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?

Brisbane&#39;s top apartment sale over the past week was $3.35 million in Newstead.

The 2302/12 Cunningham Street, Newstead apartment comes with four bedrooms and three bathooms.

The 315 sqm space showcases a bespoke Patricia Szonert design. With a North East aspect over the Brisbane river, the penthouse sits on the 23rd floor.

There is a secure express lift access to the penthouse from the four cap spaces.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102309 project_image_fid=163977]

The occupants of Haven Residences have access to rooftop amenities including pool, BBQ area, fire pit, alfresco dining areas, and yoga lawn.

It is close to Gasworks array of restaurants, cafes and shopping.

It was sold by private treaty through Phillip Rand at Bold Residential.

It first sold at $3.4 million in 2017.

The past week saw just 18 auctions with an 18.8% success rate.

Nationally there were 535 apartment offerings with a 66.8% success rate at a $718,000 median sale price.

The 2302/12 Cunningham Street, Newstead apartment comes with four bedrooms and three bathooms


jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

$3.35 million Haven, Newstead penthouse tops Brisbane's recent sale results

New Farm is set for an architecturally modern boutique apartment development, continuing the luxury downsizer trend in the inner Brisbane riverfront suburb.

The latest development at 25 Harcourt Street will see two early 1960s apartment blocks demolished and five apartments designed by Tim Stewart Architects in landscaping by Forme Landscape Architects built in its place.

J.J.K. Properties, directed by the Melbourne-based developer John and James Kaias, are behind the development. The brother&rsquo;s are directors at Abcor, the engineering firm founded by their father Greg. It&#39;s not the Kaias&#39; first development in Brisbane. They are also&nbsp;building a 45-level office tower in the Brisbane CBD.

The seven storey building will have five apartments levels. There will be two two-bedroom apartments and three three-bedroom apartments.

The first level apartment has wrap around landscaping with its own private pool and fire put area. Each apartment has a large outdoor area with an outdoor kitchen and dining space.

<a href="/developments/brisbane-qld?source_news_article_id=106444&amp;ref=news_body_link"><img alt="" height="800" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/template_photoshop_brisbane_6.jpg" width="1200" /></a>

The aim is for a &#39;skyhome&#39; typology, according to the assessment report submitted by URBIS, with each apartment occupying the full floor of the building.

&quot;This provides a level of amenity commensurate with that of a house, with large living areas and no shared common walls with neighbouring apartments.&nbsp;

&quot;The proposal represents a contemporary residential offer that provides housing choice and diversity in terms of dwelling style and density (delivering a premium, luxury housing product), whilst considering the surrounding built form and character. The development capitalises on Brisbane&rsquo;s subtropical climate by creating functional private terrace and rooftop terrace space to promote the use of outdoor space. - the development application by Urbis says.

The apartments are designed to provide a &lsquo;skyhome&rsquo; typology with each apartment occupying the full floor of the building. This provides a level of amenity commensurate with that of a house, with large living areas and no shared common walls with neighbouring apartments.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;development site adjoins the heritage-listed Ermabrae, built in the 1900s, to the north, and Merillon Flats to the east.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The aim is for a 'skyhome' typology, according to the assessment report submitted by URBIS


Melbourne developer targets luxury downsizer in boutique New Farm apartment development

There were a number of development updates and lodged plans up and down the Gold Coast over June, as well as a sales update considered by many as one of the best selling towers ever seen on the Gold Coast.

Urban has wrapped up the movements on the Gold Coast across June.

Seven boss Ryan Stokes lodges plans for Palm Beach apartment development Akuna

The Seven Group media heir Ryan Stokes is set to develop an apartment block on his recently acquired double block on Gold Coast’s Palm Beach.

<a data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" href="/news/qld/seven-boss-ryan-stokes-lodges-plans-for-palm-beach-apartment-development-akuna"><img alt="" height="737" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/akuna_4.jpg" width="1200" /></a>

Stokes, managing director and&nbsp;chief executive of Seven Group Holdings which his father Kerry Stokes founded in 1991, has lodged plans for Akuna, a boutique block of just 13 apartments designed by the Brisbane-based Modulus Architecture at 39-41 Jefferson Lane, Palm Beach.

For more information, <a href="/news/qld/seven-boss-ryan-stokes-lodges-plans-for-palm-beach-apartment-development-akuna">click here</a>.

Cru Collective submit plans for Kirra Beach apartment development

Having recently completed its Palm Beach apartment development Siarn,&nbsp;Gold Coast developer&nbsp;Cru Collective&nbsp;has lodged a development application for an exclusive&nbsp;collection of full floor apartments on&nbsp;the sought-after Kirra beachfront.

<a data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" href="/news/qld/cru-collective-submit-plans-for-luxury-kirra-beach-apartment-development"><img alt="" height="800" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/cru_2_0.jpg" width="1200" /></a>

The site at 2 Musgrave Street will become a boutique tower of just 11 beachfront apartments, each with three bedrooms and internal living space of over 280 sqm.

Each apartment will have two living areas, a butler’s pantry, wine cellar and a&nbsp;dry bar. Secure lift access will lead to each residence’s private foyer.

For more information, <a href="/news/qld/cru-collective-submit-plans-for-luxury-kirra-beach-apartment-development">click here</a>.

S&amp;S Projects lodge plans for mixed-use Coolangatta development Esprit

Fresh off the success of their nearby Flow and Awaken Residences, the Gold Coast&nbsp;developer S&amp;S Projects has lodged plans for its latest coastal development.

<a href="/news/qld/first-look-s-s-projects-lodge-plans-for-mixed-use-coolangatta-development-esprit"><img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="726" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/esprit_3.jpg" width="1200" /></a>

They're set to develop a mixed-use precinct at&nbsp;217-227 Boundary Street Coolangatta, a few streets back from Rainbow Bay.

Above ground level retail will be two interconnected buildings designed by&nbsp;Cottee Parker Architects&nbsp;totalling&nbsp;96 apartments.

The main residential tower will have 72-two bedroom apartments and 19-three bedroom apartments across 12 levels.

For more information, <a href="/news/qld/first-look-s-s-projects-lodge-plans-for-mixed-use-coolangatta-development-esprit">click here</a>.

Sammut nearly sell-out Surfers Paradise apartment tower just three weeks after lodging DA

Just three weeks after submitting their development application, the Sydney-based developer Sammut Group have secured $110 million in conditional sales for Coast, their Surfers Paradise apartment tower.

<a href="/news/qld/sammut-nearly-sell-out-surfers-paradise-apartment-tower-just-three-weeks-after-lodging-da"><img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="675" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/coast_ocean_bar_0.jpg" width="1200" /></a>

They've secured sales of over 43 of the 49 total apartments, with sales so far ranging between $3.5 million and $9 million, at an average of $4.5 million.

For more information, <a href="/news/qld/sammut-nearly-sell-out-surfers-paradise-apartment-tower-just-three-weeks-after-lodging-da">click here.</a>

De-Luxe apartments set to tower over Old Burleigh Theatre site

In the 1930s the Old Burleigh Theatre&nbsp;was a popular cinema and&nbsp;dance hall.

<a href="/news/qld/de-luxe-apartments-set-to-tower-over-old-burleigh-theatre-site"><img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="726" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/de_luxe_1.jpg" width="1200" /></a>

The Goodwin Terrace building is now set to start its new life as a mixed-use development, with the Sydney-based developers Weiya Holdings&nbsp;receiving&nbsp;sign off from the Gold Coast Council to create a new local hotspot.

The development&nbsp;will be&nbsp;the first ever adaptive re-use of a building with heritage elements on the Gold Coast.

There will be 30 apartments designed by the Brisbane-based architecture firm Conrad Gargett, who specialise in heritage restoration.

For more information, <a href="/news/qld/de-luxe-apartments-set-to-tower-over-old-burleigh-theatre-site">click here</a>.

Urban has wrapped up the movements on the Gold Coast across June

Development update: What happened on the Gold Coast in June?

Offering a collection 27 one, two and three-bedroom townhomes, Ascent is the newest development to hit the Sunshine Coast.

Situated at 19 Ellis Way, each residence offers an open plan layout with natural light and an undeniable feeling of space.

The home harmonises perfectly with the relaxed lifestyle of the Sunshine Coast, with residents enjoying parklands, schools, shops and restaurants just minutes away.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27638 project_image_fid=83429]

&ldquo;A beacon for informed investors and the young professional alike, all eager to settle and enjoy living in this ultimate location&rdquo;, the developers said.

Architecturally designed, the project features a sophisticated design, timber features and thermal chimney skylights.

Ascent incorporates a stylish blend of sophistication and modern design offering buyers the best of both worlds with low-maintenance townhouse living and low body corporate fees.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27638 project_image_fid=83430]

Some of the home&rsquo;s features include louvred windows, stone benches, generous balconies and a single lock-up garage.

The development is conveniently located less than ten minutes to Caloundra Business District.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=27638]

The home harmonises perfectly with the relaxed lifestyle of the Sunshine Coast, with residents enjoying parklands, schools, shops and restaurants just minutes away

max.kwok_55688

A look at Ascent, the latest townhouse development in Sunshine Coast’s Meridan Plains 

CFMG Capital has expanded its Queensland portfolio with the acquisition of a new development site at Yandina on the Sunshine Coast.

The acquisition adds to its project pipeline of projects worth more than $450 million.

The project pipeline is servicing the significant demand for vacant residential land located within inner-ring suburbs of major capital cities.

Set in the Northern growth corridor The Outlook at Yandina will be developed as a boutique residential community just 20 minutes from Coolum.
 
There will be 21 residential homesites with views through the leafy hillside towards the ocean. Lots will be priced from $330,000
 
The project is fully approved with construction due to commence in June.
 
The site, acquired off-market direct with the vendor, has a total on-completion value of $7.3 million.
 
CFMG Capital has also secured project sites at Burpengary and Bellmere elsewhere in the Northern growth corridor.
 
These strategic acquisitions together with other recently acquired project sites take the total project pipeline to more than 1,500 allotments.

Its Queensland sites are: Elevate, Ormeau Hills;
Middleton Park, Logan Reserve;
Lomandra Park, Bridgeman Downs;
Mayfair Lane, Rochedale;
Solander, Park Ridge;
Birchwood Estate, Park Ridge; and
The Outlook, Yandina.
 
The company operates two core divisions; a residential communities development business with a pipeline of more than 1,500 lots and a residential funds management business that has raised more than $100 million in third-party equity.
 
The acquisitions are funded through new capital raisings via the CFMG Land & Opportunity Fund
 
Over the last 12 months to fund has returned approximately $13 million to investors at the forecast rate of return per annum with many investors rolling their capital back into the fund. 

Since January 2021, new funds raised by the CFMG Land & Opportunity Fund have offered a targeted return ranging from 8.95% to 10.95%
 
CFMG Capital General Manager Andrew Thomson said the new sites provided a good opportunity to add new lots after with CFMG Capital having transacted $135 million in vacant land allotments in the last financial year.
 
Since the start of HomeBuilder in June last year, it secured more than 450 sales across its projects.
 
“We are now reaching the stage we need to replenish our pipeline, particularly in Queensland, to be ready for the next stage of growth.
 
“Migration to Queensland is approaching the best levels in years, which means strong demand for new house and land in high growth corridors.”
 
CFMG Capital has two residential subdivisions in Victoria, The Millstone, Melton South and Acacia Village, Wollert.

It also has a presence at Newcastle in New South Wales.
 

CFMG Capital has a pipeline of projects worth more than $450 million

CFMG offer $330,000 homesites at The Outlook at Yandina near Coolum

The auction of a Skytower, Brisbane City trophy apartment was postponed due to the extension of the Queensland lockdown.

The auction had been scheduled for Saturday but will now be on July 17 through Tom Kralikas at North South Real Estate Brisbane.

The postponement came as Saturday was included in the lockdown.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6199 project_image_fid=75662]

CoreLogic reported a 27 percent success rate from the 11 Brisbane apartment auction results which were advised.

Nationally there were 530 results across all the capital cities with a 67 percent success rate and a $737,000 median price.

<a href="/developments/brisbane-qld?source_news_article_id=104925&amp;ref=news_body_link"><img alt="" height="800" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/template_photoshop_brisbane_5.jpg" width="1200" /></a>

Apartment 6201 Sky Tower was the amalgamation of two units creating a total area of 210 sq m.

There are three bedrooms with built-in wardrobes and ensuites.

There are four car spaces with the 6201/222 Margaret Street, Brisbane City offering.

The building comes with three gyms and three pools.

The auction of apartment 6201 has been postponed to July 17

jchancellor

Skytower, Brisbane City trophy apartment auction postponed due to weekend lockdown

The South East Queensland developer Spyre Group has lodged plans for their most boutique project yet on the Gold Coast.

Having spent around $11 million on 10 Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads, earlier this year, the Andrew Malouf-led developer has filed for an exclusive collection of just three apartments on the near beachfront site.

Designed by bureau^proberts with landscaping from Cusp, 10 Goodwin is crowned by a two level penthouse with its own private rooftop pool.

&ldquo;10 Goodwin Terrace brings something new to the long-established coastal neighbourhood of Burleigh Heads,&rdquo; the design statement from bureau^proberts suggests.

<img alt="" height="814" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/spyre_4.jpg" width="1200" />

&ldquo;It resolves a form and envelope that achieves transparency where maximum exposure is required and shelter where refuge is called for. Demonstrating a deep understanding of the qualities of this site, the architecture creates an expression that honours a coastal landscape and reinforces a sense of belonging to its place.&rdquo;

There was a pre-lodgement meeting with the Gold Coast City Council where a six level development was discussed, however despite the height of adjoining towers, the council considered the building height to represent a departure from the medium density residential zone code and the strategic framework.

<img alt="" height="800" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/spyre_5.jpg" width="1200" />

Spyre&nbsp;went away and came back with just the three apartments, each with a density of one bedroom per 60 sqm.

Goodwin Terrace has been popular for boutique apartment developments. The local developer&nbsp;FORME, led by managing director David Calvisi, recently sold out Luna, at 50 Goodwin Terrace. Those apartments had a starting price of $4.1&nbsp;million.

FORME also sold out&nbsp;Norfolk, designed by Koichi Takada Architects, at 46 Goodwin.

<a href="/developments/gold-coast-qld?source_news_article_id=104762&amp;ref=news_body_link"><img alt="" height="797" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/gc_newest_tile_jpeg_20.jpg" width="1200" /></a>

Spyre have had success locally too, with their sold-out Natura development located around the corner on The Esplanade. More recently Spyre&nbsp;sold out their Coolangatta apartment development Cala Dei in just four weeks.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;collection of 31 two and three-bedroom residences sold for an average of $1.9 million, with 11 sales recording a purchase price over $2.5 million.

Design Statement

10 Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads is an expression of the natural landscape - suspended between an ancient, rugged headland and endless, glassy ocean. Drawing parallels to the topography of Burleigh Headland, the building form steps in unison with the topography. The architectural envelope echoes the ephemeral quality of the ocean with a rippling surface of fluted glass enclosing eastern and western sides. Three whole-floor apartments frame the panorama of rolling sands and Coral Sea that stretches north from this place of unrivalled aspect and outlook.&nbsp;

While the architecture explores an expression that abstracts and champions an exhilarating coastal location, the development is committed to making an enduring contribution to the street and neighbourhood of Burleigh Heads. This will be achieved through carefully considered street and boundary interfaces and a commitment to an architectural and landscape expression that honours this place of natural beauty. For residents of the development, the architecture will create a sanctuary that amplifies the divine qualities of this location &ndash; drawing inside, the sound of waves, salt-laden breezes and tempered, sub-tropical sunlight.&nbsp;

The interior realm explores an experience that presents in trilogy. It is distinguished by open, invited, and private realms which draw distinctive parallels to the open expanse of the ocean, the intermediary shoreline, and the sanctuary found in the refuge of the landscape. This linear sequence, connecting living spaces overlooking the shoreline to private retreats nestled into the foothills of Burleigh Heads, captures the full spectrum of the building&rsquo;s distinctive, spatial experience.&nbsp;

<img alt="" height="729" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/spyre_2.jpg" width="1200" />

On the rooftop, the ambition to create a habitable, formed landscape is legible in the expression of cascading pools and terraces. Natural landscape is interwoven to create shade and ground the experience in this place of elevation. Smaller gardens take seed in the crevices of the fa&ccedil;ade where the fluted shell of the east and west fa&ccedil;ade merge to become solid panels encasing the southern edge.

Landscape is further sown into sculptural gardens framing the edges to balconies. Mature, native landscape is introduced at street level to create inviting spaces for the public realm.&nbsp;

<img alt="" height="628" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/spyre_rooftop.jpg" width="1200" />

10 Goodwin Terrace brings something new to the long-established coastal neighbourhood of Burleigh Heads. It resolves a form and envelope that achieves transparency where maximum exposure is required and shelter where refuge is called for. Demonstrating a deep understanding of the qualities of this site, the architecture creates an expression that honours a coastal landscape and reinforces a sense of belonging to its place

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=104773]

Designed by bureau^proberts with landscaping from Cusp, 10 Goodwin is crowned by a two level penthouse with its own private rooftop pool

First look: Spyre Group lodge exclusive Burleigh Heads apartment development

The Brisbane-based Keylin has sold-out both of its Hope Island townhouse developments.

Their biggest project was the Park Cove master-planned community which comprised 80 villas, 31 parkside terraces and 16 waterfront homes.

Keylin, led by director Louis Cheung, launched the first of the first stage development at 27-31 Sickle Avenue in 2016.

Buyers swooped on the fifth and final stage, with Cheung saying that it represented&nbsp;the last chance to purchase undeveloped land within the luxury project.

&ldquo;The development of Park Cove has allowed buyers to construct their own property in a prized, gated community with exceptional amenities and access to surrounding entertainment and it is located in an area that&rsquo;s in exceptionally high demand,&rdquo; Cheung said.

<img alt="" height="668" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/park_cove-aerial.jpg" width="1200" />

Tony Ashwin, Director of Ashwin Property who&nbsp;marketed&nbsp;the project, said the high demand surrounding Park Cove&rsquo;s final instalment has been a success.

&ldquo;With limited opportunity remaining for buyers on the Gold Coast to secure land in the area, Park Cove has exceeded our expectations for how well each stage was received by buyers,&rdquo; said Mr Ashwin.

Part of the master-planned community, which neighbours over three hectares of parkland,&nbsp;is an&nbsp;outdoor leisure and entertainment area with picnic, pool and barbecue facilities.

Keylin also recently secured the sell out of the $30 million developer Palladium, a&nbsp;collection of 39 villas.

The exclusively waterfront homes, which saw a surging demand from downsizers and&nbsp;those seeking low maintenance, waterfront lifestyles.

<img alt="" height="828" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/palladium_marina_1.jpg" width="1200" />

The architecturally-designed three and four bedrooms villas each have&nbsp;two bathrooms and a powder room, and large windows and stacking doors&nbsp;which take full advantage of waterfront and golf course views. 
 
&ldquo;We saw incredible response to the Palladium villas from the moment they hit the market. Our homes ticked all the right boxes for owner-occupiers seeking that luxury standard, waterfront lifestyle that connects them to a sense of community,&rdquo; Cheung said. 
 
All 39 villas will have access to a waterfront boardwalk which connects to nearby cafes, restaurants and shops at the Hope Island Marina Shopping Centre. Construction has begun on Palladium&#39;s first stage.

Their biggest project was the Park Cove master-planned community which comprised 80 villas, 31 parkside terraces and 16 waterfront homes

Keylin sell-out two Hope Island townhouse developments The Cove and Palladium

Having recently completed its Palm Beach apartment development Siarn,&nbsp;Gold Coast developer Cru Collective,&nbsp;has lodged a development application for an exclusive&nbsp;collection of full floor apartments on&nbsp;the sought-after Kirra beachfront.

The site at 2 Musgrave Street will become a boutique tower of just 11 beachfront apartments, each with three bedrooms and internal living space of over 280 sqm.

Each apartment will have two living areas, a butler&rsquo;s pantry, wine cellar and a&nbsp;dry bar. Secure lift access will lead to each residence&rsquo;s private foyer.

There will be wrap around windows which take advantage of the views across the Gold Coast sights of Rainbow Bay to Stradbroke Island and the hinterland.

Cru Collective Managing Director Chris Bolger said Cru have committed to produce premium quality homes that substitute the conventional high density apartment trope for a boutique approach to unit living.

&ldquo;We have worked extremely hard to ensure our product meets the expectation of the sophisticated buyer, reducing the volume of apartments and raising ceiling heights to deliver spacious living typically reserved for standalone houses,&quot; Bolger said.

<img alt="" height="800" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/cru_2.jpg" width="1200" />

Cru acquired the site in April, and Bolger said he was excited about the acquisition given the heat&nbsp;of the market in the southern end of the Gold Coast.

&ldquo;It&rsquo;s one of the most sought-after locations for supremely luxury, private residences on the coast right now and we have no doubt our newest product will only amplify Kirra&rsquo;s appeal,&quot; Bolger added.

&ldquo;Since we acquired the site in April we have received an astounding amount of interest in the product which spurred us to lodge the DA for what will be a striking addition to the Kirra beachfront.&rdquo;

The building will dedicate an entire floor to host a premium range of lifestyle amenities including an oceanfront pool, fully equipped fitness centre, infrared sauna and cold plunge pool.

Construction is set to commence in early 2022, with a mid-2023 completion expected.

<a href="/developments/gold-coast-qld?source_news_article_id=103451&amp;ref=news_body_link"><img alt="" height="797" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/gc_newest_tile_jpeg_19.jpg" width="1200" /></a>

About the developer

Cru Collective is an award-winning developer with more than a decade of experience in residential and commercial property across southeast Queensland and is currently delivering a development pipeline totalling $150 million in projects.

The recently unveiled $40 million development SIARN will soon welcome its residents, having last year sold out the entirety of its stock in a matter of months.

Cru acquired the site in April, and Bolger said he was excited about the acquisition given the heat of the market in the southern end of the Gold Coast

Cru Collective submit plans for luxury Kirra Beach apartment development

The Seven Group media heir Ryan Stokes is set to develop an apartment block on his recently acquired double block on Gold Coast’s Palm Beach.

Stokes, managing director and&nbsp;chief executive of Seven Group Holdings which his father Kerry Stokes founded in 1991, recently doubled the size of his Jefferson Lane holding, paying $4,625,000 for a holiday home on 406 sqm. That gave him a total of 814 sqm. Stokes spent $3,375,000 on a four bedroom home on 408 sqm next door in 2016.

And now Stokes has lodged plans for&nbsp;Akuna, a boutique block of just 13 apartments designed by the Brisbane-based Modulus Architecture at 39-41 Jefferson Lane, Palm Beach.

Akuna, which derives from the Aboriginal word meaning “flowing&nbsp;water," will span&nbsp;nine levels and&nbsp;comprise nine three bedroom apartments and four four bedroom apartments.

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One of the three beds will sit on the ground floor, next to the ground level resident amenity of a gym, lap pool, spa and communal rec space.

The four levels above will have two apartments per floor until level six. From there there will be four single level apartments, the four bedders, which span over 265 sqm.

Crowning the apartment development is another resident amenity level, featuring a mother pool, sun deck, built-in barbecue space and external dining space.

There will be 34 parking spaces across the two basement level garaging, and bicycle parking for 17.

The development is oriented toward the vistas of Surfers Paradise, Coolangatta and the Gold Coast Hinterland.&nbsp;

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“Apartments have been designed with sub-tropical Queensland living in mind, providing expansive living zones opening out to external balconies whilst offering zones for relaxation and privacy,” the design statement submitted to the Gold Coast City Council by Modulus Architecture notes.

“Externally,&nbsp;Akuna&nbsp;is articulated with a series of balconies and façade breaks to develop an architectural language that speaks to the origin of the development’s name;&nbsp;Akuna&nbsp;meaning flowing water.&nbsp;

“Linear elements roll and curl along the facade, in the same way as a wave curls before breaking on the shoreline. A refined palette of materials references Queensland coastal vernacular, composed of linear timber boards, flowing concrete forms and ornate fenestration.&nbsp;

“Contextually, the development is conveniently located within proximity to a range of retail, restaurant and wellness facilities, providing residents with an increased level of amenity.”

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Architectural Design Statement

Architectural Design&nbsp;

Taking inspiration from the curls of a breaking wave,&nbsp;Akuna’s sculptural form evokes a sense of fluidity and calm. Concrete upstands bend and curve their way around each articulated floor plate and terminate much like a wave crashing back into the ocean. Each floor level is articulated with a series of breaks and extensions that mirror the effect of natural resonance. Pushing in and out to provide balconies and quiet moments to view the magnificent coastline.&nbsp;

Built Form&nbsp;

The sculptural form appears to float over the street level but seamlessly integrate with the natural surroundings along the beach front.&nbsp;Akuna&nbsp;is study in horizontality, broken by finite vertical elements. Slab extensions and breaks are positioned so as to provide glimpses to the water but provide privacy to neighbouring sites. Setbacks are considered with the view to reduce overlooking. Rear setbacks to balconies are calculated from the Sea Wall A-Line, with the street front setbacks exceeding four metres to the bulk form of the building. Elegant curves wrap and fold around the façade whilst providing a level of protection to the apartments from the afternoon sun. Bedrooms and living spaces are positioned to capture vistas north to Surfer’s Paradise and south to Coolangatta. Noting the 29m height limit,&nbsp;Akuna&nbsp;looks to maximise its coastal outlook by providing a series of elevated roof zones which follow the natural contour of the ground. All 9 levels are contained within the stated 29m height limit.

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Urban Design Intent&nbsp;

Akuna&nbsp;looks to provide a complementary and respectful design outcome to the developing and vivacious Palm Beach locale. A secure lobby entry is provided on grade from the street level, providing a central point for the collection of mail and meeting of guests. Flanked by lush sub-tropical gardens, a private access stair is provided for the ground level unit. Communal recreation facilities are provided on the ground level, allowing for a series of internal and external recreation activities to take place. Direct connection to the beachfront boundary on grade provides resident’s and their guests the opportunity to access the beach or enjoy the coastal vista from the privacy of their outdoor terrace. A pool and sculptural planting creates an increased level of activation to the street and provides the opportunity for passive surveillance to the public footpath and street face to the north of the site. Car &amp; bicycle parking is contained within the basement zone, providing four visitor carparks accessible from the street, and an additional 30 residential carparks secured behind an access controlled gate. Bicycles are located within the basement, with a collection of visitor bicycles located on grade adjacent the lobby.&nbsp;

Materiality&nbsp;

A refined palette of carefully selected materials envelope the elegantly winged floorplates; profiled concrete provides a reference to the striations of shells, whilst the battened façade screens allude to the natural tones and colours of found items along the shoreline. Clear glazing is interwoven with timber boards to add contrast and texture to the adjacent smooth concrete ‘curls’

Akuna, which derives from the Aboriginal word meaning “flowing water," will span nine levels and have 13 apartments


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