Bottega House has completed settlement of a landmark riverfront site in Macquarie Street, St Lucia, representing its first major Brisbane development.&nbsp;

Positioned on the banks of the Brisbane River, the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/180-macquarie-street-st-lucia-qld-4067">premium site at 180 Macquarie Street</a> features uninterrupted river frontage in one of Brisbane’s most tightly held residential precincts.&nbsp;

The proposed development, currently under assessment with Brisbane City Council, has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-studio">Plus Studio</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/mim-design">Mim Design</a> and will deliver a boutique collection of premium residences positioned specifically for owner occupiers and downsizers.&nbsp;

The residences are set to redefine luxury apartment living in the area, with a focus on architectural quality, refined finishes, landscape integration and elevated amenities including curated wellness facilities, resort-style pools and recreation spaces rarely seen in the local market.&nbsp;

Exclusive sales for the project will be led by Keenan &amp; Byrne, ahead of an anticipated launch later this year.&nbsp;

Bottega House Managing Director Nick Malloch said the project reflects the group’s ambition to deliver a highly curated residential offering within one of Brisbane’s most tightly held precincts.&nbsp;

“This is an incredibly rare riverfront opportunity and one we have approached with a long-term perspective,” Malloch said.&nbsp;

“Our vision from the outset was to create a boutique collection of residences that feel more like private homes than traditional apartments, with generous proportions, refined finishes and exceptional amenity throughout."

Malloch says there is a&nbsp;lack of premium owner-occupier stock of this quality in the market, particularly for downsizers wanting space, privacy and a true lifestyle offering without compromise.&nbsp;

"Demand is expected to be strong given the scarcity of premium riverfront opportunities of this nature within Brisbane’s inner-west."&nbsp;

Joel Robinson

Bottega House secures landmark riverfront site in St Lucia 

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The arrival of the first piling rig officially marks the commencement of construction at SIERA’s new beachside apartment development, Exhale, in Northcliffe.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/exhale-surfers-paradise-8-enderley-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Exhale</a>, a glass-encased tower featuring 54 large-scale apartments at 8 Enderley Avenue, is SIERA’s third Gold Coast development. It follows the recently completed PIPIS Bilinga beachfront project, which achieved suburb-record prices, and the soon-to-be-completed Chevron Island development, Tapestry.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359603]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/siera">SIERA</a> Founder and Managing Director Brent Thompson said the arrival of the piling rig represented a significant milestone for the development, which is scheduled for completion in late 2028.

Over the next month, around 260 piles are expected to be installed as work progresses on the basement structure. The building is anticipated to rise above ground level early next year, before unveiling its sculptural glass curtain wall, developed in collaboration with specialist façade engineers.

“The façade was designed to maximise panoramic coastal views while creating a distinctive architectural identity,” Thompson said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=355935]

Designed by BDA Architecture, Exhale will comprise just 54 two- and three-bedroom residences across 26 levels, a level of low-density living rarely delivered in this beachside pocket between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach.

The project has been conceived as a resident-only building, with no short-stay accommodation permitted. SIERA says the model is intended to appeal to long-term owner-occupiers rather than transient holiday demand.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=361052]

Residences have been designed with large-format layouts and expansive glazing, with most apartments featuring more than 30 metres of glass frontage to maximise natural light and ocean views.

The amenity offering spans two levels and centres on wellness and lifestyle, including a heated magnesium pool, sauna, yoga and Pilates studio, gymnasium, private dining facilities, cinema lounge, and dedicated surfcraft storage.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359607]

More than half of the apartments have already sold. SIERA has also opened a sales gallery for Exhale at its Chevron Island commercial premises, near its Tapestry tower and the site of its second Chevron Island apartment development, which is slated to launch in early 2027.
</section>
</section>

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112661]

SIERA kicks off construction at Northcliffe tower Exhale

Local Little Bay residents, along with buyers from premium postcodes across Sydney’s affluent Eastern Suburbs, have dominated purchases in developer-builder Urban Property Group’s first Eastern Suburbs apartment development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/este-little-bay-jennifer-street-little-bay-nsw-2036">ESTE Little Bay</a>.

The $250 million coastal project, one of the first new developments in the area in several years, has proven particularly popular with downsizers, especially those from Coogee and Bondi. One Double Bay downsizer paid $4.7 million for a four-bedroom penthouse, setting a new local apartment price record in the process.

Buyers have been attracted to the combination of coastal tranquillity, premium design and amenity-rich neighbourhood living. The walkable village setting, along with proximity to three of Sydney’s leading golf courses, New South Wales Golf Club, St Michael’s Golf Club and The Coast Golf Club, has also been a key drawcard.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352689]

Built across two low-rise buildings designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hill-thalis-architecture-urban-projects-pty-ltd">Hill Thalis</a> and set along a lush, landscaped green spine, designed by leading landscape architect <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/arcadia-landscape-architecture">Arcadia</a>, ESTE Little Bay offers a collection of one, two, three and four-bedroom residences with interiors by Richards Stanisich.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> Sales Director, Tom McIvor said the response to ESTE has been "nothing short of extraordinary."

“Buyers have been quick to recognise ESTE as a rare opportunity to invest in a coastal sanctuary that offers both seclusion and connectivity to the heart of Sydney,” McIvor said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352687]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/srm-residential">SRM Residential</a> Senior Director, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/srm-residential">Clayton Ross</a> said the local market has responded incredibly well, driven by ESTE’s exceptional location and the rarity it offers.

“We’ve seen strong interest from a variety of buyer groups, all of whom are drawn to the exclusivity and quality of the build and construction by the 4.5-star iCIRT-rated builder / developer, Urban Property Group. There’s truly nothing else like it along Sydney’s coastline.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352690]

The project also includes robust buyer protections, including Resilience Insurance’s Latent Defects Insurance, providing 10 years of structural cover, and an independent iCIRT-rating of the developer.

“The iCIRT-rating adds another layer of confidence,” Ross added. “Buyers see it as a safeguard for their investment and their lifestyle.” A highlight of ESTE’s offering is its exclusive wellness amenities, including a heated rooftop infinity pool and outdoor heated spa, a state-of-the-art Technogym fitness centre, and a sauna.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/este-little-bay-jennifer-street-little-bay-nsw-2036">ESTE Little Bay</a> is topped out and is on track to complete towards the end of 2026, with residents moving in before Christmas.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112343]

Eastern Suburbs buyers snap up ESTE Little Bay apartments

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sunland-group">Sunland Group</a> has officially lodged plans for its first Gold Coast apartment project since the departure of the Abedian family from the company three years ago, unveiling a new high-rise proposal for a prominent Broadbeach corner site on Old Burleigh Road.

The application was submitted by an entity directed by Tom Jamieson, stepson of longtime Sunland leader Soheil Abedian, and Riaz Rezvanipour, brother-in-law of Sahba Abedian, Soheil’s son.

Sunland acquired the 1,283 sqm site on the corner of Old Burleigh Road and Armrick Avenue for $9.5 million late last year and is now seeking approval for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/99-101-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">42-storey tower with 81 apartments</a>.

<img alt="First look: Sunland Group returns to Broadbeach with new Old Burleigh Road tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fea2946d-90ee-4cfc-babe-2a8ad5db2cb6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/pers.png?VersionId=BV0fihJw31nDIQ8ozY_h3GbS8mxDyhnm" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/contreras-earl-architecture">Contreras Earl Architecture</a>, the proposed tower at 99-101 Old Burleigh Road would deliver a predominantly larger-format apartment mix aimed at the owner-occupier market. Plans include 17 two-bedroom apartments, 55 three-bedroom apartments, and nine four-bedroom residences across 35 residential levels.

The development also incorporates three basement levels, four podium parking levels, two levels of communal recreation facilities, and rooftop plant and equipment. A total of 189 car spaces are proposed, significantly exceeding the 90 spaces required under the planning scheme.

The architecture adopts a sculpted, curvilinear form, with deep wraparound balconies and integrated landscaping intended to soften the tower’s vertical expression. The planning report states the building’s “slender footprint/form provides a complimentary yet varied built form within the local streetscape” and contributes to “a varied, yet ordered skyline.”

Contreras Earl noted in its Architectural Statement that from the early stages, the project addressed a fundamental challenge: how to accommodate the required residential yield while avoiding the conventional model of a tower sitting on a rigid, fully resolved parking podium.

“The most direct response would have been to consolidate parking into a singular, flat podium and extrude a repetitive tower above,” the statement said. “While efficient, this approach would result in a consolidated built form with limited engagement with the surrounding landscape and public realm.”

Instead, the conventional podium model was “deliberately rejected”. The architects described the base of the building as “a landscaped architectural condition where structure, planting and circulation are integrated”.

“Rather than presenting a continuous built mass, the base of the building is articulated through a series of concrete planter elements that organise the podium into a fragmented system,” the statement said. “This approach reduces the perceived bulk of the lower levels while establishing a more permeable interface with the streetscape and adjacent open space.”

<img alt="Sunland" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="923fad8d-c960-4527-8fbe-975cf1ddf88d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-25%20at%2010.32.03%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=pngwb0hYOIUpq9vDw6F2EsOiVuHF3DiX" />

&nbsp;

The site sits within the High Density Residential Zone and inside the City of Gold Coast’s unrestricted “HX” building height area, where the planning framework anticipates intensified residential development tied to the expanding light rail corridor. The planning report notes the area is undergoing “transition toward more intense development forms” given its proximity to Broadbeach, Surfers Paradise, and high-frequency public transport infrastructure.

Positioned directly opposite Broadbeach Park and within walking distance of Florida Gardens light rail station, the development would sit among a rapidly evolving stretch of Old Burleigh Road that has become one of the Gold Coast’s most active apartment development corridors.

The application joins a growing pipeline of luxury residential projects reshaping Broadbeach, including nearby developments by 5Point Projects, Polycell, and Graya.

The planning report argues the project contributes toward the Gold Coast’s long-term housing targets under the South East Queensland Regional Plan, which forecasts the need for more than 100,000 additional high-rise dwellings across the city by 2046.

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The Abedian family departed Sunland Group in late 2023, ending a four-decade association with the company, and subsequently established the private development firm Abedian &amp; Co. The group is currently delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/greenmount-residences-cnr-hill-street-and-marine-parade-coolangatta-qld-4225">Greenmount Residences</a> at Rainbow Bay and recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/18-mary-avenue-14-18-mary-avenue-broadbeach-qld-4218">18 Mary Avenue</a> in Broadbeach.
</section>

First look: Sunland Group returns to Broadbeach new apartment market with new Old Burleigh Road tower plans

The Minns Labor Government has established the new Bays West Delivery Authority to lead the development&nbsp;of the Bays West Precinct and Blackwattle Bay Precinct.&nbsp;

The Authority is charged with creating Sydney’s newest precinct, a thriving, connected, sustainable hub with White Bay Power Station as its cultural heart. Its vision is to build on the area’s natural, cultural and industrial history to shape a vibrant new neighbourhood.

The precinct will deliver up to 8,500 well-located homes, including a minimum of 10 per cent affordable and essential worker homes. Combine new housing with public open space, opening public access to the waterfront for the first time in more than 100 years, while retaining important deep-water facilities to support Sydney’s working harbour.

Located just minutes from the Sydney CBD and connected to a world-class metro, ferry, walking and cycling links, the Bays West precinct will rebalance housing growth towards well-serviced inner-city locations and help tackle the state’s housing crisis.

The Bays West Delivery Authority,&nbsp;an agency of the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure, will report to the NSW Minister for Lands and Property who already has oversight of major precinct renewal projects including at Blackwattle Bay and Barangaroo.

As part of the broader Bays West transformation, the Minns Government recently announced that a proposal from Lendlease to redevelop part of the Bays West Precinct has progressed to Stage 2 of the NSW Government’s unsolicited proposals process.

<img alt="Sydney" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2ed71eb9-d8e8-4fa7-b9d1-de4531dcf2f3" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-25%20at%209.42.31%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=IDryFIbped9SNDg72LEN_EecvhUsOPvp" />

The Minns Labor Government has also confirmed the Bays West precinct will have a new suburb name. This will be the first major suburb built in close proximity to Sydney’s CBD in decades and will encompass the area currently being referred to as Bays West, including Glebe Island and the White Bay Power Station. Served by a new Metro station just five minutes from the CBD, it will become one of the most populous suburbs in the Inner West and one of Sydney’s premier cultural destinations.

An early works program is taking shape, which&nbsp;includes the first stages of an international design competition.&nbsp;

The aim of the Bays West&nbsp;International&nbsp;Design Competition is to&nbsp;ensure design excellence is embedded in the project from the start. The competition will deliver an&nbsp;urban framework that defines the character, ambition and long-term identity of&nbsp;this&nbsp;former industrial precinct as it transitions to a vibrant, inclusive and sustainable residential&nbsp;neighbourhood.

The competition will be led by the Bays West Delivery Authority in partnership with Government Architect NSW.&nbsp;

It will launch with an invitation for a global Expressions of Interest, before moving to an invitation-only stage that will be assessed by a panel that&nbsp;will provide advice to Cabinet who will select a winner.

Premier of NSW, Chris Minns said the establishment of the new Authority is the first step in transforming the Bays West precinct into a vibrant, livable suburb minutes from the Sydney CBD and two stops from Hunter St Station on the Metro West line.

“The Authority will deliver well-located homes close to the heart of the city and integrate the new precinct with Blackwattle Bay and the new Sydney Fish Market.

“This is a generational opportunity to build a new suburb on the city’s edge and open the harbour foreshore to the public for the first time in a century.”&nbsp;

Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said the new Bays West Delivery Authority established by the Minns Government will turbocharge the development of Sydney’s newest suburb.

“The Authority is working at a record pace to deliver an international design competition, planning pathways and a financial model so that this development benefits Sydney with well-designed homes in a central location, close to public transport, jobs, entertainment and essential services.

“If we want Sydney to stay liveable and affordable, we need to be bold about using underutilised government-owned land to deliver homes for the future while making sure essential working harbour functions can be accommodated.”

Bays West Delivery Authority established to "turbocharge" Sydney’s newest suburb

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.

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<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?

Boutique Perth developer ADC has unveiled its latest project.

The developer, which focuses on bringing apartments to some of Perth's most premium inner-city and riverside suburbs, has launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/mos-lane-mosman-park-46-manning-street-mosman-park-wa-6012">Mos Lane</a>, 68 luxury apartments and townhouses in the heart of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/mosman-park-wa-6012">Mosman Park</a>.

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Alongside the one-, two-, three- and four-bedroom apartments, the development will also include five two-level townhomes and two luxe penthouses. ADC is also introducing a significant retail offering for residents through Mos Lane Village, which will feature a wellness studio, fish and chips shop, barber, and florist, adding a layer of amenity not typically found in the predominantly residential Mosman Park area.

Construction has already commenced on the project, which sits just a short walk from the Swan River, Mosman Park Bowls Club, and Mosman Park Golf Course.

House Agency Directors Tom House and Lachlan McDonald say they are fielding the majority of buyer interest from local downsizers, as well as buyers with a long-standing affinity for Mosman Park.
</section>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=148957 project_image_fid=364591]

Mos Lane will comprise two buildings; Samson House and Manning House, which have been designed by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/nelson-koo">Nelson + Koo</a>, an emerging design consultancy specialising in the masterplanning and design of mixed use places and spaces.

The two buildings adopt distinct architectural responses to their surroundings. Manning House references the strong roof forms of nearby homes, with floorplates oriented to maximise light and long-range views, while Samson House is organised around a central atrium designed to bring daylight deep into the building and create a greater sense of openness.

At ground level, the inclusion of five townhomes introduces a typology more commonly associated with Mosman Park’s established streets, each with private courtyards and direct frontage, offering a transition between traditional housing and apartment living.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=148957 project_image_fid=364103]

Interiors have been led by Melbourne-based Hecker Guthrie, with an emphasis on practical, long-term liveability. Residences incorporate sculpted joinery, generous storage and flexible multi-purpose rooms that can adapt to changing household needs, whether for working from home, guest accommodation or additional living space.

Material selections draw on a restrained palette of textured stone, timber and neutral tones, with options for lighter or darker schemes. Detailing such as fluted glass, full-height joinery and integrated appliances is intended to balance functionality with a more refined residential finish.

Outdoor spaces are a consistent feature across the development, with balconies and terraces designed for dining and entertaining, and larger apartments incorporating outdoor kitchens. Orientation has been considered to allow residents to choose between morning or afternoon sun, while mature street trees and landscaped communal areas contribute to a softer streetscape.

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Shared amenities are positioned to support both day-to-day convenience and occasional use. These include a private dining room with a caterer’s kitchen, alfresco entertaining areas, and a bookable guest suite for visiting friends and family. Additional practical features such as a resident workshop, storage facilities, car and pet wash areas, and concierge-style services for cleaning and dry-cleaning collection reflect a focus on usability.

Positioned between the Swan River and Cottesloe Beach, and within reach of schools such as Iona Presentation College and St Hilda’s Anglican School, the development is aimed at a broad buyer group, from downsizers seeking a lower-maintenance alternative to larger homes, through to local residents looking to remain in the area in a different housing format.

Mos Lane represents one of the more significant additions to Mosman Park’s limited pipeline, combining new housing supply with a village-style retail centre in a suburb where opportunities for large-scale redevelopment are relatively constrained.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=148957]

Living village precinct set for Mosman Park as ADC launches Mos Lane

Coveting a prime Swan River-facing site, is The Pearl, an exciting new addition to the South Perth skyline. Recently we were invited to check out their brand new display suite in person, so take a look at our video tour to learn more about the development.

Watch our recent video tour of the display suite:

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<h2>THE PEARL AT A GLANCE</h2>

Address:&nbsp;3 Lyall Street, South Perth 
Developer:&nbsp;<a href="/developers/prosper-living">Prosper Living</a> 
Number of residences: 132

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=9197]

Located at 3 Lyall Street, The Pearl is just a short stroll away from Mend Street precinct, minutes from South Shore Shopping Centre, and you can take the ferry across to Elizabeth Quay for an extensive array of dining options.

If you love the outdoors, you can spend your time at the Royal Perth Golf Club, exploring the Botanic Gardens, or embarking on a sunset sailing voyage navigating the picturesque Swan River. Perth CBD is only 4.4 kilometres away, plus you've got great schools, hospitals and universities nearby.

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The striking design incorporates a broad selection of floorplans, ranging from one to four-bedroom apartments, plus exclusive penthouses.

Many apartments are equipped with provisions for electric car charging and landscaping plans for verdant greenery, which will see the development achieve a 5-star Green Star rating.

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The architectural form of the structure, along with high-performance double glazing to the west, maximises natural cross-ventilation, reducing the need for artificial air conditioning. However, each apartment also includes a ducted split system unit, featuring a gilded linear grilles, which really elevates the space.

All kitchens are complete with designer Miele appliances – seamlessly integrated alongside ample storage. The material palette utilises luxurious porcelain stone with fluted panelling and tied together with golden accents.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=9197 project_image_fid=203309]

Each home offers the perfect open plan layout for entertaining – positioned to maximise views, no matter which aspect your apartment faces.

The design team even considered what would be most comfortable for residents with western-facing balconies and opted for additional glazing with operable windows, creating a space to be used year-round.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=9197 project_image_fid=203304]

What I love about The Pearl bathrooms is that they have been designed not just for functionality, but to be enjoyed. It's the little details, such as the elegant lighting and the bath positioned for sunset views, that make this such a tranquil space.

The attention to detail is also evident, as you can see here that the detailing on the vanity even references the exoskeleton of the facade.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=9197 project_image_fid=203450]

Level three of The Pearl is where you'll find your luxury amenities – and believe me when I say they're extensive. You've got state-of-the-art spaces to entertain, to relax, and to exercise.

Including:

<ul>
	<li>Resident's lounge</li>
	<li>Dining area with fully equipped kitchen and wine storage</li>
	<li>12 seat cinema</li>
	<li>Games room with a pool table</li>
	<li>An infinity edge pool</li>
	<li>A massage room</li>
	<li>Sauna</li>
	<li>Steam room</li>
	<li>Gymnasium</li>
	<li>Yoga deck</li>
</ul>

This is a rare opportunity to secure a brand-new home with unbeatable views, exceptional amenities and situated right in the heart of South Perth.

To learn more, submit an enquiry via Urban today and remember to subscribe to our youtube channel for more display suite tours.

Olivia Round

Display Suite Tour Video: The Pearl by Prosper Living at 3 Lyall Street, South Perth, WA

One of Perth’s biggest shopping centres has been given the green light for expansion in Booragoon.&nbsp;

The major milestone development is located adjacent to Iris Residential’s apartment project, Amara City Gardens, putting residents in prime position of the $792 million expansion of Westfield Booragoon.

Planning Minister Rita Saffioti said the expansion of the popular and iconic Westfield Booragoon Shopping Centre will not only create new retail opportunities, but it will also improve amenity for the local community, with the redevelopment’s new leisure, hospitality and entertainment precinct.&nbsp;

“The project is the latest to be approved through the Part 17 pathway which is helping streamline the assessment of complex, significant projects, injecting significant investment into the State's economy and creating a pipeline of jobs for Western Australians,” Saffioti said.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8266 project_image_fid=210093]

Residents of Amara City Gardens will have easy access to the new indoor/outdoor dining and entertainment precinct planned for the shopping centre, which will include landscaped and activated spaces, a town centre, and a new High Street linking Almondbury Road to Davy Street, connecting the Melville City Centre and Wireless Hill Park, in addition to creating easier links from Amara City Gardens to the centre.&nbsp;

With no need to worry about parking, resident’s will be able to walk their trolley to their door, with the new pedestrian links set to make it even easier, putting Amara residents within a short stroll of everyday necessities and leisure opportunities. &nbsp;

Stage One of the shopping centre expansion will include an upgrade to the existing cinema complex, as well as numerous food and beverage tenancies and a tavern. Retail will also be expanded, including a new boutique supermarket, a relocated and expanded Woolworths, and numerous mini and major speciality food tenancies, including a food laneway.

Stage Two will welcome an enhanced southern fashion mall, including an expanded and relocated David Jones, in addition to a number of mini and major retail upgrades.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8266 project_image_fid=199958]

Over 70 per cent of the apartments in Amara City Gardens have already been sold, with prospective buyers still able to snap up a two or three-bedroom apartment in the ideally located development.&nbsp;

Life at Amara City Gardens is already convenient with dining, entertainment, medical services and retail on its doorstep. This expansion will further 
benefit residents with additional life changing amenities, giving them the gift of more free time. Amara City Gardens proves to be a sound investment&nbsp;due to its positioning next to not only the already iconic Westfield Booragoon Shopping Centre, but now Western Australia’s future biggest shopping centre.

The brand-new apartments are now complete and ready-to-move in, with two-bedrooms starting from $550,000 and three-bedrooms starting from $790,000

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=8266]

Amara City Gardens in prime position to take advantage of one of Perth's biggest shopping centres

There's more than meets the eye with the Jolimont development, Florin Parkside, offering family-sized apartments in the heart of leafy suburb.

While connection and transport across the greater region is a breeze, residents will be hard pressed to find a reason to want to leave Florin, with the development home to a lifestyle that’s inspired by nature.&nbsp;

Stirling Capital designed the 63 residences to fit into the verdant neighbourhood, with the amenity offering suiting the locale.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108682 project_image_fid=200529]

Downstairs, Florin features arbours that are surrounded by landscaping, creating the perfect spot to have a barbecue with friends and family, with the space complete with dining facilities, shaded and unshaded seating, an indoor/outdoor kitchen and a fireplace.&nbsp;

A private lounge room is also on offer for residents, creating a comfortable escape that connects seamlessly to the outdoors, while also acting as an extension of the homes. The lounge features multiple seating zones and work-from-home space, along with a central fireplace that sets the mood for the relaxing retreat.

Conceived with a healthy and active lifestyle in mind, the neighbouring park offers the prime spot for a walk, while Florin’s fully-equipped gym offers a convenient way for residents to get a workout in.

Acting as a health and wellness zone, the area slo includes an outdoor yoga terrace, surrounded by lush green landscaping in a private and secluded zone.&nbsp;&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108682 project_image_fid=200534]

Resident’s furry friends aren’t forgotten either at Florin, with pet wash facilities on site for an after-walk pamper.&nbsp;

A mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments are still available at Florin, with floorplans spanning from 86 sqm to 289 sqm.&nbsp;

Construction on the six-storey development is slated for completion by early 2024.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108682]

A lifestyle inspired by nature: A look at the amenity on offer at Florin Parkside

Iris Residential has hit over 80 per cent sold in their Shenton Park development, Shenton Quarter.

With all the one-bed configurations already sold, just two and three-bedroom apartments remain, with prices starting from $590,000 for a two-bed, one-bath residence.

The three-bedroom apartments start from&nbsp;$925,000, comprising two-bath and two car spaces.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=26734 project_image_fid=153693]

Designed by the architects at Cameron Chisholm Nicol, each&nbsp;of the apartments include high ceilings, 100 per cent wool carpets, reconstituted stone bench tops and engineered timber floorboards.

The open plan living areas will seamlessly connect to Iris Residential’s signature expansive balconies, with the residences benefitting from city and part vistas.&nbsp;

Located within one of Perth’s most sought after suburbs, Shenton Park, residents will be at home with a plentiful array of amenity, including an integrated Coles supermarket, eateries and medical services.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=26734 project_image_fid=153694]

Shenton Quarter benefits from being just 400-metres from the Perth-Fremantle train line, making getting about the wider region a breeze. &nbsp;

Over 2,400 sqm of residential amenity has also been incorporated across the site, with generous provision for green spaces, as well as a 20-metre pool boasting city views, a yoga deck, barbecue and dining pavilion, an urban beach and a fruit and vegetable orchard.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=26734]

Iris Residential's Perth apartments, Shenton Quarter hits 80 per cent sold

With the lights of the CBD in its sights, South Perth offers some of the best skyline and river views in the city.&nbsp;

Offering a mix of swanky apartments and stately homes, the affluent suburb is home to the Perth Zoo, South Perth Foreshore, the historic Old Mill, as well as a string of prestigious schools and an endless range of cafes, restaurants and bars.&nbsp;

With only the Swan&nbsp;between residents and Perth’s CBD, the river plays a big part in South Perth’s identity and developers, Prosper Living, made sure to represent the iconic body of water in their latest residential project.&nbsp;

Inspired by the ancient Derbarl Yerrigan - the Swan River - The Pearl takes its place&nbsp;in a unique position on the South Perth peninsula, just under five-kilometres from the CBD.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=9197 project_image_fid=203301]

Its slender silhouette is animated by its shimmering facade that reflects the light from the river and sky, while organic curved balconies sweep across the facade, taking on the form and movement of the water below.

Just beyond The Pearl’s crown-topped tower lies an abundance of recreational pursuits, from high-end shopping to world-class music events, international sporting events, festivals, arts, and even Perth Zoo, which is just one minute from The Pearl.&nbsp;

Locally, the Mends Street precinct is a one-top destination for shopping, cafes and restaurants. Residents will be nearby to the city’s laneways and galleries, along with a number of boutiques, bars and hidden gems, which are scattered about Perth, just a stroll away from the steps of The Pearl.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=9197 project_image_fid=203307]

Tennis, bowling, golf and sailing clubs are also all close by, and the South Perth foreshore is a great spot for a sunset picnic as the lights of the city beckon across the river.

Kings Park – the green heart and lungs of the city – will connect residents back to nature. Two thirds of the expansive 4,000,000 sqm inner-city park is protected as bushland, providing a haven for a number of native animals, with the open green space also home to the Western Australian Botanic Garden, which has over 3,000 species of the State's flora.

For a trip beyond The Pearl, residents can take the ferry to Elizabeth Quay and savour all the delights of Perth’s newest dining and entertainment options. The waterfront precinct on the banks of the Swan River features the island playground, the BHP Billiton Water Park, along with public artwork, promenades, open spaces and a range of bars and restaurants. &nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=9197 project_image_fid=203303]

A range of scenic river cruises sail across from Barrack Street Jetty to the Swan Valley, Fremantle and Rottnest Island, while visitors can also enjoy some time on a segway, a gondola ride on the Swan or just take a leisurely stroll alongside the river and across the bridge. There’s also 24 short term public boat moorings available.

A number of one, two, three and four-bedroom residences can still be purchased in The Pearl, which is slated for completion by mid 2025.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=9197]

How The Pearl takes advantage of its coveted South Perth location

Boutique property developers, Megara has been given the green-light on their $73 million Sorrento Plaza development by the state's planning commission.&nbsp;

The eight-storey residential building, Ora Sorrento will deliver a collection of luxury beachfront apartments, designed by the award-winning MJA Studio, in what is pitched to reshape and reform the 5,777 sqm site at 128-134 West Coast Drive.

Taking inspiration from the Sorrento coastline, Ora will take on a cascading architectural form, with organic shapes, natural materials and enviable ocean views.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=137533 project_image_fid=209055]

The Western Australia Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage consulted with the City of Joondalup to streamline the process, which will deliver 75 apartments across eight-storeys.&nbsp;&nbsp;

According to a statement from Megara, the existing planning framework was reviewed with the local community, which highlighted the need for it to be updated to better reflect local aspirations for the landmark site.

For those who treasure the coastal life, Ora is home, say Megara, with the project set to deliver a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, along with exclusive four-bedroom penthouses.

Luxurious Swiss V-Zug appliances will be fitted out into each of the homes, as well as a number of sustainable initiatives, while the highly-sought after location will also bring along with it uninterrupted ocean views, which residents can enjoy from their balcony.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Boasting an array of luxurious spaces and amenities, resident's will enjoy resort-style living with a heated ocean view pool, gym, residents’ dining room, cocktail lounge and wine cellar incorporated throughout the site.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=137533 project_image_fid=209055]

“Ora represents a rare opportunity to enjoy an enviable coastal lifestyle so many aspire to,” Megara say.

The plans also propose two food and beverage tenancies, a public plaza, a bottleshop, 80 public car parking spaces and four motorbike spaces on the ground floor, along with the lobby for the residential apartments.

Situated between Geneff Park and Sorrento Beach, Ora residents will be within walking distance to an array of convenient amenity and recreational pursuits, including Hillary's Boat Harbour, which features a collection of restaurants, cafes and shopping opportunities, along with boating facilities.&nbsp;

Megara are only taking registrations of interest currently, with the project set to launch to the market in the new year.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=137533]

Megara’s Sorrento Plaza redevelopment green lit 

Work has&nbsp; commenced on a 136-hectare masterplannned community in the heart of the regional city, Busselton.&nbsp;

Positioned at the gateway to the Western Australian food and wine mecca of the Margaret River, the new community, Embark, is located in one of the fastest growing regions in the southern half of the state, which Yolk Property Group and Banner Asset Management are set to capitalise on.&nbsp;

Banner Asset Management Chief Investment Officer, John Byrne, said the project is the company’s first in Western Australia, marked as a strategic investment which diversifies its product portfolio and expands its national footprint.

“In addition to the asset’s outstanding location and residential zoning, we were drawn to the region’s rapidly growing population which is being stimulated by a broadening employment base and coastal lifestyle attractions,” he said.

<img alt="Render of Embark" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="01ab509d-034e-4f5f-be25-42da50fc7fcd" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Embark%20Busselton_Hero_View_High%20res_REV2%206k.jpg?VersionId=1L.trI5CTtKN49ZT774HShcHlCSBnJsH" />Render of the masterplanned community, Embark. Image supplied.&nbsp;

“Busselton has benefitted from significant private and civic infrastructure investment over the past few years making this an attractive long-term opportunity.”

956 new housing lots will be created across the site, which is bounded by the Vasse Highway, Bussell Highway and Outer Bussell Highway.&nbsp;

Plans are also already underway to open a pop-up café on site at Embark in the new year, and Yolk is working with the City of Busselton to fast-track an adventure playground and display village.&nbsp;

Tao Bourton, CEO of Yolk Property Group, said the company was pleased to see earthworks for the project get underway.&nbsp;

“We’re looking forward to bringing to Busselton our fresh-thinking approach to community, housing design and liveable neighbourhoods,” said Bourton, who has family ties to Busselton.&nbsp;

“The scale of the development at Embark will enable significant investment in community infrastructure, while the new design and landscaping concept will complement the natural landscape and adjoining residential community.”&nbsp;

In line with Yolk Property Group’s commitment to innovation, the focus at Embark Busselton will be on bigger blocks, with the average parcel of land spanning 650 sqm, in addition to more trees and natural vegetation, along with a host of features designed with the community and their lifestyle in mind.&nbsp;

<img alt="Render of Embark" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="03e45997-1867-452b-86bb-a1b82e132bc7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Embark%20Busselton_Streetscape_View_01_01_High%20res%206k.jpg?VersionId=jVvWidwLgqWnr.MAgoVO4uLICanDjTfr" />Render of the masterplanned community, Embark. Image supplied.&nbsp;

As the largest masterplanned community in Busselton, Embark will deliver a range of housing choices, including retirement living, along with a new town centre as well.&nbsp;

Mayor Grant Henley, who recently turned the first sod at the project site said Embark had an important role to play as the City of Busselton continued to evolve and grow in the coming years.

“Embark will help meet escalating demand for new housing as our population heads towards 50,000 people by 2026,” Henley said.

“Investment in infrastructure, attractions and our beloved foreshore have reaffirmed Busselton’s popularity as a thriving destination for visitors and thousands of new locals alike.”

Yolk is inviting expressions of interest in the first lots at Embark, due for release in February 2023.

Yolk Property Group and Banner Asset Management to deliver Busselton’s largest master planned community

The national property developer Goldfields is already seeing high demand for it's maiden Western Australia land development, set in the heart of wine country, Margret River.

The 47 hectare masterplan, called Spindrift, will be officially unveiled this month.

Construction has begun on the 423-lot project, three kilometres south of the Margaret River town centre in WA's South West area.

Spindrift is surrounded by a developed community to the west and established Karri trees to the north and east. The first release of land will have prices starting from $194,500.

Gareth Wilson, Goldfields General Manager in WA, said Spindrift was perfectly positioned within a short drive to town while still having access to the natural beauty of Margaret River.

He said the development’s larger lots, intelligent design and landscaped reserves would make it highly sought after in a constrained local real estate market.

“Margaret River offers a unique opportunity to live in one of Australia’s most picturesque and renowned destinations and continues to be one of the most sought-after regions in WA,” Wilson said. “Housing demand has continued to outweigh supply in Margaret River which is testament to the attractiveness of the South West lifestyle.

“Spindrift will play a pivotal role in meeting short and medium term demand for housing in Margaret River.”

Spindrift is centred on a strong sense of community, where residents can immerse themselves in nature while still enjoying the comforts and amenity of modern life. It&nbsp;will offer all the amenities expected of a contemporary estate, including immediate access to neighbouring parks and playgrounds, schools, shopping strips, cafes, restaurants and medical facilities.

<img alt="Spindrift Goldfields" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="45ea4607-d6af-4c87-9448-52c216d28499" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202022-11-28%20at%201.43.30%20pm_0.png?VersionId=g3sfILTkHvjeotjkCCiCGs2Xg1k2gbdh" />

Brook Palmateer, Associate Director at Acton Belle Property in Margaret River, said early interest levels in Spindrift were on par with that seen at larger, metropolitan housing developments.

“Interest is coming from a wide variety of people, but particularly local homebuyers,” Palmateer said. “That early interest has been all the greater because there are very few blocks on the market in the region at the moment.

“Everything has sold, there is hardly anything titled on the market and the only things that are titled at the moment are on very steep blocks that are harder and more expensive to build on. We have a significant lack of stock at this price point for people to choose from, across the whole South West region but particularly in Margaret River.”

The Augusta-Margaret River Shire recorded a sharp 17.8 per cent increase in population from 2016 to 2021 in Census data released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics. The estimated local population of 17,298 represented a year-on-year increase of 2.85 per cent compared to 0.93 per cent population growth in Regional WA more broadly.

According to the Real Estate Institute of WA (REIWA), there were a total of four properties advertised for rent on reiwa.com on 31 October 2022. In October 2021 there were two, and in October 2020 just one.

“We have a housing crisis in Margaret River and the surrounding region at the moment,” Palmateer added. “People cannot find anywhere to live – there is nowhere that is suiting them to buy, there’s no land to build on and we’ve got a rental shortage, and almost zero percent vacancy rate.

“80% of the walk-ins to our office are people looking for rentals. Margaret River in particular, closely followed by Dunsborough, are in the highest demand. Not only are a growing number of people keen to move here and enjoy the beautiful lifestyle now that they have more flexibility with working arrangements, but there are a lot of local people that are looking for housing as well, people that have been here 20-30 years. It is across the board.

“Spindrift is ideally situated to address this significant need for more housing in Margaret River and it is doing so at a great price point, in a central location close to amenities and all the natural beauty the region has to offer. This land will be snapped up swiftly.”

Construction has begun on the 423-lot project, three kilometres south of the Margaret River town centre in WA's South West area.

Goldfields launch Margaret River land estate, Spindrift

Construction has officially wrapped on Iris Residential’s Booragoon development, Amara City Gardens.&nbsp;

BGC Constructions handled the build of the $43 million project, with residents set to move in this month.&nbsp;

Located on the doorstep of Westfield Booragoon Shopping Centre, residents will be connected to an array of shopping, dining and entertainment options, while also having medical services, major banks, Wireless Hill Park and Melville Aquatic Centre on the doorstep of the development.&nbsp;

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Owner-occupiers&nbsp;have taken up a majority of the stock so far, with one and two-bedders with one-bathroom already completely sold.&nbsp;

Two and three-bedders with two-bathrooms make up the remaining stock in the project, with prices starting from $645,000.

Each apartment has been designed with spacious open-plan living and plenty of storage for the owner-occupier, with the apartments connecting to expansive balconies, with some even benefiting from city views.&nbsp;

Wide picture windows with double glazing and high 2.7 metre ceilings give a sense of space and light, while engineered oak floorboards and 100 percent wool carpets add luxury and warmth.&nbsp;

Bedrooms include walk-in-robes, while the kitchens are competed with the high-quality fixtures and finishes, including Smeg appliances, stone benchtops and built-in pantries.&nbsp;

Residents will also have direct access to the communal yoga deck, wine cellar, dining pavilion, barbecue terrace, gym, sauna and garden.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8266 project_image_fid=207248]

Designed with the family owner-occupier in mind, the three-bed apartments sit close by to a number of educational options, including Applecross Senior High School and Booragoon Primary School which are located 12-minutes’ walk from Amara, along with Murdoch University, which is just a short commute away.&nbsp;

Designed with the future in mind, Amara City Gardens achieves an average Nationwide House Energy Rating of seven stars, with initiatives including photovoltaic cells providing solar power for the common areas, boosted solar gas hot water systems, double glazed windows, a car-charging bay, a designated place to wash your car, secure bike racks, leafy, manicured gardens and creative artwork screens by award-winning local artist Anne Neil.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=8266]

Designed with the family owner-occupier in mind, the three-bed apartments sit close by to a number of educational options, including Applecross Senior High School and Booragoon Primary School which are located 12-minutes’ walk from Amara, along with Murdoch University, which is just a short commute away. 

Amara City Gardens completes construction

Boutique developers Norup + Wilson have been making a name for themselves across Perth for a number of years, having now amassed a portfolio that spans far and wide, with over half a billion dollars on the books.&nbsp;

Headed by Director’s John Norup and Dave Wilson, the group focuses on the owner-occupier, &nbsp;paying particular attention to the standard and range of first-class amenities on offer within their multi-level communities.&nbsp;

It’s been no different for the group’s imposing 21-storey community on the high-point of the coveted Mount Pleasant and Applecross peninsula - having attracted the interest of buyers not only for its enviable location.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8514 project_image_fid=203919]

“In order for a community to function efficiently and happily, an enormous amount of careful thought and effort needs to be invested in the planning, design and built-form solutions to which they lead,” said Wilson.&nbsp;

“From the outset of this ambitiously innovative residential development, my focus has been on ensuring that all the community facilities integrate seamlessly with the private living areas. In this way, resident privacy and security are maximised as elegantly as are the shared benefits of the resort-quality these facilities provide.”

“Our goal is to set an unrivalled benchmark in apartment living.”

The action begins across the ground floor, transitioning into a destination entertainment piazza featuring an eclectic assortment of cuisines and experiences, with a number of restaurants already operating on the doorstep of The Precinct, and a handful still to come.

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More often than not, developments focus their private amenity offering around the pool. The Precinct has instead incorporated the facilities into distinct zones throughout, allowing residents to fully enjoy each space.&nbsp;

Reminiscent of the finest resorts across the world, The Precinct is home to an indoor and outdoor gym, a running track, a swimming pool, Bocci pit, cabana daybeds, Teppanyaki barbecues, a residents lounge and library, a wine room and a kid’s play room.&nbsp;

For the exclusive use of Sky Residents from levels 17 to 21, a Sky Lounge is also part of The Precinct, encompassing some of the best views on the west coast.&nbsp;

“The only difference between this peaceful escape from the everyday and the kind of relaxing, five-star resort you’d find in some distant tropical paradise, is that this one is yours. Your own piece of paradise,” Wilson said.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8514 project_image_fid=203920]

The Precinct stands as the most prominent landmark in the Canning Bridge Precinct, commanding views of every facet of the city, from Kings Park and the CBD, to the converging Swan and Canning Rivers and the distant escarpment to the east.&nbsp;

Norup + Wilson chose the landmark site to maximise the Melville Council’s $235 million redevelopment vision for the precinct. Over the next ten years the Canning Bridge area is expected to be transformed with an expanded train station, river ferry and revitalised town centre on par with what was witnessed at Subiaco and East Perth.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=8514]

Reminiscent of the finest resorts across the world, The Precinct is home to an indoor and outdoor gym, a running track, a swimming pool, Bocci pit, cabana daybeds, Teppanyaki barbecues, a residents lounge and library, a wine room and a kid’s play room. 

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