<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?

Deicorp, the iCIRT-rated development and construction firm, has once again introduced a new housing option conveniently located near major public transport for Sydney residents, this time in the leafy and walkable suburb of <a href="/developments/castle-hill-nsw-2154">Castle Hill</a>.

The award-winning partnership of <a href="/developers/deicorp">Deicorp</a> and architectural practice Turner Studio has teamed up to present <a href="/new-apartments/the-ashford-castle-hill-25-ashford-avenue-castle-hill">The Ashford</a>, a collection of one, two and three-bedroom apartments starting at $820,000.

<a href="/new-apartments/the-ashford-castle-hill-25-ashford-avenue-castle-hill">The Ashford</a> project is located within the emerging Showground precinct in The Hills District, a two-minute walk from the Hills Showground Metro Railway Station, offering easy connectivity to major retail, business, and educational hubs such as <a href="/developments/castle-hill-nsw-2154">Castle Hill,</a> <a href="/new-apartments/macquarie-park-nsw-2113">Macquarie Park</a>, <a href="/new-apartments/chatswood-nsw-2067">Chatswood</a>, <a href="/new-apartments/north-sydney-nsw">North Sydney</a>, and the <a href="/new-apartments/sydney-nsw">Sydney CBD</a>.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112233 project_image_fid=221620]

<a href="/new-apartments/the-ashford-castle-hill-25-ashford-avenue-castle-hill">The Ashford</a> features articulated facades wrapped in light and beautiful brickwork, creating a street frontage reminiscent of a row of inner-city terraces.

Each apartment offers spacious indoor-outdoor living spaces and generous private balconies. Many units also include additional study or multipurpose rooms.

Residents of <a href="/new-apartments/the-ashford-castle-hill-25-ashford-avenue-castle-hill">The Ashford</a> will have access to a communal rooftop garden with panoramic views of the neighbourhood and outdoor BBQ facilities, dining, and entertainment areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112233 project_image_fid=221626]

The development is conveniently located near parks, sporting facilities, shopping centres, and schools, making it an ideal choice for professionals and families alike.

Residents can enjoy hiking along the nearby Cattai Creek or the Fred Caterson Reserve or jogging and exercising at the Castle Hill Showground and the Castle Hill Fitness and Aquatic Centre.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112233 project_image_fid=221621]

Just moments from their front door, residents will find the Hills Super Centre and the Castle Hill Homemaker Centre, or they can take a quick five-minute car ride to the Castle Towers Shopping Centre for more retail options.

Moreover, plenty of reputable schools are nearby, with the closest being Excelsior Public School and Castle Hill High School, both less than one kilometre from the property.

Residents can look forward to over 15 hectares of lifestyle, retail, and recreational opportunities in the coming years, including plans for a supermarket, boutique retail outlets, a new sports facility, an events space, and a community centre within the Showground precinct.

Construction is nearing completion, with move-in expected in early 2024.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112233]

The Ashford project is located within the emerging Showground precinct in The Hills District, a two-minute walk from the Hills Showground Metro Railway Station

Inside Deicorp’s The Ashford, Castle Hill apartment development

Leading Australian integrated property development group Aqualand will pay homage to the distinctive <a href="/new-apartments/north-sydney-nsw">North Sydney</a> landscape on the ground plane of their <a href="/buildings/aura-by-aqualand-north-sydney-168-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">AURA by Aqualand</a> mixed-use tower.

Rising 28 storeys above the streetscape at located at <a href="/buildings/aura-by-aqualand-north-sydney-168-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">168 Walker Street</a>, and in the final stages of construction completion, the $1 billion Woods Bagot-designed residential community will comprise 386 luxury apartments above a richly landscaped precinct, including a two-storey retail and commercial podium.

Aqualand’s collaboration with award-winning landscape architects Turf Design Studio has resulted in a design that successfully integrates the project with the unique local environs of the characterful suburb. Landscape works are set to commence in early 2024.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/nsw/why-aqualand-is-committed-to-north-sydneys-transformation-five-minutes-with-aqualands-alex-adams">Why Aqualand Is committed to North Sydney's transformation: Five minutes with Aqualand's Alex Adams</a>

<img alt="Aura" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c791f80e-63fe-4104-89d0-8f1bc2d8ed7b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-11-09%20at%206.45.43%20pm.png?VersionId=3_JEMAeaFyCqrIFnjMjdRVSoA7duvTyj" />

Turf Design Studio Director Mike Horne said the design will reflect the <a href="/new-apartments/north-sydney-nsw">North Sydney</a> gully landscape.

“When you’re walking around <a href="/new-apartments/north-sydney-nsw">North Sydney</a>, the generously terraced lush green gardens of the traditional cottages and beautiful old houses imbue a gully setting, with its slightly humid air thick with a concentration of cool fragrances," Horne says.

“We’re trying to extend and deepen this character. <a href="/new-apartments/north-sydney-nsw">North Sydney</a> is changing, and has been for years, so we’re trying to discover the quintessential character of the place and amplify it.

Horne says&nbsp;<a href="/new-apartments/north-sydney-nsw">North Sydney</a> is undergoing a step change in terms of urban growth and density.

"On the border of this change, this site is interacting with the lower-scape buildings, establishing a ground-level connectivity allowing the senses to connect, as well as\ rationally bring this experience into the building to make you feel as if you’re still in a garden.

“Due to the site’s significant level change, a tiered series of curvy sandstone walls, two to three metres high will step down, creating a series of tiered terrace gardens full of cascading plants to immerse you in greenery. This will reflect a gully landscape with the sandstone walls disconnecting you from the actual building structure, making the landscape a device which allows you to exist ‘within’, to create moments of connection, where people can interact with the plantings."

<img alt="AURA by Aqualand" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a06f9577-a5ba-4890-a7a6-42c7f2458970" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-11-09%20at%206.48.48%20pm.png?VersionId=o2IFKuPd3ceuiUYJg5gvB9zx1zbztooD" />

The garden beds immediately outside the hospitality spaces will reflect their individual offerings. For example, outside the contemporary Japanese restaurant, species such as Japanese maples, purple leaf plums, Japanese red pines, camelias, wisterias, azaleas and Japanese box will be used.

Desert species, including curly jade plants, prickly pears, foxtail agaves, kentia palms, cordylines, golden barrel cactuses and succulents, will be planted outside the All Day Diner.

The providore, bakery, café and wine bar’s garden beds will feature Mediterranean species, such as rosemary, oregano, thyme, lavender, agapanthus, liriope and lemon and olive trees. Inside the building, the lift lobbies on each level, being key areas for resident interaction, will carry greenery throughout the building with interior gardens sitting against the glass next to the lifts from levels one to 26. The level 26 Sky Deck will also feature coastal cliff-style plantings.

"We’re not just providing garden beds, but offering the community a landscape experience that begins at the street, and as they move through the sites’ threshold and entries it intensifies the landscape experience," Horne added.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=218393]

"The ground plane will connect to the experience and quintessential character the local homes are holding onto by connecting AURA to the ground and earthing it to that gully-style cultural landscape of old <a href="/new-apartments/north-sydney-nsw">North Sydney</a>. We want to be respectful of the original suburb’s distinct character with its southern aspect offering shelter from hot north-easterlies.

“Although AURA is not a heritage project, we’re still respecting the local heritage by wrapping it around the building to create harmony and build a context for living that feels right for the area."

Aqualand has also commissioned a public art piece from international artist Richard Sweeney to adorn the Walker Street entrance. The piece was also inspired by <a href="/new-apartments/north-sydney-nsw">North Sydney’s locale</a>, and will feature unique, organic curves inspired by the natural elements of sandstone, water and the landscape synonymous with the harbour-front. The artwork component will be woven into the fabric of the garden in a way that amplifies the arrival experience.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=202986]

Aqualand Group Managing Director, Jin Lin, says he’s excited by the final landscape scheme as it is testament to Aqualand’s commitment to building communities that reflect the local area.

“We’re deeply committed to creating projects that not only fit comfortably within their neighbourhood, but also enhance it," Lin said.

"We’re with our projects for the long-term, well after the final residence is sold, as we retain ownership of the retail spaces, so we need to be in harmony with the local community on an ongoing basis.

“These plans will help integrate AURA into <a href="/new-apartments/north-sydney-nsw">North Sydney’s beautiful fabric</a> and the network of landscaped laneways will welcome our neighbours into the precinct so they can comfortably enjoy our retail offerings.

“AURA’s construction is progressing well and we can’t wait to welcome our <a href="/new-apartments/north-sydney-nsw">North Sydney</a> neighbours to our new precinct in mid-2024."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=30959]

Aqualand’s collaboration with award-winning landscape architects Turf Design Studio has resulted in a design that successfully integrates the project with the unique local environs of the characterful suburb

The importance of landscaping in a city development: How AURA by Aqualand is bringing nature to North Sydney

Sydney property developer <a href="/developers/central-element">Central Element</a> (CE) and joint venture partner Develotek has appointed builder Trescon to build their luxury harbourfront apartment development, <a href="/new-apartments/bianca-drummoyne-2c-2d-wolseley-street-drummoyne">Bianca Drummoyne</a>.

They'll kick off construction in early 2024 on the project of just 12 large-scale apartments, each encompassing three and four-bedrooms with&nbsp;views of <a href="/new-apartments/drummoyne-nsw-2047">Drummoyne</a> Bay, the harbour, and the city skyline.

The rarity of <a href="/new-apartments/bianca-drummoyne-2c-2d-wolseley-street-drummoyne">Bianca</a>,&nbsp;the first new waterfront project to be released in <a href="/new-apartments/drummoyne-nsw-2047">Drummoyne</a> since 2020, has seen it achieved record prices for the area. Prices start from the mid to high $3 million range and into the high $8 million bracket for the apartments with direct waterfront access.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/nsw/central-element-and-develotek-set-to-launch-bianca-drummoyne-apartments-following-council-sign-off">Central Element and Develotek set to launch Bianca Drummoyne apartments following council sign off</a>

<img alt="Bianca" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9bd8552f-2d2f-4cf1-9573-d30ec69df187" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-11-09%20at%201.14.06%20pm.png?VersionId=kKp5zEKFoQjOenXP6wpjrcPpYjuY9ej8" />

Cameron Porter, <a href="/developers/central-element">Central Element’s</a> Head of Sales, says what sets Bianca apart is its generous floorplans, rare position and harbour views.

"The extravagant north-facing residences range from 120 to 290 square metres internally with 10-13 metres of water frontage," Porter says.

"In terms of the buyer, we’re seeing that downsizer or empty nester, primarily from Hunters Hill, Balmain, Longueville and Drummoyne, drawn to the product for its house-like proportions and prime waterfront position as they are often coming from large waterfront homes themselves.”

Following a considered selection process, CE has appointed the iCIRT certified and renowned Sydney construction company Trescon to bring the creative vision for Bianca to life. Trescon boasts strong experience across a diverse portfolio of projects with a passion for high-end luxury residences, notably the revamp of a 1928 Wunulla Road, Point Piper residence led by architect Richard Stanisich which recently sold for $69 million.

<img alt="Bianca" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a6fd6e99-2283-478d-8604-51c09eb1736b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-11-09%20at%201.14.11%20pm.png?VersionId=eW.ED2vvbPFegQecfLlMZ7bDgxGz8ceo" />

&nbsp;

The architectural design of Bianca by SJB is refined, built around the framing of the glittering waterfront views with the expansive floor-to-ceiling glazing and large open rooms exuding the opulence of a stand-alone house. The materials used all tie back to light and neutral tones, while elegant brickwork with refined details speak to the longevity of the design.

Nathan Chivas, Managing Director of <a href="/developers/central-element">Central Element</a>, said they are&nbsp;proud to partner with Trescon on the development.

"Our vision at CE is to redefine luxury living through the creation of house-like apartments in prime locations that consistently surpass expectations and establish new benchmarks for the areas," Chivas said.

"It is important to us that we have partners who share this vision, and it was clear by Trescon’s reputation and proven track record for delivering projects to the highest standards that they were the perfect choice to execute this project."

Trescon will kick off construction in early 2024 on the project of just 12 large-scale apartments

Central Element appoint builder for luxury Bianca Drummoyne apartment development

Construction is underway on Outline Projects' <a href="/developments/fitzroy-vic-3065">Fitzroy apartment development</a>, <a href="/buildings/131-smith-street-fitzroy-131-smith-street-fitzroy">131 Smith St</a>.

The project aims to strike a balance between preserving the heritage of Smith Street while offering a modern and sustainable living space for the future.

The focus is not just on immediate appeal, but on ensuring that the building matures over time, leaving a minimal impact on the planet.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110365 project_image_fid=197936]

Designed by the&nbsp;Ilana Freadman and Michael White-led Freadman White Architects, <a href="/buildings/131-smith-street-fitzroy-131-smith-street-fitzroy">131 Smith St</a> makes the most of every space, providing functionality, flexibility, and versatility to accommodate all needs.

Natural materials harmonise the building with the Smith Street-scape, while textural forms and raw finishes preserve a lo-fi charm in keeping with the neighbourhood's character.&nbsp;

Under the leadership of former architect Peter Forsyth, <a href="/developers/outline-projects">Outline</a> works through partnerships with leading architects and designers like Freadman White, to embrace the qualities of a site and to promote a holistic lifestyle for residents and occupants.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110365 project_image_fid=197944]

Projects like <a href="/buildings/131-smith-street-fitzroy-131-smith-street-fitzroy">131 Smith St</a>, 44–46 Greeves Street, Fitzroy and Little Oxford Street demonstrate the group's bespoke approach, delivering projects that are designed to get better with age.

The carbon neutral building has sustainability at its core, evident through the range of environmentally-friendly initiatives.

Boasting an all-electric status, <a href="/buildings/131-smith-street-fitzroy-131-smith-street-fitzroy">131 Smith St</a> incorporates solar panels on the rooftop, supplying electricity to the common area, while a centralised electric hear pump hot water system and energy-efficient appliances further contribute to the building's carbon footprint.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110365 project_image_fid=197943]

Double-glazed windows enhance insulation throughout,&nbsp;ensuring optimal energy efficiency and climate control within the building, while rainwater harvesting and water-efficient appliances minimise water consumption and waste.

The site will also include electric vehicle charging points in the basement, as well as shared e-bikes for residents and 52 bicycle parking spaces. These sustainable transport options compliment the suburb's 99 out of 100 Walk Score, with accessibility to amenities and public transport a breeze from <a href="/buildings/131-smith-street-fitzroy-131-smith-street-fitzroy">131 Smith St</a>.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=110365]

The focus is not just on immediate appeal, but on ensuring that the building matures over time, leaving a minimal impact on the planet.

Outline Projects to bring sustainability to Fitzroy with 131 Smith St apartments

Builder developer 5Point Projects is aiming to set a new benchmark of luxury living on the Palm Beach beachfront with the reveal of their $60 million project, Ophira Palm Beach.

Ophira Palm Beach, just seven full-floor apartments and a two-level penthouse, is the only off the plan beachfront apartment development in market on Jefferson Lane, which has become the southern Gold Coast's millionaire's row in recent years.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138441 project_image_fid=221546]

Each full-floor apartment will offer between 290 sqm to 317 sqm of internal and outdoor living space. The living areas have been designed to take in as much of the ocean views as possible, through the floor-to-ceiling windows and the full-width balconies that open from the living space.

The apartments have three bedrooms, each with an ensuite, as well as a study and a multi-purpose room. The kitchens feature stone benchtops, a tucked away scullery, and wine storage.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138441 project_image_fid=221548]

Ophira’s two-level penthouse will deliver an expansive 637 sqm of living space with four bedrooms, four bathrooms and its own private outdoor entertainment area featuring a pool, spa, sundeck with teppanyaki bar, and a sunken lounge with a fire pit.

Ophira Palm Beach residents will enjoy a sanctuary of calm with shared amenities on level one including an exclusive plunge pool and sun deck plus a communal garden which will be a focal point for relaxation and wellbeing.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138441 project_image_fid=221545]

5Point have a long track record of constructing some of the most premium projects in Palm Beach.

“We are salivating over delivering Ophira to the market because of its sublime absolute beachfront location over two blocks at a time when there just aren’t any beachfront sites in the market,” said 5Point director Damian Dove.

“There is also incredible demand in Palm Beach for luxury apartment living but just not the stock or the capacity to build.

“We are fortunate that we are in a position to build immediately and the inquiries for Ophira despite having little marketing attention until now has been quite remarkable.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138441 project_image_fid=221553]

Dove says Ophira has been highly anticipated by the local market, close to the cosmopolitan heart of Palm Beach, combined with its spacious living and the supreme privacy.

Jamie Bourke and Dylan Molloy of ARC Project Marketing said Ophira presents a unique opportunity for downsizers looking for high-end product where there are very limited opportunities.

"Not only is there nothing like this in the market, but we have gone to extraordinary lengths to create a project that will be an absolute icon for the southern Gold Coast,”&nbsp;Molloy said.

“5Point have infused Ophira with lavish coastal elegance, taking the best of beachfront living back to its roots with each of these residences offering the ultimate in privacy where homeowners can truly immerse themselves in this beautiful part of the Gold Coast.”

Prices start from $6.35 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=138441]

Dove says Ophira has been highly anticipated by the local market, close to the cosmopolitan heart of Palm Beach, combined with its spacious living and the supreme privacy



5Point to set new Palm Beach apartment benchmark with Ophira Palm Beach

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

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

From coast to Coast: Sammut's evolution from Sutherland Shire to Surfers Paradise

BPM's Shadow Play is one of the most dense buildings in Southbank, rising 55 levels and homing 546 apartments.

Positioned at the entrance of the city's entertainment and recreation precincts, Shadow Play symbolises the beating heart of a metropolis, designed by the acclaimed Elenberg Fraser.&nbsp;

 
<img alt="Sputhbank" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="62e82aff-a08c-4951-8ac6-e6578fc01689" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-11-14%20at%208.04.03%20pm.png?VersionId=yoyroYCGgxQWt3hUVDA2TLJ7agTrBf3W" />

&nbsp;

With its proximity to the city centre and its adjacency to the Botanical Gardens, parklands, picturesque Port Phillip Bay, and Yarra River, residents benefit from it all.&nbsp;

All the one-bedroom apartments have already sold in Shadow Play, with a mix of two and three-bedroom floorplans remaining. Designed with materials like stone, brass and crafted timbers, the residences also benefit from innovative technology and connectivity.&nbsp;

<img alt="Shadow" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="174cd3b5-4a3d-428c-813e-21c041f81861" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-11-14%20at%208.06.40%20pm.png?VersionId=OE4mOIlMGaYCTfBSP6mzQLEWPFJVpHJQ" />

Residents will also be at home to a host of amenity, including&nbsp;private dining, an in-house lounge, and a well-equipped gym.

The podium terraces and rooftop spaces provide further breakout space within the development, while also showcasing vistas of Melbourne's city skyline, as well as to St Kilda, Port Melbourne and the Dandenong Ranges.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=2600]

Positioned at the entrance of the city's entertainment and recreation precincts, Shadow Play symbolises the beating heart of a metropolis, designed by the acclaimed Elenberg Fraser. 



Inside the completed Shadow Play, Southbank apartment development

Joint venture partners Ace Property Group and TQM are collaborating on an apartment development which is set to breathe new life into well known entry to the Central Coast.

Their new <a href="/new-apartments/gosford-nsw-2250">Gosford apartment development</a>, <a href="/new-apartments/the-grand-gosford-27-37-mann-street-gosford">The Grand</a>, will bring a striking new Kann Finch-designed tower to the waterside suburb, with 123 apartments above a vibrant retail and commercial scene in a two-storey sandstone podium.

On the roof of the sandstone podium is a resident-only swimming pool&nbsp;set in landscaped gardens with lawn areas and barbecue facilities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=22753 project_image_fid=210687]

Above rises the residential levels, home to one, two and three-bedroom apartments in a more&nbsp;smooth, curvilinear tower. The building's facade combines textured concrete, glass elements, and projecting balconies.

Future apartment dwellers will be treated to panoramic views of Brisbane water and its surroundings through the floor-to-ceiling glass walls that enclose the homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=22753 project_image_fid=210669]

Each apartment features an open kitchen, dining, and living area, with Columba plank flooring, timber finishes, and 100% wool carpets.&nbsp;

The living areas lead out to balconies offering views of the <a href="/new-apartments/gosford-nsw-2250">Gosford</a> streetscape and its environs.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=22753 project_image_fid=210675]

The well-appointed kitchens come furnished with Smeg appliances, Parisi tape-ware, timber veneer, and stone benchtops.&nbsp;

Residents will have amenity right at their doorstep. One of Gosford's most popular watering holes, Lyon's Den, is next door on Mann Street, which is also lined with cafes and restaurants.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=22753 project_image_fid=210679]&nbsp;

<a href="/new-apartments/the-grand-gosford-27-37-mann-street-gosford">The Grand</a> is located toward the southern end of Mann Street, near the water. However its easy access to the Central Coast Highway, and its proximity to the Gosford Tain Station less than 700 metres away, makes it an easy commute to both the city and exploration of the surrounding beaches, forest reserves, and beachfront national parks.&nbsp;

<a href="/new-apartments/the-grand-gosford-27-37-mann-street-gosford">The Grand</a> is projected to reach completion in late 2025.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=22753]

Their new Gosford apartment development, The Grand, will bring a striking new Kann Finch-designed tower to the waterside suburb

Bringing Gosford to life: The Grand set to revitalize the entry to the Central Coast

New apartment developer Prosker Property has launched its first residential development, and it's in one of Sydney's most premium suburbs.

Prosker has launched <a href="/new-apartments/redan-lane-22-redan-street-mosman">Redan Lane</a>, an exclusive collection of just seven apartments on the sought-after Balmoral Slopes in <a href="/developments/mosman-nsw-2088">Mosman</a>.

Tim Foote, a former estate agent for the last two decades and Mosman resident, founded Prosker with a view to establish a lasting local legacy for future generations.

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&nbsp;

Foote, a former architecture student, had Studio Johnson designed a tiered building on the 2,200 sqm <a href="/new-apartments/redan-lane-22-redan-street-mosman">Redan Lane</a> site so each apartment could take in views over Balmoral Beach from its elevated position just a few streets back from Mosman Village.

The three and four-bedroom apartments range in sizer from 205 sqm to 270 sqm. The three-bedrooms have two private lock-up garages, six metres wide, spaces, while the four-bedroom apartments have garaging for four cars. There's EV charging for each residence too.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=142652 project_image_fid=240002]

&nbsp;

Mim Design handled the interiors of the apartments, which feature&nbsp;integrated Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances in the kitchen, internal gas fireplaces within a marble feature mantle, and a wine storage display which adjoins a bar area.

&nbsp;

Dangar Barin Smith were in charge of the landscaping. There's extensive courtyards and terraces which have landscaped greenery, offering both shade and privacy to alfresco areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=142652 project_image_fid=239994]

While boutique developments such as <a href="/new-apartments/redan-lane-22-redan-street-mosman">Redan Lane</a> don't tend to have a suite of amenity, residents will have a Golf Room with a full golf simulator. Foote clearly knows Mosman locals love a round.

<a href="/new-apartments/redan-lane-22-redan-street-mosman">Redan Lane</a> is slated for completion in late 2025. CBRE Residential Projects is marketing the project.

Tim Foote, a former estate agent for the last two decades and Mosman resident, founded Prosker with a view to establish a lasting local legacy for future generations.

Luxury apartments Redan Lane launch in Mosman

Residential property developer&nbsp;New Hope Evergreen&nbsp;has appointed experienced Sydney-based builder Binah to construct its three-tower <a href="/new-apartments/st-leonards-nsw-2065">St Leonards apartment development</a>, <a href="/new-apartments/the-landmark-quarter-st-leonards-8-marshall-avenue-st-leonards">Landmark Quarter</a>.

Binah, an ICIRT Gold Star-rated builder, will kick off construction on the development which has secured over $100 million in sales since launching earlier this year. Those sales included a suburb record $7.5 million for a three-bedroom apartment. Four penthouses have also sold for a combined $35 million, highlighting the desire for <a href="/new-apartments/st-leonards-nsw-2065">larger apartments in the area</a>.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/nsw/new-hope-evergreen-secure-three-penthouse-sales-across-st-leonards">New Hope Evergreen secure three penthouse sales across St Leonards</a>

<a href="/news/nsw/new-hope-evergreen-secure-three-penthouse-sales-across-st-leonards">[smartcode_project:default project_id=139897 project_image_fid=212572]</a>

Peter Pereira, New Hope Evergreen Development Director,&nbsp;says the record-breaking sales express the&nbsp;discerning buyer’s appreciation for architectural finesse, luxury interiors, and our lifestyle-centric amenities.

"Our partnership with Binah propels us closer to realising our vision of providing opulent living spaces in the heart of St Leonards,"&nbsp;Pereira said.

"Their proven track record in handling complex projects assures us of a stellar execution as we embark on this exciting phase."

<a href="/new-apartments/the-landmark-quarter-st-leonards-8-marshall-avenue-st-leonards">The Landmark Quarter</a>, located at the highest point in <a href="/new-apartments/st-leonards-nsw-2065">St Leonards</a> South, features a host of resort-style amenities such as a&nbsp;cinema, mineral pool, private rooftop terraces, and a scenic rooftop communal area offering harbour and city views.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/nsw/a-cinema-swimming-pool-and-billiards-room-inside-the-amenity-laden-st-leonards-off-the-plan-apartment-development-the-landmark-quarter">A cinema, swimming pool, and billiards room: Inside the amenity-laden St Leonards off the plan apartment development, The Landmark Quarter</a>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139897 project_image_fid=212667]

A private landscaped area will also create a new park for Lane Cove Council.&nbsp;New Hope Evergreen&nbsp;expects to complete Landmark Quarter by mid-2026.&nbsp;

The developer has invested $1.4 billion in <a href="/new-apartments/st-leonards-nsw-2065">St Leonards</a>, having previously completed the nearby tower, The Landmark.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=139897]

Peter Pereira, Development Director, New Hope Evergreen, said Binah’s expertise aligns with their vision of delivering exquisite residential spaces

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