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?

Grand Reve, Castle Hill&#39;s most&nbsp;distinguishable apartment development, was some seven years in planning for the award-winning developer Kassis Homes and its founder, Sam Kassis.

His reputation locally precedes him. He&#39;s been the top home builder for over three decades in the Hills District area, with homes he&#39;s built over 20 years ago still reselling now for suburb records.

And now&nbsp;he wants to do it all over again in the apartment space. Grand Reve isn&#39;t Sam&#39;s first multi-res project, but the Castle Hill development&nbsp;will set a new benchmark even for what he&#39;s produced previously.

&quot;We want to create a landmark,&quot; Kassis says, working on the project with his business partner&nbsp;Romio Georges.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=94147 project_image_fid=197727]

The goal for Grand Reve, which translates to &quot;dream big&quot; in French, was to bring something completely different to the apartment market, something Kassis has&nbsp;been doing with the houses he&#39;s&nbsp;been creating for years.

One of the biggest points of difference Grand Reve offers is its luxury inclusions. All of the apartments at Grand Reve feature Wolf appliances, with the large two and three-bedroom options also including Sub-Zero refrigeration systems as standard inclusions

Kassis said they sat down with a number of suppliers and they showed them the packages that they offer higher density developments, but something didn&#39;t quite sit right.

&quot;It just didn&#39;t feel right,&quot; Kassis says, adding that the whole goal of Grand Reve was to be different.

&quot;We didn&#39;t want to do the same as what everyone else was doing.&quot;

So Kassis approached&nbsp;the high-end appliance retailer&nbsp;Wolf and Sub-Zero, who he has been using for 30 years in his luxury home building career. The premium appliance selection&nbsp;is usually reserved for more boutique projects in inner-city locations - apartments that carry a hefty price tag to match the calibre of appliance.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=94147 project_image_fid=197728]

&quot;We&#39;re the only development north of the city and surrounds to be using Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances,&quot; Kassis noted, adding that the team at Wolf also said they never fit out developments of this scale, and that &quot;no one under the age of 45 has Wolf appliances.&quot;

The apartments are also fitted with Parisi tapware, brass feature fixtures, and stone kitchen bench tops.

&quot;It&#39;s a high-end finish in every apartment, for an affordable price point,&quot; Kassis adds.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=94147 project_image_fid=197723]

It&#39;s not just the interiors that are striking a chord with buyers.

The development was cleverly designed to allow for apartment amalgamations, which McGrath Projects Associate Director Adam Sparkes says has been popular among those buyers looking for more space.

He is in discussions with a local buyer to amalgamate a number of apartments to create a super-apartment, with&nbsp;over 300 sqm of internal space. That&nbsp;could sell for just under&nbsp;$4 million, which would set the&nbsp;apartment record for the whole of the Hills District, and add another record&nbsp;to Kassis&#39;&nbsp;long line of top prices.

There was an inadvertent helping hand from the local council along the way when it came to the size and scale of the apartments on offer at Grand Reve.

Before the&nbsp;onset of COVID, the local council put a condition in the approval process&nbsp;that around a quarter of the development had to be dedicated to larger two and three-bedroom apartments, which has been a blessing given the demand for bigger space in the home since the pandemic changed the way we live.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=94147 project_image_fid=197732]

&quot;We have so much interest in the larger apartments, which offer sizes not seen in comparable developments in the area,&quot; Sparkes says.

&quot;The way the development has been designed, there&#39;s flexibility for amalgamations throughout the building, not just the penthouse level,&quot; Sparkes added.

&quot;Ultimately it will be budget that dictates whether buyers can amalgamate toward the higher levels of the building or further down. The fact we can offer that amalgamation option throughout the building, all the way to the ground level, is a major plus for all buyers.&quot;

Even without the amalgamation potential, the development offers 37 different floorplan configurations to suit as many buyer needs as possible.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=94147 project_image_fid=197736]

Sparkes says the locals who are visiting the onsite display are well aware of what Sam has produced in the surrounding areas in the housing space.&nbsp;

&quot;There&#39;s been a number of people who have either bought a Kassis-built home before, or are a friend of a friend,&nbsp;and have already seen&nbsp;what the Kassis team&nbsp;has&nbsp;produced previously and know they will deliver something special again.&quot;&nbsp;

Everything Kassis is putting together at Grand Reve gives&nbsp;buyers confidence they&#39;re buying in to something which is timeless, both in its design and its build quality.

Grand Reve offers something completely unique for the burgeoning Hills District suburb.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=94147]

The goal for Grand Reve, which translates to "dream big" in French, was to bring something completely different to the apartment market, something Kassis has been doing with the houses he's been creating for years

Kassis Homes "dream big" plans for Castle Hill: Five minutes with Sam Kassis 

Due to the rich amenity surrounding the area and the diversity of product available, demand for Woodlea continues to remain strong.

Woodlea has again sold out its latest two releases within hours of launching, known as Westrise, with affordable parkfront townhomes for first home buyers, and The Yards, with premium lots in the heart of Aintree.

Comprising just eight townhomes fronting a reserve and adventure playground, Westrise sold out in just three-hours and received major interest with 115 registrations.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=28733 project_image_fid=167737]

Offering accessible prices for first-home buyers, Woodlea buyer Josiah Krznaric jumped at the opportunity to step into Woodlea when Westrise was released, with prices starting from just $445,000.

&quot;We had been looking at Woodlea&#39;s previous releases, but didn&#39;t feel we had enough savings to commit. This release ticked every box when looking for our first home. The town centre is within walking distance, but far enough from the hustle and bustle.&rdquo;

&ldquo;The five per cent deposit was a big advantage for us. We did some exploring throughout the town and fell in love with the community feeling, and how well everything is presented across the neighbourhood. We&rsquo;re also excited about all the plans and future growth, like the additional infrastructure,&rdquo; said Krznaric.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=28733 project_image_fid=167735]

While demand for townhouses within the community show no sign of slowing down, Woodlea&rsquo;s most recent land release, The Yards, experienced a similar result with all 20 lots in the latest release snapped up within the first day of launch, including buyers who already call Woodlea home.

Located North of Taylors Road in Aintree and within walking distance to future state-of-the-art amenities, The Yards is nestled amongst public primary and secondary schools, an active open space, indoor sports centre, major town centre and more, attracting both the upgrader and families.

Woodlea Project Director Matthew Dean said The Yards will cater to the increased demand for land within the highly desirable Aintree postcode.

&ldquo;The Yards will help cater to the regional boom we&rsquo;re still witnessing since 2020, where families are seeking more land and space to grow, while still having everything within easy reach such as schools, major town centres and more.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=28733 project_image_fid=167736]

&ldquo;All stock within Aintree has been highly sought after, including townhomes, and even if the market fluctuates we&#39;re confident that this neighbourhood will remain a desired location as it&#39;s right in the heart of Woodlea,&rdquo; said Dean.

Winner of the UDIA Victoria 2021 Awards for Excellence within the Masterplanned Development category, Woodlea is a major asset for the west, comprising prestigious schools, &lsquo;destination style&rsquo; playgrounds, parks and sporting facilities and is home to a large-scale Town Centre, Woodlea Town.

Currently home to 10,500 residents, this number is set to grow to 20,000 residents upon completion.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=28733]

Comprising just eight townhomes fronting a reserve and adventure playground, Westrise sold out in just three-hours and received major interest with 115 registrations.



Demand for Woodlea continues as latest releases sell out within hours

Those seeking either a sea change or a lifestyle change have been popular with the new Brighton apartment project, Awaken, currently being created by the luxury developer Skelton Group.

Projects by Buxton Director,&nbsp;Heath Thompson, who is handling the sales, said the majority of buyers so far have come from outside the local area.

&ldquo;A lot of buyers are looking for a sea-change or a lifestyle-change, coming from outer suburbs and away from the bay to a lifestyle where they can walk down to the beach or the local caf&eacute; or train station,&rdquo; he said, adding that one of the most recent buyers has come from Mansfield, in the foothills of the Victorian Alps.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30087 project_image_fid=143715]

Thompson says Awaken, which is due for completion in spring this year,&nbsp;offers a more realistic entry to&nbsp;Brighton compared to other developments on the market.

&quot;A lot of Brighton has been saturated with big beautiful apartments, which come with a big price point, over $2.5 million plus,&quot; Thompson says.

&quot;Not everyone is selling a $5 million home and downsizing,&quot; Thompson adds, suggesting Awaken caters for a wider type of buyer.

The three-bedroom apartments in Awaken start from $1,395,000.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30087 project_image_fid=177708]

The&nbsp;luxury offering, now over 60 per cent sold,&nbsp;comprises just 13 three-bedroom apartments. It is located in a quiet&nbsp;area of Brighton at 30-32 Rooding Street, a laneway-style street just a short walk to the popular Bay Street&nbsp;and Martin Street activity centres.

Nearby is Brighton Beach and the famous Bay Trail, refined pubs, lively cafes, and boutique shopping experiences line the streets, offering the ideal blend of city amenities and beach-side lifestyle.

In collaboration with acclaimed Melbourne architect Travis Walton, Awaken takes a contemporary and restrained approach to bayside luxury living, with interiors taking on generous proportions and a palette of natural stone, aged metal and natural oak timber flooring.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30087 project_image_fid=177706]

Michael Skelton, Founder and Managing Director at Skelton, said they wanted to replicate the success of their nearby Brighton East project, Avenue.

&quot;We brought the same exceptional, proven Bayside team to Awaken and the results speak for themselves&quot;,&nbsp;Skelton said.

Awaken has been landscaped by the well known landscape firm ACRE, who have combined&nbsp;natives, evergreen and flowering plants to deliver visual impact and create seasonal change that blends seamlessly with the suburb&rsquo;s landscape.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=30087]

Projects by Buxton Director, Heath Thompson, who is handling the sales, said the majority of buyers so far have come from outside the local area


Sea changers and lifestyle changers popular at Awaken, Brighton apartments

The recently launched Walsh Grange, in Melbourne's Ormond, is drawing attention from everyone, from first home buyers to downsizers.

Projects by Buxton director Heath Thompson says it's due to the uniqueness of the project.

"There's nothing nearby locally that offers such a wide mix of both configurations, price point, and quality of development," Thompson says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108897 project_image_fid=180973]

Young families have shown keen interest in the larger three-bedroom apartments, particular the ground-level garden apartments that offer extensive landscaped courtyards, most of which are north facing.

“With Kilvington Grammar just around the corner, along with a host of other schools and parks and family-orientated amenity, we’re expecting to have a number of buyers amalgamate apartments also, to create that bigger space that is taking over the current property market," Thompson adds.

There's a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments on offer in the development of just 23 contemporary units.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108897 project_image_fid=180980]

The project is being developed as a joint venture between CQ Property Developments and Loi Projects. the latter being behind the likes of Arbour Park in Surrey Hills and MaSt in Brighton.

Walsh Grange has been designed by the local architecture studio Telha Clarke&nbsp;to deliver the security of community and the comfort of a private, premium residence.

The modern low-rise building focussing on creating connections to nature through the&nbsp;surrounding gardens and trees.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108897 project_image_fid=180972]

On the fringes of Brighton and Caulfield, Ormond is well connected to the rest of Melbourne through extensive bus&nbsp;and train network, as well as&nbsp;access to major road networks.

The small pocket in the Glen Eira district has grown substantially, and is&nbsp;now brimming with&nbsp;bustling retail precincts, extensive amenities and education options, as well as having many spacious public parks and gardens, and of course its proximity to Brighton Beach.

Ormond came to life more than 150 years ago, growing with the nearby CBD while still maintaining its community charm of a Bayside lifestyle.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=108897]

Melbourne-based architects, Telha Clarke designed the Ormond apartments with the modern low-rise building focussing on creating connections through shared public spaces and surrounding garden and trees. 



How Walsh Grange brings something different to Melbourne's Ormond

Recently we visited Melbourne's leafy south-eastern suburb of Clayton South to take a walk through Cedar Wood's Jackson Green community.

Watch our tour of the Aster Apartments display suite:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vkO2dycbCDs" title="YouTube video player" width="660"></iframe>

<h2>JACKSON GREEN AT A GLANCE</h2>

Address:&nbsp;456 Haughton Road, Clayton South, VIC 3169 
Developer:&nbsp;Cedar Woods 
Architect:&nbsp;DKO Architecture

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=4124]

Apartments feature timeless design with modern fixtures and fittings. Aster offers Smeg appliances, engineered timber floorboards, communal electric vehicle charging, central courtyard. The apartments have generous balconies of up to 140 square metres, and a vast majority of homes are eligible for stamp duty fee exemption.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4124 project_image_fid=187629]

Homes at Jackson Green have been selling in record time – with a final release of two and three-bedroom apartments now available. Aster is also currently under construction, with a slated completion of late 2022.

All apartments come with a titled carpark as well as storage cages in the secure basement. You will also have access to an electric vehicle sharing service on-site operated and managed by Ohmie Go on behalf of the owner's corporation. The train station is also only 800 metres away.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4124 project_image_fid=187628]

In the centre of the community is a generous park with a barbeque and picnic area and a children's playground. North-east of the development is a dedicated dog park, basketball and futsal courts, and to the south, you’ll find a quaint pocket park.

Jackson Green is set within an established suburb, meaning you can enjoy world-class amenities just minutes from your home, including Australia's largest shopping precinct, Chadstone.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4124 project_image_fid=187631]

You're also minutes from Bald Hill Park, Monash University, and plenty of great produce markets, cafes, and restaurants in the area.&nbsp;

The apartments at Jackson Green offer the perfect opportunity to secure a low-maintenance home situated within a brand new master-planned neighbourhood. Request a call from a sales agent via Urban today to learn more.&nbsp;

Olivia Round

Display Tour Video: Aster Apartments by Cedar Woods at 456 Haughton Road, Clayton South, VIC 

The Chatswood CBD skyline is set for a further revamp, with plans for a soaring 90-metre tower lodged by the continually busy Goldfields Group.

Located at 871-877 Pacific Hwy, the $50.6 million project is set to deliver 76 apartments, along with three levels of retail and office space, on a 1,432 sqm site wedged between the North Shore Rail Line and the Pacific Hwy.

Make Architects were selected to lead the design of the project following a competition, with the initial entries lodged back in 2021, before being reworked and refined to what it is today.

The buildings form is massed, with the strategy in place to create a clean, slender tower, according to the architects.

<a href="/new-apartments/the-bryson-of-chatswood-3-wilson-street-chatswood-nsw-2067">To track the project and be alerted when it hits sale, enquire here.</a>

<a href="/new-apartments/the-bryson-of-chatswood-3-wilson-street-chatswood-nsw-2067"><img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="1044" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-05-19_at_12.34.45_pm.png" width="780" /></a> 
A render of the proposed development at&nbsp;at 871-877 Pacific Hwy. Credit: Make Architects

“The resulting envelope is a simple elegant mass, split into 4 vertical quadrants. An open level of residential amenity helps create a clear delineation between the commercial podium and the residential tower above,” said Make in their design proposal.

Built with a series of four vertical blade walls, the development intends to maximise both residential and public amenity by the way of outdoor terraces and public open space.

The facades of the bladed walls have been designed to maximise solar amenity, views and ventilation, while also providing shading and privacy.

Residences begin from level four, with the vertical blade walls splitting the floor plate into four quadrants, with each quarter becoming its own apartment.

“This promotes a feeling of individuality and ownership as well as providing visual privacy for each apartment,” Make Architects commented.

Levels 13 to 22 will home the typical mid residences, with this section of the building containing three apartments per floor.

The upper residences land across levels 23 to 25, with two three-bedroom apartments proposed, each with their own corner balcony, as well as a dedicated master-bedroom balcony.

<a href="/new-apartments/the-bryson-of-chatswood-3-wilson-street-chatswood-nsw-2067">To track the project and be alerted when it hits sale, enquire here.</a>

<a href="/new-apartments/the-bryson-of-chatswood-3-wilson-street-chatswood-nsw-2067"><img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="776" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-05-23_at_3.00.38_pm.png" width="1296" /></a> 
Podium axonometric. Credit: Make Architects.

Crowning the tower, on level 26 will be the single penthouse apartment, with the quadruple-aspect residence providing 360 degree views out over Chatswood and to the distant Sydney CBD. Following an open plan design internally, the penthouse benefits from a large south facing entertaining terrace and adjoining plant room, as well as two north facing corner terraces.

There will be 11 one-bedroom apartments,&nbsp;48 two-bedders, and 17 three-bedroom apartments.

Private residential amenity is shared over the two podium rooftop levels. The southern rooftop at level two provides communal working and dining facilities, equipped with an outdoor dining area and a fire pit lounge, set amongst a walled garden and a planted terrace edge.

With a blend of social and practical uses, this amenity space provides residents with a tangible connection to lush green landscaping and native species says Make.

“Residents are encouraged to connect with nature by nurturing and harvesting the culinary species grown within the raised planters on the terrace.”

<a href="/new-apartments/the-bryson-of-chatswood-3-wilson-street-chatswood-nsw-2067">To track the project and be alerted when it hits sale, enquire here.</a>

<a href="/new-apartments/the-bryson-of-chatswood-3-wilson-street-chatswood-nsw-2067"><img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="613" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-05-23_at_4.52.28_pm_0.png" width="770" /></a> 
Proposal axonometric. Credit: Make Architects

The level three northern podium rooftop will provide an expansive external leisure terrace fitted out with an 18-metre lap pool, yoga terrace, sunken lounge, floating sunbeds and a garden reading lounge.

With a string of other major proposals currently under assessment, Goldfields said “the proposal would meet population growth in Chatswood partly driven by the opening of the new Metro station which links the suburb to Sydney’s north west.”

The north shore rail line runs along the eastern boundary of the site with the development nearby to Chatswood Station and other transport links. Future cycle lanes are also intended along both the Pacific Highway and Anderson Street, allowing improved cycle access into Chatswood CBD and the wider area.

The area is due to undergo significant redevelopment as part of the Chatswood CBD strategy 2036, which will see a considerable expansion of the existing CBD to the north, with the proposal to be located at the northern tip on the new CBD.

The proposal is among a growing list of skyscrapers planned in the Chatswood CBD including a 26 storey redevelopment of the Chatswood Mandarin Centre, a 22 storey expansion of Chatswood RSL, a 15 story apartment building at 3 Ellis St, and three towers on the corner of Victoria Ave and Brown St that would include an 18 storey hotel.

Make Architects were selected to lead the design of the project following a competition, with the initial entries lodged back in 2021, before being reworked and refined to what it is today.

Goldfields Group lodge plans for Chatswood apartments

The Brisbane-based property developer, HamBros, led by local developer Justin Ham, has lodged plans for a 27-level mixed-use development in the heart of Wynnum.

Ora, which will spread across a 7,278 sqm site&nbsp;at 74 Charlotte Street and 89 Bay Terrace,&nbsp;will be built behind the existing Wynnum Shopping Centre.

Ora, meaning &lsquo;edge&rsquo; in Latin, has been designed by Ivory Collective and will&nbsp;comprise 275 apartments, with the amalgamation also planned to be home to retail space, as well as two-levels of commercial space.

<img alt="" height="696" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-05-20_at_10.32.00_am.png" width="1122" />

&ldquo;Ora is a development that intertwines the beautiful bayside environment of Wynnum with the ease and luxury of unit living,&rdquo; architecture firm Ivory Collective noted in their&nbsp;design&nbsp;statement in the development application.

There will be 275 apartments in the development, made up of&nbsp;54 one-bedroom, 148 two-bedroom and 67 three-bedroom apartments, along with six three-bed plus multi-purpose-room penthouses. &nbsp;

Ora&rsquo;s floor plate is designed to orientate and capture as much of the East as possible, allowing for maximum exposure to the easterly breezes and bay views.

<img alt="" height="1008" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-05-20_at_10.31.45_am.png" width="1316" />

A full recreation level is planned for level five, with a 528 sqm restaurant and bar, set around an expansive pool terrace as well as a wet deck, space, sauna and steam rooms, private cabanas, a cinema, barbecues, meeting rooms, wine rooms and function spaces.

&ldquo;The recreational level on Level 5 creates a space for both the public and residents alike to enjoy the beautiful bay views and surroundings,&quot; the statement added.

Drawing inspiration from the Wynnum foreshore in both its material and palette and building form, Ora is made up of clean off-white concrete and bronzed feature cladding and batten, reflecting the warmth and clarity of the Wynnum/Manly beach front,&nbsp;Ivory Collective noted.

Ora, which will spread across a 7,278 sqm site at 74 Charlotte Street and 89 Bay Terrace, will be built behind the existing Wynnum Shopping Centre

$130 million Wynnum CBD apartment development proposed

Recently we were invited to check out the popular new apartment development in Perth, Amara City Gardens, Booragoon. It's already 60% sold, and construction completion due July this year, so now is a great time to secure a brand new, low maintenance home in this highly sought-after location.

Watch our video tour:

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<h2>AMARA CITY GARDENS AT A GLANCE</h2>

Address:&nbsp;179&nbsp;Davy Street, Booragoon, WA 6154 
Developer:&nbsp;Iris Residential 
Architect:&nbsp;Cameron Chisholm Nicol Architects 
Builder:&nbsp;BGC Construction 
[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=8266]

Situated at Davy Street in Booragoon, you're conveniently within walking distance to Westfield Booragoon, one of the biggest shopping centres in Perth, with shopping, dining and entertainment right at your doorstep as well as medical services, parks and leisure centres. There is plenty of transport on your doorstep to access Perth or Fremantle, including Bull Creek Train Station and freeways. Amara City Gardens is also just 4 kilometres to Murdoch University and less than a kilometre to the highly regarded Applecross Senior High School and Booragoon Primary School.

In terms of in-house amenities, you'll enjoy the ultimate relaxation at the on-site sauna or tai chi deck, keep fit in the fully equipped gymnasium, and socialise* at the on-site dining lounge, which also includes a generous wine cellar. And for alfresco evenings, you'll be able to make use of the open-air BBQ and sunset verandah.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8266 project_image_fid=158135]

If you're looking for a home with panoramic views, select apartments offer impressive panoramic CBD and Swan River vistas to enjoy each day.

There are a well-designed collection of two or three-bedroom home* configurations available.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8266 project_image_fid=197678]

Each home boasts 2.7 metre high ceilings, with 100% wool carpet, reconstituted stone benchtops, gas cooktops and high-quality Smeg appliances. Your apartment will also include a generous amount of storage, making downsizing a breeze.

Developer Iris Residential and architect Cameron Chisholm Nicol Architects have worked together to strive for a 7-star NatHERS rating. This has been achieved by providing solar power to common areas, double glazing throughout the development, a car-charging bay, and a central solar hot water system keeping utility costs affordable.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8266 project_image_fid=84910]

Amara City Gardens offers the perfect lock up and leave apartment with undercover car bays, secured bicycle racks and a resident's entry lobby.&nbsp;

Homes at Amara City Gardens are selling quickly, so use this opportunity to enquire via Urban to secure your future home today.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Display Tour Video: Amara City Gardens by Iris Residential at 179 Davy Street, Booragoon, WA

The local Gold Coast developer QNY Group, in a joint venture with the Melbourne-based Glenvill, has submitted plans for a residential development in the heart of Broadbeach.

QNY Group, led by Anthony Quinn, has teamed up with Glenvill, who are behind the development, design and build of the newly created Melbourne suburb, Yarrabend - set to be the world’s most liveable suburb by 2025.

They'll be creating a luxury owner-occupier tower, in line with Quinn's other joint venture Gold Coast project, La Mer at Main Beach.

He and Glenvill have had Contreras Earl Architects draw up plans for a 24-level tower with just 21 apartments, 19 whole floors and two two-level penthouses.

Quinn secured the 511 sqm site at 21 Broadbeach Boulevard, on the corner of Armrick Avenue, for $10.1 million late last year.

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Quinn says the boutique development will be an architectural statement.

“This site is like no other on the Gold Coast and we wanted the design to reflect its uniqueness,” Quinn said.

“We’ve worked closely with the architects, along with Form Landscape Architects, to come up with a design that will coexist with the natural environment while delivering an iconic landmark that enhances the aesthetic of this leafy Broadbeach Boulevard corner.

“I have partnered with Glenvill Developments because they are residential specialists that bring a truly 360 degree understanding of the development and property industry.”

<img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="540" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-05-18_at_2.17.21_pm.png" width="879" />

Glenvill Developments, spearheaded by CEO Len Warson, has spent the last five decades on the forefront of Australian residential design delivering high end luxury residences across the country.

Warson says he was familiar with the site before Mr Quinn presented the opportunity.

“After holidaying on the Gold Coast recently, I told my wife if I was developing in Broadbeach, I would develop this site. It’s the best site in Broadbeach. And here we are – it’s synchronicity,” Warson said.

<img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="528" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-05-18_at_2.17.53_pm.png" width="868" />

“It’s a corner beachfront site within the leafy Broadbeach Park quarter, situated at the end of a no-through road, where Armick Avenue joins the beachside Boulevard.

The site is effectively blocked off, providing a quiet green nook within walking distance to the centre of Broadbeach without the congestion, with direct access to the beach.”

In their design statement submitted to the Gold Coast City Council, Contreras Earl Architecture said the building was inspired by the surrounding vegetation and parks.

“The location presented an opportunity to create a residential landmark that coexists with the natural environment, nestled within the leafy Broadbeach Park quarter and drawing from the unique context, a quiet green nook in the heart of bustling Broadbeach.

“The tower uses its vertical structure to articulate the elegant design which emulates a tree trunk that is seamlessly connected to each floor slab which at the same time expresses an elegant organic petal shape in plan, inspired by the undulating detailed profile of Norfolk pine branches from the adjacent Broadbeach Park.

Residential amenity will exist on both the ground floor and rooftop space, with health and wellbeing at the forefront of the building’s design.

<img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="529" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-05-18_at_2.17.49_pm.png" width="874" />

The ground floor wellness area will include features such as a sauna and gym, while the rooftop space will home a glass-edge pool, a dining and events room, along with a number of terraced seating areas set amongst landscaped gardens.

“This lavish amenity will bring a special character to the unique landmark building,” Contreras Earl added.

The expansive one-per floor apartments provide an appealing alternative to single-dwelling homes, where residents will be able to experience the abundance of natural sunlight and views of East Broadbeach and the Pacific Ocean.

“The iconic building will create a sense of arrival to the prospering suburb of Broadbeach on approach from Armrick Avenue from the north as well as a beautiful visual addition to the leafy Broadbeach Boulevard corner.”

“This new landmark will be an attractive architectural asset for the urban fabric of the coastal city.”

“An important concept of the building is to create a lifestyle experience for residents and to create a personal and intimate experience.”

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=111843]

They'll be creating a luxury owner-occupier tower, in line with Quinn's other joint venture Gold Coast project, La Mer at Main Beach.



Exclusive: QNY Group and Glenvill team up for Broadbeach apartment tower

After initially focussing on Sydney&rsquo;s fast growing south west corridor, Iris Capital, founded and led by entrepreneur Sam Arnaout, has now extended its reach over the past decade to become a developer of&nbsp;integrated residential and mixed-use developments in a number of booming suburbs across the country.

The company now holds a $5 billion enterprise value, having significantly expanded its footprint over the past year through a number of land and hotel acquisitions.

We recently caught up with Iris Capital CEO, Sam Arnaout to discuss why the group chose Broadbeach as their first Gold Coast project.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107928 project_image_fid=184933]

&ldquo;It was the first and only location that I would consider undertaking such a spectacular residential/resort with coastal luxury as its core design focus,&rdquo; Arnaout said.

&ldquo;Only Broadbeach and this current Neicon Plaza redevelopment site offered us the opportunity where everything is at our buyers fingertips.&nbsp;This has allowed&nbsp;Iris&nbsp;to design this mixed use coastal luxury development in a landmark location, where our two premium towers will preside over a world class recreational podium and premium ground floor retail and dining.&rdquo;

&ldquo;Choosing Broadbeach as the address for our V&amp;A project in the lively heart of its dining and retail precinct has allowed us to put our brand on our first luxury foray into Queensland.&quot;

Colliers&rsquo; Director Residential, David Higgins, who is handling the market of V&amp;A, says Broadbeach is comparable to Sydney&#39;s Double Bay.

&ldquo;Being from Sydney, I often think that Broadbeach is our Double Bay with the dining, high end retail, laneway cafes, beautiful Kurrawa parkland, the beach, and the amenity that is uniquely Broadbeach all within a five-minutes walk,&rdquo; he said.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107928 project_image_fid=180734]

Recognised as the heart of the Gold Coast, Broadbeach offers a host of nearby amenity, further adding to the likability of the sought-after suburb.

&ldquo;The walkability of the location to over 30 restaurants, GC Convention Centre, Pacific Fair, The Star Casino, the Beach and Kurrawa SLSC makes it the most lifestyle rich village locations to undertake a premium development,&rdquo;&nbsp; Higgins said.

Main Beach, Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach are distinctly different real estate suburbs and attract very different buyer demographics says Higgins.

&ldquo;Main Beach has a small, limited choice of dining and caf&eacute; options, where the lifestyle is focused around the renowned Tedder Avenue, which attracts an older buyer type to the very quiet village location.&rdquo;

&ldquo;Surfers Paradise features a more prominent nightclub and late-night venue scene, with destinations attracting singles, tourists groups and the young-at-heart.&rdquo;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107928 project_image_fid=178909]

&ldquo;Broadbeach has a much wider appeal both domestically and internationally, where you are spoilt with the supreme choice of dining, entertainment, bars, shopping all at the residents fingertips.&rdquo;

Revered as &ldquo;the most desired location&rdquo; for developers looking to hit the family owner-occupier market, Higgins says Broadbeach marks itself as the place that can do it all.

&ldquo;This area attracts a more mature, family-buyer market, sometimes even multi-generational buyers, who want the village location, where they can park there car below their apartments and walk to everything when either residing or choosing to live in Broadbeach.&rdquo;

Taking its name from Broadbeach streets, Victoria and Albert, the project will comprise 398 apartments over two towers of 40 and 56 storeys, with a subtropical recreational podium, featuring two levels of premium offices and commercial facilities, and a fresh food and dining retail on the street level.

Designed by DBI Architects, residents will live among world‐class amenities, with both towers offering an elevated recreational podium with a 25-metre lap pool, a gym, a yoga deck and resident&rsquo;s lounge as well as kid&rsquo;s area, a Zen garden, an outdoor dining and barbecue space, all surrounded by lush green landscaping.

Once complete,&nbsp;V&amp;A Broadbeach will create the first high end residential, retail and culinary precinct in central Broadbeach since the Oracle towers more than a decade ago.

&ldquo;The family orientated downsizer buyers are the main demographic who are looking for larger apartments in Broadbeach and who share a history with a long love of the area,&rdquo; said Higgins.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107928 project_image_fid=184934]

&ldquo;This comes from spending many childhood family memories holidaying or enjoying Broadie apartments, with strong childhood memories of the village of Broadie.&nbsp; Having a memberships and wanting to be close to the Kurruwa SLSC and the family park is also important to owner occupiers.&rdquo;

&ldquo;For the investors, they are always looking for the two or three-bedroom apartment with a beautiful view in the heart of Broadbeach, where they can look forward to the strong proven returns from a very established holiday and conference rental market.&rdquo;

&ldquo;Many southern downsizers are seeking the village location where walkability, amenity, luxury and convenience is at the top of the purchasing requirements,&rdquo; Higgins added

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=107928]

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