Private equity real estate firm Conquest has entered into a $220 million partnership with Woolworths’ development arm, Fabcot, to deliver its long-awaited Waterloo project on Bourke Street.

The Bourke Street development was first flagged by Fabcot back in 2021 as part of its push into Sydney’s residential market. However, progress has since stalled, with no activity on site amid a number of design revisions in consultation with the City of Sydney.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/conquest">Conquest</a>, which is actively planning more than $6 billion worth of new developments, predominantly mixed-use precincts, is now set to move the project forward.

The current plans include between 110 and 120 apartments across two buildings designed by Bates Smart at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/923-935-bourke-street-waterloo-nsw-2017">923 Bourke Street</a>. The scheme will incorporate a portion of apartments reserved for key workers, alongside premium commercial space at ground level, including a full-line Woolworths supermarket.

Construction is expected to commence in the second half of 2026.

Michael&nbsp;Akaawi, CEO of Conquest, said the partnership reflects the firm’s commitment to "convenience-led" urban renewal."

"We are preparing to commence construction in the second half of this year," Akaawi says.

"Along with Woolworths, we look forward to delivering the first major supermarket to the growing Waterloo community, integrated with premium new apartments and specialty retail shops. Our focus is on creating a seamless lifestyle hub where essential services are at the doorstep, saving residents time and enhancing their quality of life."&nbsp;

<img alt="Conquest" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d8beee83-ef9b-446b-a3b3-1e2fe596512b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-01%20at%2011.08.46%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=raYhGepiLUJfx4InLPRRJduA3ftDJ_kS" />

The news comes just a week after Conquest went to the NSW Government to upsize its plans for Castlecrag's Quadrangle Shopping Centre.

Conquest purchased the site for just shy of $70 million last year, with existing plans in place for a mixed-use residential and retail precinct comprising 38 luxury apartments.

Those plans have now been significantly expanded, with the developer lodging a State Significant Development Application with the NSW Government’s Housing Delivery Authority for 150 apartments across two 11-storey buildings. The apartments will sit above a four-storey podium, incorporating specialty retail tenancies and five levels of basement car parking, on the 5,166 sqm site at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/100-edinburgh-road-castlecrag-nsw-2068">100 Edinburgh Road</a>.

Conquest has been increasingly active in the development space in recent years. The group acquired the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/eastlakes-nsw-2018">Eastlakes</a>&nbsp;Shopping Centre redevelopment, where it plans to deliver more than 1,000 apartments above a new retail precinct, and has also lodged a $900 million State Significant Development Application for a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/conquest-unveils-900m-stanmore-village-vision-for-landmark-inner-west-site">mixed-use precinct in Stanmore</a>.

Joel Robinson

Conquest partners with Woolworths to deliver mixed-use Waterloo project

A shift away from Sydney’s industrial past has left parts of the inner south defined by contrast, brick warehouses repurposed into dining precincts, former factory streets softened by landscaping and pedestrian activity.

Rosebery is one of those suburbs. Over the past decade, it has undergone significant gentrification, anchored by The Cannery, which has helped reposition the area as one of the inner city’s most sought-after lifestyle pockets.

What hasn’t kept pace with that transformation is new residential supply, which has remained relatively limited. Builder-developer Deicorp identified that gap early, securing a site in 2019 and delivering what is now one of the suburb’s most architecturally distinctive developments.

To realise the vision, Deicorp engaged Candalepas Associates to design The Rothschild, a project that is immediately recognisable from the street.

Completed in 2025, The Rothschild comprises two buildings across Rothschild and Mentmore Avenues, delivering 176 apartments. The development replaces a former industrial site, retaining a material and structural dialogue with its past while introducing a more resolved residential framework. The scale is deliberate but not monolithic, broken into forms that engage both street frontages, with retail at ground level and two levels of basement parking below.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106843 project_image_fid=221665]

From the street, the architectural intent is clear. Off-form concrete columns run through the façade, establishing a repeated structural rhythm that gives the building its visual weight. These are paired with deep-set arches and sections of exposed brickwork, creating a layered elevation that reads less like a typical apartment block and more like a reinterpretation of industrial architecture.

The material palette is intentionally restrained, with concrete left exposed and brick used to define mass rather than decoration. The result is a building that stands out through proportion and repetition, rather than height or glazing.

This approach continues internally. A central landscaped courtyard sits between the two buildings, anchored by an olive grove that acts as both a visual and spatial focal point. Rather than functioning as residual space, the courtyard is designed as a shared ground plane, where circulation paths, seating areas and planting come together to create a usable communal environment. Its positioning allows natural light to penetrate deep into the site while maintaining separation between residences.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106843 project_image_fid=221666]

Within the apartments, the planning follows a clear and functional logic. Entry points lead directly into open-plan living areas, with kitchens positioned as central elements alongside dining and lounge spaces. These zones extend to balconies or external openings, maintaining a visual connection to either the courtyard or the street.

Kitchens prioritise practicality, with generous bench space, ample storage and European appliances configured for everyday use. Bedrooms are typically set back from the main living areas, creating quieter zones within each residence, with separation achieved through layout rather than material change. Bathrooms are compact but efficient, incorporating mirrored cabinetry and integrated storage to maximise space. Across all residences, the emphasis is on clarity of movement and functional planning.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106843 project_image_fid=221669]

At ground level, retail and hospitality uses extend the building’s presence beyond its residential function. A café or restaurant space, alongside communal amenities such as a music room and rooftop areas, positions the development as part of a broader urban network rather than a standalone project. These shared spaces reinforce a lifestyle where the building operates as an extension of the surrounding neighbourhood.

Rosebery’s proximity to Green Square, The Cannery and nearby parklands supports this model of living, where much of daily life is within walking distance. The Rothschild sits comfortably within that network, contributing to the streetscape through its distinctive architecture, while internally organising space around light, structure and communal use.

The Rothschild is now complete and ready to move in, with limited residences remaining.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=106843]

The Rothschild reinterprets Rosebery’s industrial DNA into residential form

KTQ has unveiled&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/casilia-16-marine-parade-coolangatta-qld-4225">Casilia</a>, the final residential release within the Kirra Point precinct which really kicked off the boom in the area back in 2019.

The final stage comprises&nbsp;87 residences and marks the culmination of a long-term, family-led vision for Kirra Point, as the precinct moves toward completion in tandem with the development.

Around $100 million in sales have been achieved already, close to 35 per cent of the residences secured ahead of launch. There have been a significant number of buyers returning from the first stage of the development, Miles Residences, securing another property within Kirra Point.

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Selling agent Tim Keenan from Keenan Byrne said the response reflects both the scarcity of the offering and Kirra’s growing reputation as a premium coastal market.

“This is effectively Kirra’s final act, the last release within what has become one of the Southern Gold Coast’s most tightly held beachfront precincts,” Keenan said.

“We’ve seen exceptionally strong pre-sale interest, from VIP waitlists through to off-market enquiry, which speaks to both the quality of the product and the confidence buyers have in the precinct. What’s particularly compelling is the number of buyers returning from Miles, either upgrading or investing again, which is a strong signal of how the precinct has been received."

Keenan adds that at the same time, north-facing beachfront remains exceptionally rare in Australia, limited to places like Noosa, Byron and Kirra, which is underpinning long-term value.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152295 project_image_fid=368415]

Positioned along one of Australia’s few true north-facing beaches, Casilia offers a mix of two and three-bedroom residences with pricing ranging from $1.87 million to $7.15 million and two exclusive penthouses. Residences are oriented to capture varying outlooks, from uninterrupted Pacific Ocean views across Kirra Beach to hinterland vistas, with upper levels and shared amenity taking in sweeping perspectives along the Gold Coast coastline.

At rooftop level, a north-facing pool deck captures expansive, uninterrupted views over Kirra Beach and north towards Surface Paradise. The space incorporates a heated resort-style pool, mineral spa, sun lounges and a covered BBQ cantina.

Buyer profiles are broad, typically aged between 40 and 70, with a strong skew toward second-home ownership, drawn by a combination of lifestyle, relative value, proximity to Gold Coast Airport and lower congestion compared to more established markets such as Byron Bay and Noosa.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152295 project_image_fid=368414]

The project is being delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ktq-group">KTQ Group</a>, a family-owned Australian property group with a diverse portfolio spanning residential, hospitality and commercial developments. The group has delivered a number of notable projects across sectors, including the award-winning Elements of Byron resort, demonstrating its depth of experience across both hospitality and residential development.

Known for its long-term approach to place-making, KTQ Group retains a vested interest in its projects, often holding assets within its portfolio, which has also helped build trust among buyers and reinforced confidence in both the vision and delivery certainty of the precinct.

“Casilia represents the final opportunity to secure a residence within Kirra Point and brings to market the last release within our long-term vision for the precinct," KTQ Group's Jeremy Holmes said.

"Kirra Point has been more than a decade in the making, and that timeframe reflects the care behind each decision, it takes listening, balance and vision to arrive at something that feels right for the location.

“Our approach has always been to deliver Kirra Point as a destination in its own right, a connected coastal neighbourhood integrating residential, hospitality and wellness, rather than a standalone project. It’s a vision that respects place, pace and permanence, and contributes to a sense of community that feels authentic to Kirra.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152295 project_image_fid=368411]

Once complete, the Kirra Point masterplan will incorporate a mix of dining establishments, bars and cafés, alongside the Kirra Point Health Club and a future 91-room independent resort hotel, creating a walkable, integrated lifestyle precinct.

Architecutue and interiors at Casilia have been designed by the experienced design houses of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/little-boat-projects">Little Boat Projects</a> and O’Neil Architecture &amp; Interior Design, The design moves beyond the conventional coastal apartments, instead taking cues &nbsp;from the surrounding landscape - layering natural materials, soft curves and warm textures to create spaces that respond to light, airflow and the rhythms of coastal living.

Residences are designed with an array of floorplates, generous proportions and intuitive flow, while at ground level Casilia connects into the broader precinct, where future laneways, retail and hospitality offerings will contribute to a neighbourhood defined as much by how people live day-to-day as its beachfront position.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152295]

The final residential release within the Kirra Point masterplan is set to launch, as strong pre-sales signal sustained demand for the Southern Gold Coast

A decade in the making: KTQ launches Casilia at Kirra Point

South East Queensland developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gardner-vaughan-group">Gardner Vaughan Group</a>’s entry into the Gold Coast apartment market has progressed from pipeline to market, with its Chevron Island project Bronze on Chevron now formally available to purchase ahead of a planned 2029 completion.

The 119-apartment development on Mawarra Street marks the Brisbane-headquartered builder-developer’s first residential play in the Gold Coast, following its expansion south from Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bronze-on-chevron-8-mawarra-street-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Bronze on Chevron</a> comprises a mix of two-, three- and four-bedroom residences, with pricing starting from just over $1.5 million. The project is being delivered under Gardner Vaughan’s fully integrated model, with the group acting as both developer and builder, a structure it has consistently applied across its South East Queensland portfolio.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107520 project_image_fid=367182]

Architecture has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cottee-parker-architects">Cottee Parker</a>, with landscape architecture by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/jeremy-ferrier-landscape-design">Jeremy Ferrier</a>. The building presents as a single-tower scheme, with a focus on maximising outlook across both the Surfers Paradise skyline and the Nerang River.

Apartments have been planned with open-plan living zones extending to generous balconies, a response to the site’s dual-aspect positioning between river and ocean. Interiors follow a restrained coastal palette, with two colour schemes offered, and an emphasis on natural light and cross-ventilation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107520 project_image_fid=367181]

Resident amenity is concentrated across more than 1,250 sqm and includes a resort-style pool, gym, yoga lawn and rooftop entertaining areas. A function space with catering facilities forms part of the upper-level offering, alongside north- and south-facing outdoor areas.

Ground level will incorporate two retail tenancies, intended to extend the existing village character of the surrounding streets.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107520 project_image_fid=367200]

The project sits within walking distance of Thomas Drive’s established dining strip, while maintaining proximity to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Surfers Paradise</a> beach and broader Gold Coast amenity. The location, positioned on Chevron Island between the river and coastline, has increasingly attracted mid- to high-density development in recent years as the precinct evolves beyond its low-rise origins.

Gardner Vaughan’s move into the Gold Coast was first signalled in 2025, with the group identifying the region as a natural extension of its operations. Chief Executive Officer Simon Betteridge described the expansion as both “strategic and natural”, citing demand for well-designed apartments in lifestyle-driven markets.

Construction is expected to complete in early 2029.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=107520]

Gardner Vaughan brings Bronze on Chevron to market as Gold Coast debut

One of the penthouses at Lily Lane, the latest stage of Carrington Place by Ellipse Property, has set a new local apartment price record.

The four-bedroom residence, purchased by a local downsizer, sold for $5.75 million—around 75 per cent higher than the previous record of $3.3 million.

Over 40 per cent of the first release of apartments at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/lily-lane-at-carrington-place-castle-hill-32-carrington-road-castle-hill-nsw-2154">Lily Lane</a> have already been snapped up just six weeks since it launched to the market.

&nbsp;

Located at 32 Carrington Road, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/castle-hill-nsw-2154">Castle Hill</a> and designed by award-winning architects <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ptw">PTW</a>, Lily Lane is directly opposite the Hills Showground Metro station. It offers a total 213 units over two 12-storey towers - a mix of 67 one-bedroom, 100 two-bedroom and 46 three-bedroom apartments - with a ground-floor retail offering.

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Blake Schulze, National Director – Residential at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/colliers">Colliers</a>, says around 44 per cent of buyers are&nbsp;owner occupiers, with 35 per cent being investors and 21 per cent first homebuyers.

“Developments of this calibre are very rare in the Hills District, and Lily Lane’s sales success demonstrates the depth of demand for over-sized apartments that genuinely compete with freestanding homes," Schulze says.

"We are seeing particular demand from downsizers who want to remain in the area but transition into spacious, high-quality apartment living."

On the penthouse sale, it says it shows buyers&nbsp;are prepared to pay a premium for scale, quality, and direct access to the Metro.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151821 project_image_fid=368351]

One-bedroom apartments are sized from 50-72 sqm with prices starting at $745,000, while two-bedrooms are priced from $990,000 with sizes from 75 to 132 square metres. Three-bedroom floorplans are sized between 97 and 182 sqm,, with prices starting at $1,395,000.&nbsp;

The three remaining penthouses, spanning up to 262 sqm, are priced from $2.9 million.

Over 75 per cent of apartments include dedicated studies, multipurpose rooms or family rooms, with select layouts offering walk-in pantries and laundries. Apartments are appointed with premium Miele appliances including ovens, washing machines, dryers, gas cooktops and dishwashers, while larger residences also incorporate integrated Miele microwaves, Fisher &amp; Paykel integrated refrigerators and five-burner Miele cooktops.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151821 project_image_fid=360285]

Lily Lane will be constructed by award-winning iCIRT-rated builder <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/decode">Decode Group</a>, with construction to commence in mid-2026 and expected to complete early 2029.

Carrington Place comprises more than 800 apartments and is being delivered across multiple stages, with completion expected in 2032. Integrated with neighbouring bushland, the project will feature over 20,000 sq, of outdoor recreational area, including a one-kilometre boardwalk to Fred Caterson Reserve.&nbsp;

The Hills Showground Metro Station is just a two-minute walk away, offering fast connectivity to Sydney’s CBD, North Sydney, Chatswood, Macquarie Park and Norwest Business Park.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151821]

Ellipse sets Castle Hill apartment record with $5.75 million Lily Lane penthouse sale

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?

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There's no doubt about it, the Gold Coast apartment market is at its hottest in years, and there's no slowing down.

The pace of sales at Aniko Property's $140 million No.1 Grant Avenue project at Hope Island has doubled, with its stage two nearly selling out in five months.

Aniko's stage one sell out came in less than 12 months, with both stages racking up a total of over $135 million in sales.

Only a handful of apartments in stage two remain, with the project's final stage, a collection of five three bedroom apartments, not expected to last long on the market.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=21346]

Stage two will feature 105 two, two-plus-study and three-bedroom apartments, as well as a range of bridge-free marina berths available along the Hope Island canal.

Remaining apartments, designed by Archidom Design, will range in size from 122sq m to 155sq m and are priced from $649,000 to $695,000.

Sstage two will feature a ‘post pandemic’ office precinct for residents, as well as a recreation area which will include a health club designed by celebrity fitness guru Michelle Bridges, a children’s play centre, theatre, resident’s lounge and outdoor cooking and dining facilities.

Aniko Group, led by developer George Mastrocostas, accounted for 15 per cent of the overall apartment sales on the Gold Coast throughout the December quarter and more than 80 per cent in Hope Island, according to the planning and consulting firm Urbis.

<a href="/buildings/no-1-grant-avenue-1-grant-avenue-hope-island"><img alt="" height="675" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/grant_2.jpg" width="1200"></a>

“The strength of the buyer demand has been exceptional…and it’s getting stronger,” Mastrocostas said.

“It’s almost unprecedented. I have not a project perform this well in the market for quite some time in south east Queensland. 

“But the remarkable run of sales and sustained demand for the product in No.1 Grant Avenue is also testament to the quality residential offering we have brought to the market.” 

Aniko's sales have more recently been driven by buyers from the lockdown-fatigued southern states looking for a healthier and safer lifestyle. Downsizers, owner-occupiers and investors 

The boom in sales will see Aniko fast-track to the launch of its next project at 6-8 Sickle Avenue, located adjacent to No. 1 Grant Avenue.
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Aniko's stage one sell out came in less than 12 months, with both stages racking up a total of over $135 million in sales

Sales pace doubles as Aniko achieve near sell-out of Hope Island apartment development No.1 Grant Avenue

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The Sunland Group are seeing a range of buyers at their Mermaid Waters apartment development, The Lanes Residences.

Everyone from professional couples, empty nesters, downsizers and investors have bought in to the four waterfront buildings, with both local buyers and some relocating from interstate.

The Lanes Residences are part of the 42 hectare masterplanned community of The Lakes, designed to embrace the natural contour of Lake Unity.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=26732]

Sunland worked with Contreras Earl Architecture in the design of the 10 and 12 storey mid-rise towers, which home a collection of one, two and three bedroom apartments, as well as a number of two and three bedroom penthouses.

Set in landscaping by Form Landscape Architects, the development will also feature a resort-style pool with barbecue and terrace areas, a private lounge, gym and sauna.

The Lanes Residences will sit alongside the future retail village The Lanes, set to have over 7,500 sqm of retail space including a fresh food market hall, a cafe culture, restaurants and a health and wellbeing precinct.

<a href="/buildings/the-lanes-residences-11-lakeview-boulevard-mermaid-waters"><img alt="" height="1067" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/the_lakes_1.jpg" width="1600"></a>

Two bedroom apartments are priced from $560,000, two bedroom with media room from $830,000 and three bedroom apartments from $1,052,500.

The Lanes Residences themselves will have a number of retail and dining offerings on the ground level, as well as a 3,500 sqm green.

Completion of The Lanes Residences is slated for mid-2021.
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The Lanes Residences are part of the 42 hectare masterplanned community of The Lakes, designed to embrace the natural contour of Lake Unity.

The Lanes Residences in Mermaid Waters over 75% sold as completion approaches

A north-facing beach outlook is highly sought-after, which is why <a href="/buildings/miles-kirra-beach-hotel-101-musgrave-street-coolangatta">Miles Residences</a> at Kirra Point is a development you won&#39;t want to miss viewing. With all-day sun and panoramic ocean vistas, this Woods Bagot-designed property offers incredible value for money. Watch our tour to get a feel for the apartments available for sale.&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/9QIv9rw3SK0" title="YouTube video player" width="660"></iframe>

<h2>MILES RESIDENCES AT A GLANCE</h2>

Developer:&nbsp;<a href="/developers/ktq-group" target="_blank">KTQ Group</a>

Architect:&nbsp;<a href="/architects/woods-bagot" target="_blank">Woods Bagot</a>

Homes from:&nbsp;$545,000

Location: Corner Miles Street and Marine Paradise, Kirra QLD 4225

Number of residences:&nbsp;118 residences

<a href="/buildings/miles-kirra-beach-hotel-101-musgrave-street-coolangatta"><img alt="" height="1500" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/miles-residences-kirra-point-corner-miles-street-and-marine-paradise-kirra-5a48f436560e256fda8cdf9e4c482e0a.jpg" width="2000" /></a>

Located in the heart of the Gold Coast and just a stones-throw away from some of the world&rsquo;s best surf breaks, Miles Residences offers an idyllic beach lifestyle, with year-round perfect weather.&nbsp;

A collection of spacious 1, 2 and 3 bedroom architecturally designed apartments are now selling, with kitchens offering high-end appliances, integrated drinks fridges, floating timber shelving and brushed stainless tapware.

The modern living spaces feature beautiful timber flooring and boast a flexible open plan layout, with floor to ceiling windows letting in plenty of natural light.&nbsp;

The bathrooms have been designed with a natural material palette complemented with subtle LED strip lighting, creating a tranquil environment to enjoy a relaxing bath. The walk-in shower is fully tiled with brushed stainless wall-mounted and rainfall showerheads, with a window framing a picturesque view of the ocean.

<a href="/buildings/miles-kirra-beach-hotel-101-musgrave-street-coolangatta"><img alt="" height="1500" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/miles-residences-kirra-point-corner-miles-street-and-marine-paradise-kirra-9318c69e0b05179f30a160cc966f1367.jpg" width="2000" /></a>

Miles Residences also features a full suite of 5-star amenities including a 25 metre north facing pool that overlooks Kirra Point. Developed by award-winning KTQ Group, the apartments have been generously designed with spacious floorplans extending to large balconies. This is luxury living at its finest, with world-class amenities at your doorstep and your own tranquil retreat to return home to each day.

Enquire today via Urban to secure your new home at Miles Residences Kirra Point.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27575]

Olivia Round

Display Tour: Miles Residences by KTQ Group in Kirra, Queensland

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Miles Residences is one of the Gold Coast’s most sought-after residential beachfront projects in the pipeline.

The development of 118 apartments is part of the redevelopment of the Kirra Beach Hotel. The brains behind the operation is the family-ran KTQ Group, led by Peggy Flannery, who are behind the award-winning Elements of Byron Bay.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27575]

They've already seen unprecedented levels of success in the $180 million Development with over 80 per cent of apartments sold in just under 3 months since launching.

There has been a strong uptake from local investors, with around 52 per cent coming from Queensland and 37 of those are lifestyle investors.

<a href="/buildings/miles-kirra-beach-hotel-101-musgrave-street-coolangatta"><img alt="" height="1628" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/kirra_beach_hotel_new_1.jpg" width="1800"></a>

KTQ Group Development Director Jeremy Holmes says the high level of Queensland buyers is mainly due to the local market acting quickly to choose their ideal apartment.

"They have been waiting 10 years for this project and didn’t want to miss out on the uninterrupted view lines.” 

<h2>What investors need to know</h2>

Infrastructure

Despite the market booming from COVID-19, there are hopes the Gold Coast apartment market will continue to grow due to the strong infrastructure pipeline.

Some $2.3 billion has been allocated to upgrade the G-Link Light Rail which currently runs as far south to Broadbeach.

The next stage will see the south terminus become Burleigh Heads, then, as part of the Gold Coast City Transport Strategy 2031, it will head as far as the airport at Coolangatta, less than a few kilometres from Miles Residences.

<a href="/buildings/miles-kirra-beach-hotel-101-musgrave-street-coolangatta"><img alt="" height="800" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/kirra_miles_residences_living_area__0.jpg" width="1200"></a>

The airport is undergoing a $370 million redevelopment, and work has begun on the $673 million upgrade of the nearby Tweed Hospital.

North of Miles Residences toward Broadbeach there's The Star Gold Coast's $2 billion master plan which allows up to seven towers to be built, one of which, a $63 million tower, is reported to be homing a Marriott Brand W Hotel.

Apartments are in high demand

The two most popular destinations for interstate migration are the Sunshine Coast and the Gold Coast, the REIQ note. Some 7000 migrants moved to Queensland in the December quarter.

Surfers Paradise, which recorded more than 2,100 vacant rentals at the peak of the pandemic nine months ago, currently has 0.7% stock availability.

<a href="/buildings/miles-kirra-beach-hotel-101-musgrave-street-coolangatta"><img alt="" height="896" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/miles_kirra_views_0.jpg" width="1200"></a>

Record low vacancies have been reported across the entire Gold Coast, particularly in the south where there's a 0.3 per cent median vacancy.

“What we’re seeing is an unprecedented level of diminishing rental availability that’s placing significant pressure on our State’s housing sector – so much so that it’s unsustainable and why urgent action is required to better support both increased and ongoing property investor activity in the Queensland property market and the contributions they make to the state economy,” REIQ president Antonia Mercorella said.

For the last details and to check availability connect with the team at Keenan &amp; Co via <a href="/buildings/miles-kirra-beach-hotel-101-musgrave-street-coolangatta">Miles Residences</a>.

 
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There has been a strong uptake from local investors, with around 52 per cent coming from Queensland and 37 of those are lifestyle investors.

Miles Residences investors safe and sound with local infrastructure boom and sea-changer trend

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Charter Hall Group has put No.1 Brisbane, comprising three adjoining buildings - 217 George Street, 60 Queen Street and 231 George Street - up for sale.

The properties were acquired in July 2018 with a development approval for an 81 storey residential tower scheme. 

It cost $93.96 million when bought from the Blackstone-backed 151 Property Group.

Approval to build an apartment tower to rival Brisbane’s tallest in the prime location had been secured just a month before it was offered for sale.

Brisbane has a long list of skyscraper project completion including the city welcoming the highly anticipated Brisbane Skytower, which topped out at an impressive 274 metres. 

Outlook for Brisbane’s apartment market is on the positive side, as domestic migration is seen to continue pushing up buyer demand and consequently, property prices since the onset of the pandemic.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=90553]

Rather than pursue the residential tower, Charter Hall instead increased its office occupancy and secured another DA for a landmark, 34 storey, commercial office and retail tower designed by architects Blight Rayner.

The DA comprises a total of 24,490sqm (NLA) of office space and 2,150sqm (NLA) of ground floor and podium level prime retail space over 4 storeys as well as basement parking for 94 cars and 213 bikes.

Located at the corner of George Street and the southern end of Queen Street Mall, No.1 Brisbane is being marketed as well positioned to capitalise on the $13 billion of projects in the immediate precinct including Queens Wharf, Cross River Rail, Brisbane Live and the Brisbane Metro. Office tenants include leading corporate and government agencies including Santos, Suncorp, Brisbane City Council, Shell, Telstra and QSuper.

The building's sale campaign, is being handled by CBRE’s Bruce Baker, Peter Chapple, Tom Phipps and JLL’s Seb Turnbull and Paul Noonan.
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The properties were acquired in July 2018 with a development approval for an 81 storey residential tower scheme 

jchancellor

Charter Hall lists former Brisbane residential tower development site

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Brisbane's Indooroopilly is set for a new boutique apartment tower.

A company associated with local developer and Verrecchio Property Group director Sandro Alberti has lodged plans to the Brisbane City Council for a 35 apartment block on Clarence Road.

Alberti paid $3 million for the 1,215 sqm block at 109-113 Clarence Road which had been marketed by Cushman &amp; Wakefield as a boutique mixed-use development site which allows for up to eight storeys.

<img alt="" height="1625" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/fairmont_1.jpg" width="1600">

There's already plans by Prospect Architecture for an eight level tower, not including the two basement levels of garaging. Crowning the development will be a communal rooftop with swimming pool. 

The plans suggest the development will be called The Fairmont.

There will be three two bedroom apartments and two three bedroom units on each level.

"Each unit is designed to encourage open plan living, with kitchen, dining room and living room opening onto balcony private open space", the proposal reads.

<img alt="" height="897" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/fairmont_entry.jpg" width="1600">

"Visually, the contemporary building design is consistent with the intent and character of the precinct.

"This includes a variety of materials and textures through brick cladding, rendered and painted blockwork, horizontal cladding, and metal battens assisting in the reduction of overall built form.

"The proposed landscaping and open space areas ensure the site is adequately vegetated, providing amenity for residents as well as adjoining neighbours and the relevant streetscape."

<h2>QLD properties selling now:</h2>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=26730]

[smartcode_project:default project_id=26879]

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13276]

 
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A company associated with local developer and Verrecchio Property Group director Sandro Alberti has lodged plans to the Brisbane City Council



Tower reveal: Plans lodged for boutique Indooroopilly tower in Brisbane

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The Melbourne developer Jinding Developments is launching in to the booming Queensland market, readying a new $75 million tower in the heart of Surfers Paradise.

The proposal at 9-11 Thornton Street is for 125 apartments across 27 storeys, designed by DKO Architecture. It will provide a range of one and two bedroom apartments.

Jinding Developments managing director Liz Ronson said the development firm had their eye on the Queensland market for quite some time, and Thornton Street was the perfect opportunity to make their move.

“The demand for residential development across Queensland is at the highest levels experienced over recent years, particularly in lifestyle locations such as the Gold Coast,” she said.

“We are excited to be making our mark on the Surfers Paradise area with quality apartments that will provide an incredible destination for Australians relooking at where they can live, given the new opportunity that working from home presents.”

Urban recently sat down with Liz Ronson to discuss the new project.

JR: Which buyer demographic will the development be pitched at and why?

LR: Like many of our new projects, Thornton Street is a high-end development designed to appeal to retirees and second or third home buyers who have chosen the Gold Coast to relocate to as part of the COVID-fuelled regional trend. This demand has left a gap for quality products under $1M, especially those with ocean views. The product will also be ideal for locals looking to rent in the desirable Gold Coast region.

JR: Are you predicting interest from Melbourne investors who know your reputation a bit more than QLD?

LR: I think the project is a compelling proposition in its own right. The metrics make sense, regardless of what investors already know about Jinding Developments. We will also be marketing the project through our media channels to ensure that everyone has access to it. 

JR: What do you expect buyers to love about the project?

LR: The location is hard to beat. The street, local surf club and nearby beaches give it a real coastal village feel, even before you overlay the proximity to the light rail and abundance of entertainment options. Combined with ocean views at accessible price points, we just know that buyers will fall in love with this project.  

JR: Was there a project in particular by DKO which led you to choosing them?

LR: Jinding Developments has worked with DKO in the past, and we wanted this project to be design-led. DKO are experienced and clever in their approach, and we know them for producing incredible design outcomes without comprising constructability.

About the developer

Jinding has a strong foothold in the Victorian market with the recent house and land developments The Patch Wollert, Octave at Junction Village and Harriott at Armstrong Creek. 

Jinding's Real Estate team has been operating in Queensland for the past three years. The Group formally opened their first office in Brisbane late last year. Jinding are now actively seeking further mid to high-rise development opportunities across Queensland as it looks to expand its national footprint. 

<h2>Other Surfers Paradise developments on the market</h2>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=22057]

Shoreline is the latest Surfers Paradise tower to be created by Marquee Development Partners.

The boutique 27 apartment development across 17 levels offers residents a luxury unseen in the between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach for a number of years.
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The proposal on Thornton Street is for 125 apartments across 27 storeys, designed by DKO Architecture.



Jinding to develop first Gold Coast apartment tower: A chat with Jinding's managing director Liz Ronson

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The national developer Hirsch &amp; Faigen have had sign off for their first project on the Gold Coast.

They'll be developing Hemingway, named after the famous author Ernest Hemingway, which will span 14-levels near the sand at Palm Beach. The project will comprise 78 residences fronting the exclusive Jefferson Lane beachfront enclave.

Rothelowman have designed the tower which has been described as a multi-storey reimagining of the area’s humble holiday shacks from the late 1950s and 1960s.

Hemingway will be made up of a variety of one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments.

<a href="/buildings/hemingway-1267-1273-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach"><img alt="" height="2801" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/hemingway_2.jpg" width="2000"></a>

The development will also house its own ground-level café and expansive communal open space with a swimming pool, pool lounge, barbeque area and outdoor cinema.

The Melbourne-based developer is a partnership between the Hirsch family — also well-known for its petroleum, horse racing and wine interests — and property lawyer/developer Daniel Faigen.

Hirsch &amp; Faigen purchased the 1644 sqm corner site at 1267-1273 Gold Coast Highway, which also has frontages to both Seventeenth Avenue and Jefferson Lane, in 2016 for $3.85 million.

It lodged its development application in mid-2019 and despite concerns raised over the project’s height and high-density, Gold Coast council officers deemed the tower was “not considered to offend the local skyline” and was “appropriately serviced by infrastructure”.

<a href="/buildings/hemingway-1267-1273-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach"><img alt="" height="1200" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/hemingway_1.jpg" width="1600"></a>

An assessment of Hemingway’s design by the council’s Office of Architecture and Heritage provided a further tick of approval, citing that it would “reinforce the local identity” and “contribute to the emerging character of the area”.

“The development as a whole provides a distinct architectural appearance through its form which incorporate subtle design elements of the 1950s and 1960s beach house, articulated floorplate, sculptured columns and projections which are combined with high-quality material selections which include applied finishes in varied sandstone shades,” its analysis stated.

Hirsch &amp; Faigen director Richard Hirsch said the development approval for Hemingway reflected the architectural intelligence, innovation and intuition of its design as well as empathy for its surrounds and the Gold Coast’s beach heritage.

“We’re committed to design, sustainability, usability and creating timeless, contemporary buildings that improve the lives and wellbeing of all that interact with them,” he said.  

“This is a great design-led outcome that in time will prove to be an outstanding result not only for the site but also the whole of Palm Beach, which is one of the Gold Coast’s truly unique beachside treasures.”

<a href="/buildings/hemingway-1267-1273-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach"><img alt="" height="1203" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/hemingway_main.jpg" width="1600"></a>

Mr Hirsch said Rothelowman’s architectural vision for Hemingway was a reinvention of the suburb’s traditional beach houses, inspired by wrap-around decks and expansive views.

“Hemingway will be a slender residential tower with cut outs that dramatically expand the indoor-outdoor experience and reframe the view-lines through to the ocean to deliver true panoramic views,” he said.

“The design is a perfect fit for its unique location and will help define the future of the once sleepy suburb of Palm Beach, which has become highly sought-after and increasingly more exclusive but lost none of its charm.”

<h2>Other developments for sale on the Gold Coast</h2>

Shoreline, Surfers Paradise

[smartcode_project:default project_id=22057]

Shoreline is the latest Surfers Paradise tower to be created by Marquee Development Partners.

The boutique 27 apartment development across 17 levels offers residents a luxury unseen in the between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach for a number of years.

Miles Residences, Kirra Beach

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27575]

The Miles Residences Kirra Point will be one of Kirra Point's most impressive towers when it's completed in 2023.

The development of 118 apartments is part of the redevelopment of the Kirra Beach Hotel. The brains behind the operation is the family-ran KTQ Group, led by Peggy Flannery, who are behind the award-winning Elements of Byron Bay.
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Rothelowman have designed the tower which has been described as a multi-storey reimagining of the area’s humble holiday shacks from the late 1950s and 1960s.



Tower reveal: Hirsch & Faigen secure approval for Palm Beach apartment project Hemingway

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It's been one of the best performing sales campaigns the Gold Coast has seen in a number of years, which is bad news for the punters of the Kirra Beach Hotel.

The Peggy Flannery-led developer KTQ Group have fast-tracked their luxury $380 million redevelopment of the historic Kirra Beach Hotel demolition of the historic Kirra Beach Hotel which will see Marine Parade site home four new mixed-use towers comprising a number of apartments and a five-star hotel.

The good news for Kirra regulars is they won't be out in the cold (or the lovely South East Queensland heat) for long.

The $180 million first stage will see a new pub and pavilion replace the 65-year-old Kirra Beach Hotel. Part of the first stage is Miles Residences, the hotly sought-after collection of 118 apartments.

<a href="/buildings/miles-kirra-beach-hotel-101-musgrave-street-coolangatta"><img alt="" height="1067" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/kirra_beach_hotel_pub_2.jpg" width="1600"></a>

It took just three weeks following the December launch of Miles Residences for 50 per cent of the apartments to be snapped up.

Now the KTQ group has reached another milestone. Over 80 per cent of apartments have now sold, for a total of $145 million.

Hutchinson Builders won the building contract for Miles Residences, which has its one bedroom apartments priced from $550,000 and the three bedroom plus multi-purpose room apartments starting from $3 million.

The masterplanned project is expecting to create more than 1200 full-time direct and indirect jobs throughout the three stages of construction and on completion.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27575]

Property advisory company MacroPlan Dimasi have indicated that the redevelopment will provide an economic boon for the southern Gold Coast, injecting $136 million in initial construction expenditure and an additional $61.3 million a year into the local economy. 

“The redevelopment of the Kirra Beach Hotel will provide an economic injection for the Southern Gold Coast in terms of capital investment, construction employment, additional short stay accommodation provision and ongoing tourist expenditure,” it states.

KTQ Group, whose Elements of Byron has reshaped the luxury resort and hotel market in Byron Bay, prides itself on adding value to the community and developing high quality and functional large-scale spaces.

When completed the Kirra Beach project will include a second stage, comprising 90 apartments, and a final stage that will deliver an 80-room, luxury hotel and 15 retail outlets within a dining and retail precinct. 

<a href="/buildings/miles-kirra-beach-hotel-101-musgrave-street-coolangatta"><img alt="" height="900" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/kirra_point_miles_residences_pool_0.jpg" width="1600"></a>

“We’re on the cusp of a renaissance for Kirra Beach that will deliver an exciting new destination in its own right where locals and visitors will be able to live work and play,” KTQ Group development director Jeremy Holmes said.

“Our plans have drawn on the history of the site that for generations was the social heart of the southern Gold Coast.

“The incredible market response to our first-stage release affirms our faith in our vision for the site which will be delivered over the next few years.”

KTQ Group, a family-owned company, has owned the Kirra Beach Hotel and surrounding land since 2010 and has crafted its plans for the property with a view to enhance the unique character of the famed Kirra beachfront and to recreate the legacy of the pub that has operated there for so many years.  

The Kirra Beach Hotel was considered a major development of its time when opened in the 1950s, drawing an official opening by then Queensland premier Vince Gair.

Originally known as Lennons Kirra Hotel, the site has an extensive history with Australia’s surfing culture and was a popular social venue for the budding southern Gold Coast community in the 1950s and 1960s.

 
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It took just three weeks following the December launch of Miles Residences for 50 per cent of the apartments toe be snapped up

Miles Residences at Kirra Beach now 80% sold as fast-tracked construction begins

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Shoreline is the latest Surfers Paradise tower to be created by Marquee Development Partners.

The boutique 27 apartment development across 17 levels offers residents a luxury unseen in the between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach for a number of years.

Urban has taken a look at Shoreline and why it should be on a buyers shortlist.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=22057]

<h2>The Developer</h2>

Shoreline is being developed by Marquee Development Partners, who have had previous success in the area.

The Brisbane-based developer most recently sold out Cannes, on the Surfers Paradise waterfront which isn't set to be completed until next year, and are currently selling apartments in their nearby Stanhill Drive development Catalina.

Their Peninsular Residences, just two kilometres away from Shoreline, was the number one selling apartment project on the Gold Coast in Q1 2018.

Marquee also developed the boutique nine level, 61 apartment development Stanhill on Chevron Island which won the best medium density project in QLD in 2020.

Up in Brisbane they won awards for their Haven Newstead apartment project, and they sold out their Fleet Lane, South Brisbane development of 66 apartments in just 12 weeks.

<h2>The Architect</h2>

Marquee appointed BDA Architecture to design the glass-swathed building. BDA have a number of buildings being built at Surfers including Allure at Chevron Island, Acqua at Palm Beach and Infinity at Broadbeach.

The design of Shoreline's podium was inspired by the architectural works of the Finnish architect and designer Alvar Aalto, creating a rhythm reflective of the natural waves of the Gold Coast foreshore.

BDA say the podium has the detailing and architectural artistry portrayed within Alvar Alto's famous 1939 Finnish Pavilion at the New York World Fair.

"The tower elements create a slender and subtle structure with curved slab edges to soften the form and provide elements reminiscent of some of the iconic towers of the Gold Coast," BDA advised in their design intent submitted to the Gold Coast City Council.

"External materials are predominantly glass, rendered painted concrete and vertical batten screens. The use of natural stone and curved metal hoods visually link the residential lobby to the streetscape."

<h2>The Location</h2>

Shoreline is located on the Old Burleigh Road dress circle, between Broadbeach and Surfers Paradise and just one row back from the beach, near Sir John (Jack) Egerton Park.

It's a three minute walk to the surrounding cafe's, a four minute walk to a G:link Station and five minutes to Broadbeach SLC. The development sits across the road from a bus stop also

<h2>The Apartments</h2>

There are just 27 apartments in the 17-level tower, each with three bedrooms, two bathrooms and two parking spaces.

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The entertainers kitchen is fitted with premium European appliances, an integrated fridge, butlers pantry and dry bar.

There is a large walk in wardrobe in the master bedroom, as well as an ensuite with double vanity and a free-standing bath.

<img alt="" height="901" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/shoreline_bedroom.jpg" width="1600">

Complete with a mud-room at entry, each apartment features an abundance of storage and ducted airconditioning.

<h2>The Facilities</h2>

Shoreline residents will have access to a number of wellness and lifestyle amenities.

The swimming pool will be filled with magnesium water which helps stimulate hydration, relax muscles, and detoxifies &amp; regenerates the skin.

There will be a wellness centre with spa, sauna and shower and a gym with reformer pilates.

Crowning the development will be a private rooftop bar and lounge with 270-degree views. Work from home and office facilities will also be on offer.

To find out more about Shoreline, click here.

 
 
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The boutique 27 apartment development across 17 levels offers residents a luxury unseen in the heart of Surfers Paradise for a number of years.

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