ASX-listed developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/stockland">Stockland</a>&nbsp;is continuing its push back into the new apartment market, filing plans for a prominent gateway site between Collingwood and East Melbourne.

The development giant, which moved back into the new apartment space when it announced Stanton Place in Sydney's Rosebery and have since filed plans for a 50-storey tower, are jumping into the off the plan Melbourne market.

They are hoping to create a mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/79-81-victoria-parade-collingwood-vic-3066">79-81 Victoria Parade</a>, replacing an existing commercial building with a scheme by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/john-wardle-architects">Wardle</a>&nbsp;for 478 apartments,&nbsp;ground-floor retail, new public open spaces and a publicly accessible pedestrian laneway.

<img alt="First look: Stockland plans new mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for Collingwood gateway site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="72dbbca9-3918-4073-afad-a0c0c35be8e7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/stockland%20pers.png?VersionId=bzMVUKKxvwuNK1m0v_td126Rgct32uk_" />

The design report identifies the public realm as a central driver of the proposal.

"Collingwood has limited access to high-quality parks and public open space, and the proposal delivers valuable new areas for respite, social interaction and fine-grain retail activity."

The development would deliver a diverse mix of housing, including studio, one, two and three-bedroom apartments alongside townhouse-style residences. Two basement levels are proposed beneath the development, providing resident and retail parking as well as extensive bicycle facilities.

Wardle's design draws heavily on Collingwood's industrial character, using articulated building forms, brickwork and robust materials inspired by the suburb's warehouse and manufacturing heritage. The built form has been broken into a series of smaller volumes to better respond to the surrounding streetscape while extensive communal gardens, rooftop amenities and shared resident spaces are integrated throughout the project.

<img alt="First look: Stockland plans new mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for Collingwood gateway site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7b2135ed-65df-4253-ad53-f216f06bd467" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/stockland%20podium.png?VersionId=l1B6Hqn8zs772VxH6L1fDPg0KHshan9v" />

The planning documents describe the existing office building as offering little engagement with the public realm, with the redevelopment intended to create a more permeable and active neighbourhood destination.

"The proposed scheme presents a significant opportunity to deliver a vibrant retail plaza and a local neighbourhood hub serving both existing and future Collingwood residents."

The 79–81 Victoria Parade site occupies a strategic location about 1.5 kilometres east of Melbourne's CBD, at the threshold between Collingwood and East Melbourne. It is well served by tram services along Victoria Parade and sits within walking distance of St Vincent's Hospital, Fitzroy Gardens, the Fitzroy activity centre and a broad range of employment, retail and hospitality destinations.

Joel Robinson

Stockland plans new mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for Collingwood gateway site

An 1880s timber cottage that has survived Kangaroo Point's transformation from riverside suburb to high-density apartment precinct is set to become the centrepiece of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/zephyr">Zephyr Group</a>'s proposed Banksia development.

Rather than see the locally heritage-listed Alpha Cottage as an obstacle to navigate, plans integrate the landmark home into a new 18-storey residential tower, giving one of the suburb's oldest surviving residences a new role as the project's communal hub.

The development application covers a 1,177 sqm amalgamated site at 127-133 Lambert Street and 30 Shafston Avenue, where Zephyr Group plans to deliver 64 apartments above three basement levels. Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/joe-adsett-architects">Joe Adsett Architects</a>, the proposal carefully weaves the retained heritage cottage into a contemporary residential scheme, with the tower elevated above the historic building to preserve its presence within the Lambert Street streetscape.

<img alt="First look: Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f9dc5bdb-d691-4c60-bf2b-c3ed405a3e75" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Banksia.png?VersionId=Jh4bjlewU.o8HXWt0V4KaFA_lPcF7KWM" />

Named after the native Australian Banksia flower, the project draws inspiration from its distinctive form through curved balconies, sculpted planter boxes and cascading subtropical landscaping that soften the building's profile.

As the design report explains: "The tower's identity is defined by its feature facade, drawing direct inspiration from the Banksia wildflower. The building departs from traditional rigidity through the use of elegant, GRC-moulded planter boxes that appear as if shaped by the breeze."

Plans propose 64 apartments, comprising 32 two-bedroom and 32 three-bedroom residences, across an 18-storey tower. Residents would have access to rooftop amenities including a swimming pool, spa, gym, sauna, private cinema, dining spaces and landscaped recreation areas, while more than half the site is dedicated to planting and open space.

<img alt="First look: Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="16041b5f-033e-47fa-8fbe-9886e072c1f2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/pool.png?VersionId=kpx5w4EbLx0_TdWfDoD1vrSs0_cZ5Ao1" />

The heritage component is the defining feature of the proposal. Constructed in the early 1880s and occupied from at least 1883, Alpha Cottage is recognised by Brisbane City Council as an important surviving example of Kangaroo Point's nineteenth-century residential development and as a representative transverse-gable timber cottage. Despite extensive redevelopment across the peninsula, the building has retained a high degree of its original form and internal fabric.

As part of the redevelopment, the cottage will be carefully relocated a short distance within its original allotment to facilitate construction before being returned to a prominent position along Lambert Street. Original verandah elements will be dismantled, catalogued and reinstated, while significant internal features, including timber flooring, wall linings, joinery, doors, windows and hardware, will be retained. Later additions, including the enclosed rear verandah, will be removed to better reveal the building's original form.

Once restored, Alpha Cottage will accommodate the building manager's office, mail room and parcel facilities, providing an active everyday use that supports its long-term conservation rather than preserving it as a static display. The heritage strategy also maintains landscaped space around the building, allowing it to remain visually distinct beneath the new tower.

<img alt="First look: Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="43b027e1-576e-4624-a66c-7cc54ea8b7be" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/banksia%20tower.png?VersionId=2W6E2yfkj2AQlWlLeV986grA5zB9f817" />

The Heritage Impact Assessment concludes that "the proposal secures the ongoing occupation, maintenance and conservation of Alpha Cottage," finding the development would result in "no more than a minor impact on the cultural heritage significance" of the building while ensuring its long-term future.

Joe Adsett Architects have designed the tower to sit above the heritage building rather than overwhelm it, creating a clear visual separation between old and new. The development's flowing balconies, integrated planting and organic façade respond to Brisbane's subtropical climate while complementing the restored cottage below.

Banksia occupies a prominent corner in Kangaroo Point within walking distance of the Kangaroo Point Bridge, Brisbane River, ferry services, QUT, the CBD and the Woolloongabba precinct. The site also benefits from direct access to active transport infrastructure and sits within an area earmarked for continued higher-density residential growth.

Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149637 project_image_fid=351027]

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149637 project_image_fid=351031]

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."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149637 project_image_fid=351024]

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]

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

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.

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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.

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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.

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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?

Construction begins this month on the Hampden by RMA, Armadale project.

It comes with nine three-bedroom residences designed by Rob Mills Architects.

The apartment prices at 2a Hampden Road start at $2.9 million through Mark Wridgway at RT Edgar.

A series of arches across the brick facade reflects RMA&rsquo;s signature design feature with Mills taking his inspiration from the Fendi headquarters in Rome.

Mills former property in beachside Lorne, Victoria came with curved concrete detailing on the facade completed in 2009.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5449 project_image_fid=161846]

&ldquo;Like the Art Deco buildings, when all the corners of the walls are curved, that very simple touch, means the interior is at one with the exterior,&quot; he told News Corp&#39;s Home magazine.

&quot;It&rsquo;s a complete experience. It&rsquo;s a surreal experience, travelling around the corner into the next space without stopping sharply.&nbsp;

&quot;We do know that grids are not conducive to a calm way of life. As human beings we want something more sculptural to envelop us.&rdquo;

Four of the apartments have been sold, with Rob Mills intending to live in one on its completion in 2023.

Construction begins this month on the Hampden by RMA, Armadale project.

jchancellor

Construction begins on the Hampden by RMA, Armadale project

The Docklands development Seafarers will be immediately recognised with its unique and striking facade when it is completed in 2024.

The $500 million development by the Melbourne-based developer Riverlee on the banks of the Yarra River is part of the rejuvenation of the Northbank precinct at the end of Flinders Street.

The global architecture firm Fender Katsalidis were tasked with reimagining the&nbsp;heritage-protected Goods Shed 5, preserving&nbsp;the only intact remnants from the days before containerisation.

Recently Urban caught up with Nicky Drobis,&nbsp;director at Fender Katsalidis, to discuss the development and how the design came to fruition.

JR: What was the brief for Seafarers from Riverlee?

ND: The brief was to design Melbourne&rsquo;s most dynamic mixed-use precinct, which restored and celebrated the site&rsquo;s heritage as the heart of the development.

It was also to create a development that connected to the Yarra River and the natural environment, resulting in plans for the new park at Seafarers Rest.

The goal was to achieve true diversity within the building with entertainment, health and wellbeing, as well as luxury hotel accommodation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728 project_image_fid=73048]

JR: What interested you in the project? 
 
ND: Beyond the brief itself, and the opportunities it afforded to create a new community within Melbourne, the most interesting part of the project would be the actual building. This is an important part of the revitalisation of the broader Northbank section of the Yarra River, which is undergoing a metamorphosis. The resulting building and community will soon make Seafarers a destination in its own right.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728 project_image_fid=73049]

JR: What were the key priorities?

ND: The careful retention and restoration of the heritage-listed Goods Shed No. 5 and the Malcolm Moore Electric Crane were key to celebrating Melbourne and the Yarra River&rsquo;s industrial heritage.

We also prioritised the view opportunities across the site, not only to the river, but back towards the CBD and Docklands areas.

Looking at it holistically, we focused on an environmentally sustainable design that incorporated key initiatives for a development of this scale.

Finally, we wanted to create enchanting and intriguing journeys through unique building experiences for hotel visitors and residents.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728 project_image_fid=161091]

JR: Was the string of amenities high on the priority list?

ND: A focus on health and wellbeing was fundamental in the design process of the building. We have designed numerous wellness spaces which directly engage with the natural environment and incorporate living green, in addition to the landscaped terrace spaces.

A selection of private amenities includes a library and lounge, dining rooms, spa and sauna spaces and a rooftop garden.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728 project_image_fid=97028]

JR: What was the biggest challenge in conceiving the design? 
 
ND: As much as a mixed-use development can be a challenge, this adds increased complexity, requiring a higher level of design thinking and execution.

The numerous challenges of design and construction start with the heritage shed, then work through those associated with the different uses.

In a planning sense, you have a cantilevered element of the building laid on top of the heritage shed, as well as the addition of a basement, while multiple uses are split horizontally throughout the building.

JR: Was it difficult to combine the residential apartment element with the hotel space?

ND: There are great synergies afforded by residents being able to utilise all the food and beverage offerings provided by the hotel. However, we&rsquo;ve worked carefully to create independent spaces for residents to provide them with a sense of exclusivity and privacy within the building. This way we can offer residents their own exclusive spaces, while allowing them to use every bit of the hotel.

JR: Had you done this on a previous project? 

ND: Yes. A lot of our work has involved precinctual design and mixed-use buildings, with all the complexities and opportunities that come with each. Seafarers is not dissimilar, albeit in a singular building.

One example we have currently in construction is Merdeka118, which upon completion will become the second tallest skyscraper in the world.⁠⁠ Its incredibly complex infrastructure and mix of uses includes a shopping centre, commercial floorplates and luxury hotel accommodation, each atop one another.

JR: Where did you draw inspiration from for the building?

ND: The components of the building&rsquo;s form are derived from their uses and are defined as such externally. Most visibly, the heritage shed is retained, restored and celebrated at the base of the tower with the next seven levels being hotel accommodation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728 project_image_fid=97032]

Above that, reading quite distinctly, we have the apartment levels with a highly articulated floorplan edge, which enables the fa&ccedil;ade glazing to reflect light in a way that is reminiscent of the movement of water.

JR: How did you collaborate with Carr Design to make sure the interiors of the apartments were in keeping with the rest of the building?

ND: The Carr team worked very carefully to design interiors that are both elegant and luxurious.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728 project_image_fid=73043]

The overriding idea in the design the of the apartments was to maximise the view opportunities for residents. There is a rigour to the planning which is experienced as you move through the plan, creating a seamless experience. The apartments are also very generously sized with finely considered details and a warm, classic palette of materials.

JR: What part of the design are you most proud of/what are you most looking forward to seeing? 
 
ND: We are eagerly looking forward to how the building will function, fostering a vibrant series of uses for residents, guests and visitors. We are proud of how it celebrates an important part of Melbourne&rsquo;s heritage in its retention of the shed, and thus its distinctive reflection of uses as a former industrial site.

This also has us looking forward to seeing the building as a sculptural built form to the precinct along the river frontage and a marker for the wider precinct.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=27728]

Fender Katsalidis were tasked with reimagining the heritage-protected Goods Shed 5, preserving the only intact remnants from the days before containerisation



The Design Details: Fender Katsalidis Architects discuss Riverlee's mixed-use Docklands development Seafarers

Property buyers keen on buying an apartment&nbsp;in the City of Melbourne were given a shot in the arm at the Victorian Budget last month.

Prospective buyers seeking established apartments in the CBD&nbsp;which have been completed for over 12 months&nbsp;will face no stamp duty on their purchases, as long as the purchase price is under $1 million.

Apartment sales at that price could save buyers up to $55,000 in stamp duty.

The news has been particularly welcomed by first home buyers, who so far this year have seen the&nbsp;HomeBuilder grant expire which had been driving a lot of demand to buy new property.

At the end of June, first home buyers will also see the 50 per cent stamp duty waivers for new property under $1 million expire, as well as the 25 per cent discount of stamp duty for new homes.

Urban have put together the best four best&nbsp;CBD apartment towers which offer the stamp duty.&nbsp;

<h2>Melbourne Square</h2>

One bedroom apartments from $487,000, two bedroom apartments from $642,000.

Melbourne Square on Southbank&#39;s Kavanagh Street&nbsp;is the latest mixed-use development by&nbsp;OSK Property.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2929 project_image_fid=137897]

The five-acre prominent gateway precinct&nbsp;has been has been&nbsp;strategically located within proximity to the best education available in Australia including as The University of Melbourne, RMIT University and Swinburne University, as well as the city&rsquo;s iconic arts, entertainment and shopping havens such as the National Gallery of Victoria, Southbank Theatre, Crown Casino, South Melbourne Market, Southgate Shopping Centre and Collins Street.

Cox Architecture designed the precinct, as well as the residential component of Melbourne Square, a pair of towers rising above a terraced podium. The collection of apartments across the East and West towers are fitted out with interiors by Carr Design.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2929 project_image_fid=137903]

There are four&nbsp;distinct design themes by Coco Republic to choose from, The Manhattan, which offers a sophisticated dark palette,&nbsp;Bondi, which has a coastal feel, Paris, which boasts timeless luxury, and Soho, which showcases monochromatic industrial style.&nbsp;

The brand new selection of apartment&nbsp;feature kitchens that have&nbsp;marble block island benches, Kohler tapware, state-of-the-art Miele appliances, a five-burner gas hob&nbsp;and DynaCool refrigeration.

The resident amenities feature an indoor pool with uninterrupted views spanning the Melbourne eastern skyline, a sauna&nbsp;and a yoga studio, a gym, private dining areas and kitchen, a state-of-the-art games simulator and a music room and games room.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2929 project_image_fid=137896]

<h2>Melbourne Quarter</h2>

One-bedroom apartments from $458,000, two-bedroom apartments from $607,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3459 project_image_fid=147572]

Melbourne Quarter is the masterplan-like community&nbsp;of the award-winning national developer Lendlease.

The apartment development has been designed by the international design firm&nbsp;Fender Katsalidis, one of the most sought-after design firm&#39;s across the globe.

The 2.5 hectare Flinders Street&nbsp;development will feature a&nbsp;public open space&nbsp;with a mix of both retail and parkland.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3459 project_image_fid=147571]

So far the East Tower has been completed. That homes&nbsp;Club MQ, three&nbsp;whole-floors of resort-style amenities&nbsp;including theatrette, private dining, indoor pool, gym and spa.

<h2>Melbourne Grand</h2>

One-bedroom apartments from $489,000, two-bedroom apartments from $569,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3490 project_image_fid=93147]

Melbourne Grand is the award-winning development from Central Equity.

The $470 million tower&nbsp;at 560 Lonsdale, in the heart of the CBD,&nbsp;has a striking curved facade thanks to its design&nbsp;by high-profile architects Guilford Bell + Graham Fisher and its build by&nbsp;Multiplex.

The curved tower&nbsp;features a glittering facade, with a wave-like joinery motif, giving the tower a striking point of difference.&nbsp;

Melbourne Grand&nbsp;features a string of hotel-style amenities which take up the whole of the 10th level.&nbsp;As well as an indoor poor, gym and yoga studio, there&#39;s a residents&#39; lounge with a banquet room and coffee bar, as well as a 17-seat luxury theatre.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3490 project_image_fid=139999]

The apartments, which all have a 7.2 star average energy rating, span up to 120 sqm and feature high ceilings and floor to ceiling windows with motorised blinds.

Most living areas have their own study nook with a built-in desk and a balcony with panoramic city views off the living space. Each kitchen is fitted with Miele appliances and integrated aircon comes as standard.

<h2>The Peak</h2>

One-bedroom apartments from $483,000, two-bedroom apartments from $618,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2905 project_image_fid=162740]

Only just falling in to the stamp duty waiver having been completed 12 months ago is The Peak, the latest development from Auriton Group.

The Peak&#39;s location is one of the key selling points,&nbsp;located on the quiet side of the Melbourne CBD at 141 La Trobe Street with views to Carlton Gardens.

It&#39;s also set near Spring Street, one of Melbourne&#39;s most expensive street&#39;s for apartments which&nbsp;far surpass those in The Peak.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2905 project_image_fid=163853]

There are 177 units in the 42 level tower, with a floor plate of just four apartments per floor, giving each unit a corner aspect.

Each of the remaining units have a 3D Tour.

The new stamp duty waivers could save buyers up to $55,000 on new apartments

The best Melbourne CBD apartments for sale with no stamp duty

The boutique apartment developments in the hot Palm Beach market just keep on coming.

The demand for bigger apartments has gone through the roof in the small enclave toward the south of the Gold Coast.

There&#39;s been <a href="/news/qld/sherpa-sell-out-palm-beach-apartment-development-perspective-two-sea">sell-outs at the nearby Perspective 488 and Perspective Two Sea</a>, the Palm Beach apartment developments by Sherpa.

Looking to jump on the demand in larger apartments at the pricier end of the market is the little-known Quahlee Property, which&nbsp;is linked to Christina Quinn, who along with her husband Tony Quinn founded the VIP Pet Foods empire.

<img alt="" height="753" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/215_jefferson_1.jpg" width="1200" />

An application has been submitted to the Gold Coast City Council for a nine level tower at 215&nbsp;Jefferson Lane, on the sought-after beach front side.

It will home&nbsp;just eight full floor apartments and a ground floor amenities level complete with&nbsp;a mineral pool with decking and sun lounges, and a sauna.

Contreras Earl Architecture have designed the shell-like tower.

&quot;The morphology and self-sufficiency of certain clam shell species inspired the curvaceous form of the apartment pods that read as individual elements horizontally,&quot; the architecture firm&#39;s design statement read.

<img alt="" height="745" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/215_jefferson_3.jpg" width="1200" />

&quot;These spacious one-per floor apartments provide an enticing alternative to single dwelling homes where residents will be able to experience sunlight and views from multiple aspects including towards the breath-taking white sand of Palm Beach and the Pacific Ocean beyond.

The two sites&nbsp;were previously made up by&nbsp;a two-storey house and a vacant lot.

The Design Statement

The 215-217 Jefferson Lane development is located in Palm Beach at the intersection of Jefferson Lane and Thirteenth Avenue, on two sites previously occupied by a two-storey house and a vacant lot. The corner site presents an opportunity to create a contextual gem nestled within the suburb drawing from the unique context, a beachside residential laneway.

The low-rise development consists of 8 boutique beachside apartments in a building of 9 levels. These spacious one-per floor apartments provide an enticing alternative to single dwelling homes where residents will be able to experience sunlight and views from multiple aspects including towards the breath-taking white sand of Palm Beach and the Pacific Ocean beyond. Inside the apartments outdoor spaces are seamlessly integrated with the internal spaces contributing to the overall feeling of openness and providing enhanced cross ventilation throughout all internal areas.

<a href="/developments/gold-coast-qld?source_news_article_id=102570&amp;ref=news_body_link"><img alt="" height="797" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/gc_newest_tile_jpeg_12.jpg" width="1200" /></a>

The allocation of extra large balconies in each apartment supports flexible living patterns and enables semi-outdoor living all-yearround in the sub-tropical climate. The building design (interior and exterior) responds to multiple site parameters such as orientation, context, environment and public realm integration. The directionality and openness of the building towards the ocean was of primary importance, driving the design process. The location of the core and stairs towards the south-west fa&ccedil;ade work to maximise privacy and the amount of open space available towards the favorable North East aspect.

The refined shape and form of the building is the result of a responsiveness to the parameters mentioned. The resultant building allows for an interesting tension between solidity and transparency allowing for enclosure and openness from within protecting from unfavourable conditions (western sun, southerly winds, potential overlooking neighboring buildings) and opens and embraces the favourable summer breezes and beautiful views to the beach. The morphology and self-sufficiency of certain clam shell species inspired the curvaceous form of the apartment pods that read as individual elements horizontally.

The elegant facade articulation derives from the recognized need to give the project more privacy towards the southern neighbour as well as protect the building envelope from prevailing winter winds, providing an enclosed side and an anchor point for the apartments to open and extend towards the northern and eastern facades.

The continuous curvilinear shading device provides climatic control and reduces heat loads and also allows for protection from prevailing winter winds. Visually this shade device creates individual pods per apartment and provides a high level of modulation and presents an attractive sculptural interface to the south east corner. Planters to the North protect and bring privacy as well as bringing greenery to the building helping it to touch lightly and integrate with the ground plane.

This iconic corner will create a unique sense of arrival to the prospering suburb of Palm Beach on approach from Jefferson Lane as well as a beautiful visual addition from Gold Coast Highway and the pedestrian experience will be optimised through the active engagement of the ground plane with street orientated landscape solutions. This new landmark will be an engaging architectural asset for the urban fabric of the coastal city.

The demand for bigger apartments has gone through the roof in the small enclave toward the south of the Gold Coast.

First look: New Palm Beach, Gold Coast boutique beachfront apartment tower

Victoria &amp; Burke in Melbourne&#39;s Camberwell has been catching the eye, as penthouses in the boutique development of just 15&nbsp;apartments break the leafy Melbourne suburb&#39;s record.

Two penthouses sold already last year at $5.5m, topping Camberwell&#39;s previous penthouse record set at $4 million at FKP&#39;s Aerial Apartments. The final penthouse sold this week for $4.5m at a record of $19,000m2 which underlines the quality that V&amp;B offers to its local high end downsizers.&nbsp;

Figurehead&rsquo;s luxury arm known as Flux has been appointed and is already three&nbsp;months into construction, with completion set for Sep 2022.

A number of exclusive Garden Terraces remain in Victoria &amp; Burke, located on the top of Camberwell hill on the corner of Burke and Victoria Road.&nbsp;

The five Garden Terraces each have three bedrooms, with stunning Jack Merlo designed low maintenance&nbsp;outdoor living space and gardens. Where the Carr Design brings their distinctive and unique aesthetic to Victoria &amp; Burke; driven by a vision for contemporary, timeless beauty.

Since construction at the&nbsp;993 Burke Road development is well underway, Urban took a look at five reasons why the project should be on a buyer&#39;s shortlist.

<h2>1. Centred around a Jack Merlo-designed garden</h2>

The whole corner site development centres around a Jack Merlo designed garden, an internationally acclaimed studio known for their exceptional landscape design.

Landscape architect Jack Merlo designed the 420 sqm garden around its centrepiece, a 200-year-old blue gum. It is being marketed as reminiscent of the locked gardens in London.

The&nbsp;Garden Terraces include&nbsp;five ground level residences each with their own outdoor courtyards and eight first-floor apartments with landscaped terraces looking out across Melbourne.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6349 project_image_fid=153518]

<h2>2. Architecture by Carr Design</h2>

Both the architecture and interior design have been handled by the award winning Carr Design, an architecture and interior design studio based in Melbourne with a timeless approach that fosters connection.

Celebrating&nbsp;five decades of design practice, Carr works under the concept of&nbsp;&lsquo;Dynamic Restraint&rsquo;.&nbsp;

Carr describe Victoria &amp; Burke&nbsp;as &quot;stacking the horizontal, wrapping the vertical&quot;.

&ldquo;The site wraps around this huge tree, which created a great opportunity to get a horizontality to the building form. It also means there is a large percentage of garden area, something that is quite rare and offers something completely unique to the project,&rdquo; Carr Design Director&nbsp;Chris McCue says.

&quot;The verticality of the tree is complemented by vertical metal blades, offset by stepped horizontal stacks. The effect is a considered, contemporary form that offers both privacy and openness.&quot;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6349 project_image_fid=153517]

<h2>3. Location, Location, Location</h2>

Victoria &amp; Burke has a walk score of 94, located on the top of Camberwell hill on the corner of Burke and Victoria Road.

It is just moments from the nearby Camberwell Village, as well as a number of restaurants, cafe&#39;s, shopping boutiques and parks.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6349 project_image_fid=153501]

<h2>4. Top of the line interiors and amenities</h2>

There are five ground level apartments each with their own outdoor courtyards, eight first-floor apartments with landscaped terraces looking out across Melbourne.

Three penthouses crown the top level with never to be built out 270-degree views of the skyline. The penthouses have their own walk-in wine cellars.

Calm and inviting, enjoy open plan living and warm timber floors drenched in natural light with a seamless connection to lush outdoor spaces.&nbsp;

Each apartment features an entertainer&#39;s kitchen at the hub, complete with a natural monolithic stone island bench, splashback and rangehood dressed in limestone. The kitchens are fitted with Gaggenau appliances and an integrated Liebherr fridge and wine fridge.

Unique features include secure basement garages,&nbsp;integrated gas fireplaces and&nbsp;wine fridges to name a few.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6349 project_image_fid=153511]

<h2>5.&nbsp;200-year-old Blue Gum!</h2>

A magnificent 200-year-old blue gum is the centrepiece of Victoria &amp; Burke&rsquo;s private garden. Designed by renowned landscape architect Jack Merlo, it is a botanic experience sprawling over 420sqm.

Exclusive to the residents providing a unique leafy arbours, lush deep planting, layered textures, and a vast green lawn. Reminiscent of a traditional backyard.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6349 project_image_fid=153502]

&nbsp;

The whole corner site development centres around a Jack Merlo designed garden with it's centerpiece a 200-year-old gum tree

jordan_55689

Five reasons why Camberwell's Victoria & Burke should be on a buyer's shortlist

Formerly a rugged industrial area, Melbourne’s inner-northwest has emerged into a cultural precinct, conveniently located on the edge of the CBD.

It has&nbsp;embraced the modern apartment movement with the&nbsp;neighbourhood's renovated warehouses and former factories&nbsp;reimagined to create a village atmosphere.&nbsp;

One of the area's newest development's is Volaire, the Cbus Property-developed block of 152 apartments across 10 levels.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2407 project_image_fid=77658]

Designed by Hayball, an award winning Australasian architectural practice,&nbsp;Volaire&nbsp;offers smartly-designed one and two-bedroom apartments with neutral interior tones and light-filled living spaces.

Situated at 9 Dryburgh Street, Volaire is a sleek and slender mid-rise that expertly utilizes space to provide residents with the ultimate in comfort and convenience.

With trendy coffee shops and wine bars nearby, Volaire caters to every Melbournians’ love for food, coffee and craft beer.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2407 project_image_fid=77664]

Located in close proximity to the University of Melbourne campus and amongst renovated warehouses and former factories, the local surrounds boast a university-town vibe.

Sitting atop ground-floor retail and café spaces, this development stands out for its connectivity, located 100 metres from the entrance to the busy North Melbourne Station and one stop from the state’s principal transport hub.

It's&nbsp;a 20-minute walk from the Melbourne CBD or Docklands.

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Delivering seamless integration of the indoor and outdoor areas of each residence, generous private balconies feature floor-to-ceiling sliding doors and offer views of the bay, city and distant-ranges.

Boasting a stunning communal garden that offers breathtaking views situated on level six and dubbed “Sky Podium”, the outdoor space features both barbecue and lounge areas.

Formerly a rugged industrial area, Melbourne’s inner-northwest has emerged into a cultural precinct, conveniently located on the edge of the CBD

Discover bustling West Melbourne in comfort from Volaire

The popular neighbourhood of McKinnon will soon be home to&nbsp;Dealcorp&#39;s latest development, MCKN, on schedule for completion in September this year.

Located a stroll from the nearby Bayside beaches, MCKN&nbsp;is surrounded by 14 hectares of open parkland, yet set primarily in the heart of McKinnon from its Jasper Road location.

Boasting eye catching architectural design by Ritz&amp;Ghougassian, once complete, the boutique development will stand five levels tall home to&nbsp;41 spacious apartments, all situated within prime access to world-class amenities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4939 project_image_fid=152593]

With a cafe on the ground floor, a convenience store opposite and Hotel McKinnon across the road, at MCKN everything is quite literally at your&nbsp;doorstep.

Indulge in&nbsp;local delights like the Allora Cucina, Mr Burch, McKinnon Village Bakery, Cafe @ 150 and more all on McKinnon Road, the first intersection off 236 Jasper Road,&nbsp;the home of MCKN.

Or take a stroll through the nearby parks and walking reserves like Joyce Park, McKinnon Reserve and Wattle Grove. All equipped with playground equipment or even a sporting field for the nearby St Pauls Junior Football Club.

MCKN&nbsp;is in&nbsp;the encatchment&nbsp;for McKinnon Secondary College, which is only a five-minute walk away.&nbsp;Less than a kilometre away are&nbsp;St Kevin&#39;s School, Glen Orme Avenue, Mckinnon Primary School and Ormond Primary School.

The nearest train station is&nbsp;just 500 metres from MCKN, putting&nbsp;Chadstone&nbsp;and Southland Shopping Centres just minutes away. &nbsp;

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MCKN apartments feature&nbsp;stone benchtops, 2pac joinery, platinum-toned fixtures and Smeg appliances fitted in the kitchen, as well as&nbsp;spacious open plan living areas that extend&nbsp;to outdoor balconies and&nbsp;terraces.

MCKN bathrooms feature&nbsp;large format stone tiles, a minimalist walk-in shower, floating vanity and concealed cistern toilet.

Residents will enjoy the generous amount of storage and practical floorplan, which offers flexibility to suit all lifestyles.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4939 project_image_fid=152578]

MCKN is currently under construction&nbsp;with leading local builder Hamilton Marino handling&nbsp;the build.

Check out our <a href="/news/vic/display-tour-video-mckn-by-dealcorp-in-mckinnon-vic">tour of the display suite</a>.

Once complete, the boutique development will stand five levels tall and home to 41 spacious apartments

Walking Tour: What's within walking distance from MCKN?

Within just a couple of weeks, Sherpa Property Group have sold out two of their boutique residential developments in the Gold Coast&#39;s sought-after Palm Beach.

The most recent sell-out was for Perspective Two Sea, the $36 million collection of just nine full-floor apartments, just a few weeks after selling out their neighbouring development Perspective 488.

Perspective Two Sea hadn&#39;t even officially launched, with buyers between $3.5 million to $4.75 million coming forward from their&nbsp;database.

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Sherpa&#39;s chief executive&nbsp;Christie Leet said it&rsquo;s extremely rewarding to have their project so eagerly received by buyers, adding that putting the development application together was the quickest lodgement they&#39;ve done to date.

&ldquo;We lodged the DA just five weeks after acquiring the site at 2C Twenty Seventh Avenue, Palm Beach,&quot; Leet said.

&ldquo;We take a unique approach to design for low-density developments and have acquired these excellent sites that makes these locations work instead of over-developing.&rdquo;

Perspective Two Sea grabbed the attention of buyers from across the South Pacific, with prospective residents located in Sydney, NZ, Melbourne, alongside Gold Coast and Brisbane locals.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<img alt="" height="706" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/perspective_488_-_3.jpg" width="1200" />

&ldquo;Our vision from the outset was to create a unique and stylish collection of luxury residences that offered a new &lsquo;perspective&rsquo; in beach-front living,&rdquo; Leet said.

Sherpa tweaked their plans for both Perspective 488 and Perspective Two Sea given the current interest in the prestige end of the market in the area.

Perspective 488 was originally approved for 37 apartments but only homes&nbsp;11 residences, while Perspective Two Sea was originally approved for 18 apartments but will only offer half that.

Perspective Two Sea hadn't even officially launched, with buyers between $3.5 million to $4.75 million coming forward from their database

Sherpa sell-out Palm Beach apartment development Perspective Two Sea

The longstanding Sunshine Coast developer&nbsp;Henzell Property Group&nbsp;is set to create a mixed-use development in Caloundra, which they say will be one of the most exciting launches the Sunshine Coast will see in 2021.

Henzell, who have been reshaping the Sunshine Coast over the last four decades, have acquired the Suncourt Motel,&nbsp;set on a prized, mostly vacant,&nbsp;6,175 sqm site at the entry to Caloundra.

Henzell will develop&nbsp;high-end retail and dining at street level, with modern apartments dedicated to owner-occupiers above.

The&nbsp;135 Bulcock Street site, also with a street frontage to Omrah Avenue, was a unique opportunity to create a new entry statement for central Caloundra, Henzell Property Group sales director Marcus Muir says.

&ldquo;We have had our eye on this property for some time, so what we have planned has been carefully considered,&quot; Muir says.

&quot;We feel this site, with the correct product mix, will be one of the most exciting launches that the Sunshine Coast will see in 2021.

&ldquo;This development will combine luxurious residences offering exceptional views within an entertainment precinct that will attract high end lifestyle operators locally and from across Queensland.

&ldquo;We have already commenced discussions with a number of dining and retail operators and there are many more who have yet to move to the Coast as they have been waiting for the perfect location.&rdquo;&nbsp;

<img alt="" height="800" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/marcus_muir_and_mclean_henzell_smaller.jpg" width="1200" /> 
Marcus Muir, left, with Henzell&nbsp;director McLean Henzell. Image supplied

Henzell Property Group plans to deliver the project in two stages, with the design taking advantage of the two-street frontage by creating an activated laneway for vehicle and pedestrian access between Bulcock Street and Omrah Avenue providing a new sidewalk boulevard restaurant precinct.

&ldquo;This will become an iconic Sunshine Coast location for residents and visitors alike providing a new streetscape that connects Bicentennial Park, north of Omrah Avenue, and south to the beachfront,&rdquo; Muir said.

&ldquo;The location offers everything that residents could want in a Sunshine Coast lifestyle with an easy stroll to some of Caloundra&rsquo;s best beaches and shopping with Bulcock Street right at your doorstep.

&ldquo;When combined with luxurious apartments offering generous floor plans and either northern orientation or sprawling ocean views, this is exactly what the market is looking for in a coastal residence.&rdquo;

The first stage of the development will comprise a boutique collection of 39 apartments over 10 levels that will boast some of the best view&rsquo;s that Caloundra has to offer.

Preliminary works have already begun at this stage ahead of Henzell Property Group releasing apartments to the market.

&ldquo;We have chosen to release the most boutique offering to the market first to cater for exceptional demand for luxury residences by owner-occupiers,&rdquo; Muir said.

&ldquo;Stage one will comprise a collection of two and three-bedroom residences along with a penthouse collection, resort style pool and tranquil pool side areas.&rdquo;

Henzell Property Group has been buoyed by the success of its latest development at Pelican Waters, with a sell-out of an exclusive release of luxury residences in the first stage of the $200 million precinct known as The Cove.

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All 15 homes in the Terrace Collection were snapped up for a total of $12 million, highlighting the appeal of high-end residences among-end users on the Sunshine Coast.

&ldquo;Buyers in this segment of the market are typically looking for a relaxed lifestyle close to the water and within easy reach of retail, dining and entertainment facilities,&rdquo; Muir added.

&ldquo;With this iconic new development, we are planning to add a new level of sophistication to the natural appeal that attracts so many people to the Caloundra lifestyle.&rdquo;

Henzell acquire Sunshine Coast's Suncourt Motel, plans mixed-use Caloundra development

Five downsizers registered to bid on a prized apartment offering in the conversion of the 1905 Royal Hospital for Women that sold on the weekend for $4.395 million.

The two-bedroom apartment at 8/18 Flinton Street saw bidding open at the $3.7 million price guide.

The reserve was $4 million through Bresic Whitney agent Maclay Longhurst.

With 214sqm on title, the apartment came with level living house-like proportions.

It last traded for $1.61 million in 2005.

There was a $4,375,000 sale in March in the converted building in the Stockland Paddington Green development.&nbsp;

<a href="/developments/sydney-nsw?source_news_article_id=102524&amp;ref=news_body_link"><img alt="" height="800" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/sydney-cbd-_template_3.jpg" width="1200" /></a>

The apartment came with 243sqm of living space and a north facing entertainer&#39;s deck.

Its price guide had been $1.4 million to $1.47 million.

Peter Chittenden, the managing director at Colliers Residential, wrote on his blog that&nbsp;Paddington Green was a large-scale, inner-city redevelopment of the former Royal Women&rsquo;s Hospital site located two kilometres east of Sydney&rsquo;s CBD.

&quot;A unique aspect of the site, and something in common with Newmarket was the fact that the development comprised several (seven) precincts.

&quot;These comprised a mix of terrace houses and apartment buildings designed by three different and highly regarded architectural firms.

&quot;Construction started in 1999 and included 5-6 storey residential apartment buildings with basement parking (common across the entire site) and a pool.

&quot;Plus, there were a variety of small mainly two-level, apartment buildings and the adaptive reuse of one of the existing 1905 free-standing hospital wings.&quot;

There was also office space and retail premises and a plaza fronting Oxford Street and in the final stages a large new park on Glenmore Road.

In total Paddington Green delivered some 130 dwellings with the intention of the developers Stockland&nbsp;to deliver a modern interpretation of the surrounding Victorian terraces alongside the new apartments and with varied scale.

CoreLogic calculated there was a 63 percent success rate from 625 apartment and townhouse auction offerings.

The success rate from the 2066 houses was 76 percent.

Sydney apartment vendors saw a 70 percent success rate compared to Melbourne&#39;s 56 percent.

There were 312 offerings across Sydney compared to 268 across Melbourne.

Local downsizers bought a two-bedroom apartment for $4.395 million at its auction in Paddington

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