Buying into a masterplanned community often means committing to a vision still years from taking shape. At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a>, that vision is already visible.

Residents have moved into the completed first stage, landscaped spaces are established, and the next chapter is now underway. Stage 1 has been completed and settled, with Stage 2 now selling off-the-plan.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/pbd-architects">PBD Architects</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> combines attainable apartment living with sustainability initiatives rarely seen at this price point, including rooftop solar, battery storage and a resident EV-sharing program.

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Located on Schofi​elds Road, just moments from Tal​lawong Metro Station and Schof​ields Train Station, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> has been designed to appeal to a broad mix of buyers, from first-home purchasers looking for a foothold in Sy​dney's property market to downsizers seeking a connected, low-maintenance lifestyle.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> has been conceived as a thoughtfully planned masterplanned community that will evolve over multiple stages, with buyers now able to secure one, two and three-bedroom apartments within a neighbourhood that is already beginning to establish its identity.

One of the project's defining features is its focus on sustainability. Solar energy systems, battery storage and future EV charging infrastructure have been incorporated throughout the development, reflecting a long-term approach to both environmental performance and everyday convenience.

Sustainability sits at the centre of the development's vision, with solar energy systems, battery storage and future EV charging infrastructure integrated throughout the community.

That emphasis on future-ready living extends beyond the technology. Landscaped communal gardens, outdoor gathering spaces and plans for a future retail precinct aim to create a neighbourhood where residents can access daily conveniences without travelling far from home.

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The apartments themselves have been designed with liveability front of mind. Rather than chasing maximum density, the focus has been placed on creating practical homes with generous natural light, usable layouts and strong connections to outdoor space.

Importantly, these design principles have been applied consistently across the one, two and three-bedroom apartment offerings.

The appeal of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> is also closely linked to its location within Syd​ney's rapidly evolving north-west growth corridor. Over the past decade, major infrastructure investment has transformed the area, with new transport links, business precincts and community facilities reshaping suburbs like Talla​wong and Schofiel​ds.

The agent says buyers are increasingly recognising the area's long-term potential.

"Typical buyers that we're finding across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> especially are your first-home buyers, your investors, your upsizers as well as your downsizers," Hawes says.

Connectivity remains one of the project's strongest drawcards. Residents have access to both Tallaw​ong Metro Station and Schofi​elds Train Station, providing links to the Sydn​ey CBD, Norw​est Business Park, Macquari​e Park and other major employment hubs. Retail centres including Rous​e Hill Town Centre and Sch​ofields Village are also nearby, alongside schools, parks and future healthcare infrastructure.

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For Stage 1 resident Roji, it is the balance between convenience and comfort that has defined the experience of living at Kew.

"For me, it's a balance of quality and convenience," she says. "Everything I need is right here."

"If I wanted to catch the train, Scho​fields Station is just around the corner. Tallaw​ong Metro connects me to the city."

More importantly, she says, the development has delivered something that cannot be measured in floorplans or specifications.

"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> feels like home."

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As Stage 2 enters the market, that lived experience may be one of the project's strongest selling points. Buyers are not purchasing into an untested concept or a future promise. They are joining a community that is already taking shape.

Ongoing investment in transport, retail, healthcare and public open space continues to strengthen the appeal of Syd​ney's north-west growth corridor, while <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a>'s established first stage provides buyers with a tangible sense of the community's future direction.

For a limited time, buyer can secure a new home at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> with just a $10,000.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=149637]

Joel Robinson

Kew Tallawong: A growing community taking shape in Sydney's north-west

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/freecity">Freecity</a> has received development approval for its 51-storey mixed-use tower at 153-157 Walker Street, North Sydney, set to be one of the tallest mixed-use residential-led buildings in one of Sydney’s most sought-after commercial and residential addresses.

Lodged as a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) through the Housing Delivery Authority (HDA) pathway and approved by the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure following a comprehensive public exhibition and submissions process, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/153-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">the project</a> will deliver 296 apartments, alongside a 170-room, luxury hotel, activated retail and significant public domain improvements.

Situated just 200 metres from Victoria Cross Metro Station, on one of the largest developable sites in North Sydney, the development will rise to 234 metres, making it one of the tallest buildings in the suburb. With an end value of approximately $1.5 billion, the project responds directly to the NSW Government’s mandate to accelerate housing delivery in well-located, transit-connected areas.

<img alt="Freecity gets green light for mixed-use residential and hotel tower in North Sydney" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="192ec455-94bf-4e01-83ef-922b1b269d67" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Freecity%20-%20Walker%20Street%20North%20Sydney%201%20RESIZED%20.jpg?VersionId=Bzqp0SBHCDvLAHjA4QXkjuGoOEIh73Jl" />

The apartment mix will cater to a broad range of buyers, with 65 studio and one-bedroom apartments, 139 two-bedroom residences, 35 three-bedroom apartments, 48 four-bedroom homes, and nine penthouses. Residents will have access to a dedicated amenity level on Level 33, featuring a swimming pool with views towards the Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House and North Sydney CBD, as well as a gym, library, shared kitchen, lounge and outdoor entertaining areas.

The hotel will occupy the lower six levels of the building and include meeting and function spaces, a wellness centre with gym, yoga studio, swimming pool and sauna, further strengthening North Sydney's growing hospitality offering.

At ground level, the development has been designed to improve pedestrian connections through the precinct. More than 700 sqm of retail space will activate the street frontage, while a landscaped through-site link connecting Walker Street, Little Walker Street and Doris Fitton Park will provide new public open space with seating, paving and extensive native landscaping.

Freecity Group Co-Founder and Joint CEO Tony Sun said the project represents one of the most significant development opportunities currently available in North Sydney.

"This is one of the most significant development sites in North Sydney and it comes at a pivotal moment for the precinct," Sun said.

"North Sydney is undergoing a genuine transformation, and this project will contribute housing the city urgently needs while creating a landmark destination."

Executive Director of Development Michael Romano said demand for both residential and hotel accommodation would continue to strengthen as the Metro precinct matures.

"The structural demand for high-quality housing and hotel accommodation in North Sydney is compelling, and will only grow as the precinct continues to evolve around the new Metro station," Romano said.

Architectus has designed the tower, orientating the apartments to maximise views towards Sydney Harbour while introducing a sculpted façade intended to respond to light, wind and the surrounding skyline.

Architectus Principal Marko Damic said the design sought to create a tower that contributes to the public realm as much as the skyline.

"We wanted to design a tower that doesn't just sit in the skyline but actively participates and contributes to city life," Damic said.

First look: Freecity gets green light for mixed-use apartment and hotel tower in North Sydney

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen">Abadeen</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/perifa">PERIFA</a> have celebrated the topping out of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf,</a> marking a significant milestone in the delivery of one of Syd​ney's most anticipated waterfront communities.

Located on Sydney's harbourfront at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/putney-nsw-2112">Putney</a>, the project has now reached its highest structural point, with construction progressing strongly towards completion in 2027. 
&nbsp; 
The milestone was celebrated on-site with project partners Phoenix Property Investors, Mitsubishi Estate Asia, Versatile Construction, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, consultants and stakeholders, to recognise the collective effort behind the transformation of the historic waterfront site into a vibrant new residential, marina and lifestyle destination.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362240] 
&nbsp; 
<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> will deliver a mix of waterfront residences and terraces, complemented by a private 36-berth marina, waterfront dining opportunities and a revitalised foreshore designed to reconnect the community with the river's edge. 
&nbsp; 
Abadeen Executive Chairman and Founder Justin Brown said the project represented a rare opportunity to create the next chapter in Sydn​ey's long history of successful waterfront precincts. 
&nbsp; 
"Throughout Sydney, some of the city's most sought-after addresses have emerged from carefully considered waterfront precincts such as Woolloom​ooloo Wharf, Walsh Bay and Breakfast Point," Brown said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362566] 
&nbsp; 
"What makes these places so successful is that they become much more than residential developments," Brown said.

"They bring together homes, hospitality, marina facilities, public spaces and a strong sense of community in locations where future supply is incredibly limited."

Brown has long described absolute waterfront land in Sy​dney as "finite."

"Once these opportunities are developed, they are rarely replicated. That's why Syd​ney's waterfront precincts have consistently demonstrated strong demand and long-term value growth over many decades. 
&nbsp; 
"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> is one of the few remaining opportunities to secure a residence within a masterplanned waterfront community that combines direct water access, marina ownership opportunities and a genuine village lifestyle just moments from the Sy​dney CBD."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362564] 
&nbsp; 
PERIFA Founder and Managing Director Fabrizio Perilli said the project reflected a shared commitment to delivering exceptional places that create long-term value for residents and the broader community. 
&nbsp; 
"The topping out milestone is a significant achievement for the Versatile Group and a testament to the collaboration between all project partners, consultants and contractors involved," Perilli said. 
&nbsp; 
"Beyond the residences themselves, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> will establish a new waterfront destination that celebrates the history, character and lifestyle of this unique location while creating a lasting legacy for future generations."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=291195] 
&nbsp; 
Construction is being delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/versatile">Versatile Construction</a>, with structural works now substantially complete across the precinct. Attention will progressively shift to the construction of the waterview terraces, apartment façades, services and interior fit-out works over the coming months. 
&nbsp; 
With limited residences and marina berths remaining, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> continues to attract strong interest from owner occupiers and downsizers seeking a premium waterfront lifestyle within close proximity to Putne​y Village, Rh​odes, Top Ry​de and the Syd​ney CBD. 
&nbsp; 
As one of the last opportunities to secure a residence within a new masterplanned waterfront community on Sy​dney Harbour, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> is expected to remain a highly sought-after address for years to come.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=13962]

Abadeen, PERIFA, top out Putney Wharf harbourfront precinct

Kew has long been regarded as one of Melbourne's premier residential suburbs. It's a location defined by its grand period homes, leafy streets and some of the city's most prestigious schools, yet it has often sat just outside the spotlight cast on neighbouring Hawthorn and Camberwell.

Increasingly, however, buyers are recognising that Kew offers much of what draws people to those suburbs, with a quieter residential setting, exceptional amenity and long-term owner-occupier appeal.

Within a few minutes' walk, residents can access Kew Junction, one of Melbourne's most established village centres. Cafés, bakeries, restaurants, supermarkets, boutique retailers and everyday services are all on the doorstep, with local favourites including Centonove, Adeney Milk Bar Cafe, and Frank &amp; Harri creating the type of walkable lifestyle that has become increasingly difficult to find in Melbourne's inner east. Beyond the immediate neighbourhood, Glenferrie Road's renowned shopping and dining precinct in Hawthorn and the retail, dining and entertainment offerings of Camberwell Junction are both just a short drive or tram ride away.

The suburb is equally well connected. Tram routes 48 and 109 provide direct access to the CBD, while High Street and Cotham Road connect residents to the wider inner east.&nbsp;Nearby access to the Eastern Freeway also places the Yarra Valley, Mornington Peninsula and Melbourne Airport within easy reach, adding another layer of convenience for weekend travel.&nbsp;It's a rare combination of connectivity and tranquillity, where quiet residential streets sit just moments from some of Melbourne's most established shopping and lifestyle precincts.

For families, Kew remains one of Melbourne's most tightly held addresses. Carey Baptist Grammar School, Xavier College, Methodist Ladies' College, Trinity Grammar, Ruyton Girls' School and Genazzano FCJ College are all nearby, while the Yarra River parklands, walking trails and sporting clubs provide another layer of lifestyle appeal.

It's within this established pocket that developer Ricdanic is delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/wimba-ave-kew-9-11-wimba-avenue-kew-vic-3101">Wimba Ave</a>, a boutique collection of just 13 residences across two buildings named after its location on the tree-lined Wimba Avenue,&nbsp;within one of Kew's most prestigious pockets where homes have been known to sell up to and above $8 million.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140755 project_image_fid=354809]

The residences prioritise the space that buyers are increasingly searching for but struggling to find in established suburbs. Living areas extend beyond five metres in width, ceiling heights range from three to five metres, and apartments open onto private gardens averaging around 125 sqm. Selected residences also feature balconies of approximately 60 sqm, while premium inclusions include Miele appliances, double-glazed windows, EV readiness, fully electric systems and a 7.2 NatHERS energy rating.

Architect Chris Idle says opportunities to deliver homes of this scale within established suburbs have become increasingly uncommon.

"There are very few opportunities to do these kinds of developments in leafy, established suburbs," he says. "To get this level of amenity, natural light, and architectural freedom in such a setting is extremely rare."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140755 project_image_fid=366267]

The architecture draws on Kew's established character through the use of handmade Krause bricks, while landscaping by John Patrick introduces 23 plant species, including nine native varieties, creating an environment which focuses just as much on nature as it does the building.

Construction on Wimba Ave is well underway by renowned high-end builder Sinjen, with completion expected in late 2027. Prices start from $2.22 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=140755]

The enduring appeal of Kew's tree-lined streets and village lifestyle

"For me, it's the location." That was the first thing Chris pointed to when reflecting on why he and his wife Marita decided to purchase at Candela Ivanhoe, the under-construction new apartment development by Salter Brothers in the heart of the north-eastern M​elb​ourne​ suburb. ​

"We've lived here before… everything is here," Chris said.

"Our doctor is around the corner, there's dentists, pilates, everything we need, restaurants, fast food places, two train stations, Ivanhoe and Darebin, both in walking distance. You don't need anything else."

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Just 10 kilometres from Melbo​urn​e's CBD, Ivanhoe combines direct city connectivity with the amenity of an established village community. Residents have access to highly regarded schools, expansive parklands, public transport, and a thriving retail and hospitality precinct centred around Upper Heidelberg Road, all within a neighbourhood that has retained its leafy character despite its proximity to the city.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/candela-ivanhoe-40-upper-heidelberg-road-ivanhoe-vic-3079">Candela Ivanhoe</a> sits within the heart of this established landscape, positioned just moments from Ivanhoe Village and within walking distance of many of the suburb's most sought-after amenities.

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From Candela, residents can access cafés, grocers, wine bars, restaurants and essential services on foot, while Ivanhoe Station and Darebin Station provide direct connectivity across Mel​bour​ne. The development is also surrounded by some of the suburb's best-known lifestyle destinations, including Pinkie, Laurent, Enni, Docasa and Woodfire Pizza e Cucina, alongside Ivanhoe Plaza, Woolworths, pharmacies and specialty retailers.

Green space is another defining feature of the suburb. Darebin Parklands, Ivanhoe Park, Nellie Ibbot Park and the Yarra River trail network provide extensive opportunities for recreation, while Ivanhoe Golf Course and Ivanhoe Tennis Club continue to underpin the area's long-established lifestyle appeal.

The suburb's education offering further strengthens demand. Ivanhoe Grammar School, Ivanhoe Girls' Grammar School, Mary Immaculate Primary School and Ivanhoe Primary School have helped establish the area as one of Melbou​​rne's most sought-after schooling precincts, attracting families and downsizers alike who want to remain connected to the area.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=342 project_image_fid=357510]

While location was the priority for Marita and Chris, the project itself also needed to meet their expectations.

"Whilst location was paramount, I was also looking at design of the environment and Candela ticked every box," Marita said.

"We're just thrilled with our choice."

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Developed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/salter-brothers">Salter Brothers</a>, Candela Ivanhoe has been designed to complement its village setting, with an emphasis on generous floorplans, natural light and practical everyday living.

Residents will have access to a range of shared amenities, including a communal rooftop garden and dedicated residential lounge, complemented by a ground-floor café and lifestyle wellbeing centre, helping foster the sense of community already emerging among future owners.

That approach has resonated strongly with the market. More than 90 per cent of purchasers at Candela Ivanhoe are owner-occupiers, with buyers ranging from downsizers and second-home buyers to young families and first home buyers, creating a genuinely multi-generational community of grandparents, parents and children. It reflects a broader shift across Melbo​​urne's apartment market, where buyers are increasingly prioritising neighbourhood quality, lifestyle amenity and long-term liveability.

Currently under construction by Ironside, Candela Ivanhoe comprises 58 apartments. Candela Ivanhoe is scheduled for completion in the coming months, and residents can move in from September. One to four bedroom residences, prices from $649,000 and limited opportunities remaining.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=342]

Location and lifestyle drive demand at Candela Ivanhoe

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?

Provenance, the boutique Camberwell apartment project by developer Beulah, is set&nbsp;to be completed by next month.

Apartments still remain at the three-level Toorak Road development of just 12 residences. Buyers now have the opportunity to view a completed apartment in the $30 million project.

The ground floor garden apartment has three bedrooms and two bathrooms, and has been designed to take in the garden through floor-to-ceiling windows and doors.

Provenance has been designed by award-winning architecture and interior design firm Elenberg Fraser.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=9099 project_image_fid=48598]

The light-scheme apartment features natural stone splashbacks, rich timber flooring with smokey brown hues and loop pile wool carpet, further complemented by large format porcelain tiles and rose gold tapware.&nbsp;

Buyers also have the choice to opt in for a dark-scheme residences.

Entry to the apartments begins via direct lift access to the private entry lobby,&nbsp;which becomes a personal drop-off zone for groceries and deliveries to the doorstep.&nbsp;Each&nbsp;Provenance kitchen features a&nbsp;full suite of Gaggenau appliances.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=9099 project_image_fid=48600]

The feature entry doors are made of fluted glass, with the landscaped gardens complemented by entertaining terraces.

Melbourne-based builder Iurada Property Group, who won&nbsp;the 2019 Master Builders Victoria Award for Excellence in Lowrise Apartment Buildings, is handling the build.

Beulah&rsquo;s Executive Director, Adelene Teh said the group was thrilled with the progress made by Iurada in constructing the Provenance Camberwell project so far.

&ldquo;Alongside the team at Elenberg Fraser, we had bold plans for this project, and it&rsquo;s been incredible seeing everything come to life, so accurately reflecting our vision as things move ever-closer to completion,&rdquo; Teh said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=9099 project_image_fid=48606]

&ldquo;Buyers can now immerse themselves in a completed apartment and can experience the sheer size of these homes, while seeing and feeling the quality firsthand of the materials and finishes used.&rdquo;

In what has been a busy year for Beulah, the impending settlement of Provenance Camberwell comes as the developer recently revealed plans for its Prahran project, in collaboration with Cera Stribley, alongside the record-breaking sale and launch day within its highly anticipated, STH BNK By Beulah project.

Prices at&nbsp;Provenance start from $1.25 million.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=9099]

Apartments still remain at the three-level Toorak Road development of just 12 residences


Beulah’s Provenance Camberwell apartments near completion

Malaysian property developer, Gamuda Land, is set for just its second Australian development following its successful delivery of its 661 Chapel Street&nbsp;tower in South Yarra.

Gamuda Land, led by CEO&nbsp;Ngan Chee Meng, has spent $24 million on a prime site at 272 Normanby Road, South Melbourne, with the intention of delivering a 200-apartment, mixed-use tower.

The 2,600 sqm site, famously home to the Dunlop Rubber Co for over 70 years, is located within the Montague Precinct of Fishermans Bend.

Ngan Chee Meng said after the delivery of the company&rsquo;s maiden 661 Chapel Street, South Yarra project in 2018, Gamuda Land is focused on building a strong pipeline of residential projects in Australia over the next five years.

&ldquo;Since Australia&rsquo;s borders reopened for business, Gamuda Land has been actively looking to expand its foothold in all capital cities, in order to bolster residential supply by an additional 1,000 residences,&rdquo; Ngan said.

&ldquo;The South Melbourne site was immediately attractive to us, as it plays to Gamuda Land&rsquo;s global experience in developing sustainable communities and townships.

&ldquo;As a town maker, Gamuda Land is well positioned to apply our expertise in our international projects towards addressing challenges like climate change and housing affordability, which form the cornerstone of our scheme for South Melbourne.&rdquo;

<img alt="" height="722" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-07-14_at_6.42.38_am.png" width="1148" /> 
The former plans for the site had 260 apartments

Gamuda Land&rsquo;s vision is to re-instate local biomass on site, with extensive tree-planting and contributions to public green space included in the scheme.

&ldquo;Working with the traditional landowners as a first step, our design brief started with an understanding of the site&rsquo;s natural landscape and its indigenous heritage. We wanted to understand how we could restore part of the project to its pre-colonial state.&rdquo;

Partnering with Hayball Architects, Oculus and HIP V. HYPE, the project will deliver a biophilic outcome that incorporates native flora and &lsquo;re-wilds&rsquo; part of it to a pre-urbanised landscape.

In collaboration with the City of Port Phillip, DELWP and Fishermans Bend Taskforce, Gamuda Land will also deliver a new 3,000 sqm public park that will see a section of neighbouring Johnson Street permanently closed and transformed into open green space.

The architectural response by Hayball champions ecological design features like vertical greening that connects the park frontage with the building and private residents&rsquo; rooftop garden. Promoting the health and wellbeing of future residents has informed natural material selections, increased natural light in the development&rsquo;s design and enhanced connections to nature.

A lush biophilic spine through the building&rsquo;s 20 levels offers resident &lsquo;hide out&rsquo; areas for work and recreation amongst green spaces. Cascading green walls will feature prominently throughout corridors, lobbies and terraces.

An eco-deck atop the building will feature lush green planting and resident amenities like a Japanese inspired onsen, urban farming beds and a meditation and wellness studio.

&ldquo;It was important to us that the project made a significant contribution to enriching air quality and reducing heat island effect, delivering on Gamuda Land&rsquo;s goal to reduce its CO2 emissions by 40 percent by 2030,&rdquo;&nbsp;Ngan added.

&ldquo;The project will also see over 6,000 native plants and trees planted, furthering our goal to plant an additional one million trees across Gamuda Land&rsquo;s projects.&rdquo;

Additional amenities within the project will include an atrium retail space that will introduce 14 specialty retailers.

A mix of one, two and three bedroom apartments will be priced from $490,000 up to $1,450,000, with a sales launch planned for late 2022. Construction is anticipated to commence in June 2023.

The 2,600 sqm site, famously home to the Dunlop Rubber Co for over 70 years, is located within the Montague Precinct of Fishermans Bend

Gamuda Land set for Fishermans Bend, South Melbourne apartment development

Local apartment seeker Lyn&nbsp;Pearsall&nbsp;only spent 10 minutes in the Tapestry display suite before signing off on one of the biggest apartments in the artistic Chevron Island project.&nbsp;

&ldquo;I&nbsp;rang my daughter and said that i&#39;m going to sign a contract at the launch, I was only there for 10 minutes,&quot; Pearsall, who lives not far from the Darrambal Street development,&nbsp;said.

Her daughter came over to have a look and her immediate response was &quot;we&#39;re buying the top floor.&quot;

Pearsall, who had been researching her next purchase for around 12 months,&nbsp;brought forward her purchase, having had the intention of buying an apartment in 2023.

Pearsall intended on buying the ground floor apartment, because of her dog and she wanted a big outdoor area, however she was sold on the abundance of space on one of the upper level apartments, as well as the extensive amenity on offer.

&ldquo;The facilities are awesome,&quot; Pearsall said, adding that she&#39;s already started planning to have her girlfriends over in the private dining space.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108641 project_image_fid=192969]

&quot;The fact the facilities are on the top floor is a real cool because the developer usually wants the maximum with a penthouse but they&#39;ve decided to put the facilities on the top which I think is a great positive.&quot;

The rooftop amenity will rival the best on the Gold Coast. It will feature a private dining space which can be closed off to the rest of the rooftop, an infinity pool with views across Surfers Paradise, a gym, and outdoor lounge areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108641 project_image_fid=192963]

The community garden was also another big tick for Pearsall.

&ldquo;The big attraction is coming from a home where you have a garden to an apartment where you don&rsquo;t &ndash; and so here they&rsquo;ve incorporated a community garden and I know others that I&#39;ve spoken to are really excited about that.&quot;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108641 project_image_fid=192972]

Speaking on her display suite experience, Pearsall said the conversations with the team were very informative, which gave her confidence in her purchase.&nbsp;

&quot;I think the Tapestry brand, once you buy in, you become a part of the family because&nbsp;you are included and asked for your feedback.&quot;

Siera Group Founder and Managing Director Brent Thompson says their residents are the most important part of their&nbsp;projects.

&quot;Creating our Tapestry development to suit its future occupiers every need sat at the forefront of our design process,&quot; Thompson says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108641 project_image_fid=192961]

&quot;The personal journey of our buyers and their experience with Siera is something we strive to make not only exciting, but seamless.

&quot;As we walk alongside our residents across every step of their buyer journey, we hope to form foundations across our projects from now and into the future.&quot;

The development approved Tapestry, which will rise 22 levels&nbsp;from 39 Darrambal Street on the prized east-side of Chevron Island, is Siera Group&#39;s first foray into the Gold Coast apartment market, having had success for a number of years developing in Brisbane&#39;s inner ring.

Local architecture fir BDA created the 113-apartment project, with the brief to merge art with architecture.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=108641]

&nbsp;

Speaking on her display suite experience, Pearsall said the conversations with the team were very informative, which gave her confidence in her purchase

Why 10 minutes was enough to buy a Tapestry, Chevron Island apartment: Buyer Q&A

The prominent Sunshine Coast developer Cube Developments has launched their own&nbsp;construction arm in an attempt to cruise over the&nbsp;currently problematic&nbsp;Australian&nbsp;construction industry.

Cube Constructions will be led by&nbsp;Michael Crocker,&nbsp;whose long career saw him lead the likes of Hutchinson Builders and NCM Constructions.

Director of Cube Developments Scott Juniper said taking the builds of upcoming projects in-house was a natural evolution for the company due to the team&rsquo;s expert mix of design, build, trades and consultancy.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=109813 project_image_fid=196625]

&ldquo;Our team has a strong history of delivering high-quality projects across the Sunshine Coast. Couple this with the long running expertise that Michael brings to the venture as Head of Construction, we are confident that we are in the best position to deliver our projects from start to finish,&rdquo; Juniper said.

&ldquo;We&rsquo;re looking forward to giving both existing and new purchasers the confidence that when they sign an off-the-plan contract that it&#39;s something that can and will come to fruition, and in a timely manner.&rdquo;

With a recruitment drive underway, Crocker said the new venture will create plenty of new jobs in the region, including project managers, safety officers and site foreman.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=89721 project_image_fid=172110]

&ldquo;Following the huge demand for property experienced here on the coast over the last 18 months, we have more than 500 residences in the pipeline across five Cube Developments projects, all of which will be built by Cube Constructions,&rdquo; Crocker said.

The first project to commence under Cube Constructions is Nature by Cube in Cotton Tree with works scheduled to start mid-July, followed by the construction of Oasis in Bokarina Beach and Seasons by Cube in Birtinya.

The announcement comes at a critical time in the Australian building sector, with over 16 large firms having collapsed since 2021, leaving developers with unfinished projects, thousands of Australians without jobs and just as many would-be homeowners empty handed.

Cube Constructions will be led by Michael Crocker, whose long career saw him lead the likes of Hutchinson Builders and NCM Constructions

Sunshine Coast developer Cube launch construction arm

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


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