Gold Coast-based developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ignite-projects">Ignite Projects</a> has lodged a Development Application for a landmark $120 million precinct set to transform the southern gateway of the much-loved Spit.

Positioned at the most prominent entry point to the iconic peninsula, the project has been designed with a strong focus on architecture, public space, heritage and connectivity, delivering a revitalised parkland setting that invites locals and visitors to engage with the Broadwater.

Central to The Isles proposal is a significantly upgraded public realm, including landscaped open space, a new waterfront café, and a family-friendly park featuring a naval-themed playground, open lawns and improved pedestrian connections.

<img alt="Ignite Projects unveils exciting details of landmark gateway precinct for the Spit" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="de83a270-6091-4b26-bed0-86f9248e7f9e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/The%20Isles%201.jpg?VersionId=vt79HlCOwV9F7eLQe9.Z3bv9JGLMaSP2" />

The design retains and celebrates key elements of the site’s history. The training mast from the vacant and degraded naval cadet building, which forms part of a former Navy minesweeper, will be preserved. The existing Navy Memorial will be relocated and upgraded in collaboration with the RSL, allowing it to be publicly accessible for the first time in years. 
&nbsp; 
Heritage-listed Humphreys Boat Shed remnants will remain and be incorporated into the landscape, while the site’s established Norfolk Pines will be retained, reinforcing the area’s character and sense of place. The enhanced parkland will ultimately create a long-term community asset at the entry to The Spit. 
&nbsp; 
The Development Application (DA) lodged with Gold Coast City Council includes 28 waterfront apartments across three levels, ranging in size from 145sqm to 383sqm, designed as a feature landmark within the precinct and complement the public domain.

<img alt="Ignite Projects unveils exciting details of landmark gateway precinct for the Spit" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bbf94e00-b56a-47fb-a15d-3d17b0b1ec76" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/The%20Isles%203.jpg?VersionId=A0vmBNE_KohYJo1EoZcmF5IVW4tT5aDo" /> 
&nbsp; 
Ignite Projects Director Josh Foote said the project as a whole had been carefully shaped to deliver a meaningful outcome for the wider community, not just future residents. 
&nbsp; 
“This is about more than delivering opulent apartments – it’s about creating a welcoming and memorable gateway to The Spit that people can enjoy every day,” Mr Foote said. 
&nbsp; 
“We’ve worked hard to ensure the public realm is a central part of the project, from the landscaped parklands and family-friendly spaces through to the preservation and celebration of important local heritage.”

<img alt="Ignite Projects unveils exciting details of landmark gateway precinct for the Spit" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="443bbde5-8221-45f8-a549-dad2623df20c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/The%20Isles%204.jpg?VersionId=iUl6nc.sHkjMdo_1RigwbwUz_celHJ3H" /> 
&nbsp; 
Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/contreras-earl-architecture">Contreras Earl Architecture</a>, The Isles adopts a considered subtropical approach, with the building form shaped to maximise natural light, cross ventilation and views to the Broadwater and surrounding parklands. 
&nbsp; 
Architect Rafael Contreras said the design responded directly to its unique coastal setting. 
&nbsp; 
“Rather than a typical built form, the architecture has been shaped by performance and experience – from optimising outlook and privacy to creating a strong connection to landscape and climate,” Mr Contreras said. 
&nbsp; 
“A central landscaped courtyard allows light, air and greenery to permeate the building, while the articulated façade introduces movement and rhythm inspired by the Broadwater.

“The Isles will create a place where people can gather, relax and connect with the water, while also delivering a refined residential product that responds to its unique setting.”

<img alt="Ignite Projects unveils exciting details of landmark gateway precinct for the Spit" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1089570d-1120-4302-9900-fb9f75c75c26" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/The%20Isles%205.jpg?VersionId=pl9qmKZNbaL3A7XjmD7sjhLwmXaqzzLZ" /> 
&nbsp; 
The DA relates to the residential and public realm components, with a proposed boutique marina to be progressed as part of a future stage, subject to separate approvals. 
&nbsp; 
The Isles is being delivered under The Spit Master Plan, a collaborative vision to create a new residential, tourism, leisure, natural environment and cultural heritage hub on the iconic and much-loved peninsula.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Ignite Projects has an established track record delivering premium residential projects across the Gold Coast, including The Monaco at Main Beach and Cabana at Palm Beach. 
&nbsp; 
Sales for The Isles are expected to commence in coming months from an on-site display suite, with construction targeted to begin later this year, subject to approvals.

Joel Robinson

Ignite Projects unveils exciting details of landmark gateway precinct for the Spit

The Federal Government’s sweeping changes to negative gearing and capital gains tax could trigger an unintended consequence: a surge of investor demand into the new and off the plan apartment sector.

While Treasurer Jim Chalmers has framed the reforms as a way to improve housing affordability and rebalance the tax system, the carve-outs for newly built housing are already positioning off the plan apartments as one of the few remaining tax-effective property investment plays.

Under the changes handed down in the Federal Budget, investors purchasing established properties after budget night will no longer be able to access negative gearing benefits. The Government will also replace the long-standing 50 per cent capital gains tax discount with a new inflation-indexation model and introduce a minimum 30 per cent tax on gains from July 2027.

However, there is a major exemption.

Investors buying new builds, including off the plan apartments, will still be eligible for negative gearing and will be able to choose between retaining the current 50 per cent CGT discount or adopting the new indexed model.

That distinction is expected to reshape investor behaviour almost immediately.

For years, established housing has dominated investor purchases because of its perceived lower risk, immediate rental returns and stronger historical capital growth. But with the tax advantages now heavily skewed toward new housing supply, the economics are changing rapidly.

The Federal Government has been explicit about its intent.

“The housing market and tax system are broken,” Chalmers said ahead of the Budget, arguing that existing concessions were disproportionately rewarding speculation rather than supporting housing supply.

The Government says the reforms are designed to encourage investment into new housing rather than established stock, a move aimed at increasing supply during a prolonged housing shortage.

According to the official Budget papers, limiting negative gearing to newly built homes is intended to “better align tax incentives with housing supply objectives.”

For the apartment development sector, particularly the off the plan market, the changes could become one of the strongest investor tailwinds in years.

Developers across Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane have spent the past two years battling elevated construction costs, higher interest rates and subdued investor confidence. Many projects have struggled to secure sufficient pre-sales to commence construction, particularly in markets heavily reliant on investor demand.

The Budget changes may now alter that equation.

Investors seeking tax-effective property exposure will increasingly find themselves funnelled toward newly built apartments simply because established dwellings no longer offer the same benefits.

Commonwealth Bank described the reforms as one of the most significant shifts to residential property investment settings in decades, noting that the package is centred around “limiting negative gearing for residential property to new builds” while replacing the existing CGT framework.

That could have profound implications for the apartment sector.

Off the plan apartments already hold several advantages for investors. Purchasers typically secure a property at today’s price while settlement occurs years later, allowing time for capital growth and reducing the upfront capital burden. Brand-new apartments also generally attract depreciation benefits, lower maintenance costs, and stronger appeal to renters seeking modern amenity.

Now, they may also become one of the only residential property types still offering the full suite of historical tax advantages.

Industry analysts expect investor demand to increasingly migrate toward projects that can clearly demonstrate strong rental demand, transport connectivity and long-term supply constraints.

The shift is likely to be particularly pronounced in apartment markets already underpinned by structural undersupply, including inner Brisbane, the Gold Coast, parts of Sydney’s Lower North Shore and select Melbourne precincts where new apartment commencements have collapsed over recent years.

The reforms also arrive at a time when apartment supply nationally remains critically constrained.

Australia is already struggling to meet the Federal Government’s target of delivering 1.2 million new homes over five years. Construction feasibility pressures have delayed or shelved thousands of apartments across the country, particularly as building costs remain elevated and financing conditions remain tight.

Critics of the Budget changes argue the reforms could reduce overall investor participation in the housing market and place upward pressure on rents by discouraging investment in established housing.

Some economists estimate the measures could reduce housing supply over the longer term if overall investor appetite weakens.

However, the Government is betting that redirecting investor capital into new housing supply will offset those concerns.

“To continue to incentivise construction of new housing, investors building new residential properties will be able to choose either the 50 per cent CGT discount or the new arrangements,” the Budget papers stated.

That wording has been closely watched by the development industry because it effectively positions new apartments as the preferred investment class within residential property.

For off the plan developers, the reforms could become a powerful sales tool.

Projects that have increasingly relied on owner-occupier demand may once again attract investors seeking to preserve the tax advantages still attached to newly built housing before the July 2027 changes take effect.

The reforms are also expected to sharpen the divide between established and new housing markets.

Rather than a broad investor retreat from property altogether, many analysts expect a redistribution of capital toward sectors still supported by Government incentives.

That could create stronger demand for apartment projects in key urban growth corridors and transit-oriented precincts where population growth, migration and rental shortages remain elevated.

The policy direction also aligns with the Government’s broader push toward increasing housing density in established urban areas.

Across Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne, planning reforms are increasingly encouraging higher-density apartment development around transport infrastructure and activity centres. By maintaining tax incentives for new housing, the Federal Government is effectively reinforcing that agenda from a taxation perspective.

For apartment developers who have spent years navigating subdued investor confidence, the changes may ultimately become the catalyst that reactivates parts of the off the plan market.

While the broader property sector is still digesting the long-term implications of the Budget, one thing is already becoming clear.

The era of investors buying established apartments and houses primarily for tax advantages may be ending.

But for off the plan apartments, the investment story may just be beginning.

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Investors to flood off the plan apartment market?

Adding to Chatswood’s growing skyline, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-anderson-chatswood-54-56-anderson-street-chatswood-nsw-2067">The Anderson</a> is grounded in a simple principle: apartment living in a major centre does not have to come at the expense of space and outlook.

Set on Anderson Street in the heart of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/chatswood-nsw-2067">Chatswood</a>, the new residential tower, a collaboration between developers <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/changfa-group">Changfa Group</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/huirong-group">Huirong Group</a> with architecture and interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ajc-architects">AJC Architects</a>, will introduce 122 apartments that prioritise generous proportions, considered orientation, and a strong connection to the surrounding heritage precinct.

The design originated from a Design Excellence Competition, where AJC proposed a building that combines suburban-style apartment scale with the density expected in a transport-rich centre. The development will include more than 1,800 square metres of retail and commercial space at street level, landscaped communal roof terraces, and a ground-floor pocket park framed by canopy trees. Together these elements aim to create a building that integrates with Chatswood’s evolving streetscape while maintaining a strong residential focus.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151353 project_image_fid=353250]

A key driver behind the architecture was the desire to deliver family-sized apartments rarely seen in the Chatswood market. The Anderson includes a mix of one to four-bedroom apartments, with around 35 per cent of the residences configured as three or four-bedroom homes. At the top of the building, two double-storey penthouses span approximately 200 square metres each, reinforcing the project’s emphasis on scale and long-term liveability for both downsizers and intergenerational households.

Orientation and outlook were central to the planning of the building. The apartments are positioned to maximise views to the north and east across Chatswood’s heritage precinct, with upper levels capturing glimpses of the Pacific Ocean. South-facing apartments gain distant views toward the Sydney CBD and Harbour Bridge, while the building’s configuration intentionally reduces western exposure at lower levels to minimise overlooking toward the nearby railway corridor.

The external design references the character of the surrounding conservation area without replicating it directly. A brick podium anchors the building to the street and introduces a series of architectural portals that draw inspiration from the nearby Chatswood Presbyterian Church. Above this base, the tower shifts to a lighter, more open expression defined by horizontal lines and carefully detailed balconies that balance privacy with outward views.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151353 project_image_fid=353254]

Toward the top of the tower, AJC introduces a distinctive lantern-like element formed by sliding screens. These screens provide both solar shading and privacy while also creating a visual marker for the building within the Chatswood skyline. The feature reinforces the architectural intent of the project, a structure that is visually refined while still responding to the practical requirements of apartment living.

Inside the residences, interior architecture focuses on clear spatial flow and practical everyday use. Open-plan living areas connect directly to large balconies, extending the internal living spaces outward and allowing natural light to move deeper into the apartments. Kitchens are designed as central working spaces with premium appliances and carefully selected materials, positioned to serve both daily living and entertaining.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151353 project_image_fid=353256]

Bathrooms follow a similarly restrained design language, using refined fixtures and materials to create calm, functional spaces, while wardrobe areas adopt a gallery-style layout with integrated lighting and generous storage. These elements reflect a broader design approach that prioritises clarity, functionality, and durability over decorative gestures.

Positioned just a short walk from Chatswood Interchange, residents will have direct access to rail, metro, retail, and dining. The Metro extension allows travel from Chatswood to Martin Place in approximately 11 minutes, placing the CBD within easy reach for residents while maintaining the convenience of a walkable North Shore neighbourhood.

One-bedroom apartments at The Anderson start from $1,022,000.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151353]

How AJC designed The Anderson to bring oversized apartment living to Chatswood

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/bridgewell-development">Bridgewell Capital</a> has lodged plans for a major mixed-use apartment development in the heart of Maroubra, seeking a significant uplift in height and density controls to deliver 120 apartments and a 120-place childcare centre near Maroubra Junction.

The State Significant Development application, filed through the NSW Government’s Housing Delivery Authority pathway, covers a 3,270 sqm amalgamated site at 251-257 Maroubra Road and 133-135 Garden Street. The proposal includes a concurrent rezoning that would increase the maximum building height from 12 metres to 35.6 metres and lift the floor space ratio to 4.02:1.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bka-architecture">BKA Architecture</a>, the project would replace a mechanic’s workshop and several detached homes with a 10-storey residential building above four basement levels.

The scheme comprises 120 apartments, including 27 affordable housing units to be managed by a community housing provider for 15 years, alongside 203 basement car spaces and 92 bicycle spaces. A childcare centre occupying nearly 900 sqm of floor area would sit at ground level and be capable of accommodating 120 children and 22 staff.

<img alt="First look: Bridgewell plots 120 apartments and childcare centre in Maroubra town centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="038a0639-f9e4-4303-8fcc-d43e73fa480f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Bridgewell%20pers.png?VersionId=eGBElxmNqJW.YF3JFYgHTnPgAstdyXR3" />

According to the Design Report, the project has been conceived as a “gateway proposal” that responds to Maroubra’s evolving urban character and its proximity to the town centre.

“Designed to complement the character of Maroubra’s town centre, this gateway proposal features a building scale that matches its surroundings,” the report stated.

“It integrates residential units above a ground-level childcare centre, fulfilling the strategic objectives of the Randwick City Council Masterplan.”

The apartment mix is weighted toward larger residences aimed at families and downsizers, reflecting changing demographics in the Randwick LGA and increasing demand for medium-density housing close to transport and amenity.

BKA Architecture said the proposal seeks to reinforce Maroubra Road as a civic spine while improving the pedestrian experience around the site through landscaping and upgraded public interfaces.

“The design capitalises on the following site opportunities: reinforcement of Maroubra Road as a civic spine, enhancement of pedestrian pathways and the public interface via new landscaping, and strong market demand for two and three-bedroom apartments to support families and down-sizers,” the Design Report noted.

<img alt="First look: Bridgewell plots 120 apartments and childcare centre in Maroubra town centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ee509779-3c7e-4918-b03d-761c785459d0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Bridgewell%20site.png?VersionId=eZC4Ruyn.C7O.Qwfr1SVeP5.ds1c5.66" />

The building has been designed with setbacks and articulation intended to transition between the commercial intensity of Maroubra Junction and the surrounding lower-scale residential neighbourhoods. Communal open space is proposed on level one, while upper-level apartments would secure views towards Port Botany, Maroubra Beach and Sydney’s eastern suburbs.

The development sits around 200 metres east of the Maroubra Junction intersection of Anzac Parade and Maroubra Road, within one of Randwick’s identified strategic centres. The site is close to Pacific Square Shopping Centre, major bus routes, schools, parks and future cycling infrastructure proposed under the Maroubra Junction Masterplan.

The Maroubra proposal aligns with broader NSW Government initiatives encouraging higher-density housing near established centres and transport corridors, particularly where affordable housing is incorporated.

Bridgewell is also working on a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/goldfields-sets-the-stage-as-quartet-milton-launches">new 55-unit project in Killara</a>.

First look: Bridgewell plots 120 apartments and childcare centre in Maroubra town centre

National diversified developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/goldfields-group">Goldfields</a> has launched its latest Brisbane apartment project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/quartet-milton-33-manning-street-milton-qld-4064">Quartet Milton</a>, marking its entry into the sought-after inner-city suburb just two kilometres from the CBD.

The circa $100 million development will rise 18 storeys and deliver 131 apartments, offering a mix of one, two-, and three-bedroom residences.

Ideally located on Manning Street, Quartet residents will be within 300 metres of Milton Station, 500 metres from the Milton Ferry Wharf, and a short walk to Milton Markets, the iconic Park Road, as well as a range of breweries and cafés.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=367993]

Designed by architecture firm <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> and brought to life by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a>, the building features a simple, gridded façade paired with generous glazing to enhance views, maximise aspect, and capture both sunrises and sunsets from within the apartments and their generously sized balconies.

Residents will have access to a 1,000 sqm rooftop, curated to balance wellness and entertaining, in response to increasing demand for wellness-focused shared spaces.

"We've approached Quartet Milton as a complete lifestyle offering, not just apartments, but a place where the design, amenities, and location all work together in a meaningful way," says Goldfields Managing Director Lachlan Thompson.

"Buyers are looking for that sense of confidence, knowing the vision has been carefully thought through not just by us as developers, but by all our consultants appointed to bring this together, and that it will be delivered to the standard they expect."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=368000]

Cera Stribley Co-Founder and Managing Principal Domenic Cerantonio said the rooftop is designed to feel like a place "you'd genuinely use every day."

"A 25-metre pool framed by city and mountain views, wellness areas, and private dining spaces for evenings with friends create a setting designed for year-round comfort and effortless Brisbane living."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=367999]

In addition to the 25-metre pool, the rooftop will include a sauna, cold plunge, fully equipped gym, and zen gardens, all complemented by panoramic views of the city and river.

While the building is expected to appeal predominantly to owner-occupiers, Goldfields anticipates interest from investors seeking strong rental returns, driven by the project's design, location, and the city's projected capital growth in the lead-up to the 2032 Brisbane Olympics.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=367991]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/milton-qld-4064">Milton</a>, widely regarded as one of Brisbane's most desirable inner-ring suburbs due to its lifestyle offering and proximity to the CBD, has experienced a shortage of new apartment supply in recent years.

Goldfields is already active in the Brisbane residential market through its Ripley Valley masterplanned community, Hayfield. The 109-hectare neighbourhood is already home to more than 300 families and features a large community park.

Plans for the precinct include a 4 km running track, future schools, and retail and commercial amenities, all within a 35-minute drive of the Brisbane CBD.

Goldfields also plans to deliver a new mixed-use tower at 88 Robertson Street in Fortitude Valley, within the James Street precinct. The project will include 16,000 sqm of boutique commercial space, a level of wellness facilities, and a rooftop restaurant and event space, akin to Goldfields House in South Yarra, its flagship mixed-use development on Chapel Street, which is crowned by the Beverly Rooftop bar, one of Melbourne’s best-known venues.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108736]

Goldfields sets the stage as Quartet Milton launches

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?

Fortis has lodged plans with Waverley Council for&nbsp;their first collection of luxury homes in the affluent eastern suburbs hotspot Bronte.​

​The homes will be&nbsp;developed on the prime&nbsp;2,472 sqm site at&nbsp;122-128 Hewlett Street, which was&nbsp;acquired by Fortis for $44 million in early 2022. The proposed scheme has been developed in response to the increased demand for luxury houses in Sydney&rsquo;s east.&nbsp;

Architecture firm MHN Design Union have drawn up the plans, which will feature&nbsp;architectural facades including custom brickwork and European lime renders and screening.&nbsp;Alexander and Co and Lawless &amp; Meyerson will handle the interiors.

Fortis Director Charles Mellick says the team are looking forward to apply what they know from the multi-residential apartment space to the luxury housing market.​​

​&ldquo;Fortis has carved a reputation for itself over the years for premium residential developments in blue-chip locations across Sydney and Melbourne,&quot; Mellick says.

<a href="/new-apartments/bronte-collection-122-128-hewlett-street-bronte"><img alt="" height="1008" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-07-13_at_5.29.40_am.png" width="1830" /></a>

&quot;We are excited to be utilising our considered approach to develop luxury houses that offer an enviable combination of location, amenity and quality. 
​ 
&ldquo;This will be the first collection of houses by Fortis, making this project a notable milestone for us. With an expected end value of $125 million, we are investing in the future of the luxury residential coastal market in Sydney that continues to remain buoyant. We look forward to working collaboratively with the community to deliver a superior product in a desirable location.&rdquo; 
​ 
​The collection of private homes will feature three or four bedrooms, four bathrooms and secure basement parking. Open-plan living and dining areas will open onto north-facing private pools and lush gardens by Wyer &amp; Co, in addition to sweeping views of Bronte Beach from the upper levels.&nbsp; 
​ 
​Each home will have private full-floor master retreats including an expansive bedroom, walk-in robes and ensuites, dedicated laundry rooms, custom swimming pools and spas, grotto entertainment areas in the rear garden and integrated Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances. Select residences will have wellness rooms that can be converted into gyms or&nbsp;studios for pilates and yoga, cinema rooms and the option to have a private art studio or kids rumpus room.

Construction on this site is expected to commence by mid-2023, once plans are approved by the local council.

Fortis Director Charles Mellick says the team are looking forward to apply what they know from the multi-residential apartment space to the luxury housing market

Fortis lodge $125 million Bronte luxury off the plan house plans

Palm Beach was one of the most in demand spots on the Gold Coast

Cabana Palm Beach, The Tally, The Monroe, and Hemingway were among a number to sell out&nbsp;in double quick time. And while demand has continued, the market has been starved of stock, with little to no fresh new projects launched in the last six months.

Buyers finally have another opportunity to secure a slice of Palm Beach, considered one of the most local spots in the whole of the Gold Coast which is being overran with Sydneysiders and Melburnians either seeking a holiday bolthole or a future home as the pandemic sped up retirement for many.

Seaclusion, on Twenty First Avenue just one block back from the beach, is one of the most local projects anyone will be able to find.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107136 project_image_fid=202029]

It&#39;s being developed by the local Dorr family, who have lived at the prime dress circle spot for over seven decades. The Dorr family actually built the home on the 1,229 sqm&nbsp;site which is soon to be demolished to make way for the&nbsp;nine-level development.

An attractive proposition for buyers is that&nbsp;the Dorr family are intending on keeping a number of the apartments in the building, which ensures their level of commitment to the project.

Pezet Matheson Director Todd Matheson says the Dorr family are wanting to build a legacy.

&quot;They want to create a legacy for both Palm Beach and their family,&quot; Matheson says.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107136 project_image_fid=202033]

&quot;They&#39;re making a statement that they want to be here for another 70 years, and that&#39;s a good sign for buyers that the developer will be creating something to last.&quot;

Seaclusion will be made up of 40 one, two and three-bedroom apartments.

The Dorr family have pulled the best team together to create Seaclusion. BDA Architecture has designed the striking development with&nbsp;striking batten timber feature on the facade.

Matheson says Seaclusion is a rare offering for the exclusive suburb.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107136 project_image_fid=202034]

&quot;Nobody builds one and two-bedroom apartments at this price point on the beach side of the highway,&quot; Matheson says.

&quot;Most apartment developments on the beach side are half or full floors, and can start anywhere from $2.5 million to $4 million.&quot;

There&#39;s only a handful of one-bed apartments left, priced from $695,000. The two-bedroom apartments are priced from $950,000, and the three-bed stock from $1,495,000.

Matheson&#39;s team sold out The Tally in Palm Beach last year, at a not too dissimilar price point. He expects Seaclusion to not stick around for long either.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107136 project_image_fid=202038]

&quot;One of the biggest drawcards of Seaclusion is the orientation,&quot; Matheson adds.

&quot;Over 80 per cent of apartments are either east facing or north facing. It&#39;s pretty special to get sun for that long.&quot;

The amenity is located on the roof, where there&#39;s a north-facing pool with both ocean and hinterland views, as well as a barbecue area.

Another&nbsp;rare part of the development, particularly&nbsp;in the current Gold Coast apartment market, is the unlikeliness of future redevelopment on the block between Seaclusion and the beach.

A recently renovated house is currently on the beachfront, but between Seaclusion and the house is an easement through to another two houses, which makes it very unlikely of a developer coming in and building a tower.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=107136]

Seaclusion, on Twenty First Avenue just one block back from the beach, is one of the most local projects anyone will be able to find

Rare opportunity to buy in Palm Beach as Seaclusion apartments launch

The display suite is one of the most important parts in an off t​he plan buyers journey.

While technology has evolved and renders are looking more and more realistic, there&#39;s nothing like being able to touch and feel the apartment you&#39;re going to buy. Display suites act&nbsp;as a bridge between buying&nbsp;o​ff the plan and buying an established property.

They&#39;re also an essential point of difference for property developers, often proving the difference between whether buyers purchase in your project, or in a neighbouring suburb at a similar project.

There&#39;s a rivalry in the Gold Coast, with SPG going head to head with Gu​rner on their display suites. Hardly a display suite, they&#39;re more a display experience.

SPG had their commissioned builder, Hutch​insons, create the $4 million, 750 sqm building, making it the largest sales gallery of any new development in the southern hemisphere. It takes up 2,000 sqm of the Fer​ny Ave site which SPG are set to create nearly 800 apartments across three towers.

Gu​rner just opened theirs across the road for their equally large La Pelago, which will have over 900 apartments across four towers.

Display suites tend to be reserved for the larger, multi-res projects. Small boutique developments, maybe less than 40 or so apartments, often don&#39;t have the budget for a fully fledged display suite.

The Sydney developer Coronation Property have long known the importance of the display suite, with their last five display suites featuring full scale apartments in the future development.

<img alt="" height="2250" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/coronation_masonmain_260422_219168.jpg" width="3000" /> 
The display suite at Mason &amp; Main. Image supplied

Coronation Property&#39;s Head of Sales and Marketing Cameron Porter says display suites have come a long way over the last decade.

&quot;While previously&nbsp;display&nbsp;suites were ordinarily quite sterile with little more than demountable floor plans and finishes boards, we&rsquo;ve seen the&nbsp;display&nbsp;suite journey for off-th​e-plan apartments over the last five to 10&nbsp;years come a very long way,&quot; Porter says.

&quot;Nowadays, any premium&nbsp;display&nbsp;suite journey includes a fully immersive and engaging experience for purchasers that touches on all the senses &ndash; sight, sound, touch smell and taste.&quot;

Porter says they&nbsp;want people to walk in and start envisaging the new building, picturing exactly how it could become a place they could call home.

Despite the changes and evolution of the display suite experience as technology advances, Porter notes that&nbsp;display&nbsp;suites have, and always will&nbsp;be, about creating trust between the developer, the prospective purchasers, and the community in which the development is being built.

Coronation took that belief into its under construction Merrylands project, Mason &amp; Main, the mini-community designed by Woods Bagot with its own&nbsp;vibrant market-style laneways with retail and dining precinct underneath nearly 800 apartments.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=31751 project_image_fid=161007]

Since opening the display suite in 2020, the space has evolved.&nbsp;Coronation have created&nbsp;a caf&eacute; for the community and purchasers to get a sense of what&rsquo;s to come, as well as two&nbsp;built-to-scale apartments in differing schemes to show buyers exactly what they&rsquo;ll get,&nbsp;a very rare offering. They also&nbsp;included varying building and design features that showcase the intricate architectural detailing of the Mason &amp; Main development. It allows buyers to literally picture themselves in what will be produced.

&quot;Beyond just a&nbsp;display&nbsp;suite, we wanted to create a space that was an experience. We wanted to create a connection,&quot; Porter says.

<img alt="" height="1106" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-07-28_at_9.08.56_am.png" width="842" />

The community-led display&nbsp;suite at Mason &amp; Main. Image supplied

Coronation has always placed a strong emphasis on creating a display suite that to help buyers feel &nbsp;confident in purchasing off t​he plan.

The display suites in their two&nbsp;latest developments, Mason &amp; Main and Ashbury Terraces, include life-size apartments and features, with various colour schemes and finishes available. Their significant investment in the display suite experience was also prevalent across their previous developments, 8 Phillip St in Parramatta, Charlie Parker in Harr​is Park and the acclaimed Paper Mill Precinct in Liverpool.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112253 project_image_fid=193250]

&quot;Buying a home can be daunting, especially when you can&rsquo;t physically see the property,&quot; Porter adds.

&quot;It&rsquo;s our responsibility to make the process as seamless and stress-free as possible. As part of this process, it&rsquo;s important for buyers to see and feel the different aspects of their future home.

<img alt="" height="992" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-07-28_at_9.15.31_am.png" width="836" />

The display suite at Ashbury Terraces. Image supplied

&quot;As one of the biggest investments most people make in a lifetime, we believe a premium&nbsp;display&nbsp;suite experience is integral to facilitating trust and assurance that what you&rsquo;re buying of​f-the-plan will be delivered come handover.

Porter suggests that beyond showcasing their built product, they also&nbsp;believe the&nbsp;display&nbsp;experience is essential for prospective purchasers and developers to understand each other.

&quot;By taking prospective purchasers on tours of our&nbsp;displays, we have the space to better understand what their individuals needs and aspirations are, to ensure they feel comfortable with what they&rsquo;re purchasing, to learn more about the developer and design team, and help them to better understand the process of buying off the pl​an.&quot;

Coronation Property's Head of Sales and Marketing Cameron Porter says display suites have come a long way over the last decade

The importance of the display suite for an off the plan apartment buyer

In a time of building insolvency, increasing material costs, and supply chain issues, off-the​-plan purchasers are demanding greater quality assurance from developers and builders.

While there&rsquo;s no overnight fix for rising construction fees, Sydney-based developer Coronation Property believes investing in new processes and people will provide customers the quality assurance they crave while giving developers and builders a competitive edge in a changing industry climate.

It takes a number of moving parts, and more importantly, moving specialist teams, to create exceptional mixed-use developments with collaboration and communication between in-house teams and external consulting agencies including architects, placemaking specialists, engineers, and subcontractors integral to the success of a project.

Further investing in their fully integrated business model, Coronation Property recently announced the formation of a new in-house design team to bridge the gap between their development teams, construction arm and external agencies.

Anticipating the needs of a changing industry, Coronation Property&rsquo;s new in-house design team, Studio Circle &amp;&nbsp;Co will be integral to the ongoing protection of their customers. The team will ensure the original design intent of projects is carried through from early design concept to construction completion and customer handover.

The quality assurance initiative will see new processes put in place to support compliance with the Design and Building Practitioners Act, with a specific focus on Class 2 mixed-use multi-residential developments.

While many larger publicly listed developers such as LendLease and Mir​vac have been doing this for some time, very few privately owned developers who dominate Sydney&rsquo;s residential market have their own construction arm and in-house design teams.

Studio Circle &amp;&nbsp;Co is led by experienced architect Mona Chao, the former co-head of architecture at apartment giant Meri​ton.

&quot;As a business, we are constantly evaluating opportunities that will better serve our customers and communities,&quot;&nbsp;says Chao.

&quot;Having an in-house design team ensures meticulous quality control throughout every phase of the build and allows the business to remain agile in the management and execution of industry regulatory framework,&quot;&nbsp;she adds.

Chao says the team is an important cog in the whole process of the development, not just in ensuring design intent is carried through the build.

Chao&#39;s team is engaged at the earliest point in the development before the site is even acquired.

They help scope out what is possible with the site, and what the site lends itself to in terms of density of buildings, number of apartments, and ultimately how well the design can fit into the current landscape of the area.

Studio Circle &amp; Co has been supporting the business&rsquo;s growth plans following the announcement of new site acquisitions in Chatswood and Erski​neville, boosting the company&rsquo;s development pipeline to more than $7 billion.

&quot;We collaborate with our acquisition team to test feasibility before a site is acquired which provides the business with confidence to proceed with purchase as a baseline, compliant architectural model has been developed and verified in-house,&quot;&nbsp;Chao says.

Studio Circle &amp;&nbsp;Co will collaborate with Coronation Property&rsquo;s award-winning architectural partners to push design boundaries early in the planning process.

&ldquo;It takes a certain type of person to work with, and for work for Coronation and we&rsquo;re proud of our longstanding relationships. We really demand the best from our chosen collaborators to ensure we are constantly evolving to better serve our customers and communities&rdquo;

Anticipating the needs of a changing industry, Coronation Property’s new in-house design team, Studio Circle & Co will be integral to the ongoing protection of their customers

How in-house design teams can benefit off-the-plan buyers amidst industry uncertainty

The development duo&nbsp;behind Bondi's redevelopment of the Bondi Pacific are back again for a new project around the corner.

Rebel Property Group’s&nbsp;Allen Linz and Capit.el Group’s&nbsp;Eduard Litver have submitted plans for a&nbsp;$12.5m project across an amalgamated site at&nbsp;34-38 Hall Street, Bondi's popular shopping strip.

The four-level building will have ground floor retail, apartments above, and two-levels of basement parking.

The proposed site forms an important part of the block along Hall St from Jacques to Consett Avenue, with the block bookended by the heritage Post Office to the east.

<img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="1308" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-07-11_at_9.05.52_pm.png" width="2296" /> 
Render of the proposed shoptop apartment development set for Hall Street in Bondi. Credit: EMBECE

The proposed site forms an important part of the block along Hall St from Jacques to Consett Avenue, with the block bookended by the heritage Post Office to the east.

Embece Studio was enlisted to design the plans for the Hall St project, taking inspiration from the neighbourhood’s surrounding landscape and greenery.

Mladen Prnjatovic,&nbsp;Ben Green and Chi Melhem teamed up to establish Embece, with the Chippendale-based trio designing everything from bespoke private homes to city-scaled projects and precincts.

“We are proposing to draw this landscape into the architecture of our building, extending it around the corner and into Hall Street, bringing new biodiversity and life into the street,” Embece noted in their design application.

<img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="1118" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-07-12_at_6.07.21_pm.png" width="1516" /> 
Render of the proposed green-focussed development along Hall Street. Credit: EMBECE

“Our design is a direct response to the character of the place. It maximizes the vibrant neighbourhood character of Bondi and makes great places for people to live.”

A palette of white off form concrete and ceramic tiles make up the built form, which has been designed to extend the corner into Hall St from Consett, established through curved geometry and a series of landscaped pockets.

Ground Ink handled the landscape architecture, with&nbsp;significant planting to the rear gardens planned and landscaping integrated into the architecture as well as the roof terrace.

"The landscape character of Consett Avenue turns the corner into Hall street, transforming the experience of the street as well as the apartments within the building," Ground Ink noted.

The Hall Street precinct is currently undergoing significant change and development, with a string of projects recently completed in the area, including the duo’s Pacific, Bondi project, as well as TOGA’s, Bondi Boheme, and the Silvester Fuller designed, The Drift.

Linz recently lodged plans for a sprawling 6,400 sqm Woolloomooloo site, with the $161 million project set to bring 229 apartments across 10-levels, with an extensive rooftop garden landscaped by Ground Ink.

The four-level building will have ground floor retail, apartments above, and two-levels of basement parking

First look: Allen Linz and Eduard Litver team up for new Hall Street, Bondi apartments

The former North Shore Gas Co. Office building is set to be conserved and readapted in Crows Nest.

The Double Bay-based developer&nbsp;PDS has filled plans for a $55 million project which will comprise a 14-level mixed-use building, with a two-storey commercial podium.

<a href="/new-apartments/290-pacific-highway-crows-nest"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-07-11_at_8.33.10_pm.png" width="822" /></a> 
Render of the proposed Pacific Highway mixed-use development in Crows Nest. Credit: Fuse Architecture

There will be 61 three and four-bedroom apartments planned on the&nbsp;290 Pacific Highway site, just up the road from PDS&#39;s The Wentworth.

The recently amalgamated lot has a primary frontage to the Pacific Highway with a rear address to Sinclair Street.

It is currently occupied by the local heritage listed Former North Shore Gas Co Office building and an existing two storey commercial building, with the latter secluded to be demolished in the process.

LFA Pacific prepared the urban design report for PDS, who engaged Fuse Architects to design the plans.

<a href="/new-apartments/290-pacific-highway-crows-nest"><img alt="" height="1102" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-07-11_at_8.33.16_pm.png" width="820" /></a>

Render of the proposed Pacific Highway mixed-use development in Crows Nest. Credit: Fuse Architecture

&ldquo;The development proposal seeks to retain, conserve and adaptively re-use the Former Gas Company building as part of a new mixed-use building with a ground floor commercial podium and residential uses above,&rdquo; LFA said in their urban design report.

The site is situated in an urban block bound by Shirley Street to the north, Bruce Street to the south, the Pacific Highway to the east and Sinclair Street to the west.

The block forms part of the Five Ways intersection, where Pacific Highway, Shirley Road, Willoughby Road and Falcon Street converge, creating a local landmark that defines the southern gateway to the St Leonards, Crows Nest Precinct.

The site at 290 Pacific Highway, Crows Nest in the North Sydney Local Government Area is 1.5km north of North Sydney CBD, 850m south of St Leonards strategic centre and immediately south of Crows Nest Village

<a href="/new-apartments/290-pacific-highway-crows-nest"><img alt="" height="1318" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-07-11_at_8.34.04_pm.png" width="1960" /></a> 
Render of the proposed Pacific Highway mixed-use development in Crows Nest. Credit: Fuse Architecture

The site is approximately one kilometre from major public open space such as Brennan Park and Newlands Park, St Leonards Park, and St Thomas Rest. Smaller pocket parks such as the Hume Street Park, Ernest Place Park, and Sophia Street Park are located east of Pacific Highway, while Morton Lane Road Reserve off Sinclair Street is a landscaped walkway.

The design involves the reinstatement of key materials such as exterior masonry, terracotta tiles, pressed metal, stainless steel, and glass panelling.

<a href="/new-apartments/290-pacific-highway-crows-nest"><img alt="" height="1204" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-07-11_at_8.33.26_pm.png" width="970" /></a> 
Render of the proposed Pacific Highway mixed-use development in Crows Nest. Credit: Fuse Architecture

Glass is used for the remainder of the facade with a textured glass awning and pressed metal soffit to match the existing heritage pressed metal soffit pattern.

The existing facade is provided with powder coated metal profiles to match the existing awning and fluted glass as a key design motif for the front elevation where a curtain wall is proposed to the remainder of Pacific Highway frontage.

Incorporating a muted palette and lightweight materials, the upper residential levels highlight the heritage item, while inverted, fluted glass is used as a contemporary adaptation of the scalloped heritage facade.

There will be 61 three and four-bedroom apartments planned on the 290 Pacific Highway site, just up the road from PDS's The Wentworth


$55 million Crows Nest apartments to target the owner-occupier

South Perth-based property developer, Stirling Capital are set to begin construction on their parkside apartments, Florin next month.

The $32 million project will bring 63 residences to the Jolimont area, with the family-sized apartments offering sweeping views to the neighbouring park and CBD skyline.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108682 project_image_fid=200529]

Only a few more weeks remain to secure up to $50,000 off in&nbsp;stamp duty savings, with the Victorian Government's stamp duty rebate scheme.

Taking liveability to the next level, Florin proudly boasts highly sustainable Australian Excellence 'design' and 'as built' basis, together with a 5 Star Green Star rating.&nbsp;

Buyers can select between three differing colour schemes, with each apartment complemented with&nbsp;high-end finishes throughout, including&nbsp;leading Swiss V-Zug appliances.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108682 project_image_fid=200530]

Residents will be at home with a suite of resort-style&nbsp;facilities including a dining room, resident lounge, pet wash, parcel smart locker system, lockable storerooms, bicycle parking, security camera system, and EV charging stations.&nbsp;

Florin marks the second venture in&nbsp;<a aria-label="Jolimont - opens in new tab" data-uw-rm-brl="false" data-uw-rm-ext-link="" href="/developments/jolimont-wa-6014" target="_blank" uw-rm-external-link-id="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/jolimont-wa$jolimont">Jolimont</a>&nbsp;for Stirling, having already completed Treehouse, with a collection of two-bedroom apartments remaining in Parkside Walk; a LandCorp urban infill development.

Located in the heart of the Western Suburbs of Perth,&nbsp;with views to the Perth CBD, the desirable setting is nearby to the Parkside Walk, linking residents to shopping precincts in Floreat, Wembley, Leederville and Subiaco.

One, two, three and four-bedroom apartments can still be snapped up in the Jolimont project, spanning between 87 sqm to 289 sqm.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=108682]

The $32 million project will bring 63 residences to the Jolimont area, with the family-sized apartments offering sweeping views to the neighbouring park and CBD skyline.

Construction to commence on Florin Parkside, Perth apartments 

Sekisui House has completed its Japanese inspired golf-side building, Aire, which sits&nbsp;at the highest elevation point within the groups $1 billion masterplanned community in Sydney&rsquo;s Norwest, The Orchards.

Designed by award-winning architects, Rothelowman, Aire, which is stage two of the development,&nbsp;acts as a prominent urban marker at the gateway to The Orchards, comprising 57 nature-inspired residences.

George Gesouras, Project Director at Sekisui House Australia, said the arrival of Aire sets a new benchmark for luxury living in the Hills District.

<img alt="" height="3750" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/sha_aire_-_twilight.jpg" width="5000" />

Render of the latest apartment building to land in the masterplanned community, The Orchards. Image supplied&nbsp;

&ldquo;It showcases what is possible when extraordinary architecture, detailed construction, considered design and environmental philosophies combine to create an aspirational building,&rdquo; he said.

Aire&rsquo;s generous oversized apartments fit the changing needs of the new community allowing flexible living and work from home arrangements.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29147 project_image_fid=82618]

&ldquo;The building responds to its environment and the community at a time where the home is becoming even more important as a place where people retreat to and create a personal sanctuary,&rdquo; Gesouras said.

Aire will also be home to an extensive array of communal amenities, providing social gathering places for residents to mix and mingle.

&ldquo;Sekisui House&rsquo;s design principles developed over 60 years start with embracing and respecting nature and people to work towards a sustainable future.&rdquo;

The project demonstrates its commitment to ESG via rooftop panels and a water sensitive urban design, along with high efficiency energy systems and electric vehicle charging stations.

<a href="/new-apartments/the-orchards-aire-baulkham-hills-104-fairway-drive-baulkham-hills-nsw-2153"><img alt="" height="3750" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/sha_aire_-_rooftop.jpg" width="5000" /></a> 
Render of the shared rooftop space in the latest apartment building in the masterplanned community, The Orchards. Image supplied.&nbsp;

Conceived as two separate but interlinked objects, principal architect&nbsp;Ben Pomroy from Rothelowman,&nbsp;said the building has been tuned to its context.

&ldquo;Aire, known as The Pebble, or Koishi building, plays an essential role in establishing the northern entry to the precinct and acts an urban marker that responds to its prominent location within the Norwest district.&rdquo;

The north-eastern wing presents highly sculpted end forms, with curved precast and glazing that create urban markers on arrival to the precinct.

&ldquo;The breadth of the northern elevation requires a singular gesture of balconies that extend across the full fa&ccedil;ade length. At key moments in the fa&ccedil;ade, the pattern on the balustrade bends and folds to create visual interest,&rdquo; he added.

The balustrades address the northern views across Castle Hill Golf Course, creating the lines of a Japanese pebble garden, while the edge of the building is accentuated with a unique 180-degree panoramic curved glass window.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29147 project_image_fid=82617]

The curved structure integrates with the existing Imperial development (Stage One), providing shared communal spaces between the two buildings.

A private landscaped courtyard with orchards, generous lawn spaces and a water feature link the buildings at the ground plane, with shared access to a residents&rsquo; lounge within Aire.

The communal roof terrace has been scaled to accommodate residents of both developments.

Aire was constructed by Growthbuilt who translated the architectural concepts and Sekisui House&rsquo;s design philosophies into a bespoke building, with joint CEO and Director, Colin Rahim saying the collaborative approach maintained a focus on sustainability throughout the build.

<a href="/new-apartments/the-orchards-aire-baulkham-hills-104-fairway-drive-baulkham-hills-nsw-2153"><img alt="" height="3750" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/sha_aire_-_rooftop_podium.jpg" width="5000" /></a> 
Render of the shared rooftop space in the latest apartment building in the masterplanned community, The Orchards. Image supplied.&nbsp;

Collective design workshops were held with key consultants in the early stages to formulate a united plan for the precast fa&ccedil;ade panels and window systems to achieve a dynamic structure that maximised views for all apartments.

&ldquo;A custom re-usable precast formliner system was used to manufacture the various fa&ccedil;ade elements. A variety of panels were able to be manufactured from each mould, ensuring a cohesive structure. The high-quality built form that was delivered is testament to our pursuit for building excellence which adds value to our client&rsquo;s property portfolios,&rdquo; Rahim said.

Many of the apartments overlook the picturesque fairways of the Castle Hill Country Club, with residents enjoying uninterrupted views, designer finishes and access to private rooftop amenity including an infinity pool, landscaped sun deck, cabanas and rooftop dining facilities.

The Orchards masterplan, designed by Turner is spread across 8.1 hectares and is made up of five stages.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29147 project_image_fid=82635]

Underpinning all aspects of the design is the Japanese concept of &lsquo;satoyama&rsquo;, with the term meaning to connect people through &lsquo;ribbons of green&rsquo;, demonstrated in a lush green spine throughout the estate.

Set on a nature site with a creek and cycle/walkways, The Orchards will feature recreational amenities including a 1.4 hectare public park, playgrounds, break-out green spaces, outdoor lagoon pool, large indoor fitness centre and indoor heated swimming pool.

When completed the community will comprise 1300&nbsp;apartments.

The Orchards is located around 31 kilometres north-west of Sydney&rsquo;s CBD and is nestled in Norwest,&nbsp;located positioned 800 metres from Norwest Metro Train Station and 600 metres from Norwest Marketown as well as Norwest Business Park.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=29147]

Aire’s generous oversized apartments fit the changing needs of the new community allowing flexible living and work from home arrangements.



Sekisui House complete Japanese-inspired golf-side apartment building in The Orchards masterplan

Eight boutique luxury residences in Melbourne's popular bayside suburb of&nbsp;Brighton have just launched on Urban. Check out our apartment spotlight video:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mtpo-c4zQHU" title="YouTube video player" width="660"></iframe>

<h2>32 BLACK ST AT A GLANCE</h2>

Address: 32 Black Street, Brighton, VIC 
Development team:&nbsp;Thomas Construction and QB Constructions 
Number of residences: 8

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=108268]

32 Black St&nbsp;properties feature two generously sized bedrooms, two carparks, and they're north facing. The only catch is that there are only 8 available, so you'll have to be quick to secure one.

Live a 15-minute walk to Brighton Beach, minutes from Brighton Golf Course, Epworth Hospital and across the road from Middle Brighton Station, taking you to the CBD in just 28 minutes.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108268 project_image_fid=199300]

The build is being undertaken by Thomas Construction and QB Constructions, with a meticulous level of care being taken to ensure the homes are exemplary of quality and will stand the test of time.

Residents will enjoy three-bedroom-sized two-bedroom homes with two bathrooms and expansive balconies with views overlooking the city skyline.&nbsp;

Kitchens feature top-of-the-line Miele appliances, including integrated fridge freezers and induction cooktops.&nbsp;The bathrooms feature exquisite slate marble tiles and high-end tapware, exuding luxury.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108268 project_image_fid=199297]

Each living space within the apartment is light and spacious and has been designed for residents to enjoy as their forever home.&nbsp;

You'll love living just moments to Brighton Beach, Palace Cinemas and Church Street dining precinct. There are also several well-regarded schools* in the area, and for your weekend activities, the Brighton Baths and Yacht Club are also within walking distance.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108268 project_image_fid=199299]

Construction is well underway, with settlement expected in early 2023. To learn more, enquire via Urban today.&nbsp;

urban.com.au

APARTMENT SPOTLIGHT VIDEO: 32 Black St, Brighton, VIC

Caydon, founded by Joe Russo back in 1999, has hit the market running with its Preston apartments, Due North, with over 70 per cent sold.&nbsp;

Climbing 12 levels with 107 apartments, a rooftop space, a coworking area in the lobby and three retail spaces, Due North is set to be a unique addition to High St, Preston.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5502 project_image_fid=155330]

Each level will contain a maximum of 12 apartments, designed&nbsp;with the owner-occupier in mind.

Local singles and couples in the hunt for their first home have taken up a crop of the apartments in Due North, with the nearby High Street, which is scattered with bars and restaurants, providing a swathe of highly desired amenity.

With the area experiencing a spat of gentrification, many buyers are seeking two-bedroom apartments, with the increasing flexibility of working-from-home and the need for an office space.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5502 project_image_fid=155333]

Only a five per cent deposit is required to secure a new home in <a href="https://www.urbandirect.com.au/due-north/?utm_source=article">Due North</a>, with two-bedders starting from $593,000, meaning only a $29,650 deposit needed.

Construction is now underway on the Preston apartments, which are expected to be completed in the first half of 2023, giving buyers even more time to save the remainder of the funds for the property.

Owner occupiers can save on stamp duty for a limited time also, with buyers paying less than $6,000 stamp duty on two-bedroom apartments.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5502 project_image_fid=155336]

With over 20 years' experience, Caydon has delivered over 4000 projects across Melbourne, including Windsor &amp; Co in Preston, as well as the Ivanhoe, Ettaro in Brunswick East and Only in Flemington.

The group currently have Rise, a two and three-bedroom apartment development in Moonee Ponds for sale, along with Home by Caydon in Alphington.&nbsp;

Home offers two and three-bedroom apartments, with buyers again only requiring a five per cent deposit and&nbsp;move-in slated for spring this year.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=5502]

Designed by Caydon's architecture and design team, each level consists of a maximum of 12 apartments, curated with the owner-occupier in mind.



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