Kew has long been regarded as one of Melbourne's premier residential suburbs. It's a location defined by its grand period homes, leafy streets and some of the city's most prestigious schools, yet it has often sat just outside the spotlight cast on neighbouring Hawthorn and Camberwell.

Increasingly, however, buyers are recognising that Kew offers much of what draws people to those suburbs, with a quieter residential setting, exceptional amenity and long-term owner-occupier appeal.

Within a few minutes' walk, residents can access Kew Junction, one of Melbourne's most established village centres. Cafés, bakeries, restaurants, supermarkets, boutique retailers and everyday services are all on the doorstep, with local favourites including Centonove, Adeney Milk Bar Cafe, and Frank &amp; Harri creating the type of walkable lifestyle that has become increasingly difficult to find in Melbourne's inner east. Beyond the immediate neighbourhood, Glenferrie Road's renowned shopping and dining precinct in Hawthorn and the retail, dining and entertainment offerings of Camberwell Junction are both just a short drive or tram ride away.

The suburb is equally well connected. Tram routes 48 and 109 provide direct access to the CBD, while High Street and Cotham Road connect residents to the wider inner east.&nbsp;Nearby access to the Eastern Freeway also places the Yarra Valley, Mornington Peninsula and Melbourne Airport within easy reach, adding another layer of convenience for weekend travel.&nbsp;It's a rare combination of connectivity and tranquillity, where quiet residential streets sit just moments from some of Melbourne's most established shopping and lifestyle precincts.

For families, Kew remains one of Melbourne's most tightly held addresses. Carey Baptist Grammar School, Xavier College, Methodist Ladies' College, Trinity Grammar, Ruyton Girls' School and Genazzano FCJ College are all nearby, while the Yarra River parklands, walking trails and sporting clubs provide another layer of lifestyle appeal.

It's within this established pocket that developer Ricdanic is delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/wimba-ave-kew-9-11-wimba-avenue-kew-vic-3101">Wimba Ave</a>, a boutique collection of just 13 residences across two buildings named after its location on the tree-lined Wimba Avenue,&nbsp;within one of Kew's most prestigious pockets where homes have been known to sell up to and above $8 million.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140755 project_image_fid=354809]

The residences prioritise the space that buyers are increasingly searching for but struggling to find in established suburbs. Living areas extend beyond five metres in width, ceiling heights range from three to five metres, and apartments open onto private gardens averaging around 125 sqm. Selected residences also feature balconies of approximately 60 sqm, while premium inclusions include Miele appliances, double-glazed windows, EV readiness, fully electric systems and a 7.2 NatHERS energy rating.

Architect Chris Idle says opportunities to deliver homes of this scale within established suburbs have become increasingly uncommon.

"There are very few opportunities to do these kinds of developments in leafy, established suburbs," he says. "To get this level of amenity, natural light, and architectural freedom in such a setting is extremely rare."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140755 project_image_fid=366267]

The architecture draws on Kew's established character through the use of handmade Krause bricks, while landscaping by John Patrick introduces 23 plant species, including nine native varieties, creating an environment which focuses just as much on nature as it does the building.

Construction on Wimba Ave is well underway by renowned high-end builder Sinjen, with completion expected in late 2027. Prices start from $2.22 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=140755]

Joel Robinson

The enduring appeal of Kew's tree-lined streets and village lifestyle

"For me, it's the location." That was the first thing Chris pointed to when reflecting on why he and his wife Marita decided to purchase at Candela Ivanhoe, the under-construction new apartment development by Salter Brothers in the heart of the north-eastern M​elb​ourne​ suburb. ​

"We've lived here before… everything is here," Chris said.

"Our doctor is around the corner, there's dentists, pilates, everything we need, restaurants, fast food places, two train stations, Ivanhoe and Darebin, both in walking distance. You don't need anything else."

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Just 10 kilometres from Melbo​urn​e's CBD, Ivanhoe combines direct city connectivity with the amenity of an established village community. Residents have access to highly regarded schools, expansive parklands, public transport, and a thriving retail and hospitality precinct centred around Upper Heidelberg Road, all within a neighbourhood that has retained its leafy character despite its proximity to the city.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/candela-ivanhoe-40-upper-heidelberg-road-ivanhoe-vic-3079">Candela Ivanhoe</a> sits within the heart of this established landscape, positioned just moments from Ivanhoe Village and within walking distance of many of the suburb's most sought-after amenities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=342 project_image_fid=364553]

From Candela, residents can access cafés, grocers, wine bars, restaurants and essential services on foot, while Ivanhoe Station and Darebin Station provide direct connectivity across Mel​bour​ne. The development is also surrounded by some of the suburb's best-known lifestyle destinations, including Pinkie, Laurent, Enni, Docasa and Woodfire Pizza e Cucina, alongside Ivanhoe Plaza, Woolworths, pharmacies and specialty retailers.

Green space is another defining feature of the suburb. Darebin Parklands, Ivanhoe Park, Nellie Ibbot Park and the Yarra River trail network provide extensive opportunities for recreation, while Ivanhoe Golf Course and Ivanhoe Tennis Club continue to underpin the area's long-established lifestyle appeal.

The suburb's education offering further strengthens demand. Ivanhoe Grammar School, Ivanhoe Girls' Grammar School, Mary Immaculate Primary School and Ivanhoe Primary School have helped establish the area as one of Melbou​​rne's most sought-after schooling precincts, attracting families and downsizers alike who want to remain connected to the area.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=342 project_image_fid=357510]

While location was the priority for Marita and Chris, the project itself also needed to meet their expectations.

"Whilst location was paramount, I was also looking at design of the environment and Candela ticked every box," Marita said.

"We're just thrilled with our choice."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=342 project_image_fid=336455]

Developed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/salter-brothers">Salter Brothers</a>, Candela Ivanhoe has been designed to complement its village setting, with an emphasis on generous floorplans, natural light and practical everyday living.

Residents will have access to a range of shared amenities, including a communal rooftop garden and dedicated residential lounge, complemented by a ground-floor café and lifestyle wellbeing centre, helping foster the sense of community already emerging among future owners.

That approach has resonated strongly with the market. More than 90 per cent of purchasers at Candela Ivanhoe are owner-occupiers, with buyers ranging from downsizers and second-home buyers to young families and first home buyers, creating a genuinely multi-generational community of grandparents, parents and children. It reflects a broader shift across Melbo​​urne's apartment market, where buyers are increasingly prioritising neighbourhood quality, lifestyle amenity and long-term liveability.

Currently under construction by Ironside, Candela Ivanhoe comprises 58 apartments. Candela Ivanhoe is scheduled for completion in the coming months, and residents can move in from September. One to four bedroom residences, prices from $649,000 and limited opportunities remaining.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=342]

Location and lifestyle drive demand at Candela Ivanhoe

As apartment buyers increasingly look beyond the four walls of their residence, the quality and depth of shared amenity has become a defining factor in how developments are designed and experienced, particularly in the high-rise, new apartment development space.

In Southbank, where high-density living continues to evolve, developers are placing greater emphasis on creating environments that support wellbeing, connection, and convenience as part of everyday life.

That approach sits at the heart of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/aura-at-melbourne-square-7-hoff-boulevard-southbank-vic-3006">AURA</a>, the latest residential tower in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/osk-property">OSK Property</a>’s $3.5 billion Melbourne Square precinct. Rising 67 storeys above Hoff Boulevard, the 673-apartment development has been conceived around what OSK describes as a “vertical wellness ecosystem”, a layered collection of amenities that extends throughout the building rather than being confined to a single podium level.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151921 project_image_fid=370263]

The amenity offering begins on the seventh level within the AURA Club, a dedicated resident hub focused on health, relaxation, and daily convenience. Here, residents will have access to an indoor swimming pool, cold plunge, spa, sauna, and steam room, alongside a fully equipped gym, reformer Pilates studio, and yoga room.

The wellness facilities are complemented by a range of spaces that acknowledge the changing ways people live and work. Work-from-home lounges and co-working areas sit alongside a library, music room, games room, cinema facilities, and open-air terrace spaces, providing residents with flexible environments that can adapt throughout the day.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151921 project_image_fid=367468]

Beyond the internal amenity, AURA introduces a series of Japanese-inspired gardens that form a quieter counterpoint to the tower’s social spaces.

Landscaped retreats feature curated outdoor dining, tranquil courtyard seating, fire pit, and a tea house pavilion. Rather than functioning as simple recreational areas, the gardens have been designed as places for reflection and informal gathering, drawing on principles of balance, nature, and calm that underpin the project's broader design philosophy.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151921 project_image_fid=367810]

The social amenity continues to evolve as residents move higher through the building. Levels 49 and 50 house the Meridian Club, where a lounge bar, conservatory spaces, and private dining rooms take advantage of elevated city views. At the summit of the tower, the exclusive Cumulus Club spans Levels 66 and 67, offering additional lounges, private dining, and meditation and treatment rooms positioned above Melbourne’s skyline.

For OSK Property, the extensive amenity offering reflects a broader focus on wellbeing as a core component of apartment living rather than an added feature.

“Aura stands tall as an exemplar of holistic wellness – its focus on social, physical and mental health culminate in a building that is calming, restorative and relaxing, where residents will have their own sanctuary within the well-connected and sought-after Southbank,” says OSK Property CEO Chong Boon Woon.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151921 project_image_fid=367796]

AURA’s amenity strategy extends beyond the tower itself through its integration with the wider Melbourne Square precinct.

Residents will have direct access to Kennedy Park, Southbank’s 3,745 sqm landscaped public park, alongside a full-line Woolworths supermarket, childcare centre, hospitality venues, and approximately 1,600 sqm of additional retail planned within AURA’s lower levels. Together, these elements create a highly connected residential environment where daily needs, recreation, and wellness are woven into the fabric of the community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151921 project_image_fid=370253]

As Melbourne’s apartment market continues to mature, developments are increasingly judged by the lifestyle they provide beyond individual residences.

Through its combination of wellness facilities, landscaped retreats, social clubs, and precinct-wide amenity, AURA represents a shift toward a more comprehensive model of vertical living, one where shared spaces play as significant a role as the homes themselves.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151921]

AURA elevates amenity living at Melbourne Square

Builder-developer Scion is the latest to target Sydney's booming Hills Showground Metro precinct, filing plans for more than 100 apartments within walking distance of the station.

Scion has lodged a concurrent rezoning and State Significant Development Application for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/27-33-middleton-avenue-castle-hill-nsw-2154">27–33 Middleton Avenue</a>, where it plans to replace four existing homes with an 11 and 14-storey mixed-use development comprising 109 apartments, six affordable housing dwellings, and a ground-floor café.

Designed by BHK Architects, the proposal includes three levels of basement parking with 174 spaces, more than 1,200 sqm of communal open space, and extensive landscaping across the 3,791 sqm site.

The development has been designed as two buildings connected by a recessed wintergarden spine, with the 14-storey building positioned to the south and the 11-storey building to the north.

<img alt="Scion" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="64dc359d-736b-43b8-87a8-70a8285cab47" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-25%20at%208.47.01%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=PXh.m8id_aevBPHEckPf88wQ2RQThPos" />

The apartment mix has been weighted towards owner-occupiers, with 13 one-bedroom apartments, 55 two-bedroom residences, 31 three-bedroom apartments, six three-bedroom lofts, and four four-bedroom homes. Six apartments will be dedicated as affordable housing in line with the NSW Housing SEPP.

According to the Architectural Design Report by BKH, the proposal seeks to create "a place-responsive architecture" inspired by the natural landscape surrounding Cattai Creek, while strengthening the public domain through landscaping, active frontages and a neighbourhood café.

Atlas Urban, in its Urban Design Report, says the proposal takes a different approach to increasing density around Hills Showground Station by favouring a more slender, vertically articulated built form over a conventional mid-rise outcome. The report argues this allows for greater deep soil planting, improved solar access and a better public domain outcome, while still delivering additional housing close to rapid public transport.

The site sits around 500 metres from Hills Showground Metro Station, within a precinct earmarked for significant residential intensification following the opening of the Sydney Metro Northwest line. Planning documents accompanying the application note that Greater Sydney's population has grown by more than one million people since planning for the precinct first began, reinforcing the need to accelerate housing delivery around existing transport infrastructure.

Scion is expanding its development pipeline which also includes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/chatham-west-ryde-2-6-chatham-road-west-ryde-nsw-2114">Chatham in West Ryde</a>, 62 apartments which are approaching completion. They also have a State Significant Development Application with the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/96-anzac-avenue-west-ryde-nsw-2114">145 apartments on Anzac Avenue</a>, also in West Ryde.

First look: Scion plots Castle Hill apartment development near Hills Showground Metro Station

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a>&nbsp;has unveiled its scaled-back plans for a pair of towers rising up to 49 storeys directly opposite Bella Vista Metro Station.

The builder-developer will deliver 674 apartments and a new mixed-use hub at the gateway to the station precinct.

The State Significant Development Application has been lodged under the Housing Delivery Authority pathway for the 6,979 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/9-11-mawson-avenue-bella-vista-nsw-2153">9-11 Mawson Avenue</a>, with the apartments sitting above a mixed-use podium. Initial plans were for closer to 900 apartments across two 40-storey towers.

Located around 30 metres from the Bella Vista Metro Station entrance, the development is intended to act as a catalyst for the long-planned Bella Vista Station Precinct, transforming a vacant site into a transit-oriented residential and commercial destination.

Planning documents describe the project as delivering "a high-density mixed use destination that combines housing, retail and community-serving uses in a highly accessible setting."

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group plans 674-apartment Bella Vista towers opposite Metro station" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="21c08216-589e-490d-ad08-2d88b6fa62d9" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/bella%20vista%20podium.png?VersionId=3TnwjjQCNwTsmyQRaWnFrLTSAF0CJeka" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/turner-studio">Turner</a>, with landscape architecture by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/arcadia-landscape-architecture">Arcadia</a>, the project comprises 674 apartments, including 102 affordable housing dwellings representing 15 per cent of the residential floor space. The housing mix spans studios, one, two and three-bedroom apartments, alongside a collection of townhouse-style residences integrated into the podium levels. The development also includes specialist disability accommodation and an elevated provision of adaptable and liveable housing.

The mixed-use podium has been designed to create an active urban centre around the Metro station, incorporating a 1,423 sqm supermarket, a 3,029 sqm gym, specialty retail spaces, a 100-place childcare centre and a publicly accessible "city room" community space. A secondary laneway, active frontages and landscaped public areas are intended to improve pedestrian connectivity through the site and strengthen links between the station precinct and surrounding neighbourhood.

In the project's design report, Turner said the proposal responds to Bella Vista's emerging role as a higher-density centre within Sydney's north-west growth corridor.

"The project transforms a strategically located site into a high-density mixed use destination that combines housing, retail and community-serving uses in a highly accessible setting," the report states.

"Active frontages, a publicly accessible city room, a secondary laneway and a mix of uses including a local supermarket, child care centre and gym create a more complete and socially useful urban environment for residents, workers and the wider community."

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group plans 674-apartment Bella Vista towers opposite Metro station" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0fde6220-82de-4f6a-9b63-d0fd8157acc9" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/bella%20vista%20da.png?VersionId=7hEmuSutH8plTd_RqqdmPu055F6qe554" />

Urban Property Group has been one of the busiest developers across Greater Sydney this year.

The developer is progressing around 1,000 apartments across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-urban-property-group-plans-next-major-wollongong-tower">two projects in Wollongong</a>, with several thousand more homes in the pipeline across Newcastle, Castle Hill, Little Bay and Penrith.

First look: Urban Property Group plans 674-apartment Bella Vista towers opposite Metro station

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?

A trio of Queensland property groups have unveiled plans for a $300 million mixed-use redevelopment of the former Noosa Bowls Club site, a proposal that would deliver more than 200 new homes in one of the Sunshine Coast's most supply-constrained markets.

Kilter Property, Frank Developments and Calile Malouf Investments are behind the plans for the 1.8-hectare site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/99-noosa-drive-noosa-heads-qld-4567">99 Noosa Drive</a>, which would transform the long-vacant site into a new residential precinct featuring 208 apartments, retail, hospitality and public space.

The proposal comes as Noosa continues to grapple with housing affordability and a shortage of permanent accommodation, particularly for key workers. The site's location in Noosa Junction, close to shops, public transport and employment, aligns with the direction of Noosa Council's Housing Strategy, which encourages higher-density housing within established activity centres rather than continued urban expansion.

The draft plans include 48 affordable-by-design apartments and 48 rooming accommodation units aimed at key workers. Around 2,000 sqm of ground-floor retail and food and beverage space would activate the street frontage, alongside a new public town square and landscaped open space.

<img alt="Noosa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2dd02f53-1360-4e51-801e-bfd61a6c980e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-26%20at%208.44.34%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=x1iNs3BSMN6Jy7YUwaBZMHRrrKX2hMpy" />

&nbsp;

Frank Developments Founder and Director Frank Licastro said the development would continue the company's focus on architecturally-led residential projects while addressing one of the region's biggest challenges.

"Not only will this project exude a sense of luxury, it will also enhance not only the built environment but also the surrounding community," Licastro said.

"Noosa's success relies on the people who live and work here. Providing well-designed accommodation for key workers is critical to supporting the local economy and ensuring the Shire can continue to thrive."

Kilter Property Co-Founder Huw Williams said the focus was on delivering additional permanent housing while creating a mixed-use destination that benefits both residents and the wider community.

"Our focus is on delivering a well-considered mixed-use project that provides more permanent housing options, supports local workers and businesses, and delivers an exceptional product for the local market," Williams said.

"The redevelopment vision aligns with the long-term evolution of Noosa Junction as a vibrant activity centre, creating a destination that enhances the area's character while delivering significant economic and community benefits."

Calile Malouf Investments, best known for its role in Brisbane's James Street precinct and The Calile Hotel, will bring its place-making experience to the project. The company recently commenced construction on The Calile Noosa hotel and says the residential development will complement its growing investment in the region.

CMI Director Cal Malouf said the aim was to create a walkable precinct combining housing, retail and hospitality while remaining true to Noosa's character.

"We see a similar opportunity in Noosa to deliver a vibrant, walkable destination that combines exceptional housing, hospitality and retail in one integrated project," Malouf said.

Brisbane-based Cavill Architects has been appointed to design the project.

Noosa Bowls Club to be redeveloped into mixed-use apartment precinct

Prominent Gold Coast developer Aniko Group is planning to bring over 1,000 apartments to a recently secured site in Mermaid Beach, pitched as being destined to become the southern gateway to the city’s central precincts of Broadbeach and Surfers Paradise.

Aniko, led by managing director George Mastrocostas, are still putting the final touches to the development plans, but there will be four towers homing the apartments, rising 25, 30, 40 and 45 levels.

The vacant 1.1 hectare site at Seaview Avenue, adjacent to Pacific Fair, is one of the largest landholdings on the Gold Coast Highway corridor and it was identified by Aniko Group as an unmatched opportunity to create a major mixed-use lifestyle precinct that will deliver a premium master-planned residential, hotel, waterfront dining and office development.

The ground floor will have a world-class waterfront fine-dining precinct that utilises more than 100 metres of waterfront presence to the west of the property facing Pacific Fair Shopping Centre and that is poised to complement the existing lifestyle and dining facilities in nearby central Broadbeach.

The mixed-use development will also include more than 5,000 sqm 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.

Mastrocostas said Mermaid Beach has become the Gold Coast’s most dynamic beachside suburb, and the development will create a new beating heart for the area.

“This will be a unique community within one of the Gold Coast’s most desirable beachside suburbs that not only offers easy access to the beach and central Broadbeach but is truly a lifestyle location featuring the Gold Coast Exhibition Centre, Star Casino, Pacific Fair Shopping Centre and central Broadbeach all in the one precinct," Mastrocostas said.

“We have developed a scheme that includes an activated ground-floor waterfront fine dining precinct that will elevate our resident and visitor experience.

“Stepping up off the ground into commercial offices provides a supply of new office space that the area has been seeking.

“Capping off the scheme is a residential offering harnessing the incredible sight lines across iconic beaches into the open ocean and the hinterland, while residents and visitors will be just a short stroll from an array of Gold Coast beaches.”

Aniko Group is close to finalising plans for the Mermaid Beach site and expects to lodge a development application in coming months, with Plus Architecture already drawing up the designs.

“Being such a significant project, our design team is taking a considered approach to create a standout development in an increasingly discerning market,” Mastrocostas added.

“A site of this scale would normally take years to amalgamate, but we are now ready to go with a development that will create a vibrant new coastal community and leave a legacy that we believe will stand the test of time.”

In recent years, the Mermaid Beach residential market has achieved exceptional price growth which has positioned the area as the city&amp;#39;s hottest beachfront suburb. The Gold Coast’s famous multi-millionaires row, Hedges Avenue, is just a stone’s throw away from the site.

The sale of the site at Seaview Avenue was negotiated by Managing Director of CBRE Gold Coast, Mark Witheriff.

Aniko Group, which has successfully launched five luxury residential projects worth more than $500 million at Hope Island in the past three years, currently has a $105 million residential development in train at Chevron Island.

&nbsp;

George Mastrocostas said Mermaid Beach has become the Gold Coast’s most dynamic beachside suburb, and the development will create a new beating heart for the area.

Aniko Group to deliver over 1,000 apartments at $1 billion Mermaid Beach precinct

The final release of town and terrace homes within Rogerscorp’s Fable development in Everton Park has been fast-tracked to meet demand after the success of Stage One.

Launched in April this year, Fable by Rogerscorp, has already attracted strong demand from a diverse range of buyers including upgraders, retirees and a new post-Covid buyer type, ‘family rightsizers’ seeking convenience, lifestyle and easy access to amenity within connected suburbs.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112680 project_image_fid=196534]

Ten of the residences have already been sold to a waitlist of buyers prior to public launch.

Fable’s second and final stage comprises 26 town and terrace homes with four floorplan designs ranging from 186 sqm to 216 sqm – virtually a small lot home.&nbsp;

Many feature a double garage, study nook, butler's pantry, as well as spacious master-bedrooms with double vanity ensuites.&nbsp;

Each of the kitchens boast floor to ceiling timber cabinetry, a breakfast bar, butlers or walk-in pantries, Smeg appliances including induction cooktop and semi-integrated dishwasher and generously-appointed storage options.

Created by an all-local team of Queensland-based designers and property experts - Rogerscorp, Z Architects, Devcon Property Group and Position Property - the vision for Fable&nbsp;captures the modern southeast Queenslanders’ home in a connected urban community with a green heart.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112680 project_image_fid=200119]

Rogerscorp Director Simon Rogers said Fable’s desirable location and homely communal design had been a major drawcard for a variety of buyer types.

“Fable has been designed as a community for modern families of all ages and sizes to connect, relax and unwind in the heart of Everton Park, which is exactly the lifestyle people are seeking post-Covid,” said Rogers.

“The amenities at Fable mimic those within the humble Queensland-style backyard, such as the barbecue and pizza oven, resort style pool with loungers, herb garden, open lawn space and fire pit, allowing residents to come together and enjoy life’s simple pleasures.”

Rogerscorp has appointed residential home builder, Devcon Building Co to commence construction of Fable in January 2023 following the success of its partnership on Nest, a townhome project in Bracken Ridge.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112680 project_image_fid=196538]

Position Property's Richard Lawrence said the early sales success experienced at Fable reflects the desirability of the project’s urban neighbourhood concept.

“Fable is already attracting a wide variety of buyer types seeking a home with access to amenities right on their doorstep, which is exactly what the project was designed for,” said Lawrence.

“The strong interest we have received in Stage One has resulted in a waitlist for the final stage, so we anticipate these fast-tracked residences will sell quickly.”

Fable offers a total of 57, three-bedroom town and terrace homes with a choice of warm or light interiors and premium features throughout, including&nbsp;freestanding baths and waterfall showers, seamless indoor-outdoor living areas, flowing Coastal oak flooring and generous floor plan designs.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112680 project_image_fid=196537]

At the central heart of the community is Fable’s resort-style pool, pocket park, outdoor kitchen and dining and yoga lawn.

Rogerscorp is a family-owned property development and investment company, with a diversified portfolio of commercial, healthcare, retail, childcare and residential projects.

The group has a growing portfolio valued at over $280 million, with new sites being acquired swiftly the company is set to nearly double their portfolio just this year.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112680]

Fable’s second and final stage comprises 26 town and terrace homes with four floorplan designs ranging from 186 sqm to 216 sqm – virtually a small lot home. 

Rogerscorp launch final stage of Everton Park townhouse development Fable to meet demand

S&amp;S Projects has started construction on their third development transforming Rainbow Bay into one of the Gold Coast’s most sought-after beachfront suburbs.

Hutchinson Builders, one of Queensland’s largest construction companies, has been appointed to deliver the $150 million Esprit project after the luxury apartment development was swamped by an initial $71 million wave of buyers.&nbsp;

Comprising 94 apartments spanning two interconnected buildings, Esprit will take luxury amenities to a new level with the Gold Coast’s first ever residents’ only wellness rooftop and luxurious recreation area, Club Esprit.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=172129]

The Cottee Parker Architects-designed Esprit features a collection of floorplans, including spacious two and three-bedroom residences spanning the lengths of the 12 and seven-storey buildings.

Jayde Pezet, of Pezet Matheson, said Hutchinson Builders infallible reputation across the construction industry and great balance sheet to back it up offers certainty and peace of mind to buyers.

“As one of Queensland’s largest construction companies, Hutchinson’s are well equipped to ensure the viability of the project and navigate the challenges facing the industry at this time, which provides our buyers with peace of mind,” Pezet said.

Centrally located in the heart of Rainbow Bay’s relaxed beachside community, Esprit will offer café culture and natural amenity at its doorstep, while the rooftop will deliver sweeping views in every direction across the world-famous Snapper Rocks and Rainbow Bay Beachfront.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=172173]

S&amp;S Projects has announced the final release of apartments at Esprit, priced from $995,000 for the two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartments and from $1.95 million for the three-bedroom residences. Two- bedroom residences offer living spaces from 109 sqm to 128 sqm, while three-bedroom designs span from 151 sqm to 215 sqm.

When completed, Esprit residents will not only secure a well-designed apartment but will also enjoy a lifetime membership to one of the most impressive and exclusive wellness clubs on the Gold Coast.

Club Esprit will deliver&nbsp;a fully equipped gym, yoga lawn, private remedial treatment room, ice bath, infrared sauna, steam rooms, 25-metre infinity edge lap pool and poolside cabanas.

“When you consider the level of amenity residents are buying into, the superb location, and the superiority of design, you genuinely can’t find better value on the coast right now,” said Pezet.

“Residents are essentially securing an immaculately designed home as well as a lifetime membership to one of the most impressive and exclusive wellness clubs to exist on the Coast.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=172175]

The exercise amenity is balanced by a sprawling residents’ recreational space, including a children’s play lawn complete with modern play equipment, private dining room, private terraces, barbecue areas and an outdoor cinema.

Esprit is expected to be completed in the first half of 2024.

With Esprit now in the construction phase, it brings to three the number of active developments under way by S&amp;S Projects in the coastal hotspot, all of which have hit the spot with lifestyle buyers.

Esprit comes on the heels of the company’s $74 million Flow Residences, hailed as one of Australia’s best-selling beachfront projects, and Awaken Residences, which set a record penthouse sale price of $8.15 million for the Coolangatta area.

Construction of Flow has reached a milestone with the building topping out and edging closer to completion later this year, while construction is progressing at Awaken with the basement completed of the boutique 12-level project starting to take shape on a prime site atop Point Danger.

S&amp;S Project’s Director Paul Gedoun said with the construction of the first two projects having now considerably progressed, it only made sense to begin works on the group’s third Rainbow Bay development.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=172174]

“Our trilogy of stunning developments has been exceptionally well received by the market and they undoubtedly set a new standard of modern coastal living on the southern Gold Coast,” he said.&nbsp;

“Each of these projects will deliver their own unique interpretation of relaxed beachfront sophistication that we believe has set Rainbow Bay apart as one of the Gold Coast’s most desirable places to live.

“We are excited to have Hutchinson Builders on Esprit with their local Coolangatta team on the job. They are locals and employ locals and that is important to us,” Gedoun added.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=102921]

Esprit will take luxury amenities to a new level with the Gold Coast’s first ever residents’ only wellness rooftop and luxurious recreation area, Club Esprit.

Final release of apartments at Esprit, Rainbow Bay, as Hutchies start construction

After a quiet spell following the post-COVID boom, Palm Beach is starting to fire up once again.

The latest plans have come from local Brent Freeman, who is planning a 23-apartment project at 1199 Gold Coast Highway.

The development has been duubed Saltwater, due to its proximity to the beach - less than 100 metres from the sand. There will be 13 two-bed apartments and 10 three-beds across the nine-level building, which Raunik Design created to embrace subtropical coastal design that is reflective of the surrounding Palm Beach area.

<img alt="A sub-tropical building" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7c40ec1f-d981-4f3e-ad06-3926f3d3fa71" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-09-20%20at%2011.48.28%20am.png?VersionId=FzP7Wp.sy2XGyemtkaBaIDHaTSeIjvlY" />

There will be a pool, gym, and spa, as well as a yoga room, on the first level.

The town planning report by UPS suggested the proposal will facilitate an increase in residential density that rejuvenates the site in an appropriate urban environment benefitted by ease of access to a range of community and social infrastructure and the nearby Palm Beach District Centre.

GV Property Group put together the 817 sqm site on the corner of Gold Coast Highway and Thirteenth Avenue, amalgamating three lots.

<img alt="The subtropical tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4e51f730-1cb4-41f3-8c01-bec5c34dd293" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-09-20%20at%2012.07.19%20pm.png?VersionId=k5bReeXjVni0YLx9TxOtjeV0D2a_4NGJ" />

Palm Beach was one of the most in demand pockets in the Gold Coast when COVID hit. But those projects that were in market around the time were quickly snapped up, and there's been little stock in the last 12 months.

There's been a few developments submitted, the most recent by the luxury home builders turned multi-residential apartment developers GRAYA.

They've submitted plans for Ripple,&nbsp;a boutique nine-level project of just 19 apartments dubbed Ripple, on a prime site at 2 Palm Beach Avenue. It's their first project on the Gold Coast.

<img alt="Ripple" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2efc0d78-76a0-44a1-a1f2-79af7cff2e5c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-09-20%20at%2012.15.02%20pm.png?VersionId=nBLVyddhg.mwz1nGPSVs87gTgcyEbC2z" />

Earlier this year the international property developer Changfa lodged plans for a 21-level tower at 1134 Gold Coast Highway, just up the road from Saltwater.

The building, designed by Plus Architecture, will have 113 apartments, a mix of one, two and three-bedroom units.&nbsp;

Also on the Highway is Paul Spina's next project,&nbsp;41 apartments on a 1,237 sqm site at 1409-1411 Gold Coast Highway - between 23rd Avenue and 25th Avenue.

Recently Rob Steer's Steer Developments launched his first Palm Beach development, COTE Palm Beach.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112548 project_image_fid=205283]

The $45&nbsp;million project at 3 Thirteenth Ave, on the corner of&nbsp;Thirteenth Ave and the dress circle Jefferson Lane, will see&nbsp;17 half-floor apartments built, each with&nbsp;three bedrooms, three bathrooms, and two parking spaces.

Also recently launched is Seaclusion, a more affordable offering of 40 apartments which have been snapped up by local owner-occupiers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107136 project_image_fid=202030]

Seaclusion, located at 4 Twenty First Avenue, will rise on a 1,200 sqm site that has been held by the Dorr family for three generations. It's already 60 per cent sold.

Palm Beach was one of the most in demand pockets in the Gold Coast when COVID hit

Palm Beach apartment pipeline continues to grow after COVID boom

Brisbane is set to welcome on of its most striking buildings.

The latest apartment plans by diversified property developer Anthony John Group are for a tree-inspired development.

Bureau^proberts were inspired by the&nbsp;Melaleuca Quinquereme, or the Paperbark Tree, for the design, the building form mimicking the trunk, and the facade layering and colour palette imitating bark.

The 24-level tower will home just 50 apartments.

<img alt="The striking tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9bd45cba-53e4-477e-b45b-b24b969d318f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-09-20%20at%2010.32.16%20am.png?VersionId=0mF6qCs49LB8zpAHfEEH3om7LjvusrV0" />

Bureau^proberts noted in the design statement submitted to the Brisbane City Council that the dramatic growth of Australian cities has required new approaches to high density living.

"This infill tower in Milton, Brisbane provides 50 generous residences that respond to its subtropical climate and urban context," the architecture firm wrote in their submission.

&nbsp;

"The tower takes on the expressive metaphor of the Melaleuca or Paper bark tree, seen in many of the surrounding streets of Milton, in developing a strategy to challenge the traditional built form that dominates the city fabric and skyline.

<img alt="The tree-inspired Milton tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3d9e57f8-4a78-4856-b852-0743f40fe54e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-09-20%20at%2010.32.27%20am.png?VersionId=Tu78jJ_ruSi4owBa4oiyEQt.QRPdcst0" />

"The organic form is derived from the built context surrounding the site where an ovular form&nbsp;is arranged to suit views and aspect through adjacent sites and beyond to distant landmarks.&nbsp;The colours of the trunk of a Melaleuca of white, tan and grey are reflected in the elemental screen of the tower and podium.

"Its shape is adjusted up the tower to suit the range of plan shapes that create variety of living options from two bed apartments to large home apartments."

There will be four apartment per floor up to level nine, a mix of two and three-bedroom apartments. From level nine upwards will be half floor four-bed apartments.

<img alt="The tree-inspired Milton tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="278066a9-338f-4464-9c7a-9aa25f19e7e4" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-09-20%20at%2010.32.42%20am.png?VersionId=KCL5bu_LFgr2cu5mTxgcwxQH.tk1582b" />

They will run to level 21, the 365 sqm sub penthouse, which spans a whole floor. That has a further 80 sqm balcony space.

Above on level 22 is the resident amenity which will include a resort style pool with spa and day beds, a gym, steam room, and a private dining space.

Crowning the unique tower is a two level penthouse. Occupying the 240 sqm lower level is the living zones, an open plan kitchen living and dining with butlers and wine storage, which opens to a balcony with pool. There's also a guest bedroom and an MPR on this level. Upstairs, via a spiral staircase or lift, the second level has a further three bedrooms, including the master with walk in wardrobe and ensuite, as well as a private gym and study.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Bureau^proberts noted in the design statement submitted to the Brisbane City Council that the dramatic growth of Australian cities has required new approaches to high density living

First look: Anthony John Group plot Milton apartment tower inspired by a Paperbark Tree

The Victoria-based developer Property Solutions Australia has lodged plans for their second apartment project in the Gold Coast's Southport area.

PSA, led by developer Fabio Rossi, is seeking to create an eight-level building with 36 apartments at 77 Pohlman Street, near the Nerang and Queen Street intersection and bordering Southport's Priority Development Area.

Each apartment will have between 85 sqm and 105 sqm internally, with further balconies and roof terraces.

<img alt="A tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ff25b6e9-793e-4cd6-bba2-3d48e18ce157" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-09-20%20at%209.15.05%20am.png?VersionId=3hqUIJzwhqZubJ9DT_qkw9J2OMURJUGD" />

A mid-1970's home will make way for the&nbsp;BDA Architecture-designed building, which will feature a&nbsp;ground level gym with yoga space and an indoor outdoor area meeting a barbecue space. There will be ocean and Broadwater views on offer from the upper levels.

BDA designed PSA's previous Southport development, The Mill 137, which was just 27 apartments.

On the new project, BDA noted in their design submission to council that the&nbsp;project offered the opportunity to design an innovative architectural building and provide a higher residential density development bordering Southport’s ‘Priority Development Area’.

It's around the corner from the Queen Street light rail line and is within walking distance to the Nerang Street Light Rail Station, Queen&nbsp;Street Village and to the Southport Health Precinct.

"This project looks to offer quality residential apartment living in a central location and at an affordable price point," BDA noted, adding that the apartments are functional and liveable and can cater for families, focusing on maximising natural ventilation and light.

<img alt="The top of an apartment building" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f5af1856-91c9-41e1-ac63-2d9e41211ccb" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-09-20%20at%209.14.38%20am.png?VersionId=qz_Ugh8WfKfkM4y1y6ZT7jJZE1sTfnxG" />

All apartments are provided with functional balconies that can be used as an outdoor living room.

The podium is a landscaped and gently curved base, while the building form is a contrast of expressed horizontal slab edges and strong blade walls.

"Both the tower and its podium base have been considered as 3-dimensional forms in the urban context of the city," BDA state.

"The simple podium base with its horizontal lines and openness allows for cascading landscaping to spill over the podium edge.

"The ‘rectangular’ plan form of the tower is aligned with the site boundaries, reflecting the site’s shape and respecting the existing spatial geometry of the urban context."

PSA Group was established in 2009 by Rossi, who has over two decades of experience in property development. PSA has developed a number of projects across Victoria and Queensland, including Wembley Gardens in Melbourne's Donvale and Eleven93 in Highett.

They have a number of projects in the pipeline across both Queensland and Victoria.

BDA designed PSA's previous Southport development, The Mill 137, which was just 27 apartments.

PSA lodge plans for Southport apartment development

For years Gold Coast locals have been drawn to Kirra, a small pocket within the wider Coolangatta suburb. Its beautiful beach, quiet, laid-back lifestyle, and also being recognised as Australia’s spiritual home of surfing, makes it now one of the most popular spots across the whole of the Gold Coast.

But it was only the pandemic that highlighted all of the above to the rest of the country, and even a few locals, with Kirra one of the most in demand areas across the country, as the Gold Coast enjoyed a property boom like no other region. Sydneysiders and Melburnians descended on the area, seeking a change in lifestyle that only somewhere like Kirra can bring.

Anyone with a board knows Kirra Beach. It is part of the Gold Coast World Surf Reserve, one of only eight in the world. Kirra Point, separating Kirra Beach to the West and Coolangatta Beach to the East, is one of the Gold Coast’s and the world’s premiere surf breaks.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112210 project_image_fid=198836]

It’s not just surfers who are taking advantage of what Kirra has to offer, albeit every new apartment development must have surf racks and a beach shower.

Families young and old have shown significant interest in Kirra, due to the beach being one of four (Coolongatta, Greenmount and Rainbow Bay), all within easy walking distance. Kirra’s rare north-facing beach, only really comparable with the likes of Byron Bay and Noosa, provides beautiful turquoise water, protected from the elements.

Azura Griffen, who heads up sales for the prominent local Gold Coast developer Marquee Development Partners, said that despite being a lifelong Gold Coast local, she had only recently discovered how special Kirra is.&nbsp;

“It’s truly the hidden gem of the coast,” Griffen suggested.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112210 project_image_fid=198838]

“Sitting at the southern end of the Gold Coast, nestled within Coolangatta, and just a stone's throw away from northern NSW, Kirra has a vibrant, relaxed village atmosphere filled with beachfront cafes, restaurants and parks.”

The village vibe will be heightened with the $385 million redevelopment of the Kirra Beach Hotel retail &amp;amp; entertainment precinct, which is currently being undertaken by the same team behind the popular, award-winning hotel and spa Elements of Byron.

The access to the airport compared to some of the more headline grabbing area of Main Beach and Broadbeach has proven to be another drawcard for those looking for weekenders and future retirement homes, with the proximity to the M1 also presenting direct access to Brisbane, Surfers Paradise, Byron Bay and the Gold Coast airport.

Lack of high-end stock is expected in the incredibly tightly held area, with construction costs soaring to record highs and land values also hitting records. The area is so tightly held, Marquee Developments, who recently sold-out SOL Kirra to their database, spent years working on creating a development site which they knew would bring one of the best apartment projects to Kirra.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112210 project_image_fid=198835]

Monterey, set at the quiet northern end of Musgrave Street, is just a stroll down the popular strip to the cafes and restaurants, and the brand- new beachfront Siblings Restaurant and Bar. To the north is the upcoming Native Stage Fitness and Wellness Centre, which is set to open in 2023, as well as the North Kirra Surf Lifesaving Club.&nbsp;

What’s most special about Monterey is what is directly in front of it. Marquee put together 12 individual apartment owners to create a site with the largest expanse of beach frontage on the southern Gold Coast. The site is half the size of a footy field.

Each apartment in Monterey, a maximum of just three per floor, will have views both along the coastline towards Surfers Paradise or over the Pacific Ocean to Snapper Rocks. Traditionally developments along the Gold Coast beachfront offer one or the other, nowhere else do you enjoy both the iconic skyline and Snapper views.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112210 project_image_fid=198837]

Surf racks and surfboard wash station on entry, Monterey offers just 35 three, four and five-bedroom apartments and penthouses, designed with the open plan kitchen living and dining space, as well as the master bedroom suite, to open up to the postcard views.&nbsp;

Marquee knew they would get extensive enquiry from Sydney and Melbourne, which has also been met with prospective buyers from the US and New Zealand, so they have strict agreements with owners that the apartments are not available for short-term letting, a move in which they believe will make for a more community-focused building of likeminded residents.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112210]

It’s not just surfers who are taking advantage of what Kirra has to offer, albeit every new apartment development must have surf racks and a beach shower

Noosa, Byron and now Kirra… Why Kirra is becoming the most sought-after beachfront destination on the east- coast

Sekisui House Australia has recently launched their latest collection of residences in their West End project, West Village.&nbsp;

The Allere Collection features two connected vertical communities, Uno and Duo, delivering a mix of one, two, three, four and five-bedroom residences.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114215 project_image_fid=205524]

Local West End-based architecture firm, Rothelowman, designed the apartments in the 20-storey towers, with both towers set to be constructed simultaneously.

Fronting Mollison Street, Uno will comprise 94 residences upon completion, along with two levels of commercial space.&nbsp;

Filling in the upper levels of the tower is a collection of luxury penthouses and a sub-penthouse, with the latter boasting a home-sized floor plan featuring four-bedrooms and three-bathrooms, across 222 sqm of space.&nbsp;

<img alt="Image: four-bed sub-penthouse floorplan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1ea7d1c3-3ecd-4e64-98df-3deaacb9c25e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-09-15%20at%205.09.35%20pm.png?VersionId=uGoRqdXOjmS.jtGD0ETHHNxZTV7RQqlT" />

Priced at $3,686,499*, the sub-penthouse is targeting the downsizer market, or those looking to live somewhere well connected, with the West Village precinct achieving a 99/100 walk score rating.&nbsp;

Allowing connections to occur through meaningful spatial experiences, each of the residences has been designed to respond to the ever-changing needs of its occupants, with a character inspired by the urban fabric of West End.&nbsp;

Designed with a distinctive sculptured tectonic wall, Uno is emblazoned with subtropical greenery that projects outwardly through the generously-sized verandas to the north and south, along with integrated landscaping along the upper level terraces.

Crowning Uno will be a pool, enclosed dining space, seating areas, a vegetable garden, conservatory, as well as ‘Paw Pavilion’, which provides an off leash dog space within the building.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114215 project_image_fid=205525]

The towers are set within a living heritage village that pays homage to the Peters Ice Cream and Cone Factories, built in 1920, located just 800 metres from the Brisbane CBD. 
&nbsp; 
A full-line Woolworths supermarket takes up shop in the community, along with Harris Farm Markets, Goodlife Health Clubs, a chemist, medical centre and more than 25 food and lifestyle providores.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
*Price correct at time of publication.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=114215]

Priced at $3,686,499*, the sub-penthouse is targeting the downsizer market, or those looking to live somewhere well connected, with the West Village precinct achieving a 99/100 walk score rating. 

Inside the Allere Collection: A look into the Uno sub-penthouse

Low-rise apartments continue their descent on the popular Albatross Avenue, with Mermaid Beach maintaining its place as a hotspot for developers.&nbsp;

The new plans come from Burleigh Heads-based developers, Highlife Homes, headed by James George, who founded the company, steadily progressing from renovating new homes, to luxury homes and duplexes and then to townhouse developments.

<img alt="Render of the 68 Albatross Ave project" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fa345470-e8bb-4b85-a7ba-ee23682e345d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-09-14%20at%209.25.06%20pm.png?VersionId=oiL3TWHnwrymSm_SmXmjC1Qvb7PLuwsU" />Render of the proposed Albatross Avenue development. Credit:&nbsp;Raunik

The group has lodged plans for an 809 sqm site at 68 Albatross Ave, with plans for a four-storey, eight-apartment project, offering a mix of three-bedroom residences, designed by architects, Raunik Design Group.

Taking inspiration from its coastal location, the building incorporates materials, colours and textures prevalent to the beachside locality, including light-toned timber look features, timber soffits, feature stone cladding, glazed balustrades and landscaped planters which soften and juxtapose the concrete render.&nbsp;

The development also seeks to provide a higher-end product, in a bid to allow local residents to “age in place” within the local community as they downsize from traditionally larger family homes to a more compact, lower-maintenance dwelling typology, without necessitating moving out of the Mermaid Beach locale.&nbsp;

<img alt="Render of the proposed Albatross Avenue development. Credit: Raunik" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6919ffd3-9811-45d9-8a7a-ad76203ac2c7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-09-14%20at%209.25.20%20pm.png?VersionId=2vjPWdGOioIq7tCDZrELB0ci4I.1aZ4V" />Render of the proposed Albatross Avenue development. Credit:&nbsp;Raunik

Each floor will house two apartments, with the homes adopting an open plan layout, with the living, dining and kitchen adjoining to generously-sized terraces and balconies, oriented toward the east.&nbsp;

Crowning the building will be a rooftop terrace, for the use of the penthouse residents.

Designed for outdoor entertaining, the space is equipped with a barbecue area, as well as a dining space with a lightweight pergola, outdoor seating, a spa and a plunge pool.&nbsp;

Highlife’s project will join a string of projects taking up a spot in the coveted Gold Coast pocket.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108737 project_image_fid=199485]

Just down the road, Hutchinson Builders recently started work on the Niecon project, Ventura Residences, which will deliver 45 apartments come mid-2023.&nbsp;

The Ventura Road development, just 250 metres from the Mermaid Beach sand, has been a hit with owner-occupiers, who have snapped up all of the two-bedroom apartments on offer, with a handful of three and four-bedroom north-facing apartments, which feature city skyline and ocean views, as well as two exclusive villas still remaining.&nbsp;

Hutchies are also behind the $200 million Hirsch &amp; Faigen project, Yves, with the development a rare high-rise offering in the area.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102451 project_image_fid=186077]

The three-tower development at 7-9 Mermaid Avenue has been designed by the renowned architecture firm Rothelowman, delivering 145 luxury residences, with a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, in addition to the premium offerings of two four-bedroom, half-floor sub-penthouses and a single full-floor penthouse.

More than half of the apartments in Yves were snapped up in the first two months of marketing, unsurprisingly with locals dominating the purchasing, with select two, three and four-bedroom apartments remaining.&nbsp;

The group has lodged plans for an 809 sqm site at 68 Albatross Ave, with plans for a four-storey, eight-apartment project, offering a mix of three-bedroom residences, designed by Raunik Design Group Architects.



The Mermaid Beach apartment wave continues, with new development plans lodged for Albatross Avenue

A major landholding within the master-planned Queen Street Village precinct at Southport has been placed on the market, presenting one of the biggest development opportunities in the Gold Coast’s central CBD in a number of years.

The landholding, comprising three adjoining sites totalling 5401 sqm, is being presented collectively to the market by Colliers through an expressions of interest campaign under the instructions of the mortgage exercising power of sale.

Colliers has called for expressions of interest in lots seven, eight and nine, which are located at the corner of Nerang Street and Queen Street, and already have preliminary planning approvals in place.

<img alt="Birdseye cityscape" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="26e4f82a-3f89-44e1-ad2f-b78cda4176fd" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/City%20Scape%20Hero.JPG?VersionId=psDCyCKBBeqg87mCpMAeErBPCgi9._Ch" />

The sites, located just one-kilometre from the Southport Broadwater and the Broadwater Parklands, are within the Southport Priority Development Area which allows for multiple uses without height restrictions.&nbsp;

Lot seven spans 1,787 sqm, with preliminary approval for a 12-storey apartment building comprising 52 units, along with a string of residential amenities, such as a rooftop terrace.&nbsp;

Lot eight, with a land area of 2,414 sqm, holds preliminary approval for a student accommodation facility comprising 480 beds, while lot nine comes with a land area of 1,200 sqm, located along Nerang St, with approval for a 14-storey hotel building, providing 160 suites and a rooftop terrace.&nbsp;

The sale is being jointly co-ordinated by a trio of Collier’s senior Gold Coast team, with Steven King, the Gold Coast Director in Charge at Colliers and Colliers Directors, Development Sites, Troy Linnane and Brendan Hogan, taking the reins.&nbsp;

Steven King spoke to the emerging suburb, pinning it as one of the Gold Coast’s most active development zones, with the site presenting a significant opportunity in the heart of the city’s designated CBD.&nbsp;

“It’s one of the largest sites to come on the Gold Coast market in many years and offers development interests the option of moving quickly and bringing to market the existing development proposals or to create a new landmark legacy within the Queen Street Village master plan,” King said.&nbsp;

“We anticipate the scale of the site and the advanced stage of approvals currently in place will garner considerable national interest at a time of severe undersupply in the Gold Coast residential market.”

The Queen Street Village holding is strategically located adjacent to the Nerang Street Light Rail Station, providing direct access to the Gold Coast’s key employment nodes such as the Gold Coast University Hospital and the Griffith University to the north.&nbsp;

It also provides access to the tourism and lifestyle hubs of Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach, including The Star Casino and Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, which are to the south.

“The corner location offers a high level of exposure to both Nerang and Queen Streets for any proposed development,” said Linnane.

“The three lots also benefit from multimillion-dollar expenditure in development works that have already been completed to date for the Queens Street Village development, and they also carry applicable infrastructure credits.”

<img alt="Birdseye cityscape " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="78d137dd-fc55-4212-97aa-a9653b07c091" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Birds%20Eye%20Hero.JPG?VersionId=r2XahbQH.RVNGTJOBuLGIwMS3GpLGnjf" />

Hogan said the Southport holding presents a prime ‘shovel ready’ opportunity to capitalise on robust market conditions in the Gold Coast residential and tourism market.

“Record low residential vacancy rates, together with strong population growth, major investment in infrastructure and a rebounding tourism sector have put the Gold Coast on a strong trajectory to continue its post-pandemic boom well into the coming decade,” said Mr Hogan.

“A potential buyer could conceivably move into development of this site quite quickly, but because of its location within the Southport Priority Development Area Precinct 1, it presents an opportunity to explore multiple alternate uses.”

Precinct One defines the central Southport area as one of regionally significant commerce that will deliver a hub of innovative business, economic activity, entertainment, and leisure, with high levels of public transport connectivity to the rest of the city.&nbsp;

This zoning allows development of a diverse mix of residential and non-residential CBD uses such as offices, showrooms and health care services.&nbsp;

Colliers will provide qualified parties access to further information, including current approvals, upon request.

The expressions of interest campaign will close on Thursday 27 th October 2022 at 4pm.

The site is also positioned within the emerging Queen Street Village development, with the first stage recently opened, delivering a Supa IGA supermarket, Dendy Cinemas and a range of specialty retail tenancies.&nbsp;

Further developments proposed as part of the Queen Street Village master plan include two residential apartment towers that will deliver a total of 216 units and a vertical retirement village.

The landholding, comprising three adjoining sites totalling 5401 sqm, is being presented collectively to the market by Colliers through an expressions of interest campaign under the instructions of the mortgage exercising power of sale.



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