First look: Pyco to take on South Brisbane's apartment market

Developer Pyco is continuing to expand its presence across South East Queensland, with a growing portfolio of residential projects spanning from the Gold Coast to Brisbane.

Currently delivering three developments across the region, Pyco has now lodged plans for its next Brisbane project—an 11-level residential tower in the heart of South Brisbane.

The proposal covers a 1,836 sqm site at 37 and 39 Browning Street and has been designed by Gatehouse Architects. In line with Pyco’s broader South East Queensland strategy, the project is geared toward the owner-occupier market.

The development will comprise 65 apartments, including 53 three-bedroom residences, 12 of which feature an additional multi-purpose room. The remaining residences include 11 two-bedroom apartments and a single one-bedroom apartment.

The rooftop has been designed as a wellness-focused retreat, featuring a lawn, swimming pool, spa, steam room, sauna, and barbecue facilities. The building’s two penthouses will enjoy private rooftop spaces with lap pools, roof terraces, and dedicated barbecue areas.

In their town planning report, Mewing Planning Consultants noted that the site offers a range of contextual advantages that make it ideal for a residential development. They highlighted the project’s ability to support urban consolidation and the efficient use of land in a well-connected inner-city location.

"The focus for the development is the delivery of a residential housing product that allows households and families to live in an inner-city, well-located area in close proximity of key employment nodes, education facilities, public transport, mixed-use centres and public open space.

Gatehouse Architects said in their design statement that the multi-residential project thoughtfully responds to the evolving urban character of Browning Street.

"The proposal echoes the spirit of early developments like Watson Terrace (built in 1888), by contributing to the growth and diversification of the local population. Just as Watson Terrace played a role in the area’s early gentrification, this development continues that trajectory—delivering contemporary housing that addresses the evolving needs of South Brisbane’s expanding community."

The building's sculptural façade and restrained material palette create a sense of clarity and refinement. White textured render, expansive glazing, light-toned brickwork, and white aluminium battens will define the exterior.

The residential levels will sit above a 40 sqm ground-floor retail space, adding to the street activation. A neighbouring building of similar scale was approved at 41 Browning Street in December.

Pyco is currently delivering Nouveau in Albion and Atelier in West End, and recently launched its latest coastal project, Onde Kirra, on the Gold Coast.