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]

Joel Robinson

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151821 project_image_fid=368352]

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

Fresh off completing its Delano Crows Nest development, Lindsay Bennelong has lodged plans for its next project, this time turning its attention back to the beach.

The developer, started 20 years ago by Clarendon Homes founder Peter Campbell, is proposing a 37-apartment scheme at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/17-25-ashburner-street-manly-nsw-2095">17-25 Ashburner Street</a>, Manly, positioned between the southern end of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/manly-nsw-2095">Manly</a> Beach and East Manly Cove.

Lindsay Bennelong called on local architecture firm Platform Architects to design the new building, given their success at Finn, Lindsay Bennelong's current luxury apartment project on North Steyne.&nbsp;

According to the Design Verification Statement by Bridie Gough of Platform Architects, the proposal “relates to the current context but also the desired future character of taller buildings suitable to the new planning controls.”

The site has been identified as a Low to Mid-Rise Housing (LMR) location, given its position within 400 metres of the Manly Town Centre E1 Business Zone. The LMR controls are intended to unlock additional housing supply in well-located areas close to public transport, allowing developers to seek increased height limits to support greater density.

“The proposal seeks to provide this increased level of housing whilst being respectful of some of the smaller scale buildings also nearby,” the statement reads.

Lindsay Bennelong Development Director Leigh Manser said the project has been carefully aligned with the intent of the LMR controls. The proposal will significantly increase housing yield on the site, replacing four houses and 10 apartments, comprising 25 bedrooms, with 37 new apartments delivering a total of 94 bedrooms, whilst remaining compliant with the LMR controls.

“Sydney is in a severe undersupply, and delivering more dwellings and more bedrooms than what currently exists is exactly what the LMR policy is designed to activate,” Manser said, noting that nine of the apartments will be allocated as affordable housing for frontline workers.

“We have already commenced discussions with our community housing provider to determine the rental levels that frontline workers can realistically afford in this location,” he said. “These will need to sit well below the standard affordable housing benchmark of 20 per cent below market rent, and that has been factored into our feasibility and pricing.”

<img alt="Manly" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ad03000f-19f9-48b4-b27d-e85ca800a1da" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-04-30%20at%208.41.59%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=a.txHwCZgbCInlQ6QXbIrI.umvW1T.r8" />

The design of the building incorporates a wave-like indentation running through the façade, referencing the nearby coastline and anchoring the building within its local context.

The&nbsp;Design Verification Statement says careful consideration has been given to the articulation of the building, ensuring the bulk is broken down to a more human scale through a defined four-storey podium."

The scheme includes a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments, as well as a full-time building manager's office and wellness facilities including a sauna and a gym.

“The design ensures a high level of amenity, with apartments offering generous private open space, many with expansive views, and all with comfortable proportions."

<img alt="Bennelong" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6a7f2812-72a1-4959-84b0-997e8cd88aed" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-04-30%20at%2010.15.50%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=6iMxU3MkXmHVHAoNhYBjnqgka8CUZNbk" />

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/lindsay-bennelong-developments">Lindsay Bennelong</a>&nbsp;is currently developing Finn Manly, just four full-floor luxury apartments on North Steyne. They recently welcomed residents to its 81-unit Delano Crows Nest development, a&nbsp;carefully scaled infill project designed to bridge&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/crows-nest-nsw-2065">Crows Nest</a>’s lively village centre with its surrounding heritage streets.

Designed by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ajc-architects">AJC Architects</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/delano-crows-nest-27-57-falcon-street-crows-nest-nsw-2065">Delano</a>&nbsp;is arranged across three low-rise buildings, incorporating a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments alongside a limited number of townhomes addressing Hayberry Lane. The architectural approach drew on the area’s Art Deco lineage, reinterpreted through contemporary detailing and framed by landscaped communal gardens.

The developer also has a development site in Maroubra.

First look: Lindsay Bennelong's new Manly apartment development revealed

Fifty-nine residences across 37 levels. No more than two per floor. With 80 per cent now sold, what remains at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/madeline-by-mosaic-broadbeach-22-mary-avenue-broadbeach-qld-4218">Madeline by Mosaic</a> is a short list.

Madeline was always conceived at a scale that sits outside the normal register of Gold Coast apartment living. The residences are half- and full-floor configurations, with the largest spanning more than 400 sqm, dimensions that place them closer to the penthouse end of the market regardless of where they sit in the building.

That scale is the organising principle of everything else: how the floorplans are laid out, how the materials read, how the connection between inside and outside works.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150135 project_image_fid=355941]

The interiors were developed in collaboration with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fraser-partners-0">Fraser &amp; Partners</a>, the architecture practice&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mosaic-property-group">Mosaic</a> brought in as design partner for the first time on this project. The palette runs to natural stone, textured timbers, and soft metallics, materials chosen as much for their tactile quality as their appearance.

Light cleverly shifts across surfaces through the day, and the design is explicit about wanting that to be noticed. Full-height glazing runs across the primary living areas, and where the building faces east toward the ocean, those walls of glass are doing real work: framing a view corridor that the site's position directly opposite Broadbeach State School's playing fields keeps permanently open.

That outlook is the site's most consequential asset. In a suburb where new towers continue to rise, a protected view line is genuinely rare, and the Mary Avenue address secures it. Residents at Madeline will look out over open parkland rather than the rear of another building, a distinction that becomes more meaningful with each new development approved nearby.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150135 project_image_fid=355939]

The private outdoor spaces are sized to match the residences themselves. Terraces on the upper levels frame uninterrupted ocean panoramas, and the planning ensures that living areas extend into those outdoor zones rather than treating them as separate attachments. The flow between the two is part of the design intent, not an afterthought.

Inside, the finish specification reflects the same approach. Rich stone benchtops, warm timber joinery, bespoke hardware, each element specified to hold up over time rather than read as a moment in a particular trend cycle.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150135 project_image_fid=3409]

Beyond the residences, the amenity offering extends that register. A lap pool and sun deck anchor the outdoor space, alongside a magnesium pool, cold plunge, steam room, and sauna.

A commercial-grade gymnasium, residents' lounge, library, and boardroom round out a programme that functions more like a private members club than a standard building amenity floor.

Construction has commenced under Mosaic's in-house building arm, with completion scheduled for late 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150135]

Madeline by Mosaic delivers penthouse-level living across every apartment

Developer Fortezza Group is the latest to take its new apartment development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-belvedere-5-7-church-street-nelson-bay-nsw-2315">The Belvedere in Nelson Bay</a>, to the NSW Government.

Fortezza, predominantly a South East Queensland developer, is the latest to apply for State Significant Development&nbsp; status through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority, a pathway becoming favoured by developers to speed up the approval process.

They are planning 57 two- and three-bedroom apartments across 5-7 Church Street and 42 Donald Street, near d'Albora Nelson Bay Marina. The diverse apartment mix has sizes from just over 80 sqm to the largest three-bedroom penthouses that reach nearly 200 sqm.

<img alt="Fortezza" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="090360e1-66d7-43ad-b686-aba81f173bf2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-04-29%20at%2010.22.40%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=DMqF96eBZolqSAAAcugX0l66ueWng66m" />

Fortezza calls the project a "piece of Istria in Nelson Bay,"&nbsp;referring to the largest peninsula in the Adriatic Sea, shared by Croatia (90%), Slovenia, and Italy, which is known for its Roman history, Venetian-style coastal towns and inland hilltop villages.

They say the The Belvedere is strategically positioned at the apex of Nelson Bay, offering unrivalled views of the ocean, the bay and captivating topography of the area.

"Our commitment to maintaining the integrity of every view and sight line has been relentless," Fortezza Group says.

"Through extensive modelling and analysis, we ensure that each apartment enjoys the natural beauty of Nelson Bay, regardless of future developments. Each design element is carefully curated to harmonise with our European heritage, drawing profound inspiration from the Roman architectural marvels in Istria. The arches, the cascades of greenery and the stonework that define our project pay homage to the structures that once exemplified Roman grandeur."

Residents will have access to a pool, communal green spaces, an office and a coffee shop.

First look: Fortezza Group takes The Belvedere, Nelson Bay apartment development, to NSW Government

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?

Sunshine Coast developer&nbsp;Cube&nbsp;has been given the green light to push on with its latest local apartment development, Lago.

The&nbsp;<a href="/developments/birtinya-qld-4575">Birtinya</a> apartment development at&nbsp;2 Prosperity Drive will comprise just 47 luxury apartments, continuing Cube’s commitment to delivering residential projects in premium coastal locations up and down the Sunshine Coast.

With luxury apartments riding a wave of popularity on the Sunshine Coast, Cube Senior Development Manager Daniel Ryan said he expected a very strong response to the new project.

“With premium amenity and accessibility in a growing location, we anticipate a very strong response when Lago is released to market towards the end of this year,’’ Ryan said.

Lago is the latest in a successful pipeline of <a href="/developers/cube-developments">Cube</a> projects including Nature at Cotton Tree which is now sold out, Oasis at Bokarina Beach, and Lumeah Peregian.

“The demand for premium coastal apartments is driven by their unique blend of lifestyle, convenience, and investment potential,’’ Ryan added.

“Our projects, such as Lago, offer residents an unparalleled living experience with views, resort-style amenities, and close proximity to key lifestyle features.

“Coastal destinations such as the Sunshine Coast continue to attract both local and interstate buyers looking for a superior quality of life.

“We are confident that Lago will meet the high expectations of buyers and contribute to the ongoing appeal of our world-class region."

First look exclusive: Cube Developments secures approval for Birtinya apartment development, Lago

With their MAIHA apartment development approaching completion this year, local boutique Gold Coast apartment developer&nbsp;Quid Property Group has another project lined up for Tugun.&nbsp;

They've submitted plans for a&nbsp;nine-level building with just eight apartments above 17 car parking spaces.

Designed by Rachel Norman Architect, the building will feature a light and non-intrusive colour scheme, incorporating materials such as vertical screening, large glazing elements, extensive planters, and protruding awnings to protect privacy.&nbsp;

The architectural design aims to reflect the diverse character of Tugun, which includes a mix of beach shacks, mid-century apartment blocks, larger resort-style developments, and new slender single-lot apartment buildings.&nbsp;

"Fair to say that despite a lack of cohesive architectural language [in <a href="/new-apartments/tugun-qld-4224">Tugun</a>], the character of the place is defined by a celebration of beach lifestyle whether that’s the liveliness and transience of a holiday resort or the relaxed vibe of a beach shack turned unit building," the design statement by Rachel Norman Architect read.

"While the scale of building is changing the language of place, [it] all harks back to that lifestyle."

<img alt="329 Golden Four Drive Tugun building" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2f691689-7c4f-4e9d-80fd-1d07aad79f53" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Golden%20Drive%20Tugun%20building.png?VersionId=YEViYyQhE_CJLYddEYUGlsQAWBR4rhPg" />

The design emphasises the beach lifestyle by incorporating curves to create dynamic visual elements and using earthy and natural materials to provide a tactile, human quality.&nbsp;

An undulating screen on the building’s northwest side mimics the movement of water and sand, with shadow play throughout the day creating a shifting, moiré pattern.

Inside, the units are designed to blend indoor and outdoor spaces, supporting a sub-tropical lifestyle that celebrates outdoor living.&nbsp;

From the third level upwards, the glazing opens the corner to integrate dining, living, kitchen, and deck areas into one cohesive space.&nbsp;

Smaller terraces with cascading plants provide private outdoor connections and shade from the western sun.

<img alt="329 Golden Four Drive Tugun rooftop" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="52fbd800-2bb6-4251-9aea-849a27de4c9a" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Tugun%20rooftop.png?VersionId=POILun4pYnOaPUu792xvxy34NJIvUWBb" />

Privacy measures are also integrated into the design, with bathroom windows featuring opaque glass and minimised side elevation windows to prevent overlooking neighbouring properties.

The terraces also offer passive surveillance of the driveway without impacting neighbours' privacy.&nbsp;

Crowning the development will be a rooftop with amenities including an outdoor dining area, terrace, spa, and pool.

The site at 329 Golden Four Drive is in an established residential area with convenient public transport access, including a bus station at the property's frontage.&nbsp;

<img alt="329 Golden Four Drive Tugun" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5e9671f2-fbee-417d-ab34-728405ff16ed" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Tugun%20site.png?VersionId=5ZzBQjSdi7l.iF5NDixyZc6wuZu3DUaA" />

The development is also located just a kilometre from Tugun Commercial Centre, with public parks and amenities nearby, including Tugun Park and the Betty Diamond Sports Complex within 400 metres, and direct access to the Oceanway.

<a href="/developers/quid-property">Quid Property Group</a> is also developing MAIHA, a boutique block of 10 beachside apartments in Tugun, designed by Plus Architecture. Slated for completion in late 2024, only two units remain available, starting from $1.49 million.

mikah.m@urban.com.au

First look exclusive: Quid Property Group to double-down in Tugun

Queensland developer Sherpa Property Group is moving ahead with construction of its latest Gold Coast apartment development.

They've appointed <a href="/builders/lps-group">LPS Group</a>&nbsp;to deliver <a href="/new-apartments/perspective-helm">Perspective Helm</a> at <a href="/developments/chevron-island-qld-4217">Chevron Island</a>, just 10 residences on a north-facing riverfront site at 107 Stanhill Drive.

There are four waterfront villas on offer, four river residences, and two two-level penthouses. Prices start from $3.7 million and range up to $10 million. Each will have three to four bedrooms and multi-purpose rooms.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=143018 project_image_fid=288900]

<a href="/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa</a>&nbsp;General Manager, Daniel Clarke, said there's already been two contracts from local buyers.

“Our confidence in Perspective Helm continues to grow with each project milestone completed, from receiving development approval to securing a reputable and respected builder and incredibly strong inquiry.

“We just want to get in and start and that’s why we have fast-tracked to construction after the recent approval. Perspective Helm is unlike anything we’ve previously introduced to the market, and LPS Group was truly the perfect match to bring our vision to fruition.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=143018 project_image_fid=288901]

Perspective Helm will be designed by architecture firm&nbsp;<a href="/architects/hal-architects">HAL Architects</a>&nbsp;and with interior design by MAS Architecture.

In addition to Perspective Helm, LPS Group was recently appointed to deliver Sherpa’s Perspective Nexus at Palm Beach, which is currently under construction.

Following development approval in May, the Perspective Helm site is to settle in late July, with construction commencing on August 1.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=143018]

Sherpa General Manager, Daniel Clarke, said there's already been two contracts from local buyers

Sherpa appoint LPS Group to build Perspective Helm, Chevron Island apartments

Architect turned developer Joe Adsett is teaming up with developer Zephyr Group QLD for Palais Bulimba, a boutique collection of high-end apartments on the Brisbane River.

The duo has just filed a minor-change application for the project on a prime 1,991 sqm site at <a href="/new-apartments/palais-bulimba-25-27-byron-street-bulimba">25-27 Byron Street</a>.

Adsett has designed the two buildings that will home just 13 luxury apartments, each offering expansive living areas, state-of-the-art kitchens and premium fixtures and fittings. Residents will also have access to a communal rooftop terrace with a lap pool, gym, sauna, and private gardens.

Adsett's design focused on taking advantage of the 30 metres of absolute river frontage, connecting residents to nature and views with river-facing balconies.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Adsett is expecting Palais Bulimba to attract significant interest from both local and interstate buyers. Construction is slated to commence later this year, with completion expected in mid-2026.

<img alt="Palais" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b2e59fe5-274a-4ff1-8855-3e85329fee14" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202024-07-26%20at%2012.03.30%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=S8yAXZZQp.iwL7z1EAHx2.7O9sIJqxMv" />

Adsett and his team will be designing, managing the sales and development in partnership with developer Zephyr Group Qld, who will also build the project internally through their building division Zephyr Build.

"We are thrilled to have teamed up with Joe Adsett for this iconic project," said Zephyr Group Qld Managing Director Shane Winterton.

"Joe Adsett's vision for Palais Bulimba blends minimalist luxury in perfect harmony and is set to become a new icon in Bulimba."

&nbsp;

Zephyr Group Qld and subsidiary Zephyr Build Qld are a seasoned builder-developer with a proven track record spanning over a decade.

Adsett is one of Brisbane's most well-known architects. Since turning his eye to development, he's delivering <a href="/new-apartments/rockpool-rainbow-bay-154-156-marine-parade-coolangatta">Rockpool at Rainbow Bay</a> and <a href="/new-apartments/lagune-by-joe-adsett-20-queen-of-colonies-parade-moffat-beach">Lagune at Moffat Beach</a>.

Adsett is expecting Palais Bulimba to attract significant interest from both local and interstate buyers

First look exclusive: Joe Adsett partners with Zephyr Group for luxury Bulimba apartment development, Palais Bulimba

Kokoda Property has been given the green light to add four levels to its new Milton apartment development,Ruby Ruby.

Over 80 per cent of the apartments <a href="/new-apartments/ruby-ruby-milton-12-crombie-street-milton">within the Crombie Street tower</a> have sold since its mid-2023 launch.

In response to the high demand, Kokoda sought a new enhanced scheme which will see an additional 34 apartments added.

There will be two additional one-beds, 24 two-bedroom apartments starting from $764,000 and a further eight three-bedroom apartments starting at $2.3 million, now all available to purchase.

Ruby Ruby now comprises 178 apartments across a 26-level building designed by <a href="/architects/cottee-parker-architects">Cottee Parker</a>.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139032 project_image_fid=232277]

The <a href="/new-apartments/ruby-ruby-milton-12-crombie-street-milton">Ruby Ruby Penthouse Collection</a> crowns the top levels of the tower. The eight sub-penthouses and four penthouses start from $3.75 million.&nbsp;

This expansion comes amid a strong market rebound, with unit values in Brisbane rising over 18.2 per cent in the past year. Experts attribute this growth to several factors, including the upcoming 2032 Olympic Games, which are expected to drive over a decade of infrastructure development and population increases. Additionally, Brisbane’s affordability, job growth, and lifestyle appeal continue to attract interstate migration, making Brisbane a prime location for luxury living.&nbsp;

<a href="/developers/kokoda-property">Kokoda Property</a> Founder and Managing Director, Mark Stevens, said adding extra storeys to Ruby Ruby marks a significant milestone for the developer and will enhance the project’s impact on elevated living in <a href="/developments/milton-qld-4064">Milton</a>, with the vibrant community embracing Brisbane’s newest and most prestigious address.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

“Kokoda’s vision for Ruby Ruby has always been to create a standout collection of prestigious residences decorated with a subtropical-inspired design like no other," Stevens said.

"Ruby Ruby adhering to its goal of offering a new level of sophistication and witnessing the growing appetite for Brisbane luxury apartment living is incredible."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139032 project_image_fid=231171]

Amenities on offer include a rooftop infinity pool, thoughtfully landscaped BBQ areas and deck, floating daybeds, cabanas, a fire pit, private dining and bar space, private cinema lounge, billiards room, versatile meeting rooms and a dog wash facility.

Residents will also have access to a health and wellness centre, complete with a sauna, spa, plunge pool, a yoga studio and a fully equipped gym.

Construction on Ruby Ruby will commence in Q4, 2024, and is expected to be complete in 2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=139032]

Kokoda Property Founder and Managing Director, Mark Stevens, said adding extra storeys to Ruby Ruby marks a significant milestone for the developer and will enhance the project’s impact on elevated living in Milton

Kokoda adds more apartments to Ruby Ruby in Milton

Serial Gold Coast apartment developer, Marquee,&nbsp;has commenced construction on La Belle Palm Beach, its luxury apartment project located on the northern Palm Beach beachfront.

Since its launch just a few months ago, over 70 per cent of the apartments have sold, making it the fastest-selling project in the Gold Coast for 2024.

The Penthouse Collection is due to be released to the market later this year.

<a href="/new-apartments/la-belle-palm-beach-332-the-esplanade-palm-beach">La Belle Palm Beach</a> will feature 75 apartments spread across 14 levels, featuring panoramic views stretching from Surfers Paradise to Coolangatta.

The project caters to the discerning owner-occupier market on the Gold Coast, with three, four and five-bedroom apartments on offer.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102340 project_image_fid=273591]

Jacques Winterburn, Director of Marquee Development Partners, said&nbsp;Marquee is renowned for delivering exceptional projects.

"La Belle Palm Beach will be no exception”, Winterburn said.&nbsp;

“The swift commencement of construction underscores the high demand for premium beachfront living in <a href="/developments/palm-beach-qld-4221">Palm Beach</a>. We are excited to bring to life not just the residences, but a lifestyle synonymous with the world’s top beachfront resorts."

Winterburn said buyers&nbsp;have been drawn to the practical layouts and the unparalleled absolute beachfront location, coupled with the extensive amenities package for the expansive 3,300 square metre site.

“Our investment of over $10 million in world-class amenities has resonated with our discerning purchasers”.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102340 project_image_fid=273598]

Premium residential amenity is a trademark of Marquee projects across the Gold Coast, giving back to residents more space and facilities to be used as an extension of their home and enjoyed with family and friends.

Residents will have access to a heated outdoor pool and spa, multiple teppanyaki dining bars and entertaining areas, and a resident's lounge featuring a bar and billiards table.

A state-of-the-art wellness centre will offer a fully equipped gymnasium, yoga and Pilates studios, Nordic and Infrared saunas, cold plunge pools and indoor hydrotherapy spa.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102340 project_image_fid=274769]

Azura Griffen, Sales Manager at <a href="/developers/marquee">Marquee Development Partners</a>, said buyers have not only come from Palm Beach and the southern Gold Coast, but also from major cities like Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne.&nbsp;

“This project exemplifies our dedication to creating a residential experience that exceeds expectations and meets the highest standards of coastal luxury," Griffen said.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102340 project_image_fid=274444]

Located at 332 The Esplanade, La Belle Palm Beach provides residents with direct access to both the quietness of Palm Beach and the vibrant amenities of nearby Burleigh Heads.&nbsp;

A variety of three-bedroom apartments, some with multi-purpose rooms, and four-bedrooms, also with MPR's, are still available. Prices start from $2.995 million.

Construction on La Belle Palm Beach has now commenced, with completion projected for Q2 2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=102340]

Buyers have not only come from Palm Beach and the southern Gold Coast, but also from major cities like Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne

Marquee break ground on La Belle Palm Beach amid record sales

Brisbane's West End is set for two "climate-responsive and contextually driven" apartment towers.

Builder developer Zen Group is planning two towers at <a href="/new-apartments/24-duncan-street-west-end">24 Duncan Street</a>, near Montague Markets, that will home just over 200 apartments.

<img alt="24 Duncan Street in West End, Brisbane perspective" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a37fa519-5736-4a62-9ef4-ef6c888a94a2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Duncan%20Street%20pers.png?VersionId=v5jkWHHLHqSp4ZufMS5xX7.kp5UFY.2c" />

Betts + Partners said in their Architectural Design Report that two diverse urban conditions exist within the West End site context that are separated by Montague Rd.

"The Riverside South Precinct to the west is a high-density residential zone comprising predominantly apartment buildings and contrasted by the established suburban character to the east with primarily post-war single detached dwellings. The contextual design strategy is to celebrate the qualities found within the established West End suburban character in providing elevated high-quality subtropical apartment living with exceptional communal recreational amenity."

They said the aim is to positively contribute to the evolution of a new subtropical urbanity that is both contextually responsive and prioritises humanism in connection with place.

<img alt="24 Duncan Street in West End, Brisbane podium" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e2fdfee4-3f41-4ac1-bf6e-f845b2963fd7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Duncan%20Street%20podium.png?VersionId=9rT_Flr5ti7UezHohKtkGU5s4d_V3npx" />

The vision aligns with Brisbane's goal to become a New World City by 2031, promoting a globally recognisable subtropical urban lifestyle.

Duncan Street comprises two 17-level buildings housing 202 apartments, from one-bedroom plus study apartments through to three-bedroom units.

The 2600 sqm resident rooftop includes three pools, a fitness centre, private dining rooms, a cinema room, resident lounges, a library, and comprehensive wellness facilities with hot and cold plunge pools, yoga, pilates, a sauna, treatment room, and a contemplative garden.

<img alt="24 Duncan Street in West End, Brisbane balcony" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="85de7756-ba8f-49ff-bf07-5a2b6f18798c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Duncan%20Street%20balcony.png?VersionId=X0eXUNPhXFiltc_XH2lwq9Ph837r4HbL" />

Active retail frontages on Duncan and Rogers Streets will sleeve ground floor services and visitor car parking.&nbsp;

The two-level podium includes green walls, planters, and textured facades with integrated vertical greenery to enhance the streetscape.&nbsp;

Movement in the balconies and structural elements of the towers optimises light, shade, and private open space.

<img alt="24 Duncan Street in West End, Brisbane rooftop" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fd8214df-15be-4787-9dea-8225896351da" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Duncan%20Street%20rooftop.png?VersionId=MzXW0hkOghQmE0HLxzI5iUwNNY6OfrVa" />

Apartments are oriented to maximise views and privacy, with operable glazing and brise soleil for climate control.&nbsp;

"Conceptual drivers from West End’s urban context inform the design parti strategy that include; the River, the Backyard and the Verandah," Betts+Partners suggested.

"Each quality is reinterpreted in the sectional and plan parti and manifest in the three-dimensional building expression."

24 Duncan Street is only a three-minute walk from the Brisbane River, six minutes to the nearest ALDI, and 12 minutes to Davies Park, where The West End Markets is held every Saturday.

West End set for climate-responsive apartments

Chevron Island's street party, It’s ON ChevrON, is back for its latest installment.

The annual street celebration is set to take place on Sunday, 28th July 2024, on the main street of Thomas Drive.

The event is presented by Division 10 Councillor Darren Taylor – City of Gold Coast, in partnership with <a href="/new-apartments/chevron-one-36-46-stanhill-drive-chevron-island">Chevron One Residences</a>, and hosted by the Chevron Island Business &amp; Residents Association.

The street party will feature live and free entertainment from 12 noon until 4pm.

<img alt="It’s ON ChevrON Street Party" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="48569909-3072-47bf-9128-a3e767308fa1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Event.png?VersionId=Hu9DaEF5NsNgWfO7n3We6Rx3a_myeXiz" />

Chevron Island, located between Surfers Paradise and the Home of the Arts (HOTA), is known for its cultural diversity, offering a range of restaurants, lifestyle, and residential opportunities.&nbsp;

The island broke headlines in 2017 when Melbourne-based developer <a href="/developers/bensons-property-group">Bensons Property</a> announced it was going to develop Chevron One, a 41-level tower on Stanhill Drive.

Chevron One will be the only skyscraper on the island due to changes in planning laws following its approval.&nbsp;

Upon completion in late-2025, Chevron One's 41 levels will home 229 one, two and three-bedroom apartments and nearly 2000 sqm of resort-style amenities.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=215812]

The development has attracted both locals and interstate buyers, drawn by the island’s proximity to Surfers Paradise just over the bridge, but also the fact it's just outside of the hustle and bustle Surfers brings.

Thomas Drive on Chevron Island features famous local cafés, bars, al fresco dining and a diverse range of restaurants across multiple cuisines.&nbsp;

The nearby Surfers Paradise Boulevard and Cavill Avenue also host a lively retail and dining precinct that leads to the Surfer Paradise Esplanade and the beachfront.

The <a href="/architects/marchese-partners">Marchese Partners</a>-designed Chevron One is currently under construction by <a href="/builders/icon">ICON</a>.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=6515]

The street party will feature live and free entertainment from 12 noon until 4 pm on July 28

Chevron One partners for 'It’s ON ChevrON' street party

St Lucia has long been one of Brisbane's premier riverfront suburbs.

The sought-after suburb, named after the West Indian island, is well known for its leafy streets, the Brisbane Botanic Garden, and the main campus for the University of Queensland.

As it's grown from its origins as a cotton farming district, significant riverside development has grown with it.&nbsp;One market that's been missed however is the growing market frequently being called the "missing middle".

The missing middle in this instance is the townhouse market, a&nbsp;market that sits between apartments and houses. A third of <a href="/developments/st-lucia-qld-4067">St Lucia</a> is made up of standalone homes, and another 60 per cent on apartments. According to the latest 2021 ABS Census, less than seven per cent are townhouses.

Brisbane developer <a href="/developers/dusk-group">Dusk Group</a> is hitting St Lucia's missing middle with its latest residential development, <a href="/new-townhouses/aurora-on-depper-st-lucia-68-72-depper-street-st-lucia">Aurora on Depper</a>.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145923 project_image_fid=287620]

Named after its position at 68-72 Depper Street, just 300 metres from the City Cat and major bus networks, Aurora on Depper comprises just eight three-level townhouses pitched at downsizers, young families, and those with children who attend the nearby main campus of the University of Queensland.

Aurora on Depper presents an attractive opportunity, considering the scarcity of townhouses in the suburb and the competitive starting price of $1.55 million

Each townhouse, designed by Elevate Design Studio, offers three bedrooms, a two-car garage, kitchens with zero silica benchtops and butler's pantries, and hybrid timber flooring throughout the living areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145923 project_image_fid=287619]

The versatile multi-purpose rooms are expected to be used as home offices for young professionals, a second living area, or a fourth bedroom.

Aurora on Depper is currently under construction by Akam Constructions and is expected to be complete by mid-2025.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145923]

Aurora on Depper presents an attractive opportunity, considering the scarcity of townhouses in the suburb and the competitive starting price of $1.55 million

Aurora on Depper townhouses to target St Lucia's "missing middle"

‘Reverse sea changers’ are returning to Brisbane as the city’s vibrant culture, food and lifestyle offering comes of age.

Sekisui House Australia sold its penthouse atop Altura, in its multi-award winning <a href="/developments/west-end-qld-4101">West End</a> masterplan, <a href="/new-apartments/the-allere-collection-west-village-mollison-street-west-end">West Village</a>, to a couple coming from a large home on Sovereign Island.

The penthouse was purchased for $5.25 million by business owners Leo Nipperess and partner Brett Park, who were drawn to the expansive 368 sqm layout complete with multiple living and entertaining zones, five bedrooms, four bathrooms and multiple balconies, only 800m from the Brisbane CBD.

Nipperess, after owning more than 25 properties, cited the lifestyle offering of West Village convinced them to relocate from their expansive waterfront home on the Gold Coast to the house-like proportions of the Altura penthouse.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114215 project_image_fid=257538]

“Brisbane has certainly come of age,” Nipperess said.

“We owned a place at West End years ago, and it’s incredible how much West Village has lifted the entire area."

Nipperess first purchased in West Village as an investment and spent nine months living in an apartment in the Arcadia building.

“After we inspected the Altura penthouse, we decided to make the move permanently. You feel like you’re coming home to a six-star hotel. We just love it here,” Nipperess added.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114215 project_image_fid=204874]

Nipperess and Park say they don’t regret their decision to leave behind the often too-quiet coastal lifestyle and grueling commute on the M1 Motorway.&nbsp;

“The difference is you come home from work and there's a whole other life to enjoy,’’ Nipperess said.&nbsp;

“Any night of the week here we can walk downstairs to restaurants or collect fresh food for dinner, it’s just so easy, and day or night there are different views to enjoy from every window.

“I think the friendliness at Altura was something we didn't expect, and the sense of community is quite unique.

“We look forward to entertaining at home and enjoying the resident amenities, especially the pool and spa right above us and the working from home space.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114215 project_image_fid=204848]

Taku Hashimoto, Project Director, Apartment and Mixed-Use Developments at Sekisui House Australia, said there had been a noticeable trend of buyers returning from their pandemic-inspired sea-change back to Brisbane.

“Leo and Brett are among a growing number of buyers at West Village who are relocating from the Gold Coast to be closer to work, without sacrificing lifestyle,” Hashimoto said.

“West Village is a unique inner-city community where convenience, sustainability, and residential living coexist.

“There are more than 30 retailers, restaurants and health and wellness providers here, anchored by Harris Farm Markets and Woolworths.

“Major hospitals, schools and universities, and Brisbane’s CBD, are all nearby, as well as the river walk which connects West Village to South Bank’s cultural and parkland precinct. Everything is at your doorstep.”&nbsp;

Altura, Brisbane’s first neuroarchitecture building, sold out ahead of its completion in September last year. West Village’s latest apartment release, The Allere Collection, is under construction and over 95 per cent sold. With the <a href="/news/qld/sekisui-release-final-apartments-in-west-villages-allere-collection">final Opulent Release recently going to market</a>, only a handful of four and five-bedroom residences remain.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=114215]

“After we inspected the Altura penthouse, we decided to make the move permanently. You feel like you’re coming home to a six-star hotel. We just love it here,” buyer Leo Nipperess said

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

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