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 to craft the interiors for The Frederick, Big Projects' new Mermaid Beach project and YSG'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;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110588 project_image_fid=5347]

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 Architecture, with landscape design by LDG.

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 design flair/ appeal,"&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]

Joel Robinson

Big Projects taps Sydney’s YSG for first multi-residential project at The Frederick Mermaid Beach

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

Construction is set to begin at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/orchard-mews-glen-iris-18-scott-grove-glen-iris-vic-3146">Orchard Mews</a> in Glen Iris, with&nbsp;PC Whitehall &amp; Sons&nbsp;now appointed as the townhome development moves into its next phase.

The development by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/montcoeur">MontCoeur</a>,&nbsp;located at 18 Scott Grove, is now around 30 per cent sold, with completion targeted for late-2027.

Orchard Mews comprises a curated collection of three- and four-bedroom customisable townhomes, positioned within one of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/glen-iris-vic-3146">Glen Iris</a>’ more tightly held residential streets. The low-density project has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a>, with landscape architecture by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/jack-merlo">Jack Merlo</a>, bringing together a team known for high-end residential projects across Melbourne.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150128 project_image_fid=366285]

The development is defined by its focus on flexible living and long-term usability. Each residence includes multiple living zones and a customisable multipurpose room, allowing buyers to tailor spaces to suit changing needs, whether as a home office, additional bedroom, wellness area or entertainment space.

Architecturally, the townhomes emphasise natural light and spatial volume, with dual-aspect layouts and double-height living areas incorporated into the design. Interiors feature natural stone benchtops, premium appliances, and a neutral material palette intended to support everyday functionality rather than statement-driven finishes.

All residences are all-electric and include private lifts and secure double garages, reflecting a broader shift toward sustainability and future-focused housing in Melbourne’s established suburbs.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150128 project_image_fid=366277]

Outdoor connections are also central to the offering, with a mix of private courtyards and terraces extending internal living spaces and integrating with the landscaped surrounds.

The Scott Grove address places Orchard Mews within close proximity to some of Melbourne’s key lifestyle and education amenities, including Scotch College, Sacré Cœur, Cabrini Hospital and the retail hub of Chadstone. Public transport access is also nearby, with trams and Gardiner Station providing connectivity to the CBD and surrounding suburbs.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150128]

Construction to commence at luxury Glen Iris townhome project, Orchard Mews

A rare new apartment development has been proposed on the fringe of St Ives Village.

Developer Newquest Property has lodged plans for a low-rise apartment project designed by well-regarded architecture firm Warren &amp; Mahoney, which is best known for its work in the multi-residential sector in Melbourne.

The building, proposed for a 1,916 sqm site on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/st-ives-residences-3-5-memorial-avenue-nsw-2075">Memorial Avenue</a> opposite St Ives Village Green, has been designed to blend into the surrounding natural environment.

<img alt="St Ives" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5c1c7437-2fba-4345-a6d7-05321714ad3e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-04%20at%201.28.46%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=KrYyMaJvNqR7vbx0xbB3Ef8sJ6FuHpmn" />

“Drawing inspiration from the pale trunks and flowering canopies of the scribbly gums and blue gums prevalent in the area, a considered material palette was developed,” the architectural design report states.

“This palette references the established materiality of the suburb while elevating it through refined finishes to achieve a more luxurious architectural expression.”

Of the 33 apartments proposed, 21 will be three-bedroom residences. The remaining mix includes nine two-bedroom apartments, one one-bedroom apartment and two four-bedroom residences. The development will be supported by 62 car parking spaces and 33 secure bicycle spaces.

The proposal would replace two single-storey brick buildings currently on the site.

<img alt="St Ives" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="21422eaf-09a9-4439-9278-b9bd9daf22a1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-04%20at%201.38.10%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=v.fXSgcUcEscvOZzqcjG5nk3gVqk_Amt" />

St Ives remains a relatively untapped market for new apartment development. North Shore developer WINIM has a number of projects in the area, while INCA is nearing completion of Ellis Residences.

More recently, Traders In Purple has lodged plans for one of the denser projects proposed in the suburb, a 75-apartment development on a 5,900 sqm site on Cowan Road.

NewQuest, a construction, design and development firm, has delivered over 24 projects across commercial, residential, industrial, and lad markets.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

First look: NewQuest Property proposes new St Ives apartment development

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/centa-property-group">Centa Property Group</a> has achieved two major milestones at its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bilinga-house-107-golden-four-drive-bilinga-qld-4225">Bilinga House</a> apartment development in the sought-after southern Gold Coast.

They've almost sold 50 per cent of the Golden Four Drive building, while at the same time announcing the commencement of construction through reputable builder Greyburn Construction.

The boutique 10-storey building, with 47 two- and three-bedroom apartments, now has a mid-to-late 2028 completion date.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150037 project_image_fid=5333]

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>-designed project is positioned just 200 metres from Bilinga Beach and brings a relatively rare apartment offering to a market that has seen limited new supply in recent years.

Residences have been designed to maximise natural light and ventilation, with open-plan interiors, generous glazing, and material palettes that reflect the surrounding coastal landscape.

Interiors incorporate engineered timber flooring, stone benchtops, and custom joinery, with layouts designed to adapt to both permanent living and lock-and-leave use.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150037 project_image_fid=5336]

Rothelowman Senior Project Leader Matthew Tencate said the design approach centres on liveability and community.

“Providing curated on-site amenities and communal spaces for residents that facilitate a sense of community, liveability, and wellness,” Tencate said.

Residents will have access to a suite of private amenities including a pool, gym, sauna, and communal alfresco areas, alongside practical features such as surfboard storage and bicycle facilities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150037 project_image_fid=5336]

Centa Property Group Director Jason Yuen said the project has been designed to appeal to a range of buyers seeking flexibility in how they use their property.

“Bilinga House is designed for those who want the best of both worlds – a modern beachside escape with the flexibility to generate income when you're not there,” Yuen said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150037 project_image_fid=5338]

Bilinga remains one of the quieter pockets of the Gold Coast, sitting between the more established hubs of Coolangatta and Palm Beach. Its appeal has strengthened in recent years, supported by proximity to the Gold Coast Airport and the Oceanway coastal path.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150037]

Bilinga House apartments snapped up as Greyburn commences construction

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

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

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

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

Every First Home Owner Grant for new property by state

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

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

Staff Writer

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

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

alisonwarters@gmail.com

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

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

Ellen Walker

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

The well-trodden path to development on the Gold Coast typically involves taking an underutilised site, either a vacant block of land or an ageing low-rise apartment building, and turning it into something new and shiny.

Growing Gold Coast developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/polycell-group">Polycell</a> is taking a different approach. While they are indeed targeting underutilised assets, their focus is on redeveloping existing buildings, specifically ageing holiday resorts.

Polycell’s next project to launch will be the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-exclusive-polycell-files-sandpiper-redevelopment-plans-after-owner-buyout">redevelopment of Sandpiper on Old Burleigh Road</a>. The existing 12-level building will make way for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/sandpiper-broadbeach-155-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">new 52-level tower</a> comprising around 200 two- to five-bedroom apartments. The lower portion of the tower will feature six apartments per floor, while the upper levels will offer a selection of larger residences.

This comes on the heels of their recent approval for the redevelopment of The Voyager Resort, also on Old Burleigh Road, where the 1997 timeshare building will be replaced with a 59-level tower.

Polycell’s debut Gold Coast apartment development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-rochester-broadbeach-143-surf-parade-broadbeach-qld-4218">The Rochester</a>, was a more conventional acquisition. They purchased the Vaucluse block, which was easier to redevelop due to the small scale of the original walk-up apartment complex.

Much like The Rochester, Sandpiper will demonstrate Polycell’s commitment to high-level resident amenity. The building will offer three levels of dedicated facilities. The podium level will include a lap pool with floating daybeds, a communal kitchen, dining and lounge areas, a gym with a yoga room, a games room with a golf simulator, and a wellness zone with a spa, hot and cold plunges, and a sauna and steam room.

Levels 33 and 34 will host a residents’ club featuring similar amenities alongside meeting rooms, a two-level club lounge with a spiral staircase, a wine room with adjoining private dining spaces, a library, and a cinema.

Polycell is continuing its strategy of repositioning ageing holiday resorts. Their latest play is on Queensland Avenue, where they’ve been quietly acquiring apartments in the Barbados Holiday Apartments. The early-1980s building sits opposite Federation Park, midway between the beach and the Gold Coast Exhibition Centre.

The developer will no doubt be planning something in line with its three other projects, which together would push Polycell’s total apartment count toward 1,000 since entering the local market in 2023.

Exclusive first look: Polycell ramps up Broadbeach holiday resort buy-up

Developer builder&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/coronation-property">Coronation Property</a>&nbsp;has launched the next stage of its award-winning Ashbury Terraces development.

The new release, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/milton-estate-ashbury-149-163-milton-street-ashbury-nsw-2193">Milton Estate</a>, is a mix of apartments and townhouses focused on resort-inspired living, a rarity in Ashbury given its status as one of few "heritage-listed suburbs" due to the&nbsp;Ashbury Heritage Conservation Area, which protects the character of the suburb's streetscapes and most of its homes.

As noted in the 2026 edition of the annual McGrath Report, this pocket of Sydney’s Inner West bordering Dulwich Hill is beginning to see rising values, yet opportunities remain for buyers seeking quality homes. With generous land allotments, period character and an emerging café scene, the area has largely flown under the radar until now.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a> with landscaping by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/arcadia-landscape-architecture">Arcadia</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/milton-estate-ashbury-149-163-milton-street-ashbury-nsw-2193">Milton Estate</a> introduces carefully scaled architecture that complements the surrounding conservation character. Brickwork façades, deep reveals and considered planting reference Ashbury’s established streetscapes, while interiors emphasise natural light, storage and everyday liveability.

“Milton Estate builds on the quiet character of Ashbury, drawing from its history of brickmaking and its generous landscape,"&nbsp;said Adam Haddow, Partner at SJB.

"The architecture is scaled to feel intimate and personal, with surprise moments to see the sky, capture breezes and enjoy long views through the canopy. When residents feel a genuine connection to their surroundings, they care for it, and that’s where the heart of great communities starts."

At the heart of the project is a heated pool with lounge areas immersed in greenery, and a fully equipped gym.&nbsp; Landscaped paths connect through the precinct and out to W H Wagener Oval, extending everyday access to local open space.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134823 project_image_fid=355905]

&nbsp;

The offering includes three-bedroom terraces, some with rooftop spaces that capture district and city views, alongside one- to four-bedroom apartments. Many homes provide dual aspects, abundant natural light and flexible study zones to support evolving household needs. Buildings B and C will also enjoy access to communal landscaped rooftops and garden terraces, some with city views.

Coronation’s Managing Director, Joe Nahas, said&nbsp;Ashbury Terraces demonstrated that good design has the power to shape not just homes, but whole communities.

"To see that recognised on the world stage was incredibly rewarding,” Nahas said on its&nbsp;shortlisting at the 2024 World Architecture Festival.

“With Milton Estate, we’re deepening that legacy, delivering homes that combine architectural beauty with generous gardens and resort-style amenity – the ease and wellbeing people are craving in modern life. It’s a continuation of our belief that great neighbourhoods are built on connection, craftsmanship and care.”

Expressions of interest have commenced, with pricing stating from $780,000 for apartments and $2,285,000 for terraces. Construction has commenced and is expected to reach practical completion in Q4 2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134823]

Coronation unveils Milton Estate, Ashbury Terraces second stage

Sherlock Construction Homes is advancing plans for another townhouse development in Caboolture’s emerging Goshawk Court precinct, lodging a proposal to deliver 50 dwellings over a 12,370 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/18-goshawk-court-caboolture-qld-4510">18 Goshawk Court</a>.

Located on the northern side of Goshawk Court and fronting Cottrill Road and Sims Street, the site is currently improved by a single dwelling and intersected by an existing drainage easement. Under the application, the land will be reconfigured into three lots to accommodate two residential parcels.

According to the Planning Report by Zone Planning QLD, the project comprises 50 two-storey townhouses designed by MODE Design Corp.

<img alt="18 Goshawk Court" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="59ae0e02-93ff-4f3d-bbb0-c1ec1c385746" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Caboolture%20master.png?VersionId=4v4cGDmtEceHzkJEcXajz5mAU2tk_N0K" />

Each townhouse will include a private open space of 15 sqm, a single lock-up garage, and additional driveway parking for 24 of the units. An internal driveway network will provide circulation across the bifurcated site, with access taken independently from both Goshawk Court and Sims Street.

“The proposal provides a well-considered and functional design outcome that responds to constraints and will complement and enhance the existing and emerging urban forms in the general locality,” Zone Planning QLD noted in their report.

Communal open space areas totalling 500 sqm will be split across the two lots, with landscaping designed to integrate larger canopy trees and native species reflective of the site’s riparian corridor.

<img alt="18 Goshawk Court" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="53671bb1-3262-4204-83a7-ffda628ad1e6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Caboolture%20north.png?VersionId=6WXgLFGXR9t3wlkpjaaD5osGdDXyC_nQ" />

The 50-townhouse application follows Sherlock Construction Homes' broader push into the precinct. Just to the south and east, the builder is also pursuing approval for a significantly larger development across five parcels spanning 65–74 Goshawk Court and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/108-pumicestone-road-caboolture-qld-4510">102–114 Pumicestone Road</a>. That application proposes 165 three-bedroom townhouses delivered over four distinct parcels, connected via a new road extension, Kestrel Road.

As noted in the larger application’s assessment report, the surrounding area is “in a state of transition, with the historic rural residential settlement pattern transitioning to a more urban environment.” The adjoining proposal includes communal open space, stormwater infrastructure designed as regional trunk infrastructure, and a density of 51.6 dwellings per hectare, consistent with the Next Generation Neighbourhood Precinct zoning objectives.

First look: Sherlock Construction joins Caboolture townhouse boom

Plans for a $341 million mixed-use precinct, including 482 new homes, have been filed for a former drive-in cinema site in Caddens, a new masterplanned residential neighbourhood around two hours west of Sydney.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/group-gsa">GroupGSA</a> for developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/holdmark-property-group">Holdmark Property Group</a>, the State Significant Development Application (SSDA) comprises 17 mid-rise buildings delivering apartments and shoptop housing, 3461 sqm of retail, new streets and community space, and an expanded public domain.

The 8.1-hectare site adjoins the existing Caddens Corner Shopping Centre and is organised around a new civic hub and ‘Six Seasons Walk’, linking a network of local and community parks that extend the existing Cumberland Plain ecology along the site’s northern edge. &nbsp;

The site, once home to Kingswood Drive-In, is located within walking distance of Western Sydney University’s expanding Kingswood campus and the Nepean Hospital health precinct, 50 kilometres west of the Sydney CBD.

Holdmark Planning and Development Manager Eliyah El-Khoury says the revised scheme features a varied housing mix of apartments and terrace typology, reflecting both local demand and the long-term vision for the Werrington Enterprise Living and Learning (WELL) Precinct.&nbsp;

“By offering a diversity of apartment types – including 15 percent essential worker housing – and integrating new parks and a strong civic centre, we’re vesting a welcoming, walkable neighbourhood that supports residents to live and study in Caddens, bringing to life this hidden gem, just 5km from Penrith CBD and a short 15-minute drive from the new Western Sydney Aerotropolis precinct,” El-Khoury says.

The development also aligns with Western Sydney’s ‘Western Growth’ strategy, which positions Caddens as “a model for sustainable urban development” linked to major transport infrastructure and tertiary institutions.

<img alt="60–80 O’Connell Street, Caddens" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="86aa6f25-53d2-4135-8247-bf3a2653748f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/s68-80%20O%27Connel%20St%20Caddens_Forest%20Park%20and%20Karra%20Commons%20buildings%20-%20GroupGSA_2.jpeg?VersionId=deSc.hrokqF1PNgz39yOwSRd6S8JN1Is" />

&nbsp;

A series of Indigenous co-design workshops with local Aboriginal stakeholders shaped the cultural framework for the precinct. The design embraces water, sky and Country as key connectors, restoring natural ecologies, expanding habitat and integrating endemic plantings, organic built forms, natural materials and water-sensitive landscapes.&nbsp;

GroupGSA architect and project lead Alberto Murgia says the masterplan is structured around a permeable, walkable street grid that expands the existing retail precinct and strengthens local amenity.

“Our landscape-first, Country-led approach focuses on a mix of high-quality and affordable homes, delivered within a generous public realm that builds on the precinct’s evolving character,” he says.

“Preservation, restoration and celebration of the Cumberland Plain Woodland ecologies and creating ample opportunities for the community to engage with nature were key focuses for the project."

A cultural trail to the north weaves oral histories and site narratives into everyday paths of travel, while the Six Seasons Walk forms a central pedestrian spine linking the Village Green to the nature reserve on the precinct’s eastern edge.

Public open space is structured around three major parks – the Village Green, Local Park and Community Park – supported by a network of shared zones, rooftop terraces and private communal courtyards. The landscape strategy extends and strengthens the adjoining Cumberland Plain Woodland, creating a continuous ecological corridor across the site. Increased canopy cover supports the unique micro-climate, enhances shade and comfort, and supports biodiversity and habitat creation.

<img alt="60–80 O’Connell Street, Caddens" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7d00abb5-ef1d-4e61-8d43-5f9c4bf680e5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/s68-80%20O%27Connel%20St%20Caddens_Village%20QuarterGroupGSA_1.jpeg?VersionId=f_d1IYvxEshSCSwMLBKhiJka_OXNTlrZ" />

&nbsp;

The built form responds to the changing edge conditions of the site, with two-storey terraces presenting to O’Connell Street South and modulated apartment buildings stepping in height across the precinct in response to site topography. The material palette for the ‘Karra Commons’ buildings to the north-east of the site draws on the colours and textures of the Cumberland Plain Woodland through brickwork, metal cladding, screening and layered planting to create an architectural expression intended to “recede into the landscape”.

The terraces on the southern boundary adopt a finely scaled architectural language of articulated brickwork, deep reveals and expressed thresholds, balancing robustness with domesticity.

Meanwhile, Village Quarter, where density is intentionally located adjacent to amenity, becomes the mixed-use urban heart that frames the Village Green with active frontages. Materiality responds to the adjacent retail centre, with stepped built forms defining planted edges and supporting a vibrant, welcoming public realm.

&nbsp;

“Our proposal delivers a village-scale centre that supports social interaction and community identity while demonstrating a long-term vision for sustainable growth within the WELL Precinct,” Murgia added.

“By pairing mixed-tenure housing with flexible communal indoor and outdoor spaces, the precinct is designed to foster social diversity, wellbeing and a strong sense of community ownership.”

Holdmark seeks 17-building mixed-use precinct at former Caddens drive-in site

Dubai-based developer Arada is preparing to officially enter the Sydney apartment market, starting in Castle Hill.

Arada, who signalled its intent by announcing a development pipeline of $4 billion and then saving, and acquiring, tier-one commercial construction company Roberts Co, has filed a State Significant Development Application for a three-building development in the Hills Showground Station Precinct.

The buildings, which will be delivered on a 1.1-hectare site fronting Fishburn Crescent, Carrington Road and Middleton Avenue, will have 431 apartments. They have been designed by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/turner-studio">Turner Studio</a> with landscaping by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/arcadia-landscape-architecture">Arcadia</a>.&nbsp;

The buildings have been arranged around podium courtyards and open communal spaces, with Building A rising to 20 storeys, Building B stepping between 8 and 17, and Building C forming a U-shaped massing of 11 to 12 storeys.

According to the Design Report by Turner Studio, the development will deliver a "highly liveable, connected, and inclusive residential community,” incorporating rooftop terraces, shared indoor amenities, and pedestrian links through the site.&nbsp;

<img alt="Arada" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f00c8c47-8c25-4039-9d42-c4261906e286" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-11-15%20at%208.07.18%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=SRRxwfZcxygQuYxRn_AsHoh00vJ2_PMj" />

The project includes 25 affordable housing units, representing five per cent of total floor space, located within Building A. These comprise a mix of one and two-bedroom layouts.

The broader residential mix across the three towers includes one-bedroom (nine per cent), two-bedroom (57 per cent), three-bedroom (30 per cent), and four-bedroom (four per cent) apartments, with a strong emphasis on family-sized homes.

The landscape strategy, guided by Arcadia, integrates rooftop gardens, public open space, and a pedestrian connection between Fishburn Crescent and Sexton Avenue.&nbsp;

The design draws from the natural and cultural history of the site, including features of nearby Cattai Creek, and incorporates endemic planting and local materials.

<img alt="Arada" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c29a2ff1-3b45-4f51-851f-83b4b98148aa" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-11-15%20at%208.07.26%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=8G9S8LrCc8H.JtPWdzr9q0HAijLRXAk7" />

Arada’s submission under the Housing Delivery Authority pathway highlights the project’s alignment with Transport-Oriented Development principles, capitalising on the site’s 400-metre proximity to Hills Showground Metro Station.

Founded in 2017 in Sharjah, Arada has delivered over 10,000 homes internationally and is now advancing a $4 billion pipeline in Australia. The Castle Hill project is one of several Sydney ventures by the developer, with other sites progressing in Campsie and Canterbury. Arada opened its Sydney office in August 2024 and acquired local construction firm Roberts Co to scale up delivery capabilities.

The site sits within the Showground Priority Precinct, a transport-oriented growth area targeted for 9,000 new homes. The broader neighbourhood is already seeing transformation, with Deicorp’s <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/showground-pavilions-castle-hill-3-andalusian-way-castle-hill-nsw-2154">Showground Pavilions</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/hills-showground-village-castle-hill-2-mandala-parade-castle-hill-nsw-2154">Hills Showground Village</a> introducing over 1,300 apartments alongside retail, open space, and transport upgrades.

Arada aims to launch the project to the market next year, and commence construction by mid-2027.

Arada pitches Castle Hill apartment plans ahead of 2026 launch

Well advanced in construction of its current East Brisbane tower <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/murcia-residences-east-brisbane-9-overend-street-east-brisbane-qld-4169">Murcia Residences</a>, developer Sarazin has filed plans for its next project in the booming inner-Brisbane area.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sarazin">Sarazin</a>&nbsp;has sought approval from Economic Development Queensland for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/stanley-quarter-825-stanley-street-woolloongabba-qld-4102">Stanley Quarter</a>, a major two-tower mixed-use project that promises to reshape a key site between Stanley and Trafalgar Streets in Woolloongabba, next door to the iconic stadium.

Occupying a 4,332 sqm site within the Woolloongabba Priority Development Area, Stanley Quarter would comprise two slender towers, 53 and 36 storeys, rising above a shared six-level podium. The project marks the next phase in Sarazin’s transformation of the area following the adjacent Silk One development.

The towers will deliver 447 apartments, split across the two stages: 235 dwellings in the West Tower (36 levels) and 212 in the East Tower (53 levels). A rooftop recreation deck will crown each building. The East Tower, reaching approximately 190 metres, would become one of Brisbane’s tallest buildings outside the CBD, standing just shy of the 195-metre One One One Eagle Street.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151722 project_image_fid=356087]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/group-gsa">GroupGSA</a>’s architectural design integrates subtropical principles, including vertical fins, glass detailing, and extensive greenery. According to the Urban Design Report, the podium will support “active frontages and human-scale interfaces” and house retail, dining, and commercial spaces at ground level, while upper levels contain residential amenities and parking.

A highlight of the proposal is the 1,160 sqm public plaza linking Stanley and Trafalgar Streets. Designed as a landscaped urban courtyard with dining edges and shaded canopies, it offers a direct pedestrian connection through the site. Landscape design is by Wild Studio.

Also planned is a landmark cultural facility, the STEAMM Gallery and Garden, anchored to the East Tower podium. As outlined in the planning documents, this multi-storey facility will include exhibition and studio spaces, with the report stating it represents “a genuine community benefit and cultural anchor for the precinct”.

The basement and podium levels will accommodate 614 car spaces and 483 bicycle spaces across residential, visitor, and commercial use. Vehicle access is proposed via Trafalgar Street, with a flood-resilient basement design and discrete servicing zones.

Positioned close to The Gabba Stadium and the new Cross River Rail station, Stanley Quarter is framed as a catalyst project for Woolloongabba’s ongoing urban regeneration. It supports EDQ’s ambition to create a “walkable, transit-oriented and subtropical mixed-use centre”.

If approved, the project will be delivered in two stages, with the West Tower proceeding first.

Sarazin is currently delivering Murcia Residences, on the fringe of Woolloongabba in East Brisbane.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151722]

Sarazin unveils twin-tower Stanley Quarter in Woolloongabba

Sydney may hold the dubious honour of being the world’s second most expensive housing market, outpriced only by perennial leader Hong Kong, but its appetite for prestige property shows no sign of slowing. At the heart of it all sits Sydney Harbour, where waterfront apartments command eye-watering prices that show few signs of slowing.

According to Westpac’s August Prestige Market Overview, the city’s luxury sector continues to outperform expectations, with top-end values rising 6.2 per cent across 2024. Over the past decade, prices for Australia’s most exclusive apartments have surged more than 40 per cent, while available listings remain nearly 20 per cent below pre-pandemic levels, data from Cotality reveals.

Much of Sydney’s recent luxury boom has centred on Circular Quay and Barangaroo, two glittering precincts now home to some of the country’s most expensive real estate. Yet one of the city’s most iconic waterfronts has, until now, remained surprisingly underdeveloped: Darling Harbour.

Long known as a playground for tourists and locals, Darling Harbour has never truly offered the chance to live there, until now. Recognising the untapped potential of this prime harbourfront, development powerhouse Mirvac has taken the lead in reimagining the precinct. The company is at the centre of a wider $15 billion revitalisation that will elevate Darling Harbour’s prestige to rival its glamorous neighbours.

At the heart of the transformation is Harbourside Residences, a $2 billion glass tower rising from the redeveloped Harbourside Shopping Centre. The project brings together an international design collaboration between Norwegian architecture firm Snøhetta and Australian practice Hassell, with interiors by Bates Smart. The tower will house 260 residences, with the yet-to-be-released penthouse collection, six sub-penthouses and three full-floor penthouses, expected to rank among Australia’s most exclusive homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=141327 project_image_fid=352378]

Buyers have already responded in force. The project’s first apartment release late last year became the most successful launch in Mirvac’s 54-year history, recording more than $700 million in sales in just one weekend, with more than $800m total pre-sales to date. Prices ranged from $1.7 million to $25 million, with more than 40 per cent of purchasers being repeat Mirvac buyers, a testament to the developer’s reputation for quality and delivery.

Mirvac has now unveiled the tower’s most coveted homes: a collection of three- and four-bedroom residences positioned across the upper levels of the 48-storey building. From this vantage point on the western edge of Sydney Harbour, residents will enjoy a striking and rarely seen perspective of both the city skyline and the water.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=141327 project_image_fid=352369]

Inside, luxury extends far beyond the apartments themselves. Harbourside Residences will feature wellness amenities on par with a five-star resort, including a traditional sauna, steam room, ice bath, indoor lap pool, gymnasium, and yoga and pilates studio. Private leisure spaces cater to the growing desire for exclusive community living, with a residents’ lounge, private dining rooms with commercial and show kitchens, a cinema room, and even a golf simulator.

Outdoors, the experience is just as impressive. Landscaped garden terraces frame a lagoon-style pool that looks directly across the harbour, offering some of the most intimate city views anywhere in Sydney.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=141327 project_image_fid=352372]

Construction of Harbourside Residences is well underway. Mirvac, which designs, builds, and delivers its own projects, a model that reduces risk and ensures consistency, expects completion in late 2027. When finished, it will not only redefine Darling Harbour living but reshape Sydney’s skyline once again.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=141327]

Sydney’s next great waterfront: Darling Harbour steps into the spotlight

Boutique development and construction firm <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/hsn-property-group">HSN Property Group</a> is the latest to seek a new apartment development through the NSW Government's&nbsp;Housing Delivery Authority.

They've filed a State Significant Development Application for a nine-storey building across nine consolidated lots on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/2-16-spencer-street-rose-bay-nsw-2029">Rose Bay's Spencer Street</a>, just 400m from the centre of the affluent suburb.

“The site’s location and context make it well suited to support a more diverse and sustainable residential offering in the area,” the developer stated in community consultation materials.

The plans are for 54 apartments, 14 of which will be dedicated to affordable housing. There will be a mix of two- and three-bedroom apartments.

The proposal aims to contribute to housing diversity in the Woollahra Local Government Area while taking advantage of recent Low and Mid-Rise Housing Reforms introduced under the NSW Housing SEPP, according to the Scoping Report prepared by Urbis.

The architecture, led by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/mhn-design-union">MHNDU</a>, reflects a "contemporary design approach sensitive to the character of Rose Bay." Communal amenities will include a wellness area with a pool and sauna, a gym, a wine lounge, and landscaped spaces with barbecue facilities.&nbsp;

“The proposed development will offer a suite of premium communal amenities designed to enhance resident wellbeing, foster social connection, and promote a healthy lifestyle,” the project team notes in its public materials.

Three levels of basement parking are planned, and EV charging facilities will be included, aligning with sustainability and transport objectives. A comprehensive traffic study is underway to assess and manage local impacts.

With 54 apartments, the proposal by HSN will be one of the largest developments in Rose Bay for decades. It tops the 50 apartments soon to launch by Orosi on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-avenue-rose-bay-1-the-avenue-nsw-2029">The Avenue</a>, near the Royal Sydney Golf Club.&nbsp;

First look: HSN plans Spencer St, Rose Bay apartment project

Lendlease’s Barangaroo South precinct is officially complete, marking the culmination of a 15-year urban regeneration project that has revitalised Sydney’s harbourfront.&nbsp;

In 2009, the NSW Government’s Barangaroo Delivery Authority appointed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/lendlease-development">Lendlease</a> as developer to transform what was once an inaccessible container port on the western edge &nbsp;of Sydney’s CBD into one of the city’s most thriving mixed-use destinations. Today, Barangaroo South is home to more than 1,800 residents, 23,000 workers, 95 retailers and welcomes 33,000 visitors each day. The precinct stands as an international benchmark for large-scale urban regeneration.&nbsp;

International Towers Sydney, the three flagship commercial buildings at the centre of &nbsp;Barangaroo South, together with engineered timber buildings Daramu House and &nbsp;International House, attracted major corporate tenants from the outset, including Westpac, &nbsp;PwC and KPMG, who are still there today. These workplaces remain some of the most &nbsp;sought after in Sydney’s CBD with over 95 per cent occupancy– a testament to the appeal of world-class, modern infrastructure alongside the precinct’s dining and entertainment that &nbsp;are a drawcard for businesses.&nbsp;

One Sydney Harbour, the three luxury residential towers designed by world-renowned architect Renzo Piano, has achieved more than $4 billion in sales since its launch in 2019, while setting new Australia property price records. This includes the three-level penthouse that crowns Residences One which sold for more than $141 million in 2019 – the most expensive individual residential property ever sold in Australia. &nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139801 project_image_fid=349150]

Barangaroo South is also Australia’s first mixed-use carbon-neutral development, an accolade achieved through energy-efficient and innovative infrastructure, including a district cooling plant with a harbour water heat rejection system, a recycled water &nbsp;treatment plant, onsite solar and an embedded electricity network.

The precinct has maintained its Climate Active Carbon Neutral certification since 2019, affirming its &nbsp;reputation as the gold standard in large scale, sustainable urban renewal. Additionally, its &nbsp;world leadership status has been validated by the Green Building Council of Australia’s &nbsp;6 Star Green Star Communities recertification (Pilot v.2).

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139801 project_image_fid=349157]

First Nations cultural values were embedded throughout the planning and delivery of the project. The precinct honours Barangaroo, a prominent First Nations woman, through its &nbsp;name. Public art, street names, and design elements across the precinct reflect and &nbsp;celebrate First Nations cultures and connections to Country.&nbsp;

The project's completion positions Barangaroo South as a legacy urban transformation delivered through long-term partnerships and world-leading urban regeneration and placemaking capabilities. &nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139801 project_image_fid=349154]

Tony Lombardo, Group CEO Lendlease, said&nbsp;Barangaroo South represents one of the most significant urban regeneration projects in Australia.

"[It] demonstrates what can be achieved through an ambitious vision, innovative placemaking, long-term commitment and strong partnerships. The precinct has changed the face of Sydney's waterfront, established new benchmarks &nbsp;for sustainable development, and provided a model for urban regeneration that continues &nbsp;to inform our approach to creating places that deliver long-lasting value.”&nbsp;

Tom Mackellar, CEO Development Lendlease, said&nbsp;Barangaroo South has reconnected the city to its harbour in a way that seemed unimaginable 15 years ago and turned it into a thriving precinct where people can live, work and gather on the harbour’s edge.&nbsp;

“This precinct is the result of countless contributions, led by the NSW Government who set the ambition, supported by investment partners who believed in Lendlease’s vision, imagined by architects and designers, shaped by consultants and artists, and brought to &nbsp;life by our dedicated construction teams. &nbsp;

“What we’ve created here is more than buildings – it’s the best of placemaking, sustainability, arts and culture and quality design. Barangaroo South has become an integral part of Sydney that will serve our city and economy for generations.”

Barangaroo South’s 15-year transformation of  Sydney’s waterfront officially complete

CBE Asia Pacific has lodged plans for a prominent corner site in Fitzroy North, with a proposal that integrates state-significant affordable housing alongside heritage adaptation and new retail.

The application covers a consolidated 2,024 sqm parcel at 201–215 Queens Parade and 6–12 Dummett Crescent. The site includes the heritage-listed Former Clifton Motor Hill Garage, fronting Queens Parade, and vacant land to the rear abutting Dummett Crescent.

According to planning documents prepared by proUrban, the proposal seeks approval for a 12-storey residential building comprising 98 apartments, including a component of affordable housing, over a ground floor retail podium integrated within the heritage structure. Approximately 780 sqm of retail space will occupy the ground floor, while residents will have access to over 850 sqm of communal amenity.

The built form presents as two connected volumes: a 12-storey tower addressing Dummett Crescent and a five-storey volume fronting Queens Parade, the latter consistent with a separate Heritage Victoria permit granted in 2023. The tower reaches a maximum height of 38.26 metres, with upper-level setbacks of 14 metres from the western boundary to reduce visual bulk. A 1.5-metre footpath widening is proposed to Dummett Crescent Lane.

Parking is provided across four basement levels, accessed via Dummett Crescent, with a total of 142 car spaces and 143 bicycle spaces.

The architectural response by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cht-architects">CHT Architects</a> is framed by a need to reconcile new density with a sensitive heritage overlay. The Former Clifton Motor Hill Garage, identified as a place of State heritage significance, will retain its key façades, with demolition and reconstruction limited to approved elements.

As noted in the Heritage Impact Assessment, the proposal remains consistent with the Heritage Victoria permit, which allows "partial demolition, reconstruction and new works, involving the construction of a five-storey multi-use development and three basement levels".

Affordable housing has been embedded into the proposal under Clause 53.23, with specific apartment allocations aimed at enhancing housing diversity within the Queens Parade Activity Centre.

"The proposal is generally consistent with the relevant policy objectives and the intent of the Yarra Planning Scheme," proUrban states in its planning assessment, citing its alignment with strategic documents including Plan Melbourne and Victoria’s Housing Statement.

CHT Architects' plans emphasise a tiered design that acknowledges the site's varied interfaces—from the elevated Heidelberg Road ramp reserve to the recently built Clifton Views aged care facility to the north-east.

CBE Asia Pacific has not been previously active in this precinct, but the project joins a wave of higher-density residential proposals along the Queens Parade corridor, spurred by Melbourne’s broader push to increase affordable housing in well-connected inner-urban areas.

The site benefits from direct access to the Queens Parade tram corridor and proximity to Clifton Hill Station (approximately 200 metres), as well as green open spaces including Mayors Park and Raines Reserve. Clifton Hill Primary School and the Queens Parade retail village lie within walking distance.

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