Sammut makes Brisbane apartment play

Sutherland Shire-based developer Sammut Group, who was one of the first Sydney developers to jump to the Gold Coast at the onset of the pandemic back in 2020, is looking to expand its QLD pipeline.

The developer, who will complete COAST on Surfers Paradise's beachfront Garfield Terrace early next year, has filed plans for a 42-unit block on the river in Toowong.

Bureau^proberts designed the Glen Road building, suggesting that 44 Glen "acknowledges a transitioning suburb."

"A place where traditional Queensland living has taken place for centuries; Toowong is seeing a shift of contemporary influence, commercial and retail hubs mixed with well-considered residential offerings – all the while maintain its character and charm," the architecture noted in the Urban Design Report submitted to the Brisbane City Council.

The "well-considered residential offerings" no doubt refers to Consolidated Properties Monarch Residences, which is approaching completion on Coronation Drive, and Graya's ARC Residences a few doors down.

"With a site rich in history - proud in its riverfront setting, the architectural form of 44 Glen is a direct influence of its contextual place," the report added.

"The considerations of a flood impacted site, adjacent development scales, local view corridors, unique dual river vantage & city aspects result in a shaped, elegant building form proud in its setting."

They said the mix of four and two-bedroom apartments capture the "fundamental qualities of Queenslander living," translated into the context of a contemporary subtropical building.

Public records show the last time the site traded was last year when JGL Properties bought it for $8.7 million. It sold to Sammut with development approval for The Dell, just 22 luxury apartments.

The Assessment Report by Urbis suggested the new plans "are consistent with the City Plan provisions, particularly the themes and outcomes of the strategic framework, purpose, overall outcomes and the intent of the High Density Residential Zone."

"The proposed changes are generally consistent with the previous approval. Notably, the development continues to deliver a residential scheme with high quality architectural design and features."

They said the proposed change maximises the number of dwellings overlooking the Brisbane River, highlighting its importance as a natural asset in inner city developments.