The Melbourne-based developer Little Projects has secured approval for its redesigned its Broadbeach apartment tower Aperture, which had been knocked back at council.

Now unnamed, the project&nbsp;at 20 Mary Avenue, on the border of the Broadbeach State School, has been successfully redesigned by Plus Architecture following initial designs by Elenberg Fraser which were refused.

They've cut it in half from its 34 levels to just 18, and created a more curved facade.

<a data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" href="/new-apartments/broadbeach-qld-4218"><img alt="First look: Little Projects redesign luxury Broadbeach tower to meet council pushback" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-10-18%20at%208.46.01%20am.png?VersionId=ncLyeEvmWBG7NpCI5vbRiqHwbpgBteQi" /></a>

It will still be as high-end as it was previously, just with fewer levels and apartments. Instead of 29 full floor and double-storey apartments, it will now be 17 full-floor apartments across 18 levels.

Level one will still home the resident facilities. There will be a pool, spa, barbecue area, and a gym with sauna and steam room.

From levels two to 18 will be 17 full-floor apartments, with three bedrooms each across its 158 sqm floorplate. There will be a further 13 sqm of balcony.&nbsp;

<a data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" href="/new-apartments/broadbeach-qld-4218"><img alt="First look: Little Projects redesign luxury Broadbeach tower to meet council pushback" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Aperture.jpg?VersionId=qKgruOANowoiDwi13BEtM5.JQiH6Hxhv" /></a>

The new plans for 20 Mary Avenue, left and right, and the former plans, centre

Little Projects, headed by Paris Lechte and Leighton Pyke, have had success in Broadbeach before, selling out their nearby development Signature before it was completed.

They also have a development application sitting nearby for another high-end tower at 118 Old Burleigh Road. Expected to be in a joint venture with fellow Melbourne developer R.Corp, they are wanting to develop 33 apartments across&nbsp;37 levels on the corner of Old Burleigh Road and Australia Avenue.

<a data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" href="/new-apartments/broadbeach-qld-4218"><img alt="First look: Little Projects redesign luxury Broadbeach tower to meet council pushback" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-10-18%20at%209.22.32%20am.png?VersionId=9ToZ2k3HNZ4xvIe2m5ISWSUCW5hgg_lr" /></a>

It will tower over the neighbouring Ocean Royale and Boulevard Tower, which are 16 and 17 levels respectively. They are also more focused on short-term accomodation apartments, whereas the new project, dubbed One Australia, will be another by Little Projects targeting the high-end owner-occupier.

<a href="/news/dko-architecture-on-the-changing-face-of-hotel-design" target="">DKO Architecture</a>&nbsp;has put forward the designs for the slender tower, which will have full floor apartments, with 218 sqm of living space, from level two to level 33. Above will be a three-level penthouse with its own rooftop pool.

Little Projects, headed by Paris Lechte and Leighton Pyke, have had success in Broadbeach before, selling out their nearby development Signature before it was completed

Joel Robinson

Little Projects secure approval for redesigned luxury Broadbeach apartment tower

Billionaire Harry Triguboff's&nbsp;<a href="/developers/meriton" target="">Meriton</a>&nbsp;has been given the green light by the Gold Coast City Council for its three-tower apartment development, Cypress.

They're set to add another 1,000 apartments to the Surfers Paradise skyline, finalizing plans for their fourth, fifth and six towers in the heart of the tourist district in recent years.

During proceedings of the Committee Meeting, Deputy Mayor Dona Gates said "I just want it to be noted that their investment [Meriton] doesn't go unnoticed and will help us meet our requirements in regard to housing supply."

Cypress will be&nbsp;Triguboff's 21st high-rise development on the Gold Coast, having first visited the now thriving tourist mecca six decades ago.

“I have loved the Gold Coast since my first visit in the 1960’s, and after all my travels internationally, I still believe the Surfers Paradise beachfront is one of the best in the world," Triguboff told Urban.

“I have been very passionate about designing and delivering buildings that are in tune with the ocean and the golden beach that is just metres away.”

Following on from Ocean and the two-tower Iconica both on The Esplanade,&nbsp;<a href="/developers/meriton" target="">Meriton</a>&nbsp;will add a further three towers in their new development Cypress, at&nbsp;3346 Surfers Paradise Boulevarde, on&nbsp;top of the Cypress Ave G-Link light rail.

The nine site, 8083 sqm amalgamation spreads across Surfers Paradise Boulevarde, Palm Avenue, and Cypress Avenue, the latter which inspired the project name.

Cypress will sit one street away from&nbsp;<a href="/developers/gurner" target="">Gurner</a>'s approved La Pelago and two streets from SPG's approved Paradiso Place.

<img alt="First look exclusive: Meriton propose three-tower Surfers paradise apartment development, Cypress" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-04-20%20at%204.04.11%20pm_0.png?VersionId=5jsv8prADyG49yqZ6VMF19wZ.uNJ96D7" />

Triguboff says, recalling on some of his earliest developments, that he didn't think he'd ever be able to purchase a site like this one.

“<a href="/developers/meriton" target="">Meriton</a>’s first Gold Coast towers were Florida in Surfers Paradise and the Nelson at Paradise Waters at the start of the 1980’s, almost 40 years ago. Xanadu in the late 1990’s and Pacific Views in 2002 on the western side of&nbsp;<a href="/developments/main-beach-qld-4217">Main Beach Parade</a>&nbsp;that overlooked the Pacific Ocean continued our high-rise love affair with the Gold Coast.

"Little did I know that one day I would have the opportunity to purchase a site that is so dear to me, arguably the most central land in Surfers Paradise and design a trilogy of the country’s tallest towers."

There will be 994 apartments across the 73 and 80-level towers. The smaller 53-level tower will home 327 serviced apartments. Each of the three towers feature a rooftop garden with a pool and a gym space.

<a href="/developers/meriton" target="">Meriton</a>&nbsp;had DBI, who designed their Iconica project nearby, have taken the architectural reigns for Cypress.

They said in their design statement submitted to the Gold Coast City Council that the design of the three towers aims to create a bold and iconic presence as a gateway site to the Gold Coast CBD, while incorporating subtropical principles and street activation.

"The integration of the design elements creates a unique and vibrant addition to the Surfers Paradise skyline, creating a landmark destination for both residents and visitors," the local architecture firm noted.

"The towers are designed to maximize the potential of the site, with careful consideration given to the orientation, views and access to natural light and ventilation."

<img alt="First look exclusive: Meriton propose three-tower Surfers paradise apartment development, Cypress" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-04-20%20at%204.13.33%20pm.png?VersionId=b2HAs.i6LO4m6HqFJYvWZfjsjY9oRBJw" />

DBI said one&nbsp;of the key design features of the towers is the slab projection facing the streets, which creates a strong visual connection with the surrounding urban fabric.

"This design element not only provides shading and environmental control to the towers but also creates a sense of scale and texture, breaking down the massing of the towers and providing a&nbsp;<a href="/news/the-human-scale" target="">human scale</a>&nbsp;to the development."

"A golden spine acts as a unifying&nbsp;element that ties the towers together, providing a strong visual presence on the skyline. The spine is also designed to provide shading and environmental control to the towers, while also serving as a sculptural element that adds to the overall aesthetic and elegance of the development."

The five-level podium engages with the street level and will feature a mix of retail, dining, and entertainment spaces.

There's an elevated pool on level six, designed in a lagoon style to take advantage of the subtropical climate.&nbsp;

<img alt="First look exclusive: Meriton propose three-tower Surfers paradise apartment development, Cypress" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-04-20%20at%204.13.41%20pm.png?VersionId=H.7MZ8g2O45FNyMwQjYtbdB4TkNNfU7m" />

"The sculptural elements of the podium create a cohesive design language throughout the development, adding to its elegance and sophistication," DBI added.

"The towers are deeply rooted in subtropical principles, with careful consideration given to sun and wind orientation, thermal mass, natural ventilation, and shading. The towers are designed to provide a comfortable and sustainable living environment for residents and guests while minimizing their environmental impact."

<a href="/developers/meriton" target="">Meriton</a>&nbsp;have long had a reputation as one of the most prominent developers across New South Wales. Their most recent developments near the Glitter Strip have been Ocean by&nbsp;<a href="/developers/meriton" target="">Meriton</a>&nbsp;at 84 The Esplanade, a soaring 76-level tower with 722 apartments. That's now 85 per cent sold, with just 40 apartments remaining in the completed project.

Down the road they more recently launched ICONICA by&nbsp;<a href="/developers/meriton" target="">Meriton</a>, a further 637 apartments across two&nbsp;50 and 70-levels at 152 The Esplanade. Works recently began on the prime site opposite the beach.

Cypress will be Triguboff's 21st high-rise development on the Gold Coast, having first visited the now thriving tourist mecca six decades ago.

Meriton get sign off for three-tower Surfers Paradise apartment development Cypress

The Canberra-based Willemsen Group has secured a prime site on Biggera Waters dress circle Marine Parade.

They've paid $4.1 million for 456 Marine Parade, a 1088 sqm block facing Wave Break Island, and have submitted plans for a boutique 10-level building with just 12 apartments.

The plans for 456 Marine Parade inlude a swimming pool, resident lounge, and alfresco dining space on the ground level and a gym, meeting room, and multipurpose room on the level above. The two levels were designed so the&nbsp;resident lounge and gym enjoy an uninterrupted view along an infinity edge pool out towards the Broadwater.

<img alt="Biggera" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3675abb8-dacd-4d26-97b8-241aa8e14f6b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-10-18%20at%202.45.38%20pm.png?VersionId=6xvt.U7ExfNcBinMsx0HTP2JElryuYTL" />

The majority of apartments are three-bed plus study, spanning half a floor. The two half-floor penthouses each have a second level which homes a fourth bedroom and a media room.

Each three-bed apartment has nearly 180 sqm of internal space and 65 external.&nbsp;

Willemsen's own internal architecture team, led by architect Richard Willemsen, filed the plans.

They said in their submission that the intent is to create "an elegant, sequential and memorable building that is design driven, enhances property values and establishes a sense of place within the community of Biggera Waters."

<img alt="Biggera" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="83412c10-ad16-4c63-8b72-56451af1444e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-10-18%20at%202.44.24%20pm.png?VersionId=JV0Oczn_gGaso975p_.vkqRqzqvoKYwL" />

Shepherd Urban Landscape Architecture said the landscape concept for the proposed residential development is based on the surrounding context, response to the proposed architectural layout and expression including the desired outcomes of the City of Gold Coast Council City Plan.

"The design intent is to contribute positively to the image and overall quality of the proposed residential development by providing a contemporary, sensitive and appropriate landscape environment."

The project will push past the height limit allowed on the Gold Coast City Plan. The 32.7-metres exceeds the 29-metre height limit, however is within the 50 per cent uplift acceptable in an Urban Neighbourhood.

The Town Planning Report by Civity stated the height&nbsp;is consistent with the long-term intent for this high amenity infill area, and that the additional building height is driven by the two levels of expansive communal recreational areas, a feature that is unusual in a building of this scale with just 12 dwellings.

First look: Willemsen Group set for new Biggera Waters apartment development

Australian developer Golden Age Group has received&nbsp;council approval for its residential <a href="/new-townhouses/wembley-hill-15-hay-street-box-hill-south">Wembley Hill</a> project in Box Hill South and on a site in excess of 50,000 sqm, is one of the most significant developments within the booming suburb.

Formerly home to Hays International College, 15 Hay Street is positioned next to Wembley Park, Box Hill Soccer Club, Box Hill Golf Club and the Gardiners Creek Trail.

In collaboration with COX Architecture, Golden Age has developed a residential masterplan that will see the delivery of 143 townhomes and provide almost half of the site as dedicated green space.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=104627 project_image_fid=222320]

Golden Age aims to create a development that supports and future-proofs an inclusive, sustainable and multi-generational living for its residents. The development addresses its suburban and natural context sensitively, proudly celebrating its neighbourhood and enhancing its natural landscape.

The townhomes, with interiors by leading interior designer MIM design, will range in size from three-bedroom to four-bedroom with two colour schemes available.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=104627 project_image_fid=222322]

Golden Age Founder Jeff Xu said <a href="/new-townhouses/wembley-hill-15-hay-street-box-hill-south">Wembley Hill</a>&nbsp;puts families and the community at heart.

“We have spent considerable time researching and understanding what the Box Hill community needs and wants and we appreciate the economic diversity of Melbourne’s east, which is why this project will not only provide beautifully designed townhomes but will provide a space for the community celebrating intergenerational living.

“We will deliver an array of residential amenities, complemented by gardens and playgrounds in a secure neighbourhood that is ideal for raising families. It will be a highly connected site, where residents can enjoy generous walking paths along the Gardiner Creek Trail.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=104627 project_image_fid=222343]

The site’s tree-lined boulevards will draw residents in and connect all homes in a carefully curated community, with landscaped pathways and green links making the site highly accessible and welcoming for residents. Over 13,000 sqm of the site is dedicated to green open space for families, for exercise and immersion in the natural surroundings.

With a focus on sustainability, all residences will enjoy and benefit from a range of energy-saving design initiatives such as energy-efficient heating and cooling, filtered rainwater connection to irrigation and utilities, rooftop solar panels and the provision for fast EV charging. 
 
[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=104627]

In collaboration with COX Architecture, Golden Age has developed a residential masterplan that will see the delivery of 143 townhomes and provide almost half of the site as dedicated green space

Golden Age secure approval for Wembley Hill, Box Hill South townhouse development

Gold Coast developer Sherpa Property Group has lodged a new development application for its <a href="/new-apartments/perspective-nexus">Perspective Nexus development in Palm Beach</a>.

The code-assessable project on a 1,583sqm site at <a href="/new-apartments/perspective-nexus">949-953 Gold Coast Highway</a>, will rise nine storeys and deliver just 32 apartments, including two half-floor penthouses and three skyhomes with their own private rooftops.

Sherpa’s latest development is the company’s 12th for the Gold Coast region and comes on the heels of a reimagination of the site which is located adjacent to Dune Café and overlooks the Palm Beach Parklands.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108324 project_image_fid=232526]

The proposed development is the product of a detailed design process led by HAL Architects that has taken into account the requirements of the Gold Coast city plan and the expectations of the local community.

Council's approval for the original development application was overturned by an appeal in August, an outcome that Sherpa Founder Christie Leet took as an opportunity rather than a setback.

We are excited to launch our new development in the coming months which has been carefully designed to be the best code assessable project in this world-class location,” said&nbsp;Leet.

"It's a superb site, next to the beach, Currumbin Creek, and the Pirate Park, so our mission was to make beach living even better.

"The Gold Coast, especially this Palm Beach location, can deliver a lifestyle that is the envy of the world so we wanted to facilitate and enhance that lifestyle."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108324 project_image_fid=231830]

Sherpa had initially sought a 14-level project, but they've gone back to the drawing board with its latest proposal.

“After taking onboard community feedback from the original design, we are now submitting an entirely new proposal that has been scaled back to nine levels to ensure it is a code assessable development,”&nbsp; Leet added.

“We are deeply committed to delivering a landmark residential project that provides the best beachside living at Palm Beach and we are looking forward to progressing the project once approvals have been granted.”

Buyers who previously signed up for apartments in Nexus will be given the first opportunity to purchase residences in the new development, which Sherpa expects to account for a large number of pre-sales.

“Many of our earlier buyers have shown faith in our vision for the site and, as a result, we are expecting a number of sales to be secured straight out of the gate prior to market launch,”&nbsp;Leet said.

“We will be working with the original buyers first, before releasing the project to the public in the coming weeks.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108324 project_image_fid=232452]

The development will deliver a suite of luxury two, three and four-bedroom apartments, ranging from 112 sqm to 661 sqm. The apartments on the upper levels will offer views of Currumbin Alley 
and beyond to the Pacific Ocean.

The luxury development is primed for owner occupiers and downsizers who will enjoy unrivalled residents’ recreational and work-from home amenities.

“Our aim is to create a development that offers spacious designs with the best floorplans available on the Gold Coast,”&nbsp; Leet said.

“The plans are in line with community feedback and deliver a more boutique look with enhanced design elements such as increased planting and greenery to ensure effortless integration with the suburb's surrounds.”

Perspective Nexus will introduce a wide range of luxurious communal amenities for residents, including a dedicated wellness space with features such as a magnesium spa, outdoor kitchen, sauna, hot and cold pools and steam room along with a wellness garden for residents to embrace the beachside surrounds.

The new plans reveal a host of adjustments, including the addition of more than 70 car parks to the site for both residents and visitors – exceeding requirements to ensure owners and their guests have access to ample onsite parking.

Additional amenities and features of Perspective Nexus will include an electric car charging station, individual apartment storage, car wash bay and a parcel delivery storage including a cold store.

In view of the project being code assessable, the company anticipates development approval will be granted by February.

Construction is planned to start in the first quarter of 2024 for completion in the third quarter of 2025.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108324]

Sherpa’s latest development is the company’s 12th for the Gold Coast region and comes on the heels of a reimagination of the site which is located adjacent to Dune Café and overlooks the Palm Beach Parklands

Sherpa revise plans for Perspective Nexus Palm Beach apartments

Sydney's Chatswood is continuing to see a swathe of applications for new off the plan apartment developments.

Since the&nbsp;Chatswood CBD Planning and&nbsp;Urban Design Strategy&nbsp;2026 was amended, which saw the CBD boundary expanded to the north which opened up the height limit to another area of the city, development applications have been flooding in,

Earlier this year Bridgestone submitted plans for a <a href="/news/nsw/bridgestone-file-for-two-tower-chatswood-apartment-project">two-tower development with 95 apartments</a>, while VIMG also recently filed for a <a href="/news/nsw/first-look-vimg-plot-two-tower-chatswood-apartment-development-nelson-place">dual-tower development with 193 apartments</a>.

The latest plans are from Polytec Australia Development, an entity with directors associated with the listed Hong Kong property developer Kowloon Development Company.

They're seeking to create a 27 mixed-use tower with just 53 apartments on a 1,184 sqm block at&nbsp;629-637 Pacific Highway which is currently occupied by&nbsp;two buildings both in use as separate car service and repair businesses.

<img alt="PBD" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9e2e0920-d476-4496-9d4a-c3257d5a2562" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%284%29.jpg?VersionId=FGXcH42EdzVwvwqOZELNEPQodbly7FBO" />

The tower, which will have ground floor retail and commercial uses within the podium levels and sit above five levels of basement car parking, has been designed by PBD Architects who beat out Koichi Takada's Takada Architects and PTW in the Architectural Design Competition held earlier in the year.

The jury unanimously voted for PBD's scheme, suggesting the design concept "addresses key site challenges through a tower floorplan that responds thoughtfully to the sites constraints and opportunities."

"It provides carefully oriented and planned residential units that respond to the site geometry and in doing so optimise the capture of views to the south west (of the city), west to the Blue Mountains, and to the north (to Chatswood)," the jury noted.

<img alt="PBD Chatswood" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="041fba55-4911-410e-bf77-9a8c80052e12" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-10-16%20at%203.12.06%20pm.png?VersionId=FzKIYFMlTmWiifxhvg4QDIx0a2hmPKPS" />

PBD noted in their Design Statement submitted to the Willoughby Council that the&nbsp;proposed mixed-use residential flat building is designed to respond cohesively to the existing and desired future character of the neighbourhood streetscape with appropriate build form and material palette that respond thoughtfully to the immediate context.

"The proposal for 629-639 Pacific Highway is informed by our analysis of the context, striving to create a design that addresses the challenges of the site, maximizes the opportunity and integrates with the podium to provide a cohesive development of the site," the Design Statement signed off by PBD Managing Director Paul Buljevic read.

"The proposal comprises a cluster of slender tower forms/pods that resonates with the podium geometries. The proposal seeks to integrate tower and podium into a cohesive built form by morphing a two dimensional podium silhouette into a sculptural, programmable landscape deck.

"The building's floor plates were optimized to maximize solar access and cross-ventilation, with careful consideration given to the neighbouring context and views. The built form is further articulated to enhance its slender characteristics and additional facade tiering is introduced to seamlessly transition to the lower levels, to create a more inviting human-scale experience."

<img alt="PBD Chatswood" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5ea476fe-af0f-4f9e-836c-554856feeea1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-10-16%20at%203.12.43%20pm.png?VersionId=BfVFKqmmCzPISvUXSsL.uUaanhUAtv.m" />

The tower will comprise two one-bedroom apartments, 22 two-bedrooms, 28 three-bed units, and a sole four-bedroom apartment, the penthouse.

The site is&nbsp;located around 550 metres south of the Chatswood transport interchange with access to metro, rail, and bus services, while also being just 750 metres from Chatwood's central retail precinct.

<h2>Project Summary</h2>

The site is an urban renewal site with redevelopment proposed for the existing low rise buildings to accommodate a mixed use tower.

The proposed development comprises the construction of 27- storey mixed use building with residential and non-residential comprising:

· 53 apartment units (2 x 1 bed, 22 x 2 bed, 35 x 3 bed, 1 x 4bed)

· 581 sqm GFA of commercial and office spaces

· 232 sqm GFA of retail shop

· 109 sqm GFA for café/restaurants

In addition, a five levels of basement parking will be provided, comprising of a loading dock and 89 car parking spaces including accessible parking and visitor parking. Bicycle parking racks will be provided for all apartments and at least 9 bicycle parking racks will be provided for non-residential occupants.

The latest plans are from Polytec Australia Development, an entity with directors associated with the listed Hong Kong property developer Kowloon Development Company

First look: Chatswood off the plan apartment development pipeline ramps up

National property developer <a href="/developers/billbergia">Billbergia</a> is seeking to create a new sustainable tower in the heart of <a href="/developments/rhodes-nsw-2138">Rhodes</a>.

<a href="/developers/billbergia">Billbergia</a> are no strangers to <a href="/developments/rhodes-nsw-2138">Rhodes</a>. They're currently&nbsp;developing a new $70 million community recreation centre and childcare centre and have delivered the <a href="/developments/rhodes-nsw-2138">Rhodes</a> Central Shopping Centre, the 1.2-hectare Phoenix Park and the 330 metre Bennelong Bridge from Rhodes to Wentworth Point.

The plans with Canada Bay Council are for a 37-level, 244-apartment tower at&nbsp;9-13 Blaxland Road.

The proposed new tower features a striking slender form designed by architects GroupGSA in collaboration with Singaporean landscape studio Salad Dressing - whose exterior design concept earned them first place in a design excellence competition for the site.

Aligned with the principles of the Rhodes Place Strategy, the proposed new tower sits within the <a href="/developments/rhodes-nsw-2138">Rhodes</a> Station Gateway East precinct that was rezoned by NSW State Government in 2021 following extensive community consultation.

With a small tower footprint of just 680 square metres, the site currently houses Rhodes Business Centre, a four-level commercial office building.

<img alt="Rhodes" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c0434553-28f6-4314-bc5b-642be3e72550" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-10-12%20at%2012.21.05%20pm.png?VersionId=_tnyyV3qSZ02qg_Nsy1sUm2ECLFF7nPv" />

The proposed tower will provide a new, ‘green’ ground plane connection between Blaxland Road, Rhodes Station, Churchill Tucker Reserve, McIlwaine Park and Brays Bay.

Set to deliver 244 apartments in a range of configurations, the proposed new tower sits above a mixed-use podium with nine levels of basement car parking below. The podium will be activated by a café, while an extension of the hardscape at the park junction will facilitate outdoor seating.

Many apartments within the tower will have a dual aspect with natural cross-ventilation, while vertical biophilic gardens will soften the building’s façade.

Resident amenity also includes 424 sqm of communal spaces including a dining and alfresco area on Level 20 and a rooftop tree canopy and infinity pool crowning the tower.

In addition to the lush rooftop garden, <a href="/developers/billbergia">Billbergia’s</a> design features a two-storey high suspended Ficus tree at its entrance, a nod to nearby remnant giant Ficus trees that date back to the early 1900s.

<img alt="Bilbergia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c4f8c1d8-a272-4901-900e-6b3d6e0777be" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-10-12%20at%2012.21.09%20pm.png?VersionId=b3AVsgpKAOy4a7PpB.QyUpauSXH4lwxC" />

A 1,537 sqm landscaped area will enhance public amenity and facilitate greater connectivity to the nearby Rhodes Train Station.

Saul Moran, Development Director of Planning and Design at <a href="/developers/billbergia">Billbergia</a>, said the plan for&nbsp;the Blaxland Road project is aligned with <a href="/developers/billbergia">Billbergia's</a> philosophy of delivering high-quality transport-oriented housing supported by infrastructure and community amenity.

“<a href="/developers/billbergia">Billbergia</a> has been part of the Rhodes community for more than 15 years delivering major developments such as the national award-winning Rhodes Central project and Village Quays on the western side of Rhodes station.”

The proposed tower will set a new benchmark for sustainable living, delivering the most highly sustainable new apartments in Rhodes. It is seeking to achieve a&nbsp;7.4 Star NaTHERS sustainability rating.

The tower has been designed to ensure a high level of performance is achieved for its passive efficiency characteristics. ESD features include low-water gardens, high- tech swimming pools, Photo Voltaic solar power, efficient lighting and air- conditioning, and smart building sensors (and BMS). Strong emphasis has also been placed on waste minimisation, recycling, green-transportation, landscaping, climate- adaptability, and eco-materials.

With an innovative biophilic design - described by Group GSA as a “vertical forest” - the proposed tower is earmarked to redefine the Rhodes enclave with elevated architectural design. The green façade provides acoustic and urban heat mitigation, in addition to its striking aesthetic appeal.

GroupGSA Design Lead Lisa-Maree Carrigan said the contemporary design was conceptualised in partnership with Salad Dressing, as an architectural expression to “rewild the sky”.

“The integration of the landscape into the architecture takes inspiration from the site’s rich natural history and surrounding mangrove and wetland ecosystems to create a ‘biodiversity highway’ through generous vertical greenery and sky gardens which rise above the tower,” Carrigan said.

The plans with Canada Bay Council are for a 37-level, 244-apartment tower at 9-13 Blaxland Road

Billbergia file for sustainable Rhodes apartment development

Joint venture partners <a href="/developers/st-hilliers-property">St Hilliers</a> and Spotlight Property Group has secured approval for their<a href="/new-apartments/711-hunter-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302"> 711 Hunter Street, Newcastle West project</a>.

The&nbsp;Hunter Central Coast Regional Planning Panel approved the Plus Architecture-designed development, noting that it was considered to be of an appropriate scale and form for the site and the character of the locality

The new sustainable&nbsp;and culturally diverse precinct in the emerging western corner of the Newcastle CBD will comprise a&nbsp;curated ground plane experience with podium levels of retail and commercial tenancies, multi-storey food and beverage opportunities including an open-air bar, and two residential towers home to 257 apartments.

<a href="/developers/st-hilliers-property">St Hillier’s</a> Development Manager Luke McNamara said West Village is more than a residential apartment development.

“From the outset the development has committed to a significant public art programme that celebrates Newcastle’s thriving arts scene combined with a curation of ground plane tenancies," McNamara says.

"As part of the Development Consent, all retail and food and beverage offerings have a pre-approval to operate, including a three-storey venue with an open-air bar. This pre-approval will go a long way to streamlining the process for future businesses seeking to be part of the precinct.

“It was also important that the design was sustainable and ‘future-ready’, with the development committing to 90MW of rooftop solar panels and 300 electric-vehicle-ready car parking spaces, making it the first development in Newcastle to strive for 100% of future residents and commercial staff the ability to charge their vehicles. It will also feature an end-of-trip facility, and around 300 bicycle parking spaces in both secure and public areas."

&nbsp;

<a data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="44575c61-c29d-4ef8-bc96-b62606108b9f" href="/new-apartments/711-hunter-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302"><img alt="Newcastle" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="44575c61-c29d-4ef8-bc96-b62606108b9f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-10-11%20at%2012.11.07%20pm.png?VersionId=Dqi1jGxpfoa608XucHSmJ3HwZ4JXw2hn" /></a>

The approved development will also allow for the return of a large swathe of public domain back to the community at the ground plane, with an urban plaza fronting National Park Street featuring the public art precinct, and a through-site connection to the Drill Hall Gallery and Birdwood Park.

Essential to the design process by Plus Architecture was the Government Architects Design Competition process, the first of its kind for a private development in Newcastle. Other features included the incorporation of a suite of sustainability features, a ground plane allowing for a mix of creative business, designers, coffee shops, galleries, restaurants, and public art.

Plus Architecture Director Rido Pin believes that the practice’s approach will be an asset to the community.

“As Newcastle, like other regional hubs across Australia expand at pace, it’s critical that new developments are designed with their long-term future in mind and consider the varying and changing needs of their users," Pin says.

“Our two-tower design, featuring iconic sculptural curves, will create a landmark destination for the whole community – Newcastle locals and visitors alike.”

St Hillier’s Development Manager Luke McNamara said West Village is more than a residential apartment development

St Hilliers and Spotlight Property Group secure approval for Newcastle West apartment development

The family-ran SASCO Developments is planning a striking new mixed-use building in Randwick.

SASCO, led by Sid and Joseph Sassine, has filed plans for a Curzon+Partners-designed building at 18-20 Perouse Road, at the south end of the Randwick High Street just off the popular restaurant precinct The Spot.

The plans are for a four-level project with two retail tenancies on the ground floor and seven three-bedroom apartments above. Two basement levels will contain 17 car parking spaces, one motorcycle space and six bicycle parking spaces.

<img alt="Randwick" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7aafb9a8-c746-4c90-a4da-7316ca8c280c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-10-10%20at%202.38.18%20pm.png?VersionId=GybUoILrB9JxduJw_ZFRPRTsM7eKhGd8" />

Curzon+Partners Principal Mark Curzon said in the Design Verification Statement attached to the application that the new development has&nbsp;been designed to fit into its medium density and mixed use residential and retail urban setting, unique topography and heritage context.

"The site is located within The Spot, which includes a diverse streetscape with historic significance dated from the Inter-War period," the submission noted.

"The new Living Units has been designed to fit into a medium density mixed use residential and retail setting. The design has recognised its unique topography and environmental context and has been sympathetic to its context by breaking the mass to follow the street rhythms and scales, thereby addressing the relationship of the proposed built form with it’s surroundings.

"The proposal overall integrates well with the surrounding environment." 
 
<img alt="SASCO" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="63f6bbb3-0e91-4151-a9f7-8dc359c9cd58" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-10-10%20at%202.38.53%20pm.png?VersionId=pMBCDgrktSQd45NVE.8VehHYHEF4pRL." />

They said the materials have been&nbsp;carefully selected to celebrate the local heritage context with the use of bricks, aluminium battens and cladding and landscaping to enhance the design quality and longevity.&nbsp;

The main entry to the apartments and the car parj is located the quieter Soudan Street. The apartments start at 120 sqm and they each have a balcony space.

In recent years SASCO, founded in 2001, have been busy in Meadowbank, a harbourfront suburb near Ryde.

They have approval for a significant mixed-use precinct near the Meadowbank Train Station. They're soon to launch the Fender Katsalidis-designed development with 133 apartments, 162 co-living apartments, and a number of built to rent apartments on a vast 7,800 sqm site.

They've also got a retail and commercial centre with more build to rent apartments in the same neighbourhood.

SASCO also have another site in Randwick, having acquired two side by side properties nearby on Magill Street in the last few years to give them 1252 sqm.

The plans are for a four-level project with two retail tenancies on the ground floor and seven three-bedroom apartments above

First look: New shop-top housing planned for Randwick

Artarmon, the affluent suburb on Sydney's Lower North Shore, is set to receive a rare new off the plan apartment development.

Plans have been filed with the Willoughby Council for a shot-top housing development at&nbsp;64 Hampden Road, across the road from the Artarmon Train Station.

The $8.65 million project with 18 apartments above a commercial space will replace an old commercial building which has stood on the site for around five decades. It is currently home to an Australia Post office.

<img alt="Artarmon" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2df72d35-f172-4903-b51e-d597fd1f6dd4" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-10-10%20at%2012.27.02%20pm.png?VersionId=8TbXnlafbVxdrS1fym9KPee2Xl_27fgd" /> 
The current AusPost building on the corner of Hampden and Jersey Road.

The one and two-bedroom apartments will be spread across two five-level buildings at the southern end of the Artarmon ton centre.

SJB noted&nbsp;a substantial amount of mature canopies along the rail corridor, on Jersey Road, and as a setting for the residential towers. They said the proposal responds to the context and neighbourhood by creating a&nbsp; two-storey fine grain podium that establishes a relationship with the two storey shopfronts in the town centre.

"The massing and built form responds to the existing town centre, the desired future character of the area, the new LEP and the surrounding context," SJB's Design Report noted.

"The five-storey scale is consistent with the new LEP controls recently gazetted."

<img alt="Artarmon" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a0e70d9d-7440-43a7-90c0-23596e0a2218" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-10-10%20at%2012.28.25%20pm.png?VersionId=kc5leeMhCAk0LCZTvq4Y_IJuNa0CaL8C" />

The new LEP (Local Environment Plan) SJB refers to was recently put in place by the Willoughby Council which saw "appropriate increases in building height and size" in the local centres of Artarmon, North Willoughby, Naremburn, Castlecrag, Northbridge, Penshurst St and Willoughby South. The aim is to "encourage new local jobs and housing diversity close to services and transport," the council advised.

"This density and scale is appropriate for the location, the site is within a town centre and 100m from a train station," SJB added.

They suggest the site has access&nbsp;to excellent amenity, with the train line opposite taking just one minute to get to Chatswood and 15 minutes to the city. It's also a walk to shops in the town centre,&nbsp;250 metres from the local public school and 300 mertres from a number of local parks.

Plans have been filed with the Willoughby Council for a shot-top housing development at 64 Hampden Road, across the road from the Artarmon Train Station.

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