Construction is set to begin at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/orchard-mews-glen-iris-18-scott-grove-glen-iris-vic-3146">Orchard Mews</a> in Glen Iris, with&nbsp;PC Whitehall &amp; Sons&nbsp;now appointed as the townhome development moves into its next phase.

The development by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/montcoeur">MontCoeur</a>,&nbsp;located at 18 Scott Grove, is now around 30 per cent sold, with completion targeted for late-2027.

Orchard Mews comprises a curated collection of three- and four-bedroom customisable townhomes, positioned within one of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/glen-iris-vic-3146">Glen Iris</a>’ more tightly held residential streets. The low-density project has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a>, with landscape architecture by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/jack-merlo">Jack Merlo</a>, bringing together a team known for high-end residential projects across Melbourne.

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The development is defined by its focus on flexible living and long-term usability. Each residence includes multiple living zones and a customisable multipurpose room, allowing buyers to tailor spaces to suit changing needs, whether as a home office, additional bedroom, wellness area or entertainment space.

Architecturally, the townhomes emphasise natural light and spatial volume, with dual-aspect layouts and double-height living areas incorporated into the design. Interiors feature natural stone benchtops, premium appliances, and a neutral material palette intended to support everyday functionality rather than statement-driven finishes.

All residences are all-electric and include private lifts and secure double garages, reflecting a broader shift toward sustainability and future-focused housing in Melbourne’s established suburbs.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150128 project_image_fid=366277]

Outdoor connections are also central to the offering, with a mix of private courtyards and terraces extending internal living spaces and integrating with the landscaped surrounds.

The Scott Grove address places Orchard Mews within close proximity to some of Melbourne’s key lifestyle and education amenities, including Scotch College, Sacré Cœur, Cabrini Hospital and the retail hub of Chadstone. Public transport access is also nearby, with trams and Gardiner Station providing connectivity to the CBD and surrounding suburbs.

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Joel Robinson

Construction to commence at luxury Glen Iris townhome project, Orchard Mews

A rare new apartment development has been proposed on the fringe of St Ives Village.

Developer Newquest Property has lodged plans for a low-rise apartment project designed by well-regarded architecture firm Warren &amp; Mahoney, which is best known for its work in the multi-residential sector in Melbourne.

The building, proposed for a 1,916 sqm site on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/st-ives-residences-3-5-memorial-avenue-nsw-2075">Memorial Avenue</a> opposite St Ives Village Green, has been designed to blend into the surrounding natural environment.

<img alt="St Ives" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5c1c7437-2fba-4345-a6d7-05321714ad3e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-04%20at%201.28.46%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=KrYyMaJvNqR7vbx0xbB3Ef8sJ6FuHpmn" />

“Drawing inspiration from the pale trunks and flowering canopies of the scribbly gums and blue gums prevalent in the area, a considered material palette was developed,” the architectural design report states.

“This palette references the established materiality of the suburb while elevating it through refined finishes to achieve a more luxurious architectural expression.”

Of the 33 apartments proposed, 21 will be three-bedroom residences. The remaining mix includes nine two-bedroom apartments, one one-bedroom apartment and two four-bedroom residences. The development will be supported by 62 car parking spaces and 33 secure bicycle spaces.

The proposal would replace two single-storey brick buildings currently on the site.

<img alt="St Ives" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="21422eaf-09a9-4439-9278-b9bd9daf22a1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-04%20at%201.38.10%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=v.fXSgcUcEscvOZzqcjG5nk3gVqk_Amt" />

St Ives remains a relatively untapped market for new apartment development. North Shore developer WINIM has a number of projects in the area, while INCA is nearing completion of Ellis Residences.

More recently, Traders In Purple has lodged plans for one of the denser projects proposed in the suburb, a 75-apartment development on a 5,900 sqm site on Cowan Road.

NewQuest, a construction, design and development firm, has delivered over 24 projects across commercial, residential, industrial, and lad markets.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

First look: NewQuest Property proposes new St Ives apartment development

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/centa-property-group">Centa Property Group</a> has achieved two major milestones at its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bilinga-house-107-golden-four-drive-bilinga-qld-4225">Bilinga House</a> apartment development in the sought-after southern Gold Coast.

They've almost sold 50 per cent of the Golden Four Drive building, while at the same time announcing the commencement of construction through reputable builder Greyburn Construction.

The boutique 10-storey building, with 47 two- and three-bedroom apartments, now has a mid-to-late 2028 completion date.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150037 project_image_fid=5333]

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>-designed project is positioned just 200 metres from Bilinga Beach and brings a relatively rare apartment offering to a market that has seen limited new supply in recent years.

Residences have been designed to maximise natural light and ventilation, with open-plan interiors, generous glazing, and material palettes that reflect the surrounding coastal landscape.

Interiors incorporate engineered timber flooring, stone benchtops, and custom joinery, with layouts designed to adapt to both permanent living and lock-and-leave use.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150037 project_image_fid=5336]

Rothelowman Senior Project Leader Matthew Tencate said the design approach centres on liveability and community.

“Providing curated on-site amenities and communal spaces for residents that facilitate a sense of community, liveability, and wellness,” Tencate said.

Residents will have access to a suite of private amenities including a pool, gym, sauna, and communal alfresco areas, alongside practical features such as surfboard storage and bicycle facilities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150037 project_image_fid=5336]

Centa Property Group Director Jason Yuen said the project has been designed to appeal to a range of buyers seeking flexibility in how they use their property.

“Bilinga House is designed for those who want the best of both worlds – a modern beachside escape with the flexibility to generate income when you're not there,” Yuen said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150037 project_image_fid=5338]

Bilinga remains one of the quieter pockets of the Gold Coast, sitting between the more established hubs of Coolangatta and Palm Beach. Its appeal has strengthened in recent years, supported by proximity to the Gold Coast Airport and the Oceanway coastal path.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150037]

Bilinga House apartments snapped up as Greyburn commences construction

Breaking into the Sydney property market has long felt out of reach for many first home buyers, particularly as median house prices sit above $1.6 million and unit prices push beyond $900,000.

But entry points still exist in pockets of Greater Western Sydney, where pricing, government incentives, and product mix are aligning to make ownership more attainable.

Understanding where those opportunities sit, and how the numbers actually stack up, is becoming increasingly important for buyers weighing up their next move.

<h2>Work out what you can actually afford</h2>

Sydney is expensive, but it isn’t uniformly expensive. The Greater Parramatta region continues to offer comparatively accessible entry points, particularly for buyers open to alternative configurations like studios.

There's an assumption that a first home needs to be a certain size, that anything smaller than a one-bedder is a concession rather than a choice. That assumption doesn't hold up against what well-designed studios in the right location actually offer: immediate liveability, strong urban amenity, and a price point that makes the deposit target realistic rather than theoretical.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/mason-main-merrylands-249-259-merrylands-road-merrylands-nsw-2160">Mason &amp; Main</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/coronation-property">Coronation Property</a>'s multi-award winning precinct in Merrylands, studio apartments are unlike the typical studio configuration.

Starting from $498,000, the bedroom is fully enclosed, separated from the living area by a cavity sliding door, creating a genuinely private sleeping space that functions more like a one-bedroom apartment than a traditional open-plan studio.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=31751 project_image_fid=359814]

At 42 sqm internally, with an open-plan kitchen, built-in robes, modern bathroom, and separate laundry, the apartments are designed for everyday liveability rather than short-term use.

With a five per cent deposit under the Federal Government's First Home Guarantee, that equates to a deposit of around $24,200, achievable for many first home buyers without the added cost of Lenders Mortgage Insurance.

<h2>Understand the real cost of renting versus buying</h2>

For buyers weighing up the shift from renting to owning, the numbers are closer than many expect.

Here’s how the numbers stack up for a studio at Mason &amp; Main (based on a $498,000 purchase):

<ul>
	<li>Purchase price: $498,000</li>
	<li>Five per cent deposit (First Home Guarantee): ~$24,900</li>
	<li>Loan amount: ~$473,100</li>
	<li>Estimated mortgage repayment (6.29% variable, 30-year term): ~$675–$695/week*</li>
	<li>Estimated rental return: $590–$620/week*</li>
	<li>Rental yield: 6.16% - 6.47%</li>
</ul>

At this level, the gap between renting and owning is relatively narrow, particularly when factoring in long-term equity, with rental returns also making the apartments a viable option for investors.

The rental range reflects current asking rents for remaining studio stock in the development and, based on prevailing asking prices, equates to an indicative gross rental yield of up to 6.47 per cent.

For buyers seeking more internal space, Mason &amp; Main also offers a range of one-bedroom apartments from $629,000, alongside larger one-bedroom plus multipurpose room configurations priced from $680,000 - all priced under $800,000 and eligible for first home buyer incentives.

<ul>
	<li>Purchase price: $629,000</li>
	<li>20 per cent deposit: ~$125,800 (5% deposit on exchange: $31,450)</li>
	<li>Loan amount 80%: ~$503,200</li>
	<li>Estimated mortgage repayment: ~$720–$740/week*</li>
	<li>Estimated rental return: $650–$680/week*</li>
	<li>Rental yield:&nbsp;5.37% - 5.62%</li>
</ul>

One-bedroom apartments continue to present a balanced option for both owner-occupiers and investors, supported by steady rental demand across Western Sydney.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=31751 project_image_fid=359812]

<h2>Make sure you're across the government incentives</h2>

Government incentives continue to play a key role in reducing the upfront cost barrier.

At Mason &amp; Main, studio, one, and two-bedroom apartments are priced under $800,000, allowing eligible buyers to access a full stamp duty exemption under the NSW First Home Buyers Assistance Scheme.

On a $498,000 purchase, that represents a saving of roughly $17,900 that would otherwise need to be paid at settlement.

Combined with the First Home Guarantee, which enables purchases with as little as a five per cent deposit, the total capital required to secure a home is significantly reduced compared to traditional lending pathways.

<h2>No waiting, no uncertainty</h2>

For first home buyers who want to move sooner rather than later, Mason &amp; Main removes one of the more common pain points from the purchase process entirely. The development is already complete and move-in ready, meaning buyers can walk through the apartments, inspect the finishes, and have full certainty about what they're purchasing before signing anything.

Coronation brought in renowned architecture firm <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a> to design the development.&nbsp;

"The project's design drew inspiration from the area's rich heritage, in particular the nearby brickworks and aqueduct, infusing a contemporary perspective to seamlessly integrate historical influences into the design," Woods Bagot Principal Dom Alvaro says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=31751 project_image_fid=736]

<h2>Factor in location and lifestyle</h2>

Beyond the apartment itself, the surrounding infrastructure matters, particularly for a first purchase. Merrylands Station sits 350 metres from the development, putting the Parramatta CBD a five-minute drive away and the Sydney CBD roughly 25 minutes via the Western Line. Directly across the road is Stockland <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/merrylands-nsw-2160">Merrylands</a>, one of Greater Western Sydney's major retail centres.

At street level, Mason &amp; Main's own retail and dining precinct has more than 30 tenants trading, including Iftar, Macelleria, Hayat, San Churro, Yuzu, and Fat Jaks. Residents also have access to a resort-style pool, a Technogym-equipped gym, private dining rooms, and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views across Parramatta, the Sydney CBD, and the Blue Mountains, all exclusive to the building.

Due to the mix of configurations, including studios which are rarely offered in today's new apartment market, first home buyers and investors have driven Mason &amp; Main to over 90 per cent sold.

Coronation Property Managing Director Joe Nahas says the development is driving a revitalisation of Merrylands, setting a high standard for future developments in the area.

Mason &amp; Main is move-in ready and is the latest in a series of award-winning mixed-use developments by Coronation Property.

Disclaimer: Mortgage repayment figures are estimates only, based on a 6.29 per cent variable rate over a 30-year term (Canstar, April 2026). Pricing and rental estimates are indicative and based on current listings and project information. Gross yield figures are indicative and derived from asking prices and estimated rental ranges. Stamp duty savings are indicative only. Buyers should seek independent financial and legal advice before proceeding.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=31751]

How first home buyers can enter the Sydney property market for under $500k

Australia’s housing debate has rarely been more urgent. The National Housing Supply and Affordability Council forecasts the country could fall around 262,000 homes short of housing needs by 2029, underscoring the scale of the challenge facing planners, governments and developers.

In response, much of the conversation has centred on high-density towers around transport corridors and strategic centres.

Diversified developer Coronation Property, while also focused on well-located, strategic sites, is incorporating an arguably underutilised typology, the terrace.

Difficult to integrate into true high-rise developments, terraces have become a defining feature of Coronation’s lower-rise portfolio, including projects in Ashbury and Erskineville. <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/ashbury-terraces-165-171-milton-street-ashbury-nsw-2193">Ashbury Terraces</a> places a stronger emphasis on this housing type, forming part of a broader community mix.

At its Erskineville development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/lillian-erskineville-9-metters-street-erskineville-nsw-2043">Lillian</a>, terraces are more limited, with just a handful&nbsp;included within the wider, predominantly apartment-led precinct, one of the first developments to launch in Erskineville in several years.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135149 project_image_fid=368392]

Terrace residents at Lillian benefit from many of the same advantages as apartment owners, the lock-up-and-leave lifestyle and access to shared amenities like the rooftop wellness space, but with significantly more space.

Spanning multiple levels, the terraces also feature front and rear courtyards, providing direct access to the central landscaped gardens within the precinct.

<h3 data-end="212" data-section-id="1n97jye" data-start="191">The terrace model</h3>

Terrace housing has long been part of Australia’s urban fabric. From Paddington and Surry Hills to Glebe and Annandale, rows of terrace homes have shaped neighbourhood streets, offering a housing form that sits between detached houses and apartments.

The contemporary terrace, however, addresses many of the limitations of older designs, where narrow staircases and constrained layouts often compromised liveability.

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“Terraces represent one of the city’s most intelligent housing models,” says Joe Nahas, Managing Director of Coronation Property.

“They deliver density without losing the human scale that makes neighbourhoods liveable. In many ways, they provide a bridge between the Sydney we know and the Sydney we need to build. If Sydney is going to grow well, it can’t rely on towers alone.”

<hr data-end="1090" data-start="1087" />
<h3 data-end="1124" data-section-id="1a7l0gw" data-start="1092">The evolution of the terrace</h3>

That thinking has shaped Coronation’s approach at Ashbury Terraces, where the terrace typology has been reinterpreted for modern living.

Designed by SJB, the project recently received recognition at the 2026 Better Future World Design Awards, acknowledging its architectural clarity and response to the surrounding suburban context.

SJB Director Adam Haddow says the intent was to evolve a familiar housing form rather than reinvent it.

“The terrace is one of Sydney’s most familiar housing forms, so our approach at Ashbury was to reinterpret that typology in a contemporary way,” Haddow says.

“The homes are designed to sit comfortably within the existing neighbourhood while introducing more light, landscape and shared spaces that support modern living.”

Ashbury Terraces combines terraces, apartments and penthouses across a series of low-rise buildings, integrating contemporary architecture with landscaped communal spaces and resident amenity.

That same typology is now being carried into Coronation’s Lillian development in Erskineville, where a smaller number of terraces sit within a predominantly apartment-led precinct.

<hr data-end="2269" data-start="2266" />
<h3 data-end="2289" data-section-id="cazuws" data-start="2271">Buyer response</h3>

Coronation’s decision to include terraces at Lillian was informed by strong buyer feedback from Ashbury Terraces, where purchasers were drawn to the flexibility and scale the housing type offers.

One resident, Sweta Pursem, purchased a terrace as a single buyer, citing its long-term versatility.

“As a single buyer, it might seem surprising that I chose a terrace over an apartment, but I was thinking long term,” Pursem says.

“The terraces are incredibly versatile, catering to a range of lifestyles while still offering the space and privacy of a house.”

For Pursem, the multi-level layout provides a level of functionality not typically found in apartment living.

“Having a separate living area from the bedroom and home office makes everyday living feel both functional and comfortable. When friends and family come to visit, the layout gives a sense of privacy while still feeling open and spacious.”

Her terrace also supports a more connected, lifestyle-driven way of living.

“I love entertaining, and the courtyard is ideal for relaxed weekend drinks with friends. I tend to use each level differently throughout the day, it creates a natural rhythm between work, downtime and entertaining, which I didn’t have in apartment living.”

Ashbury Terraces is now complete and ready to move in, while Lillian in Erskineville is under construction and expected to welcome residents in mid-2027.

Coronation champions terraces as a key piece of Sydney’s housing mix

Sydney’s property market is known for high prices, competitive bidding, and mounting pressure on first home buyers. But change is on the horizon.

From late 2025, eligible first home buyers in New South Wales will have access to a new federal government initiative aimed at addressing affordability: the Help to Buy Scheme.&nbsp;

<h2>What is the Help to Buy Scheme?</h2>

The program introduces a shared equity model intended to reduce the upfront cost of entering the property market, particularly in high-demand urban areas such as Sydney.

The scheme operates under a shared ownership structure in which the federal government takes an equity stake of up to 40 per cent for new homes, or 30 per cent for existing dwellings. This arrangement allows eligible buyers to significantly reduce their loan size and avoid the added cost of Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI).

Under this model, purchasers can enter the property market with as little as a two per cent deposit, well below the traditional 10 to 20 per cent usually required. The government’s contribution is not a loan but a co-ownership stake in the property. As such, there is no interest or rent charged on its portion.

Because the government’s equity combined with the buyer’s deposit typically meets or exceeds the 20 per cent threshold, LMI does not apply. The remaining balance, generally between 60 and 70 per cent of the property’s value, is financed through a standard home loan with a participating lender.

The government's equity in the property remains in place until the buyer chooses to repay it voluntarily or until the property is sold. Buyers can buy back the government’s share over time, in increments of at least five per cent, depending on their financial situation.

There is no fixed repayment timeline, but the amount to be repaid will be based on the property's market value at the time of repayment, not the original purchase price.

<h2>How do you qualify for the&nbsp;Help to Buy Scheme?</h2>

To qualify for the Help to Buy Scheme, applicants must meet the following conditions:

<ul>
	<li>Be an Australian citizen at least 18 years of age.</li>
	<li>Be a first-home buyer who does not currently own property.</li>
	<li>Intend to live in the property as their primary residence.</li>
	<li>Earn less than $100,000 per year for individuals, or $160,000 for couples.</li>
	<li>Purchase a property within the regional price caps, currently $950,000 in Sydney, though this is expected to rise to approximately $1.3 million ahead of the program’s launch.</li>
</ul>

While the Help to Buy Scheme does not solve affordability challenges across the board, it does offer a more accessible pathway for a defined segment of the market, particularly younger buyers with moderate incomes who have been priced out of traditional lending routes.

The scheme is expected to commence in NSW in late 2025, as part of a national rollout.

Under the new model, purchasers can enter the property market with as little as a two per cent deposit, well below the traditional 10 to 20 per cent usually required

Help to Buy Scheme: What first home buyers in NSW need to know

The First Home Owners Grant (FHOG) is a government initiative designed to help eligible first-time home buyers by offering financial assistance towards the purchase or construction of a new home.

While the FHOG is a nationwide program, it is administered separately by each state and territory, meaning the eligibility criteria, grant amounts, and property requirements can vary depending on your location. This means that the amount available and the conditions attached to the grant will differ, so it is important to check the specific guidelines for your state or territory.

It’s important to note that the FHOG is just one of several incentives available to first home buyers. In most states and territories, the grant is not linked to stamp duty exemptions or concessions, with the exception of the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). The FHOG is typically a one-off payment, reducing the overall cost of purchasing or building a new home before any stamp duty concessions are applied.

Below, we provide a breakdown of the First Home Owner Grants available across Australia, outlining the specific details for each state and territory.

<h2>New South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes valued up to $600,000. For land purchases and owner-builders, the threshold extends to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Benefits: Provides full stamp duty exemption for homes valued up to $800,000, with concessions available for properties up to $1 million.

<h2>Victoria South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Provides a $10,000 grant for first-home buyers purchasing or building new homes valued up to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Benefits: Offers full stamp duty exemption for properties up to $600,000, with concessions available up to $750,000.

<h2>Queensland First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers $30,000 for contracts signed between 20 November 2023 and 30 June 2025. The FHOG applies to new homes valued up to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Concessions: Provides additional concessions for properties valued up to $800,000.

<h2>Western Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

&nbsp;

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes valued up to $750,000 in the southern regions and up to $1 million in the northern regions.

Stamp Duty Concessions: Available for homes valued up to $600,000 for transactions entered into on or after 9 May 2024.

<h2>Australian Capital Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Replaced by the Home Buyer Concession Scheme, offering full stamp duty concessions for eligible buyers.

<h2>South Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Provides up to $15,000 for new homes, including houses, apartments, and townhouses. As of 6 June 2024, there is no property value cap for eligibility.

Stamp Duty Relief: Available for new homes and vacant land purchases.

<h2>Tasmania First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes and off the plan purchases.

Stamp Duty Exemption: Between 18 February 2024 and 30 June 2026, first home buyers of established homes valued up to $750,000 receive a full exemption on property transfer duty.

<h2>Northern Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: The Northern Territory provides a $10,000 grant for new homes only. Additional government grants and concessions are available for first home buyers.

Stamp Duty Exemption: The only stamp duty exemption available to property buyers is the House and Land Package Exemption (HLPE).

Eligibility criteria and application processes differ across states. Prospective buyers should refer to their respective state revenue offices for full details on grant availability, conditions, and additional concessions.

Every First Home Owner Grant for new property by state

In the ever-evolving landscape of sustainable architecture and environmentally conscious design, systems and ratings in place can help determine the energy efficiency of residential buildings in Australia.

Australia has multiple building rating systems that evaluate energy efficiency and sustainability in existing and new building designs.

Some systems assess individual building components, while others provide an overall rating for the entire structure.

A rating system ensures that homes are comfortable and energy-efficient, whether you are buying, renovating, or building.

NatHERS (Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme) is a common way for new homes to meet energy efficiency requirements.

As new developments continue to shape the urban environment, understanding NatHERS ratings becomes essential for developers and homeowners. This article delves into the concept of NatHERS ratings, their significance, and how they contribute to creating energy-efficient homes.

<h2>What is NatHERS?</h2>

NatHERS is a national initiative implemented by the Australian government to promote energy efficiency in residential buildings. The scheme aims to provide a standardised method for assessing the thermal performance of homes, considering factors such as insulation, orientation, ventilation, and building materials.&nbsp;

NatHERS ratings are the most common way new homes meet the National Construction Code's (NCC's) minimum energy efficiency requirements.&nbsp;

NatHERS assessments provide thermal and whole-home ratings for new homes, townhouses, and apartments.

The rating helps evaluate the energy performance of buildings, guides homeowners and developers to make informed decisions about the energy efficiency of their properties, and encourages the construction of more sustainable, comfortable, and cost-effective homes.

<h2>How NatHERS Ratings Work</h2>

NatHERS ratings are determined through four accredited software tools (AccuRate, BERS Pro, FirstRate5, HERO) using a calculation engine CSIRO developed to predict building temperature based on various factors.

The tools can model complex effects of building mass, insulation, window size, and other elements.

The outcome is a star rating that reflects the building's overall thermal efficiency, indicating how well it can maintain a comfortable indoor temperature without excessive reliance on heating or cooling systems.

The star rating scale ranges from 0 to 10, with a 6-star rating being the minimum requirement for compliance with the National Construction Code (NCC).&nbsp;

Achieving a higher star rating demonstrates a commitment to energy efficiency and sustainability, as the building is better equipped to minimise its environmental impact and reduce long-term energy costs.

Anyone can use NatHERS tools, but accredited assessors can provide certified ratings and professional advice.

<h2>Benefits of Higher NatHERS Ratings</h2>

Energy Efficiency: Buildings with higher NatHERS ratings are more energy-efficient, requiring less heating and cooling energy. This reduces the structure's carbon footprint and lowers occupants' energy bills.

Cost Savings: Homes with higher NatHERS ratings are generally more energy-efficient, resulting in reduced energy consumption for heating and cooling. This translates to lower energy bills for homeowners, making sustainable living environmentally friendly and economically viable in the long run.

Environmental Impact: Lower energy consumption directly translates to a reduced environmental impact. Buildings with higher NatHERS ratings contribute to the overall goal of mitigating climate change by lowering greenhouse gas emissions associated with heating and cooling systems.

Improved Comfort: Buildings with high NatHERS ratings offer better thermal comfort to occupants. Proper insulation, well-designed ventilation, and optimal orientation maintain a consistent and comfortable indoor temperature, providing occupants with a more enjoyable and healthier space.

Market Value and Desirability: Higher NatHERS ratings can enhance the market value of a property. As energy efficiency becomes a more significant consideration for homebuyers, a well-rated building may attract a premium price and stand out in the real estate market.

Compliance with Building Codes: NatHERS ratings are a vital component of the National Construction Code (NCC), and compliance with these ratings is often a mandatory requirement for new developments. Local councils and planning authorities may set minimum energy efficiency standards that must be met to obtain development approval.

The Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) is a crucial initiative shaping the future of energy-efficient, resilient, and cost-effective homes. With its recent upgrades, NatHERS has evolved into a world-leading tool for the building sector, supporting the global commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

Staff Writer

What is a NatHERS rating in new off the plan apartment developments?

Mixed-use developments have gained significant popularity across Australia in recent years due to their unique blend of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces.

Unlike traditional single-purpose developments, mixed-use projects offer a harmonious integration of various functions within a single locale.

Residential units seamlessly coexist with commercial establishments, retail outlets, dining venues, entertainment hubs, and recreational facilities, with the combination not only enhances convenience but also fosters a vibrant lifestyle and a sense of community.

<h3>Convenience and accessibility</h3>

Mixed-use developments are designed with convenience in mind. They often integrate residential units with commercial spaces, retail outlets, restaurants, and recreational facilities, creating a self-contained community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114215 project_image_fid=204874]

The proximity allows residents to enjoy the convenience of having essential amenities and services within walking distance. Whether it's grabbing a cup of coffee, going grocery shopping, or accessing healthcare services, everything is conveniently located, saving residents time and effort.

<h3>Vibrant lifestyle and community</h3>

One of the major advantages of mixed-use developments is the vibrant lifestyle they offer. With a diverse range of amenities and communal spaces, residents have ample opportunities to interact, socialise, and build a sense of community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107714 project_image_fid=214122]

The presence of parks, community centres, and shared spaces fosters a lively atmosphere, encouraging residents to engage in various activities and events. The vibrant lifestyle within these developments creates a unique sense of belonging and camaraderie among the residents.

<h3>Potential for higher rental yields and property value appreciation</h3>

Mixed-use developments tend to attract a broad range of tenants and buyers due to their versatile nature. This high demand can result in higher rental yields for investors and potentially lead to property value appreciation over time.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139989 project_image_fid=212887]

The integration of commercial and retail spaces attracts businesses, which can provide a stable rental income stream. Additionally, the popularity of mixed-use developments often drives up property values, making them a potentially lucrative investment in the long term.

<h3>Enhanced security and maintenance</h3>

Mixed-use developments typically have comprehensive security measures in place. With controlled access points, CCTV surveillance, and professional security staff, residents can enjoy enhanced safety and peace of mind.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108019 project_image_fid=212658]

Additionally, these developments often have dedicated maintenance teams responsible for the upkeep of common areas, landscaping, and infrastructure. This ensures that the overall appearance and functionality of the development are well-maintained, creating a pleasant living environment for residents.

<h3>Live-work-play balance</h3>

One of the key attractions of mixed-use developments is the ability to achieve a desirable live-work-play balance. The integration of residential and commercial spaces allows residents to live closer to their workplaces, reducing commuting time and improving work-life balance.

The proximity to various amenities and recreational facilities encourages an active and healthy lifestyle. Residents can easily access fitness centres, parks, restaurants, and entertainment options, all within the same development, leading to a more fulfilling and convenient way of life.

alisonwarters@gmail.com

The top five reasons to buy in a mixed-use development

When buying a property, everyone needs to be aware of the additional costs that come as part of the buying process.

Often the largest outlay, after the deposit which goes to the bank, is stamp duty.

<h2 style="line-height: 1.38;">What is Stamp Duty?</h2>

Stamp duty is an extra tax to pay the government when you buy land, a property, and other certain assets.

It happens when the legal ownership is transferred. It can also be known as property transfer duty or transfer duty.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/C32BWkB5--c" title="YouTube video player" width="660"></iframe>

<h2>Who pays Stamp Duty?</h2>

In some circumstances, you may get an exemption. For some states, you won’t have to pay for stamp duty if you are a first home buyer or a pensioner for houses under a particular price. There are also stamp duty concessions, where you may be entitled to a discount.

<h2>How much does Stamp Duty cost?</h2>

Each state has different rules which affect how much you need to pay. These rules can affect the rate you pay, and the timeframe you will need to pay in. Before you buy land or a property, make sure you check the up-to-date information for your state’s stamp duty.

You can use a free stamp duty calculator online to see approximately how much you’ll need to pay. Find out if you’re eligible for an exemption by enquiring on a project via Urban!

Overall, the stamp duty you need to pay will depend on:

<ul>
	<li aria-level="1">How much your land/property is worth</li>
	<li aria-level="1">Where your land/property is located</li>
	<li aria-level="1">What type of land/property it is</li>
</ul>

Want to find out more? <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@UrbanAustralia?utm_source=YouTube&amp;utm_medium=Video&amp;utm_campaign=Subscribe&amp;utm_id=Subscribe">Subscribe to our YouTube channel</a> for more property videos.

Ellen Walker

Off-the-plan property explained: What is stamp duty?

Buyers following the journey of developer Aniko Group are set to be offered something different in the prominent developer's portfolio.

Aniko, who have been responsible of the extensive residential development on Hope Island over the last few years, are branching out, but sticking with island life.

Their latest project to launch is Orama, on the in-demand Chevron Island, which has seen a boom in development in the last few years since the establishment of the Home of the Arts (HOTA) precinct.

Orama will rise 21 levels from 12-16 Weemala Street, conveniently located just off Thomas Drive, the retail, food and cafe which dissects the island. The site, put together by GV Property Group, is also located on the sought-after eastern side of Chevron Island, which makes it just a short 950 metre walk over the bridge to the heart of Surfers Paradise.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=111898 project_image_fid=209174]

There will be 102 apartments in the tower, six units per floor on the lower levels comprising two-bed, two-bath units with a study, and most with two car parks. Prices start from $795,000.

&nbsp;

On the higher levels there are three-bedroom skyhomes and two penthouses.

Plus Architecture has designed the tower, noting in their submission that they&nbsp;always design with the intent to produce buildings that are not only beautiful, but considered, functional and lasting.

A statement of Aniko's efficiency in the development space, they've taken just 10 months to go from site acquisition to project launch, having secured the sqm site in February. They got the green light from the Gold Coast City Council in October, and are expecting to start construction in the first half of next year.

Aniko Managing Director George Mastrocostas said they were extremely happy to have council approval behind them, as they now look to the next phase of delivering Aniko’s signature dose of luxury to Chevron Island

“With all approvals now in place, we are looking forward to carrying the next luxury offering into Chevron Island, which will be competitively priced against other off the plan stock in the area,” Mastrocostas said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=111898 project_image_fid=209175]

&nbsp;

While still delivering their projects on Hope Island, Aniko looked away from the popular pocket to bring something new to their portfolio.

“This pocket of the Gold Coast has a unique character that you can’t replicate elsewhere – its exclusive, its vibrant and its quickly becoming one of the most sought after residential enclaves on the coast,” Mastrocostas said.

“Orama is just a short walk to Surfers Paradise, the beach, the Gold Coast’s cultural heart and all the amenities the central Gold Coast has to offer.”

Mastrocostas said the apartment development would appeal to a wide buyer demographic, from discerning owner occupiers through to long-term investors when it launches to the market in the coming months.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=111898 project_image_fid=209176]

“This project will cater to a broad market of buyers, from the interstate migrants to local downsizers or luxury upgrader, its idyllic layout makes it the ultimate location for households both big and small."

The rooftop of Orama will feature a sprawling rooftop recreation area overlooking the Surfers Paradise skyline.

The full 21st level will home a&nbsp;lap pool and spa with 180 degree views across the ocean, a gym with a sauna and a yoga space, and a business lounge with private offices, booths, and a boardroom.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=111898]

Aniko launch Orama apartments on Chevron Island

The Brisbane-based developer Frank Developments is a step closer to making its mark on the Gold Coast.

Frank Developments, led by Director Frank Licastro, has been given the nod by the local council to developer MIRA, one of the most high-end projects on Garfield Terrace, comprising just 11 two-level apartments, which are being pitched as "vertical beach homes". The 25-level tower will be the first of it's kind for the Gold Coast.

“A double-level floor plan is traditionally reserved for the penthouse purchaser," Licastro says.

"At MIRA, every apartment is dual-level, meaning every resident will experience the penthouse way of life – private, elevated and life enhancing."

<img alt="MIRA Garfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7e83ba25-59fd-4cbe-a16c-aae7d8097983" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202022-12-23%20at%209.18.18%20pm.png?VersionId=Ylf47V0r0fFwu8.kCwwApSfgvpo_nkzk" />

There's already been interest from locals, interstate, and even internationally, from those who Licastro says are&nbsp;“prioritising quality over quantity”.

“MIRA is curated with connection in mind," Licastro adds.

"This one of a kind design offers peace, connection to place and like minded people unlike larger, less intimate high rises.”&nbsp;

MIRA, which neighbours the revamped Northcliffe Surf Life Saving Club, will replace an ageing three-storey walk up on a 607 sqm site to become the Gold Coast’s most sophisticated, slender beachfront development to date.&nbsp;

Development dense Northcliffe has attracted some of Australia’s biggest industry names.

The strip has attracted a wave of tower applications bringing a whole new luxury feel to the area, now rivalling Hedges Avenue, aka the Gold Coast's original Millionaires Row for demand.

“Coastal site scarcity will see engineering prowess progress savvy, slender towers like MIRA," Licastro says.

"Designing slim and tall is an innovative way to achieve development capacity within strategic city centres with few large parcels of land remaining."

Project architect Ferro Chow’s co-director Marco Ferro said, architecturally, they become landmarks.

“Minimising building mass and footprint to retain view corridors, MIRA’s impact on the skyline will be significantly less than conventional neighbouring developments," Ferro says.

<img alt="MIRA Gold Coast" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c5cf6499-995d-42ff-9cba-ea91741537ab" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202022-12-23%20at%209.18.13%20pm.png?VersionId=QSs8MTn30aaY4FmY_sQwDmXub8F9DY1l" />

"We believe this unique design will become an iconic address”.

Ferro praised the Gold Coast city planners and council for acknowledging innovation.

“MIRA is a bold interpretation of what is possible within the requirements of the Surfers Paradise zoning envelope.”

Each apartment, accessed by private lift, will have four bedrooms, four and a half bathrooms, and two or three parking spaces. All have panoramic views north and south.

Residents will have access to a full suite of private amenity, including a&nbsp;gym with sauna, steam rooms, a barbeque area, outdoor showers, and beach lockers.

Level one follows the same open plan brief, incorporating private dining which overlooks a 180 degree resort style pool which wraps around a sun lounge podium.

Construction on MIRA will commence at some point during 2023.&nbsp;

Frank Developments has a solid track record of delivering luxury projects in Brisbane.

Their most impressive project has been Maison in New Farm, where off the plan buyers from just a few years ago are almost doubling their money now the project is complete.

“A double-level floor plan is traditionally reserved for the penthouse purchaser," Licastro says.



Double-storey apartments set for Surfers Paradise beachfront as MIRA gets approval

Plans have been submitted by the local Gold Coast apartment developer Aniko Group for their massive $1.5 billion landmark project in Mermaid Beach.

The four-tower development on over 1.1 hectares on the corner of Gold Coast Highway and Seaside Avenue, will see 973 apartments delivered, as well as a luxury hotel, offices, and a good, beverage and retail precinct.

The four towers, which are designed by award-winning firm Plus Architecture, will rise 25, 30, 40 and 53 levels, with a mix of&nbsp;one, two and three-bedroom apartments, as well as an exclusive collection of three-bedroom-plus-study sky homes, sub-penthouses and penthouses.

<img alt="Aniko Mermaid" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="850375c8-2872-43f8-a51a-5e76435442fe" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202022-12-24%20at%207.44.57%20am.png?VersionId=GvNgDUPxayzQEGtjl1kvrb0btNlmcrZK" />

The apartments will range in size from 60 sqm for the one-bed units to over 500 sqm for the penthouses. Plus have designed the apartments&nbsp;to appeal to a broad range of buyers from sea changers, owner-occupier lifestyle seekers, downsizers, investors, and lock-and-leave holiday homeowners.

Residents will have access to&nbsp;extensive amenity on an expansive recreation podium. The podium will service all four towers, offering a central resort-style lagoon pool, separate lap pool, sauna, steam room and a large gym.

<img alt="Aniko Mermaid" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9b53a9ca-d0f7-442b-a65d-a26bdacece9c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202022-12-23%20at%202.51.34%20pm.png?VersionId=Wq.MIwjVSdiF6jwZ80QoRsPd2A25CWsY" />

The recreation podium will also provide extensive recreational amenities for residents and hotel guests including a bowling alley, a teen arcade, a Treasure Island kids’ play area with a Lazy River kids’ lagoon, and a multi-use court that will accommodate half-court basketball, volleyball and pickleball.

A residents’ lounge, with work-from-home facilities, will be complemented by breakout seating areas throughout, including a dedicated firepit.

<img alt="Aniko Mermaid" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="070ab984-78b0-4b5a-81d3-987c3ca53340" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202022-12-24%20at%207.46.03%20am.png?VersionId=srlprIkq0ZIX1zvOg22Ma0ZBPF5wo6aw" />

The ground floor will offer fine dining that utilises more than 100 metres&nbsp;of waterfront presence to the west of the property facing Pacific Fair.

Aniko Group Managing Director George Mastrocostas said they're hoping to launch the first stage of the project in late 2023, pending approvals, with the first residents to be welcomed by 2025.

The project will be delivered in four stages over the next six years. The first stage will comprise the 30-level tower with 175 one, two and three-bedroom units on offer.

“We believe the proposed plan will provide a unique and highly curated experience for both residents and workers of the development and the local community beyond,"&nbsp;Mastrocostas said.

<img alt="Aniko Mermaid" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="db1d5340-14b9-4c4a-8267-eb754f2f236c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202022-12-24%20at%207.45.34%20am.png?VersionId=xiqcXMzDItbWrrBdMmbsUDJD1DrNErhh" />

“With the support of GCCC, we intend to reinvigorate the existing Pacific Fair Drive with retail, food and beverage tenancies which will invite and encourage pedestrian movement along our site and towards the canal edge.

“With these lifestyle and connectivity considerations key components of the master plan, this project will certainly be a game-changer for Mermaid Beach as residents and visitors can live, work, eat and play all within the same vicinity."

The mixed-use development will also include more than 10,000sqm of commercial A-grade office space, leveraging off the site’s prime position along the Gold Coast light rail while bolstering supply in a tightening Gold Coast office market.

“The inclusion of a commercial component to the project will create a local hub for a range of businesses and services located within walking distance to accessible public transport,” Mastrocostas added.

The four towers, which are designed by award-winning firm Plus Architecture, will rise 25, 30, 40 and 53 levels

Aniko lodge plans for $1.5 billion Mermaid Beach development

After securing $120 million in sales, Drew Group has teamed up with Hutchinson Builders and global investors to commence construction on the company’s Lagoon Main Beach project.

The partnership brings on board YieldStack, which manages the international funding of global investors and Australia’s largest privately owned builder, to deliver the $395 million twin-tower project which is earmarked for a near 4,000 sqm site at 11-23 Cronin Avenue in the heart of Main Beach.

Hutchinson Builders, a diverse construction company with a comprehensive portfolio of residential and commercial projects, brings to Lagoon Main Beach more than 110 years of construction experience and a completed workbook totalling more than $35 billion.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108747 project_image_fid=204480]

Hutchinson's has an unparalleled industry reputation for project delivery with a strong balance sheet of more than $388 million, which Chairman Scott Hutchinson says underpins the group’s performance.&nbsp;

“We currently have an extensive workbook of projects on the Gold Coast, and we are delighted to be working closely with Drew Group to bring a development of this calibre to Main Beach,” Hutchinson said.&nbsp;

Lagoon Main Beach will comprise of two buildings - the Sunrise Tower and Sunset Tower - each positioned to capture sweeping views across the length of the Broadwater and the Hinterland, as well as aspects to the Pacific Ocean, from Stradbroke Island to Coolangatta.

The Sunrise Tower will offer a combination of two and three-bedroom apartments and Drew Group’s Signature Collection residences across 31 levels, whereas the Sunset Tower will rise 24 levels and feature 116 apartments comprising of one, two and three-bedroom configurations.

Lagoon will offer generously sized apartments and a swathe of high-end amenities designed to complement the coastal lifestyle planned, located just 50 metres from the famed Tedder Avenue dining and entertainment precinct while also being just 150 metres to the beach.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108747 project_image_fid=190743]

A secluded lagoon pool oasis with private cabanas will find a place within the development, along with indoor and outdoor lounges, a fitness centre, yoga deck, a heated spa, surfboard and wet item storage and a business hub.&nbsp;

Lagoon Main Beach is being marketed by Jayde Pezet and Todd Matheson of Pezet Matheson who have overseen the $120 million worth of sales so far.&nbsp;

“We’ve seen incredibly strong traction from interstate and local buyers who appreciate the high quality of Lagoon Main Beach and the fundamental appeal to the area. The fact that Lagoon Main Beach is fully funded and poised for construction commencement in January 2023, is very appealing to purchasers and provides them with complete certainty,” Pezet said.&nbsp;

Established in 1982, the Main Beach-based Drew Group is a family-owned property developer with Managing Director, Jon Drew saying he was excited to bring Lagoon Main Beach to fruition with the support of YieldStack and Hutchinson Builders.

“Hutchinson has an enviable reputation as a builder with a quality of standards that gives our buyers confidence to commit to the project off the plan,” said Drew.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108747 project_image_fid=198829]

“The preliminary market response to Lagoon Main Beach and the pivotal partnerships we have now forged have positioned us to begin construction, with the demolition of the site complete and building to commence immediately.”

“With the financial backing of YieldStack, we now have a world-class team to deliver our vision for this wonderful site.”

Yield Stack’s Investment Director, Neil Kumar said they see Lagoon Main Beach as a significant opportunity on the Gold Coast, with the market only continuing to be well supported by strong fundamentals.&nbsp;

“Our partnership with Drew Group on this project is founded on the company’s excellent track record of premium developments within the Gold Coast market,” said Kumar.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108747]

Established in 1982, the Main Beach-based Drew Group is a family-owned property developer with Managing Director, Jon Drew saying he was excited to bring Lagoon Main Beach to fruition with the support of YieldStack and Hutchinson Builders.

Hutchinson Builders appointed to construct $395 million Lagoon, Main Beach apartments

Leading South East Queensland builder turned developer Graya is continuing to bolster it's Palm Beach, Gold Coast apartment development pipeline.

Having filed <a href="/news/qld/exclusive-first-look-graya-set-for-ripple-palm-beach-apartments">plans for Ripple Palm Beach in August</a>,&nbsp;Graya, led by brothers Rob and Andrew Gray, have lodged plans for Kloud Palm Beach, a collection of just 20 apartments on the sought-after Jefferson Lane dress circle.

The 824 sqm site at 154 Jefferson Lane was put together and sold by local development site amalgamation specialists GV Property Group.

Kloud will rise 10 levels and have a mix of two, three and four-bedroom apartments.

Graya now has four projects planned across Mermaid Beach, Burleigh Heads and Palm Beach. Their other Palm Beach project Ripple is just up the road on the beachfront.

<img alt="d" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a8190c8d-08fe-4409-9959-4926ae5c0689" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202022-12-19%20at%209.16.33%20am.png?VersionId=Qz3A5uS7xND4SLPO6CHZrseHtw.Gazbx" />

Graya Managing Director Rob Gray says Palm Beach ticks all the boxes for what the team were looking for.

"When selecting a site, we look closely at all of the fundamentals - demand, future infrastructure investment, and lifestyle," Gray says.

"After carefully assessing these criteria, it was a no-brainer when selecting Palm Beach as the ideal location for our next multi-residential development.

"Palm Beach has evolved to be the lifestyle capital of the Gold Coast, with some of the coasts best cafes, bars and restaurants in the precinct, and of course, easy access to one of Queensland's best beaches."

<img alt="d" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="30fdb7ce-d97d-4757-b079-dc14bf6e6069" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202022-12-19%20at%208.13.34%20am.png?VersionId=sN1Gng1i4ux20ZVep0gQIfdp4NH_AkJz" />

In the design submission lodged with the Gold Coast City Council, Graya's inhouse design team said&nbsp;Kloud is a concept that formed from exploration of the coastal lifestyle and its daily patterns and routines.

"Waking with the sunrise, an early morning surf and grabbing a coffee from the local. These patterns are fluid but define a strong rhythm unique to coastal living.&nbsp;

The apartments are primarily oriented towards the coastline, offering sweeping views and visually extending the outdoor spaces.

A communal swimming pool is located on the ground level.

&nbsp;<img alt="f" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1a9ca3dc-53eb-4d91-a7ff-8055c9fd2202" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202022-12-19%20at%209.16.47%20am.png?VersionId=7NP1IiOboxl1Z_vRwa.6ALLnhOFTrkvc" />

Andrew Gray, Graya's Co-Managing Director, says the&nbsp;Gold Coast is synonymous with beaches, great weather, and a strong sense of community.

"We're looking forward to showcasing our first Gold Coast multi-residential development, Kloud, and everything it offers.

"This luxury development will be designed and built by Graya. We opted for the name Kloud as it reflects our vision to bring sky homes that float above the horizon, with long views along the beach to Burleigh Headland in the North and Currumbin Headland to the South."

&nbsp;

Graya now has four projects planned across Mermaid Beach, Burleigh Heads and Palm Beach.

GRAYA unveil second Gold Coast apartment project

Following hot on the heels of Bassar Construction Group’s sell-out success project, Infinity, the group has launched its sister development on a prime beachside site in Broadbeach.&nbsp;

Hutchinson Builders are due to complete work on Infinity in the second quarter of 2023 before moving on to start construction on Eternity, which has been designed by the award-winning Plus Architecture.&nbsp;

Conceived as a slender and coastal-inspired tower, the building will be interwoven with elements of nature.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108356 project_image_fid=208981]

Lush landscaping and perimeter planting is set to don the ground level of the development, with Bassar’s Leo Sarris saying they want people to feel a connection to nature the moment they enter Eternity.&nbsp;

“We want people to feel that connection to nature from the moment they step inside the grounds, from the comfort of their living spaces, and from their balconies facing the ocean,” he said.&nbsp;

“Even though Broadbeach is an inner-city suburb, you have this wonderful foreshore and the beach right there on the doorstep.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108356 project_image_fid=208983]

The project will deliver 88 apartments across 35 levels, in addition to a full level dedicated to residential amenity, including a pool, gym, yoga lawn, an outdoor deck with barbecue facilities, a private dining room, and a business centre to cater for remote workers.&nbsp;

A mix of floorplans will be on offer at Eternity with three-bedroom apartments planned for the lower levels, spanning from 189 sqm to 214 sqm. 300 sqm half-floor sky homes will also be available, featuring four-bedrooms plus a multi-purpose room, along with two 597 sqm penthouses which will be set over two levels, complete with a rooftop terrace.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108356 project_image_fid=208984]

Located at 14-18 Mary Avenue, view lines are set to be the main attraction at Eternity, with the eye travelling to the ocean over school grounds which will never be built out.&nbsp;

“For those who are downsizing from a house in a suburb away from the beach or coming from city locations, views of the ocean are number one,” said Sarris.

“Having lived through the events of the past two years, the ability to sit outside, see the water, and walk to the beach or exercise along the foreshore are almost non-negotiable.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108356 project_image_fid=174111]

Finishes in a classic coastal palette will reflect a laid back luxury beachside lifestyle, with wide engineered oak floorboards complementing natural stone bench tops, brushed metal tap ware, wool carpet, and timber veneer cabinetry.

Apartments are priced from $1,750,000 with&nbsp;Sales Agent, Andrew Ramsey suggesting&nbsp;Eternity is ticking the right boxes with buyers.

“Eternity was presented to the Kollosche database as well as those who purchased in Infinity,” Ramsey said.&nbsp;

“Buyers have instantly seen the value of the location, size, and finishes on offer at Eternity.”

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108356]

Bassar Group launch Eternity, the sister apartment development to Infinity Broadbeach

Polites Property Group has bolstered it's growing Gold Coast apartment development pipeline, submitting plans for a boutique tower on a recently acquired site on Surf Parade in Broadbeach.

Acquired off market, the 607 sqm 152 Surf Parade site is located in the heart of Broadbeach, opposite Nikiforides Family Park and near to Broadbeach Bowls Club and Broadbeach Surf Life Saving Club.

It will home just 21 apartments, 18 three-bed units and three four-bedroom apartments.

With sweeping protected views overlooking the green expanses of the park extending to the ocean, Polites joint Managing Director, Marcus Polites said the site had been purchased with the intention of building a boutique project featuring an exclusive number of full-floor residences.

“With an idyllic location opposite one of Broadbeach’s most iconic parks, this site offers a unique aspect in a coveted, central location,” Polites said.

“There is strong demand for large format, full floor apartments along the coastal strip and in Broadbeach, this is hard to come by.”

<img alt="Polites Surf Parade" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8ebd91fd-823d-4c4d-954d-18207fad06b7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202022-12-23%20at%202.03.30%20pm_0.png?VersionId=F6VQSR7qVCOmqSK0rkBUTWkMwYiVljbU" />

“Our intention is to create a development that provides a boutique offering comprising 22 full floor residences including two sub penthouses and a penthouse boasting exceptional park, ocean, and coastline views. The residences will be accompanied by an array of premium, exclusive and private luxurious amenities and four levels of basement parking.”

Marcus and his twin brother Alex are the grandson’s of late property tycoon and BRW rich-lister Con Polites, who amassed a portfolio of more than 50 Adelaide CBD buildings before his death in 2001, which the Polites family still own, manage and develop.

Reaping the benefits of three generations of property experience and a track record working with some of the best in the business, the brothers are the developers behind several prominent Gold Coast sites, all of which are being developed as joint ventures, including the sell-out success Cabana at Palm Beach, Belvue Broadwater at Runaway Bay, and La Mer at Main Beach.

<img alt="Polites Surf Parade" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4630f150-e19d-42a6-9687-21dab2267278" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202022-12-23%20at%203.09.47%20pm.png?VersionId=ZZtsZKXFDbEfZQxmM550ZgU1lpzfVlK7" />

Polites said the proposed development is expected to assist with addressing the significant dwelling supply shortfall in the city and will add a new level of sophistication and luxury to the residential apartment offering in the thriving suburb of Broadbeach.

“Broadbeach is peaking in popularity as the suburb redefines itself as the Gold Coast’s celebrated epicentre,” he said.&nbsp;

“As a result, a broad demographic of residents are seeking out the suburb to experience everything the iconic Gold Coast lifestyle has to offer, with easy access to premium lifestyle amenities in a stunning yet central beachside location.

“This suburb has long been renowned for its high level of walkability, and with easy access to more than 50 quality cafes and restaurants, high-end retail at Pacific Fair, the casino, the convention centre and surf clubs plus the beach and parklands - it is no surprise that Broadbeach continues its reign as one of the Gold Coast’s most desired destinations.

Polites said the proposed development is expected to assist with addressing the significant dwelling supply shortfall in the city and will add a new level of sophistication and luxury to the residential apartment offering in the thriving suburb of Broadbeach.

Polites plot $89 million luxury Broadbeach apartment project on Surf Parade 

Having recently launched it's latest project Lumina in Stones Corner, Brisbane developer Oakridge have their sights on their new project.

The Andrew Niven-founded private developer has lodged plans for The Pavilion in Upper Mount Gravatt.&nbsp;

A two-storey residence, which currently occupies the site, will be demolished to make way for three residential towers, set to comprise 144 apartments.

There's a full mix of configurations; 52 one-beds, 72 two-bedroom apartments, and 20 three-bed offerings.

Oakridge engaged architects MAS to design the residences, which take on a sub-tropical design.&nbsp;

<img alt="r" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3bfaacc9-7528-46e2-8a69-f7b3bf18a5f9" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-12-08%20at%2010.19.09%20am.png?VersionId=1K.sx7luuedsErnasiQFt34wQeLgq6fh" />

Towers one and three span the majority of the site, with a predominantly rectangular footprint, located along the south and north boundaries. The central tower, on the other hand, has a predominant square shape, aligning to the west boundary.

A central courtyard will be used as a common recreation space, with barbecue facilities and a swimming pool, which are threaded together with softened landscaping and meandering footpaths that arrives at each tower lobby.&nbsp;

Orientation and solar aspect are front of mind in the project, with deep balcony overhangs and fenestration to combat the effects of the Australian sun. The west orientated faces of the building are treated with louvred screens that work to both filter sunlight and add privacy to the western neighbouring complex.&nbsp;

A subdued and refined material palette including off form concrete coupled with black and white tones has been selected to allow the vertical greenery elements be the focal point of attention.

Timber tones have been utilised on balcony roof ceilings along with secluded and muted dark tones which accentuate the presence of the highly densely populated gum trees. Tinted and clear glazing is interwoven with dark structural elements, adding contrast and texture, while powder-coated elements accent the external envelope, either in vertical or horizontal orientations.&nbsp;

<img alt="r" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4e8a0e0c-754c-467a-9a42-dbd590157406" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-12-08%20at%2010.20.19%20am.png?VersionId=8LSvdNQQuIyi2Qp1A1ihZ3YWPuxLzcbA" />

Access to the residential basement level occurs on the south side of the site, at the bottom end of Hibiscus Place, with the volumetric level transitioning between body, podium and basement to become a visual experience as well as tying into the verdant surrounds.

Offering a well-connected lifestyle, The Pavilion is situated approximately 11-kilometres from Brisbane’s CBD, and within walking distance to Griffith University and Westfield Mt Gravatt.

Oakridge are soon to demolish the&nbsp;landmark Freemason building in Stones Corner, replacing it with a 12-level glass-swathed tower with 97 apartments.

<img alt="Lumina" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="238742d5-0fbd-46c1-85fc-9e9bebd9a821" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Stones%20Corner%20Rooftop%20View%2001%20Final%20www.nordstudio.com_.au%20-JPG%20%28lower%20resolution%20for%20email%20use%20only%29.jpg?VersionId=NY9iIXmoR8TAO9Wd6x.osvqZ0fI1cLP9" />

Lumina, at 17 Cleveland Street in Stones Corner, just south of the Woolloongabba Olympic precinct, will also feature two ground level retail spaces and an impressive rooftop amenity.

On the roof is a&nbsp;dedicated kids play area, with an acrylic or astro turfed floor which will be netted. There will be a roofed area for further activity, as well as two pools, a spa, private dining space with kitchen, barbecue areas, a communal garden, and a gym with a sauna.

NMDS Architecture has drawn up the plans for the tower, which has been orientated to take in extensive views. The bigger three-bedroom units, which are expected to appeal to the family demographic, face both the park and the city.

Lumina will also offer a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, to cater for&nbsp;all types of buyers, from investors and first home buyers to rightsizers, downsizers, and families.

A two-storey residence, which currently occupies the site, will be demolished to make way for three residential towers, set to comprise 144 apartments

First look: Oakridge lodge plans for Upper Mount Gravatt apartment project, The Pavilion

Since the onset of COVID-19, there's simply not been enough apartment stock on the Gold Coast.

The Coast was well placed in the lead up to 2019, but an influx of demand, both locally and interstate when COVID-19 grabbed hold of the local market in mid-2019, demand has heavily outstripped supply.

The lack of stock has seen a new trend emerge. Established stock has been commanding similar prices to off the plan stock. It's a trend that&nbsp;Evan Raptis, the joint managing director of longtime Gold Coast developer Raptis, believes won't change for the next three to five years.

"We’ve never seen the gap close like this on the Gold Coast before," Raptis says.

"The trend has come about because there's not enough finished stock coming to market between Coolangatta and Hope Island.

"Southerners who have relocated to the Gold Coast post-COVID have had to look to resales to get into the market, and that’s pushed up the price of established stock."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106752 project_image_fid=182210]

Two-bed apartments under 100 sqm have been selling in some of Broadbeach's better towers for $1.2 million, which Raptis says is&nbsp;comparable to what developers are taking deposits on for planned and under construction projects.

Broadbeach is where Raptis will be turning their focus to next, while they complete Pearl at Main Beach.

In early 2023 they'll be launching The Sterling at 6-8 George Avenue. Raptis has just gone back to the drawing board however to amend the application, with the aim of wanting to meet market demand earlier than they previously forecasted. The tower has been&nbsp;designed by the prominent architect Koichi Takada, who only has a handful of Gold Coast developments to his name.

Raptis says Broadbeach has&nbsp;evolved heavily since 2007, when he followed in the footsteps of his father Jim, co-founding developer Emandar Group alongside Aniko Group's George Mastrocostas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106752 project_image_fid=169993]

"Broadbeach has seen a lot of regeneration with Star Entertainment Group’s opening of The Dorsett hotel and the light rail now allowing people to travel to Surfers Paradise and Southport via the light rail network, as well as south. The new Langham Hotel has opened up as well which will bring more global travellers to the suburb."

Raptis are currently developing Pearl in Main Beach, and have sold 80 per cent of the two and three-bedroom apartments.

Apartments have been snapped up largely by owner-occupiers, both locals who are looking to downsize from their family home, and interstate couples who are pre-retirement age.

Two sub-penthouses have sold, and Raptis will be releasing more to the booming penthouse market soon.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106752 project_image_fid=182207]

Raptis has now reached level 17 of construction of the 29-level building at 3550-3552 Main Beach Parade.

Raptis says Main Beach will feel like Australia's own version of Monaco, with the future $480 million redevelopment of Mariners Cove which will include a new superyacht marina and a Ritz-Carlton hotel.

Despite the country working its way back to normal in the post pandemic world, Raptis says there's still strong&nbsp;interest in the Gold Coast lifestyle and the desire for new premium apartments with premium amenities in desirable locations.

Raptis has considerable faith in the Gold Coast market, suggesting the city is&nbsp;in a better position to manage national price moderations than it has been in previous cycles.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106752 project_image_fid=182214]

"The city’s economy has matured significantly with investment in health and knowledge, film and creative industries, sports and digital industries," Raptis notes.

"The Work from Home movement has enabled professionals to hold national roles and still live on the Gold Coast. You can even have a role in a global team with the international terminal at Coolangatta Airport opening recently."

Raptis says the 2032 Olympics and Paralympics will further promote the Gold Coast lifestyle, with considerable planned infrastructure to transform the wider South East Queensland location.

"The coastal strip will be beamed around-the-world and we’ll see a new wave of global hotel brands wanting to establish themselves here."

Broadbeach is where Raptis will be turning their focus to next, while they complete Pearl at Main Beach.

Why the Gold Coast apartment market is better placed than ever before: Five minutes with Evan Raptis

The amenity offering in residential developments is always a hot topic, with many developers of late forming their own exclusive clubs within their projects.&nbsp;

The likes of resort-inspired pools, sun lounges, gyms and even teppanyaki grills are becoming standard, as more developers look to elevate homebuyers lifestyles’.&nbsp;

At Mirvac’s Ashford Residences at Everton Park in Brisbane’s inner-north, more than $2.5 million has been invested in the Ashford Club, offering a suite of residential facilities overlooking a one-hectare eco area to the Kedron Brook parkland.

Featuring a pool with a splash area for children, lounge chairs, a teppanyaki grill, fire pit, barbecue facilities, a turfed area for entertaining and a gym, the club is appealing to purchasers across the board, from first home buyers, to professionals, families and downsizers.

The ASX-listed group have notched up more than $80 million in sales since launching the Ashford Residences, with the final four homesites now officially launched to the market. &nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=28504 project_image_fid=207507]

Mirvac General Manager Residential Queensland, Warwick Bible, said buyers were embracing the Ashford Club, designed to raise the bar for luxury living in Brisbane’s inner-north.

“We’ve seen lifestyle becoming an increasing emphasis for homebuyers for some time, and this has been accelerated even further post Covid-19,” he said.

“People are looking for a home that delivers more. Many are moving from apartments where they have had access to resort amenities, and they want the same level of lifestyle in a new community.

“These facilities also create a space for residents to form a real sense of community and connection, to host family and friends and enjoy facilities like the pool, gym and teppanyaki bar without owning and maintaining them – all factors that add to their appeal.”

Registered and ready to build on, the final lots range from 405 sqm and are priced from $730,000, offering a rare opportunity to build new, just seven kilometres from the Brisbane CBD.

Jaime Andueza, who purchased a 420 sqm lot at Ashford Residences, said the extensive residents’ facilities were a significant point of difference and key factor in his decision to move to the inner-north, after living southside for two decades.

The Chief Digital Officer and his partner, Aaron, are putting the finishing touches on their new five-bedroom, three living and five-bathroom home, which they anticipate moving into by Christmas.

“The Ashford Club has an elegant design, which is a differentiator from any other development we viewed,” said Andueza.

“There’s an incredibly beautiful view to the Kedron Brook, so you can go to the pool area and absorb the nature around you. It is luxurious and privileged, considering it is so close to the city.”

Andueza said his first impression of Ashford Residences was ‘sensational’.

“I had been looking at what was available in the market and had always wanted to build. When I saw the location of the blocks of land at Ashford Residences, I immediately realised it was a great opportunity,” he said.

“Having compared it to existing homes elsewhere, I felt the value and lifestyle offered was 
significantly greater. We’re looking forward to the neighbourly atmosphere and being part of the Ashford community.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=28504 project_image_fid=207502]

Ashford Residences have been a hit among buyers, with the most recent terrace home release selling-out to a waiting list prior to its official launch.&nbsp;

“We held the final four lots for release when they were ready to build on and buyers could see how the community had taken shape, and anticipate they will be in high demand,” Bible said.

“The opportunity to build new in this area is extremely rare and the location alongside Kedron Brook only adds to the desirability, as does the exclusive residents’ facilities in the Ashford Club.

“The proximity to Brisbane CBD and the village charm of Everton Park, home to an expanding mix of restaurants, cafes, bars and shops, is also seeing buyers zero in on the area.”

Ashford Residences will comprise a total of 124 residences upon completion in late 2023, with 80 terrace homes and 43 freestanding homes.&nbsp;

The final property, a heritage Queenslander known as Murphy’s Dairy Residence, is anticipated to launch to market early next year. Refurbishment works are underway on the historic home, which is situated on a rare 900 sqm lot that has been meticulously landscaped.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=28504]

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