothelowman said in their Urban Context Report that the towers will make a "genuine contribution to helping solve the current housing crisis that affects Brisbane and Australia as a whole."

Part of the proposal is over 1,000 sqm of retail space which activates all four street frontages and provides a day/night economy to the area.

There will be around 300 sqm of purpose built community use space operated by the Little Big Foundation,&nbsp;over 400 sqm of privately owned public space in the form of a covered colonnade, activated plaza and sub-tropical gardens, and a subtropical colonnade along Morgan St that links together two heritage buildings; The Osbourne Hotel and St Patricks Cathedral.

Rothelowman said a deliberate focus on the power of landscape is at the heart of all design strategies embedded in the project.

<img alt="EG Funds FV" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ece0022e-f723-4520-bc83-ba976eb816ed" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-11-27%20at%203.42.59%20pm.png?VersionId=KFlCgUpGY4QaxL7fSgxruiE8QF.7NAmJ" />

"801 Ann St seeks to provide an exemplary residential project grounded in a deep understanding of place and a sincere dedication to life in the subtropics. The design seeks to reimagine urban living with a central focus on community, generosity, and connection to nature. This approach and attitude is fundamental in providing a future focused methodology to delivering much needed housing within our rapidly evolving city.," Rothelowman said.

"Crafted through a meticulous analysis of the site and its surroundings, 801 Ann aims to seamlessly engage with the existing context of Fortitude Valley whilst offering rejuvenation to one of the more intense inner-city suburbs of Brisbane. It envisions weaving a vibrant, active, and generous urban atmosphere into the Valley heart, utilizing urban gestures and deep sheltered public spaces to establish a porous and harmonious interface with the city."

Both towers feature rooftop recreation decks with a pool, spa area, sun deck, dining room and kitchen and BBQ areas, as well as further amenity on level five with a gym for each building, a wellness spa, library, and work from home spaces.

EG Funds Management has over $5.1 billion in assets under management and a $3.9 billion development pipeline across Australia. They intend to keep the BTR tower, which they will let a national operator manage.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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The Town Planning Report by Urbis said the Rothelowman-designed proposal delivers an exemplary design outcome that offers choice and diversity for both the apartment and rental market in Brisbane

EG Funds to plug Brisbane housing supply hole with build to rent and build to sell plan apartment towers in Fortitude Valley

South East Queensland property developer Sherpa has continued to show its confidence in the <a href="/developments/gold-coast-qld">Gold Coast</a> with the acquisition of three premier sites.

<a href="/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa</a>, led by Christie Leet, has recently purchased a 1710 sqm site at <a href="/new-apartments/perspective-helm">107 Stanhill Drive</a> in <a href="/developments/chevron-island-qld-4217">Chevron Island</a>, a 915 sqm site at 45 <a href="/developments/labrador-qld-4215">Labrador</a> Street in <a href="/developments/labrador-qld-4215">Labrador</a>, and a 17-hectare site on Winchelsea Way at Terranora for future residential developments.

The acquisitions come on the heels of the company's sell-out success of its Perspective Broadwater project and the near sell-out of Perspective on Albatross in Mermaid Beach, as well as the launch of their latest Perspective project, <a href="/developments/palm-beach-qld-4221">Perspective Nexus Palm Beach</a>.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108324 project_image_fid=228359]

<a href="/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa Property Group</a> founder Christie Leet said the company was keen to explore further opportunities as its recent projects were nearing completion.

"We’re very bullish on the <a href="/developments/gold-coast-qld">Gold Coast</a> market and these latest acquisitions will enable us to continue to build and grow <a href="/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa</a> brand as a residential developer of choice for discerning buyers,” he said.

“We believe and have long held the belief that the <a href="/developments/gold-coast-qld">Gold Coast</a> is poised for remarkable growth in the years to come, and we are thrilled to be able to provide high-end luxury residential offerings as the city matures and grows.

“We see tremendous potential in <a href="/developments/chevron-island-qld-4217">Chevron Island</a>, Labrador and Terranora as three of the best sites site available in the <a href="/developments/gold-coast-qld">Gold Coast region</a>. Choosing these locations for our new projects aligns with our vision of creating premium living spaces that contribute to the vibrant character of the Gold Coast.”

<img alt="Perspective" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="dbc56d21-04f1-41e4-8a56-d4eac83800c8" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-11-27%20at%203.21.16%20pm.png?VersionId=tTr.fLP6hhmDww1_GbiXF9nmi_UbBRaK" />The <a href="/developments/chevron-island-qld-4217">Chevron Island </a>riverfront site will be another addition to Sherpa’s ‘Perspective’ brand and deliver a luxury riverfront project.

<a href="/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa</a> secured a <a href="/developments/labrador-qld-4215">Labrador</a> site for a small lot subdivision, a return to its roots and the 'Freedom' brand which the company believe is the future of housing on the <a href="/developments/gold-coast-qld">Gold Coast</a>. Their Terranora acquisition, a large lot subdivision in Northern NSW, will be a part of Sherpa's 'Estates' brand.

<a href="/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa Property Group</a> is currently in the planning stages for the three projects, with a development application expected to be lodged for the <a href="/developments/chevron-island-qld-4217">Chevron</a> site in late 2023.

Leet said the growth trajectory of the <a href="/developments/gold-coast-qld">Gold Coast</a> was simply astounding.

“Apartment sales have increased, and stock levels have decreased – we are keen to fill that void,” said Leet.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108324 project_image_fid=232461]

New data from Urbis has revealed a <a href="/news/qld/gold-coast-apartment-sales-jump-in-q3-2023-urbis">significant increase in apartment sales from the previous quarter</a>. The majority of these sales were centred around the traditional apartment precincts of Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach and Main Beach.

Sherpa has undertaken 11 projects on the <a href="/developments/gold-coast-qld">Gold Coast</a> over the last six years. These include Scenic Ridge at Bilambil Heights, Freedom Caba at Cabarita, Freedom Rainbow Bay at Rainbow Bay, Freedom Skyline at Ashmore, The Golden Four at Bilinga, Perspective 202 at Bilinga, Perspective 488 and Perspective Two Sea at Palm Beach, Perspective Broadwater at Biggera Waters, Perspective on Albatross at Mermaid Beach and Perspective Nexus at Palm Beach.

Sherpa Property Group founder Christie Leet said the company was keen to explore further opportunities as its recent projects were nearing completion

Sherpa secure three new residential development sites 

DVB Projects has received approval from the Planning and Environmental Court to develop a 26-level apartment tower on First Avenue in <a href="/developments/broadbeach-qld-4218">Broadbeach</a>.

The green light comes nearly two years after DVB submitted their development application, which had initially faced rejection from the <a href="/new-apartments/gold-coast-qld">Gold Coast City Council</a> in mid-2021. The council expressed concerns about the application's adherence to the City Plan, particularly regarding the building's height limit and shadowing issues. However, DVB contested these concerns and successfully won the appeal.

Under the leadership of managing director Dean Brown, DVB Projects is now spearheading the luxury project—<a href="/new-apartments/sea-glass-2-first-avenue-broadbeach">Sea Glass</a>, a 35-apartment tower designed by Rothelowman.

<a data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="47c560dc-81ed-49ae-82e8-6f16789453be" href="/new-apartments/sea-glass-2-first-avenue-broadbeach"><img alt="Seaglass" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-11-27%20at%203.07.26%20pm.png?VersionId=Q63Todu60dlrN1okVvGyK57tIkxG0oI." /></a>

<a href="/new-apartments/sea-glass-2-first-avenue-broadbeach">Sea Glass</a> will comprise 35 high-end apartments, including 26 half-floors, eight full-floors, and one penthouse. The half-floor residences will start at 252 sqm, the entire floors at 555 sqm, and the penthouse at 1504 sqm. Sea Glass marks the DVB Project's inaugural development on the <a href="/new-apartments/gold-coast-qld">Gold Coast</a>.

Featuring state-of-the-art automation technology, each <a href="/new-apartments/sea-glass-2-first-avenue-broadbeach">Sea Glass</a> apartment allows residents to control various aspects of their homes effortlessly. Circadian lighting supports alertness and sleep, the Sonos sound system provides room-by-room audio, and a gas fireplace adds warmth in cooler months. Ducted and zoned air-conditioning ensures year-round comfort.

<a data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="05b18cd0-453b-465e-bd88-211d8fbc7f48" href="/new-apartments/sea-glass-2-first-avenue-broadbeach"><img alt="Sea Glass" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-11-27%20at%203.06.47%20pm.png?VersionId=T6Jg56QJlvEvGj5ejEmKG04CG7dj2UtW" /></a>

Meanwhile, residents will enjoy various resort-style amenities in <a href="/new-apartments/sea-glass-2-first-avenue-broadbeach">Sea Glass</a>, including a pool, hot and cold spa, gymnasium, steam/sauna, yoga room, private meeting room, communal office space, and a surf craft store room.

The building also has three levels of basement parking, with provisions for electric vehicle charging stations to cater to future electric vehicle owners.

<a data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e2744199-c566-4cda-8a85-3a9add5eb88e" href="/new-apartments/sea-glass-2-first-avenue-broadbeach"><img alt="Sea Glass" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-11-27%20at%203.09.50%20pm.png?VersionId=X7W3jSmbzC7XRgFJ7eQXZ0xfhHe3Fywz" /></a>

Just a short walk from the Gold Coast Beach, Sea Glass will rise on an amalgamated beachfront site at 2 First Avenue and the adjoining 655 sqm 88 Old Burleigh Rd site. DVB acquired the latter for $6.8 million and the former for $7.1 million in 2020 from Brisbane property veteran Kevin Seymour.

DVB commenced demolition of the two-storey mansion on site in July 2020, initially revealing plans for a nine-storey development.

The anticipated completion date for <a href="/new-apartments/sea-glass-2-first-avenue-broadbeach">Sea Glass</a> is mid-2025.

Sea Glass will comprise 35 high-end apartments, including 26 half-floors, eight full-floors, and one penthouse

DVB Projects win approval for Sea Glass, Broadbeach apartment development

MONNO Projects has been given the greenlight to develop a second residential development in the <a href="/new-apartments/geelong-vic-3220">Geelong area</a>.

Fresh off appointing a builder for their luxury Rippleside development Stella Maris, MONNO, led by former Costa Fox executives Geno Hubar and Robert Costa, has been given sign off for their central <a href="/new-apartments/geelong-vic-3220">Geelong apartment</a> project <a href="/new-apartments/moorabool-61-71-moorabool-street-geelong">Moorabool at 61-71 Moorabool Street</a>, near Westfield <a href="/new-apartments/geelong-vic-3220">Geelong</a>.

The 12-level development designed by JCB Architects will comprise 58 apartments above first floor commercial office space and ground floor hospitality and retail.

MONNO says the architecture of <a href="/new-apartments/moorabool-61-71-moorabool-street-geelong">Moorabool</a> pays homage to the city’s industrial woolshed heritage through its considered red and charcoal brick facade.

"At the same time, the design looks to an evolving laneway culture by incorporating active street frontages, covered arcades and public spaces."

<img alt="Geelong" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ba326e1e-6f1d-47fb-9885-ff61b77fa55d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-11-27%20at%201.56.00%20pm.png?VersionId=8Md6oeEcELUapPFKEe4HQKHg4ivB_Cad" />

Residents will have access to a swimming pool and fitness centre, as well as a private rooftop for residents with views across Corio Bay.

Each apartment has been designed with floor-to-ceiling windows to take in views across the city.

<img alt="Monno" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8312c2c6-1ad4-49d9-a822-ce37c748290c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%285%29.jpg?VersionId=S9uLAYQ0qOEkBe0SoGvGLp9HvCs.wbv5" />

Monno recently announced Ireland Brown Constructions as the builder for their Corio Bay waterfront development Stella Maris.

Stella Maris, on the fringe of Geelong on a prized 1.25-hectare waterfront site which hadn't traded hands in over a century, will home 54 apartments, townhouses and duplexes across four buildings

Read more: <a href="/news/vic/monno-projects-appoint-builder-for-luxury-geelong-residential-development-stella-maris">MONNO Projects appoint builder for luxury Geelong residential development, Stella Maris</a>

Monno's recent approval brings further needed supply to the growing suburb. Population in Central Geelong is expected to reach over 14,000 by 2041, up 82 per cent from where it is currently.

DM Property recently launched their Rothelowman low-rise development <a href="/new-apartments/geelong-vic-3220">Motif</a>, which has already sold 35 per cent of its 129 units to first home buyers and downsizer, as well as some interstate investors.

The most recent launch in <a href="/new-apartments/geelong-vic-3220">Geelong</a> was Cunningham Place by Amber Property, just 60 apartments above a 168-room hotel.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/vic/motif-geelong-apartment-sales-rocket-on-launch">Motif Geelong apartment sales rocket on launch</a>

&nbsp;

The 12-level development designed by JCB Architects will comprise 58 apartments above first floor commercial office space and ground floor hospitality and retail

MONNO Projects secure approval for second Geelong apartment development

Prolific Gold Coast developer <a href="/developers/aniko-group">Aniko Group</a> is set to break ground on its next project, the $150 million <a href="/new-apartments/orama-chevron-island-12-16-weemala-street-chevron-island">Orama</a> apartments at <a href="/developments/chevron-island-qld-4217">Chevron Island</a>.

<a href="/new-apartments/orama-chevron-island-12-16-weemala-street-chevron-island">Orama</a> is the latest in a project portfolio of more than $2 billion by the George Mastrocostas-led <a href="/developers/aniko-group">Aniko Group</a>.

<a href="/developers/aniko-group">Aniko</a> has switched its attention to the central <a href="/developments/gold-coast-qld">Gold Coast</a> suburb of <a href="/developments/chevron-island-qld-4217">Chevron Island</a> after completing the largest suburb transformation of <a href="/developments/hope-island-qld-4212">Hope Island</a> where the company has all but sold out more than $500 million of residential apartment and townhouse product.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=111898 project_image_fid=240584]

Once complete, <a href="/new-apartments/orama-chevron-island-12-16-weemala-street-chevron-island">Orama</a> will comprise 102 residences and include two-bedroom apartments from $995,000 to $1.45 million and a range of three-bedroom skyhomes from $1,995,000, offering panoramic views over the central <a href="/developments/gold-coast-qld">Gold Coast</a> skyline.

The project is targeting local downsizers and interstate migrators and is well on its way to a successful sellout.

“We are thrilled with the take-up of <a href="/new-apartments/orama-chevron-island-12-16-weemala-street-chevron-island">Orama</a> which has been highly competitively priced and offers some of the best quality amenities of any project in the precinct,”&nbsp;<a href="/developers/aniko-group">Aniko Group</a> Managing Director George Mastrocostas said.

“Nothing has been an afterthought, from the quality of the apartments themselves to the 550 sqm rooftop recreation area comprising of a gymnasium, pool, spa, residents lounge and a host of other amenities.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=111898 project_image_fid=209597]

The completion of Aniko’s inner <a href="/developments/hope-island-qld-4212">Hope Island</a> developments – the culmination of five years of development transforming inner <a href="/developments/hope-island-qld-4212">Hope Island</a> – has been the trigger for the beginning of construction at <a href="/developments/chevron-island-qld-4217">Chevron Island</a>.

“We’ve been able to redeploy our construction teams after what has been an amazing five-year journey in which we have successfully sold and built some 630 new residential dwellings in <a href="/developments/hope-island-qld-4212">Hope Island</a>,” Mastrocostas added.

“Our <a href="/developments/hope-island-qld-4212">Hope Island</a> experience has allowed us to accelerate our brand awareness out of the <a href="/developments/gold-coast-qld">Gold Coast</a> and we are certainly excited about delivering Orama to new customers.”

Construction gets underway in November and will take approximately 18 months to build with completion scheduled for early 2025.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=111898 project_image_fid=240587]

Mastrocostas said the project had achieved almost $100 million in unconditional sales since its launch to the market earlier this year.

He said some buyers had sold in existing <a href="/developments/chevron-island-qld-4217">Chevron Island</a> projects or had come from other projects that had yet to proceed.

<a href="/developers/aniko-group">Aniko Group</a> is also planning one of the largest transformative projects on the central <a href="/developments/gold-coast-qld">Gold Coast</a> with its proposed $2 billion Seaview master planned precinct at Mermaid Beach currently before council.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=111898]

Construction gets underway in November and will take approximately 18 months to build with completion scheduled for early 2025

Aniko to kick off construction of Chevron Island apartment development, Orama

Melbourne developer <a href="/developers/prime-edition">Prime Edition</a> has launched its latest residential development <a href="/new-apartments/como-toorak-2-bruce-street-toorak">Como Toorak</a>, a collaborative effort between <a href="/developers/prime-edition">Prime Edition</a> and architectural practice <a href="/architects/jolson">Jolson</a>.

The Melbourne-based developer secured the high-profile 2500 sqm site at <a href="/new-apartments/como-toorak-2-bruce-street-toorak">2 Bruce St</a>, an amalgamation of multiple blocks, from AFR Rich Lister Larry Kestleman for a record $26 million in 2022.

This $120 million project will comprise only 17 apartments, including penthouses, immersed in garden foliage and terrace planters designed by Paul Bangay.

<img alt="Prime" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7f0bdd0d-2758-447f-81c2-975a364d0f6d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-11-27%20at%201.10.06%20pm.png?VersionId=FPrK.wxNONROihCFtdtzW6eFjGcRxri0" />

The building's facade features vertical landscaping that softens the architecture and seamlessly blends it with the surroundings. At ground level, meticulously manicured shrubs and a mature tree with blossoming branches will add colour against the neutral tones of the structure.

Beneath the greenery, the building's crafted facade stands out with considered articulation, depth, and textures. Jolson prioritised architectural strength and an authentic character, incorporating premium materials such as handcrafted Spanish bricks, textured render, and column pieces integrated with deep, recessive balconies and garden beds.

“The building’s detail meanders between chiselled forms and curved edges from the exterior to the interior, creating a holistic design language and a distinct design identity,” <a href="/architects/jolson">Jolson</a> Director Mat Wright said.

<img alt="COMO Toorak" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="15aad99e-820c-4fc2-a3a1-cb2265de4d3d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-11-27%20at%201.09.53%20pm.png?VersionId=2sLdjoEXBotrlDRFciJ3cowO6lbo6Btk" />

Como's entrance features large, artisanally made steel gates leading to an arrival lobby where a daytime concierge provides a hotel-like experience for residents and visitors.

Drawing on Jolson's architectural expertise in large-scale private homes, each of the 17 residences has been meticulously considered in every detail, incorporating a palette of natural materials, built-in joinery, custom-designed elements, and a rare generosity of space.

The interplay between gently sculpted contours and the precision of chiselled lines on the facade extends into Como's expansive corridors and living areas.

Expansive glazing maximises views, sunlight, and connections with nature, emphasising a sense of openness. Luxurious and long-wearing surfaces characterise each space, from oak floorboards to polished plastered walls, plush carpeting, natural stone, and textured porcelain tiles.

“The interiors emphasise using texture and form to create an enduring design response. We wanted each space to feel generous and crafted, considered and well planned. Everything should feel calm and imbued with a sense of identity,” <a href="/architects/jolson">Jolson</a> Associate Jaclyn Lee said.

<img alt="Como" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7265594e-fe84-471c-958b-77b866cc903a" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-11-27%20at%201.10.24%20pm.png?VersionId=50yD8mpy2C5X7cNMHuQkGgEyV4291.mS" />

The penthouses, combining the aesthetic principles of the lower residences with the benefits of an elevated position, are wrapped in glass like a pavilion within a private garden terrace overlooking spectacular views across the grass courts of South Yarra Tennis Club and the city skyline.

Each penthouse is appointed with a large-scale kitchen surrounded by glazing for ample sunlight at the heart of the home. The kitchen features a concealed walk-in scullery and multiple dining and bar areas, complemented by stone benchtops and premium appliances.

Outside, the courtyard design aims to provide privacy and maximise natural light, with carefully selected greenery to emphasise texture, movement and softer elements—framed by carefully arranged paving and steppers.

Paul Bangay's landscape design captures the classic elegance of the area's ordered gardens and the vibrant character of <a href="/new-apartments/toorak-vic-3142">Toorak</a> today. The curved facades of Como are mirrored in rounded garden walls and paved areas, with textural foliage softening every space.

Prime Edition's $270 million pipeline of high-end residential projects, set to launch before the end of 2024, includes three other projects, another in <a href="/new-apartments/toorak-vic-3142">Toorak</a>, one in <a href="/new-apartments/south-yarra-vic-3141">South Yarra</a>, and another in <a href="/new-apartments/clifton-hill-vic-3068">Clifton Hill</a>.

Como is slated for completion in 2025.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=139859]

This $120 million project will comprise only 17 apartments, including penthouses, immersed in garden foliage and terrace planters designed by Paul Bangay

Prime Edition launch Jolson-designed Como Toorak apartments

It was 2020 when longtime Melbourne developer Buxton Projects secured a prime site on <a href="/new-apartments/malvern-vic-3144">Malvern</a> Road for their luxury <a href="/new-apartments/toorak-vic-3142">Toorak apartment development</a>, ADA Toorak.

The site was appealing because of not only its <a href="/new-apartments/toorak-vic-3142">Toorak postcode</a>, one of the most affluent suburbs in Australia, but also its proximity to the neighbouring <a href="/new-apartments/malvern-vic-3144">Malvern</a> and the draw of the Glenferrie Road.

<a href="/buildings/ada-toorak-1093-1099-malvern-road-toorak">ADA Toorak</a>, just 22 apartments designed by architect Paul Conrad, whose work is almost exclusively luxury mansions across the world, is a stone's throw from the popular shopping strip, as well as all the transport options it offers. It's also just over 100 metres to the Malvern Hotel, the 1850's pub which is the oldest in the district.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/vic/paul-conrad-brings-new-lens-to-toorak-apartment-living-with-ada-toorak-development">Paul Conrad brings new lens to Toorak apartment living with ADA Toorak development</a>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=92806 project_image_fid=175568]

The Route 72 tram, Route 604 bus service, and nearby <a href="/new-apartments/toorak-vic-3142">Toorak</a>, Gardiner, and Kooyong railway stations connect residents to the neighbouring suburbs and the CBD, just five kilometres away.

Along the stretch of <a href="/new-apartments/malvern-vic-3144">Malvern</a> Road, residents will find numerous boutiques, restaurants, and entertainment options. A short stroll to the corner leads to Glenferrie Road shopping precinct and the bustling High Street, where residents will discover more high-end boutiques, restaurants, entertainment, lifestyle, healthcare, and fitness options.

Otter's Promise, Willow Urban Retreat Cafe, Iroli Japanese, Etto Pasta Bar, Yo-Chi and Blitz Bar are some of the bars, cafes, desserts and dining hot spots along Glenferrie Rd/High St.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=92806 project_image_fid=175567]

Heading west with a quick tram ride up <a href="/new-apartments/toorak-vic-3142">Toorak</a> Road to the very popular Chapel Street, the shopping options continue. Complemented by the Hawksburn Village shopping precinct, <a href="/new-apartments/toorak-vic-3142">Toorak</a> Road features many upscale specialty stores, gift and homeware shops, and fashion boutiques.&nbsp;

Parks and playgrounds, such as the Toorak Park, the Charles Robinette Fountain, and Union Street Gardens, are a stone's throw away from the apartments, serving as an extension of their private courtyards and terraces.

An excellent location for established individuals and growing families, Toorak also offers exceptional schools and childcare facilities.

For parents aspiring to provide their children with the best education, Toorak boasts renowned institutions such as St Kevin's College, Scotch College, and St Catherine's School. Residents will also find Lauriston Girls' School, De La Salle College, and the University of Melbourne within a two-kilometre radius of the property.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=92806 project_image_fid=175568]

&nbsp;

Currently under construction, <a href="/buildings/ada-toorak-1093-1099-malvern-road-toorak">ADA Toorak</a> is expected to complete in mid-2024. Each apartment features&nbsp;grand living areas with vast floor-to-ceiling glass windows and doors that frame the Jack Merlo landscaping.

Buxton Projects Director Josh Buxton says <a href="/buildings/ada-toorak-1093-1099-malvern-road-toorak">ADA</a> brings something different to <a href="/new-apartments/toorak-vic-3142">Toorak</a>, offering a more affordable solution to the bluechip suburb without compromising on quality.

"We wanted to provide the quality Toorak locals have come to expect from high-end homes but in an apartment. We really pushed on the landscaping too so downsizers are still surrounded in greenery without the maintenance of a large yard."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=92806]

Currently under construction, ADA Toorak is expected to complete in mid-2024

Taking in both Toorak and Malvern: How ADA Toorak fits into one of Melbourne's most affluent suburbs

Melbourne-based property developer Ninety Four Feet has unveiled its project Lakeview Te Taumata, a 10-hectare lakeside suburb set to redefine luxury living in the heart of Queenstown.

Situated near the iconic Skyline Gondola, the collaboration with ASX-listed Centuria Capital Group and visionary pioneers from the Britomart precinct in Auckland will transform a former campground on Lake Wakatipu into a vibrant, world-class community over the next decade.

The multi-billion-dollar precinct will encompass diverse offerings, including residential apartments, a co-living building, three hotels, a co-working centre, health and wellness facilities, curated retail spaces, an art gallery and a significant food and beverage offering. The proposed addition of thermal pools, pending approval, will add an exciting dimension to the project.

<img alt="QT" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="588af906-4de9-41bd-a2f3-397be79e4648" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/QT.jpg?VersionId=HLhegLZ5rsDR4CVjMM31sbBSpTuAkev9" />

Architectural renders reveal stone-wrapped shops and restaurants at ground level, complemented by one co-living building and four residential tower blocks, with the tallest reaching twelve stories high.

Over half of the precinct will be dedicated to open public spaces and walkways, fostering a sense of community.

Ninety Four Feet Development Manager Charmaine Balchin stated the project will officially launch in early 2024, with New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty inviting high net worth clients from their database to register their interest now.

The consortium secured the project in a competitive global bid with the Queenstown Lakes District Council in 2019. Subdivision and civil works commenced in 2020, with the handover expected in March 2024.

“Despite global challenges, the Queenstown Lakes District Council has shown remarkable dedication to bringing this ambitious project to fruition,"&nbsp;Balchin said.

“It’s really inspiring to see the precinct forming and we’re excited to bring this community alive with our layers. We anticipate startingconstruction of the first stage coming out of winter 2024."

<img alt="QT" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3708f786-46fe-4348-9786-cf8a5bd02061" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/QT%202.jpg?VersionId=xZRiHZLcwrmQjKdlg0jAmJVC81QbhCoy" />

New Zealand Sotheby’s International Managing Director Mark Harris described Lakeview Te Taumata as Queenstown's first truly world-class master-planned community in the CBD.

Ninety Four Feet emphasise a cohesive design philosophy centred on sustainability, neighbourly intent, and experiential placemaking.Lakeview Te Taumata aims to be a net-positive project for energy, water, and waste. Collaborating with Māori designers, artists, placemakers, and renowned architects Monk Mackenzie and Architectus, the project respects both the natural environment and the cultural heritage of the region.

Prices start at $750,000, offering a range of residential options, including one, two and three-bedroom residences and penthouse suites.

Lakeview Te Taumata follows Ninety Four Feet's successful $250 million Hotel Indigo Auckland and 51 Albert sky residences tower project in Auckland.

Locally, they've recently completed Tommy Residences in Melbourne's Maribyrnong.

Prices start at $750,000, offering a range of residential options, including one, two and three-bedroom residences and penthouse suites

Melbourne developer Ninety Four Feet unveil new Queenstown suburb, Lakeview Te Taumata

Australian developer <a href="/developers/golden-age-group">Golden Age</a> has recorded over $40 million in sales for its recently launched Box Hill South project, <a href="/new-townhouses/wembley-hill-15-hay-street-box-hill-south">Wembley Hill</a>.

Since launching to market last month, over 60 per cent of Stage 1 townhomes have been snapped up, with the project’s cost-saving sustainability measures a key drawcard.

Located at <a href="/new-townhouses/wembley-hill-15-hay-street-box-hill-south">15 Hay Street</a>, <a href="/developers/golden-age-group">Golden Age</a>, together with Cox Architecture, has developed a residential masterplan that will see the delivery of 143 townhomes and provide 13,000 sqm of dedicated green space.

The majority of purchasers have been families aged in their mid 30s to 40s looking for properties within the <a href="/new-townhouses/box-hill-south-vic-3128">Box Hill</a> school zone, as well as individuals in their mid 20s to mid 30s looking to upgrade their lifestyle from smaller apartments and townhomes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=104627 project_image_fid=222319]

As the cost of living continues to climb, purchasers are looking for features that will help them to save on energy bills and improve their carbon footprint. <a href="/developers/golden-age-group">Golden Age</a> has factored in a variety of sustainability initiatives into the luxury townhomes, including rooftop solar panels, provision for fast EV charging, energy-efficient heating and cooling, filtered rainwater connection to irrigation and utilities, to name a few.

Residents will also have access to an abundance of green open space for exercise and immersion in the natural surrounds.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=104627 project_image_fid=222321]

<a href="/developers/golden-age-group">Golden Age</a> Chief Investment Officer Bing Chen said Golden Age’s vision is to dream, plan and deliver the most exciting housing communities within <a href="/new-townhouses/box-hill-south-vic-3128">Box Hill.</a>

“<a href="/new-townhouses/wembley-hill-15-hay-street-box-hill-south">Wembley Hill</a> is one of the most significant developments within the booming suburb and it delivers a visionary, enduring, future-ready lifestyle through a dedication of weaving environmental sustainability into each and every home. It was important for these townhomes to be sustainable without compromising on luxury, offering a blueprint for a greener and more sustainable future.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=104627 project_image_fid=222322]

The project also embodies urban design principles that aim to reintegrate the site back into its surroundings, complementing the existing fabric and making a positive contribution and lasting legacy for the neighbourhood and its local community.

The well-considered townhomes, with interiors by leading interior designer MIM design, range in size from three-bedroom to four-bedroom with two premium colour schemes available.

The <a href="/new-townhouses/wembley-hill-15-hay-street-box-hill-south">Wembley Hill</a> site was formerly home to Hays International College and is positioned next to Wembley Park, Box Hill Soccer Club, Box Hill Golf Club and the Gardiners Creek Trail.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=104627]

Since launching to market last month, over 60 per cent of Stage 1 townhomes have been snapped up, with the project’s cost-saving sustainability measures a key drawcard

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