Sustainable living at Harbour Shores: better health, lower bills
As demand grows for greener, more energy-efficient homes, one of the Gold Coast's oldest developers is setting a new benchmark for sustainable living.
Founded in the late 1950s by visionary developer Bernard Lewis, Lewis Land is creating what it calls the most sustainable project in the city’s history at Biggera Waters. Harbour Shores is the first development in the region to achieve a 6 Star Green Star Community V1.1 rating from the Green Building Council of Australia — a world-leading sustainability standard.
With buyers increasingly prioritising sustainability in their decisions, Harbour Shores aligns with strict environmental standards while fostering a walkable, fossil-fuel-free lifestyle that resonates strongly with modern purchasers.
The project also represents the largest in Lewis Land’s 65-year history, spanning over 16 hectares. Its masterplan incorporates features such as water-retention tanks, solar power, and EV charging stations, alongside the planting of more than 200,000 tropical and native plants. This integration of nature and technology supports energy-efficient living and promotes a resilient community designed for intergenerational living and long-term wellbeing.
By excluding natural gas, residents will be able to use 100% renewable energy sources — significantly reducing their carbon footprint through solar, wind and hydro power. They will also have access to 100% GreenPower®, improving air quality by eliminating harmful emissions from cooktops, ovens and heaters.
Energy bills will be reduced thanks to Smart Design, including double-glazed windows, energy-efficient appliances, and cooler roof colours. Rooftop solar panels will further cut household costs while reducing CO₂ emissions.
On-site rainwater harvesting will irrigate gardens, saving thousands of litres of potable water each year, while water-efficient appliances will further reduce consumption and costs inside the home.
Designed by BDA Architecture, the precinct will evolve over the next decade into a vibrant “village of villages,” housing more than 4,000 residents. The masterplan includes a mix of apartments, villas, communal open spaces and parklands, a 1.2-kilometre waterfront boardwalk, private marina berths and a suite of resort-style amenities.
Respected local builder Greyburn has been appointed to deliver the first boutique buildings, scheduled for completion in mid-2026.
