<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/aura-by-aqualand-north-sydney-168-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">AURA</a>&nbsp;doesn’t just rise over North Sydney, it redefines it. Now in its final release, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/aqualand-australia">Aqualand</a>’s $1 billion architectural statement is not just complete, but already reshaping the way people live, connect and dine in this rapidly evolving harbourside CBD.

Positioned beside the new Victoria Cross Metro Station and boasting panoramic views across Sydney Harbour, Aura’s 386 residences crown a mixed-use precinct designed with unapologetic ambition. The curvaceous sandstone-inspired form by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a>, paired with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/richards-stanisich">Richard Stanisich</a>’s understated interiors, sets a design tone that’s both monumental and intimate.

At its peak, literally, the two penthouses so spectacular they command their own names; La Davina and Il Magnate. The residents are spread across the&nbsp;entire top floor, offering what many consider the most refined residences ever built in North Sydney. Designed by Richard and Kirsten Stanisich, each four-bedroom home is meticulously crafted to evoke calm, space, and permanence.&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/VB70993aG-I?si=adRBlXQliYmYvaSz" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

The kitchens are fully wrapped in natural stone, with integrated Gaggenau appliances, Sub-Zero fridges, concealed sculleries, and even a zip hydro tap delivering boiling, chilled and sparkling water on demand. A linear stone fireplace anchors the open-plan living space, dividing lounge and dining zones with quiet sophistication.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=292861]

The master suite, meanwhile, feels more like a private retreat, complete with a custom stone makeup vanity, walk-through dressing area, and spa-inspired ensuite with heated stone floors, a freestanding Villeroy &amp; Boch tub, and timber veneer joinery throughout.

Kirsten Stanisich, Director of Richards Stanisich, said the penthouses offer incredible scale reflective of a single residence.&nbsp;

“We sought inspiration for these remarkable residences from the classic top-floor Parisian apartment," Stanisich said.

"We looked at what made these French apartments so elegant and found it really came down to their scale. It was ultimately this generosity of space that we used for the AURA penthouses, where we’ve designed considered rooms with deep large-scale proportions."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=310337]

Everyday living at Aura feels no less elevated. A dedicated 24-hour concierge, Technogym fitness centre, sky dining terraces, and a resort-style pool serve a lifestyle designed to rival luxury hotels.

At street level, Aqualand’s own hospitality arm, Etymon Projects, curates a precinct of LA-style bistros, Japanese fine dining, and local wine bars, all seamlessly integrated into the building’s sculptural podium.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=310337]

This final chapter, aptly dubbed The Finale, is more than a sales phase, it’s an invitation to two of the most exclusive apartments ever to be built in North Sydney.

With limited residences remaining, buyers can access curated incentives including stamp duty rebates, rental guarantees, legal fee coverage, and even $20,000 towards dining within the precinct.

From generous one-bedders to The Icons, two singular penthouses priced well into prestige territory, Aura’s offerings reflect a scale and calibre rarely seen in urban Sydney. And with move-in now immediate, this is no longer a promise of future luxury. It’s happening.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=30959]

Staff Writer

Aqualand unveils penthouse collection at AURA By Aqualand in North Sydney

There’s no sign of the development wave that began several years ago slowing along Old Burleigh Road.

Around 10 new apartment developments are either underway or preparing to launch along the 800-metre strip stretching from the southern edge of Surfers Paradise towards the heart of Broadbeach, collectively adding just shy of 1,000 new apartments to the beachfront corridor.

The latest plans propose a further 30 apartments to replace an original six-unit walk-up on a 658 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/20a-old-burleigh-road-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">20A Old Burleigh Road</a>. The 14-storey building has been designed by Ferro Chow Architecture, which recently joined the Elevation Architecture Group.

The developer behind the project is Geoffrey Booth, whose Future Liv In has focused on delivering rental accommodation across regional Australia.

<img alt="Old Burleigh Road" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="99d393e7-d404-43bc-80cb-6255c39b83d6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-01-05%20at%2012.28.44%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=ZFT8F3mOny4M4ut.kFF3woC9WH9oR5gT" />

The Old Burleigh Road development will comprise 18 two-bedroom apartments, 10 three-bedroom apartments, and a single four-bedroom residence occupying the entirety of level 12. Above, the building will be crowned by a two-storey penthouse with its own private lift, several multi-purpose rooms, and two rooftop terraces — one featuring a puppy lawn and spa, the other offering a private swimming pool, sunset deck, and built-in barbecue.

Resident amenities will be located on the second level and include a pool with adjoining spa, cabana, and pool deck, along with an indoor residents’ lounge featuring a bar and an alfresco barbecue kitchen.

In the architectural statement submitted by Elevation Architecture, the project is referred to as “UMI”, which the firm says has been “inspired by the majestic hinterlands and shaped by the coastal climate”.

“It is an exemplar of how community living can still feel at one with nature, breathable, and deeply connected in place,” the architects noted.

They added that the site benefits from established building separation to adjoining towers, helping to maintain privacy, sunlight, and residential amenity, while still offering direct beach access within an urban setting.

“Drawing inspiration from the Gold Coast hinterlands and the region’s natural landscape, the podium and tower detail highlights the contrasting elements of treetop green and cliff-face peach. The vibrant texture and materiality shaped by time has a richness in depth and character.”

<img alt="Old Burleigh Road" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b3d6c923-a0ab-4d74-86da-177313447e8e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-01-05%20at%2012.28.38%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=i2fygmoVQM6hWpbATTAW_yTitoMTrnI1" />

Old Burleigh Road has become a hotspot for developers, with the three-tower Jewel development kickstarting a wave of projects up and down the strip when it was completed in 2020.

Currently under construction and approaching completion is <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/faro-broadbeach-123-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">FARO Broadbeach</a> by 5Point and Bottega, 21 large-scale half- and full-floor apartments. 5Point is also behind the recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/lumara-108-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">Lumara</a>, another 37 apartments to add to the pipeline.

Luxury builder GRAYA is progressing construction on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/enclave-by-graya-118-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">Enclave</a>, its first Gold Coast tower, while Polycell remains the most active developer on the street. They are preparing to launch <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/sandpiper-broadbeach-155-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">Sandpiper</a>, a 50-storey redevelopment of the former Sandpiper Holiday Resort that will deliver around 200 apartments alongside extensive resident amenity. The group also has another 130-apartment project approved nearby, as does <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/dvb-approved-for-second-broadbeach-apartment-development">Dean Gallagher’s DVB Projects</a>.

Joel Robinson

First look: Old Burleigh Road apartment development wave continues

Sunshine Coast developer Habitat Development Group continues to position itself as one of the region’s largest new apartment developers.

Its latest project is in Maroochydore, where it is currently delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-millwell-2-millwell-road-east-maroochydore-qld-4558">The Millwell</a>. Adjacent to the new 53-hectare Maroochydore City Centre project, Habitat is planning a further 180 apartments on a 3,468 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/132-136-aerodrome-road-maroochydore-qld-4558">132–136 Aerodrome Road</a>. The site was purchased with approval for a smaller 13-storey, 103-unit building.

Habitat will demolish the two existing retail centres, currently home to the Salvation Army Family Store and Neighbours Aid, and replace them with an 18-storey building featuring the significant rooftop amenities that have become a hallmark of Habitat developments in recent years. The rooftop will include both indoor and outdoor spaces, anchored by an infinity swimming pool.

<img alt="Maroochydore" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ad434d07-666b-4614-b33e-530ad6a2d261" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-01-05%20at%2010.12.33%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=7pyLsPWKQuwv0us3_v.9DmbzEc2VZe9Z" />

There will be a mix of one- to four-bedroom apartments.

The Development Assessment Report, submitted to the Sunshine Coast Council, says the proposal&nbsp;is not speculative, but a response to both zoning intent and demonstrated housing need.

“The proposed development represents an appropriate and logical intensification of the site, consistent with the planning framework and the intended urban outcomes for the locality.”

Across the Sunshine Coast, councils are increasingly scrutinising not just height or yield, but whether new projects genuinely align with the long-term structure plans underpinning growth corridors. The&nbsp;ASTP Planning Report&nbsp;reinforces the approach, noting that the project has been shaped around site responsiveness rather than generic typology.

“The development has been designed to respond to the physical constraints and opportunities of the site, while delivering a high-quality residential outcome that integrates with the existing and emerging urban context.”

<img alt="Habitat" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3a03fc54-4ca5-4868-88d0-eeced70604e2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-01-05%20at%2010.12.28%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=1pkK3lJrrZjkghTLBReM2zatcas4Nc4B" />

In mid-2025, Habitat, a developer that also builds its own projects, commenced construction on The Millwell, located just over one kilometre from the new proposal. The Millwell will comprise more than 200 apartments across two eight-storey buildings.

Habitat also has two projects on Lake Kawana in Birtinya: <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/st-clair-birtinya-930-931-waterside-retreat-birtinya-qld-4575">St Clair</a>, a 200-unit, two-building development launched last year and set to welcome buyers this year; and Esperance, a 175-apartment project currently progressing through the development approval process.

First look: Habitat continues to bolster Sunshine Coast apartment pipeline with Maroochydore development plans

John Camilleri, the breeder of legendary racehorse Winx, is set to deliver a landmark two-tower beachfront development that would redefine the Surfers Paradise skyline.

Camilleri, who spent around $100 million acquiring development sites across the Gold Coast in 2025, has lodged plans for two new towers on the dress-circle stretch of Garfield Terrace, just two days before Christmas.

In assembling the site, Camilleri's Celestino Developments has effectively acquired the 71 Garfield project by Iris Capital and AALTO by Weiya Holdings, creating an unrivalled <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/63-79-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">4,000 sqm beachfront holding along Garfield Terrace</a>.

The proposal comprises two residential towers of 55 and 48 storeys, linked by a dramatic skybridge which will home “exclusive VIP and wellness amenities.”

In total, the development would deliver 275 two-, three- and four-bedroom apartments across the two towers, rising above a shared landscaped podium that incorporates a central green space and a beachfront swimming pool stretching more than 90 metres.

<img alt="DBI" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="097900f3-6bef-4919-b168-b08f2f762876" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-30%20at%209.37.58%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=et0SpmcvaPPVrexI_zWi46BVFtZBxAzx" />

Architecture firm DBI, in documents submitted to Gold Coast City Council, said the project at 63–79 Garfield Terrace would “establish a new benchmark for beachfront residential living on the Gold Coast.”

"The project occupies a rare, uninterrupted oceanfront site and has been shaped by a design philosophy that merges architectural elegance with environmental responsiveness and a carefully curated lifestyle experience. Together, the 48-storey North Tower and 55-storey South Tower form a distinctive twin-tower composition whose dynamic silhouette will make a significant contribution to the Surfers Paradise skyline."

DBI said the architectural language draws inspiration from the fluidity and movement of the coastal landscape.

"Each tower is defined by organic, curving forms and continuous balcony ribbons that wrap the buildings, providing deep shading, enhancing environmental performance, and reinforcing the rhythmic, sculptural expression of the façade. These balcony forms also reduce the apparent mass of the towers while maintaining strong visual continuity from podium to summit. Sculpted reflective downturns run along the western spine of both towers, shifting and lifting as they extend upwards to frame service zones and open eastward to maximise ocean views."

<img alt="Garfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a2a00ce3-a0e9-45d6-b4b5-b7baed592ac5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-30%20at%209.53.40%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=DnruWV1dhLrtXOeElwekyd7vPq2gw55t" />

The project’s most striking feature is the skybridge at level 45, which will house executive lounges, formal dining spaces, wellness facilities and panoramic ocean-facing views.

“The skybridge enhances the identity of the development, promotes social interaction, and delivers a lifestyle experience not found elsewhere on the Gold Coast,” DBI added.

The podium will host an extensive suite of recreational amenities, including resident lounges, private dining rooms, a large open green lawn, and the signature 90-metre pool stretching along the beachfront. The pool is divided into lap, lounge and children’s zones.

The southern end of the podium will accommodate additional wellness facilities, including a gymnasium, plunge pools, treatment rooms and a dedicated yoga lawn.

<img alt="Garfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ee1b4f25-231f-4804-83b1-a573a1481962" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-30%20at%209.55.47%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=zObzIA3D5w7EwqPsHjr2pKrA4vbB28zL" />

There will be 127 apartments in the North Tower and 148 in the South Tower, including multiple penthouses, while the Enderley Avenue and Oceanway frontages will be activated by a series of food and beverage tenancies.

Camilleri emerged as the most active site acquirer on the Gold Coast in 2025. He spent just over $30 million acquiring Pacific Point, a 10-level Surfers Paradise apartment block and an adjoining three-level duplex, from fellow racing identity and Aquis billionaire Tony Fung. Plans are now underway for a 93-apartment, 40-storey tower on the 1,682 sqm site.

He also paid $53.65 million for the 1,500 sqm Garfield Terrace site previously marketed as AALTO by Weiya Holdings, before acquiring the adjoining parcel from hotel billionaire Sam Arnaout’s Iris Capital, the developer behind V&amp;A Broadbeach.

First look exclusive: Billionaire Winx breeder’s bold two-tower Surfers Paradise play with 45th-storey skybridge

The Melbourne-based HLA Group is the latest developer to expand into South East Queensland, lodging plans for a unique mixed-use short-term accomodation and apartment building in Taringa, with the building design inspired by the Glasswing Butterfly.

The development application for 10 Morrow Street seeks approval for a total of 232 dwellings, comprising 116 residential apartments and 116 short-stay accommodation units. The build-to-sell residential component is made up of 31 one-bedroom apartments, 67 two-bedroom apartments, 17 three-bedroom apartments, and a single four-bedroom apartment, offering a diverse mix aimed at singles, couples, families, and downsizers.

<img alt="Taringa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="33913cd4-9839-4456-b325-d35b3f8b4694" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-23%20at%203.40.26%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=sLvc7jUrYzDwqPDZBPrXTosKHDSp.qrt" />

Designed by Ellivo Architects, the tower takes strong inspiration from nature, with the architectural language driven by one of Queensland’s most delicate species. As described in the planning documents submitted to Brisbane City Council, Ellivo Architects state the design is “inspired by the elegance of the Glasswing butterfly," and mirrors the graceful sweep of its wings, a form that feels light, fluid, and alive.

“Lush subtropical greenery is throughtfull woven throughout, transforming the building into a sanctuary in the heart of the city.”

The proposal positions the building as more than a conventional residential tower, with Ellivo Architects describing 10 Morrow Street as “an urban oasis that blends short term accomodation with residential living. A destination for rest, relaxation, and renewal.”

<img alt="Taringa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="84e9a0ff-464e-4973-bffe-5d5a8fe9f087" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-23%20at%203.40.32%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=dhX9eVgUaQE2TvCzJPhF8N8_hzYSKpyK" />

Formally, the building’s massing and floorplate are directly shaped by its butterfly inspiration. Ellivo explain that, “adopting the wings of the Glasswing Butterfly, the tower's plan is divided into four distinct quadrants, each shaped to mirror the wing's segmented geometry and taking the slender ‘veins’ up the facade of the tower.”

"This approach results in a sculpted tower form with articulated façades and a strong vertical expression."

<img alt="Taringa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5947011d-ff6c-4a57-bdc1-9072a472a79c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-23%20at%203.40.29%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=nnGqd4WCZM8AOJZY.c3u49BO4LurKRhb" />

The Assessment Report by Human Habitats said the 19-storey tower capitalises on its strategic connectivity and prominence at the entrance of Taringa Village and adjoining the Taringa Station.

"The proposal offers a significant revitalisation of the subject site that integrates architectural excellence, innovation, and sustainable design to directly address long-standing connectivity and safety challenges, housing supply , and diversity together with enhanced streetscape activation and convenient access to major transport corridors."

HLA Group Australia is registered to South Yarra and is currently delivering Adamson No.5, just 15 luxury apartments that start from around $2 million.&nbsp;

The Butterfly Effect: Glasswing butterfly inspires Taringa apartment development

Cottee Parker

Established in Brisbane in 1989 by Geoff Parker and Rob Cottee, Cottee Parker has evolved into a national practice with studios operating in Brisbane, Gold Coast, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney.

The firm, which combines “intellect and creativity with a skilful, sensitive approach to design”, has garnered recognition for their design outcomes.

“We design considering culture, environment and the human condition to produce responsive and sustainable solutions. We use our experience, skills and knowledge to create designs that work for clients and the community”, the multi-disciplinary practice said.

Past projects include Queens Wh​arf in Brisbane, one of Australia's most ambitious cons​truction projects, and West Si​de Place in Melbourne.

“I wanted to create a strong legacy to leave behind, and I am extremely confident that I have done exactly that,” Cottee said.

Over 50 projects designed by the firm are currently listed on Urban. Below are four of our favourites that homebuyers can secure via Urban today.

1. Mirador, Chevron Island 
Developer: Citimark Properties

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107520 project_image_fid=183047]

A unique blend of built form and nature, Mirador has been designed by Cottee Parker as part of the coastal identity of Chevron Island.

The 71 luxury residences respond to ocean views while reinforcing a coastal through a refined material palette including its white façade, bronze metal features and natural stone elements.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107520 project_image_fid=183048]

Two, three and four-bedroom apartments are generously sized with butlers’ pantries, island benches, wrap-around balconies and walk-in robes.

Extensive landscaping is also a key design feature, with cascading greenery softening the built form whilst providing a lush subtropical backdrop to the residential recreational spaces including the pool, gym, wellness and barbeque areas.

2. Seasons, Birtinya 
Developer: Cube Developments

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106957 project_image_fid=184863]

Cottee Parker has been engaged on a new residential project by Cube Developments that is certain to attract young property buyers.

Situated in the growing coastal suburb, Birtinya, Seasons is a trendy $102 million apartment development with almost 150 units in two, three and four-bedroom configurations.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106957 project_image_fid=184873]

Architect Sandra Brown said an emphasis on aesthetics, generously sized apartments and a number of amenities was expected to impress young buyers.

“We have focused on a range of materials to achieve a sleek, urban feel [with] timber, aluminium, plenty of greenery, as well as getting a lot of the off-form concrete into the design,” she said.

3. Nature by Cube, Cotton Tree 
Developer: Cube Developments

[smartcode_project:default project_id=89721 project_image_fid=172109]

Nature, located in the small waterfront suburb of Cotton Tree, will deliver 12 luxury residences.

Designed by&nbsp;<a href="/architects/cottee-parker-architects">Cottee Parker</a>, the development sits high above the Maroochy River, surrounded by green parkland and ever-shifting tidal sand bars.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=89721 project_image_fid=172111]

“The brief that Cube gave us [was] we want the best the Sunshine Coast has ever seen”, Sandra Browne said.

The sculptural project features a glass façade and hosts a number of amenities, including a 25-metre lap pool, gym, steam room and spa, yoga lawn and sun lounging areas.

4. Lowanna Beach Resort, Buddina 
Developer: WOW Group

[smartcode_project:default project_id=101206 project_image_fid=162030]

Lowanna, an Aboriginal word that is often used to describe exquisite beauty, is the namesake of the newest development to hit Buddina.

Three buildings make up the new Lowanna Beach Resort offering, each presenting a different perspective of the surrounds, and connected by centralised resort facilities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=101206 project_image_fid=162024]

All residents can enjoy the luxurious landscaped gardens, light-filled, tropical open communal areas and pool and barbeque facilities.

Residences boast generous floorplans, large balconies, plenty of storage and high-quality finishes.

“I wanted to create a strong legacy to leave behind, and I am extremely confident that I have done exactly that,” Cottee said. 

max.kwok_55688

Cottee Parker Architects' four best Queensland projects currently selling on Urban

Seasons Birtinya, on the Sunshine Coast, has proved to be popular with all demographics, as Cube, one of the area&#39;s most well-regarded developments, put together a development which was both design driven and price led.

Cube had their go-to architecture firm, Cottee Parker Architects, who have designed the developer&#39;s most high end stock in the area, create Seasons, with the overarching design principles to connect residents to the local community and to differentiate the design from its neighbours.

Priced from $499,000, the apartments have been a hit with first home buyers, local and interstate investors, as well as downsizers.

Urban recently spoke to Sandra Browne, director at Cottee Parker,&nbsp;to discuss the design ideas behind Seasons.

JR: What was the brief from Cube for Seasons? What were the key features that were essential?&nbsp;​

SB: The&nbsp;brief was to create a unique and elevated &#39;Work Rest Play&#39; environment in response to the post COVID lifestyle shift, with leading amenity for the Sunshine Coast.

JR: Was there a project that inspired you in the design?

SB: We&nbsp;initially&nbsp;drew inspiration from some&nbsp;inner-city&nbsp;Melbourne projects, and&nbsp;then evolved and adapted these to speak to the Sunshine Coast lifestyle -&nbsp;with a point of difference being an enormous amount of amenity to take advantage of the weather, the adventure and a&nbsp;sense&nbsp;of health and wellbeing.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106957 project_image_fid=184863]

JR: What were the most important features of the site/location which influenced your design?

SB: Its position on Lake Ka​wana alongside the ocean&nbsp;and&nbsp;hinterland views - these factors heavily influenced the design and vision which ultimately&nbsp;culminated&nbsp;in in utilising lots of natural light and in building three individual towers with central cores.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106957 project_image_fid=184864]

JR: What was the biggest challenge in the design of Seasons?

SB: The unique shape of the site and balance area left over from Stage 1&nbsp;proved a challenge when&nbsp;placing amenity destinations throughout the common areas.

JR: How do you approach designing a three-tower development?

We engaged Cottee Parker architects to ensure our building design captured all views on offer with lots of natural light as&nbsp;well as&nbsp;appealing to a variety of purchasers through the right apartment mix.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106957 project_image_fid=184866]

JR: What part of the design are you most proud of/ most looking forward to seeing when the towers are completed?

SB: Looking forward to seeing the terrace apartments of Stage One as well as seeing the three apartment towers work together as an integrated precinct.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=106957]

Priced from $499,000, the apartments have been a hit with first home buyers, local and interstate investors, as well as downsizers.



How the Sunshine Coast apartment development, Seasons Birtinya, was designed: Five minutes with Cottee Parker's Sandra Browne

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As the tallest building in the Queens Wharf precinct, Queens Wharf Residences boast some of the most spectacular views in Brisbane – and if that isn't enough, the towering skyscraper also features a publically-accessible skydeck which offers 360* views.

We caught up with Place Projects' Matt Brandon to learn more about what makes Queens Wharf Residences a truly unique and exciting development. 

<figure><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" height="328" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/19fnkgww.jpeg?itok=Gvt_Kzuu" title="Queens Wharf Residences. Image supplied." width="580">

<figcaption>Queens Wharf Residences. Image supplied.</figcaption></figure>Urban.com.au: Which aspects of the Queens Wharf Residences development are you most proud of and why?

Matt Brandon: Location and architecture. Queens Wharf is in the CBD of Brisbane, the development will feature iconic contemporary architecture created by Cottee Parker, alongside beautifully restored heritage buildings and provide locals and tourists with more than 12 football fields of public space to enjoy. Forming 10% of the CBD footprint, it will strengthen Brisbane’s reputation as an international tourism, leisure and entertainment destination.

<figure><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" height="387" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/cblpn9na.jpeg?itok=7rJ5OVS2" title="Queens Wharf Residences. Image supplied." width="580">

<figcaption>Queens Wharf Residences. Image supplied.</figcaption></figure>U: If a buyer was deciding between Queens Wharf Residences and a similar residential development in the area, what do you think makes Queens Wharf Residences unique and the favourable option? 

MB: I do not believe there is a similar development in Brisbane that comes close to the Queens Wharf Development. The $3.6 billion integrated resort is unrelieved in the Brisbane market. It will create new riverfront spaces, fine and casual dining options to suit every taste and budget, exciting nightlife and entertainment, local and international retail brands, world-class 4.5, 5- &amp; 6-star hotels, and private residences.

<figure><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" height="328" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/v1dlydek.jpeg?itok=6sg6ikQm" title="Queens Wharf Residences. Image supplied." width="580">

<figcaption>Queens Wharf Residences. Image supplied.</figcaption></figure>U: In your opinion, what are some of the best amenities on-site or nearby?

MB: Apart from the 12 football sized public space and the Integrated Resort Developpement, there is more than 50 bars and restaurants, access to the Neville Bonner pedestrian bridge to South Bank, access to the brand new Star Casino and the soon to be world-renowned sky deck that sits more than 100 meters above street level and has a maximum capacity of 1500 people. 

Queens Wharf Residences amenities: 

 Exclusive residential facilities:

<ul>
<li>22m lap pool  </li>
	<li>Spas</li>
	<li>Pool lounges</li>
	<li>Indoor/outdoor seating areas</li>
	<li>BBQ and dining areas and facilities</li>
	<li>Residents’ lounges</li>
	<li>Private dining rooms</li>
	<li>Cinema</li>
	<li>Steam room and sauna</li>
	<li>Gymnasium  </li>
	<li>Yoga spaces</li>
	<li>Wine lounge</li>
	<li>Business centre</li>
</ul>
<figure><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" height="968" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/cok3hhpu.jpeg?itok=00iQCpqo" title="Queens Wharf Residences. Image supplied." width="580">

<figcaption>Queens Wharf Residences. Image supplied.</figcaption></figure>U: What was the inspiration behind the design of the development?

MB: World-class structure &amp; facilities that rivals other major world cities.

<figure><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" height="326" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/049atefu.jpeg?itok=LPk_k8E4" title="Queens Wharf Residences. Image supplied." width="580">

<figcaption>Queens Wharf Residences. Image supplied.</figcaption></figure>U: If you had to use only five words to describe Queens Wharf Residences, what would they be? 

MB: Brisbane's World-class Integrated Resort Development 
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Olivia Round

Brisbane apartment of the week: Queens Wharf Residences, Brisbane CBD

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As construction nears completion on Far East Consortium’s <a href="/buildings/the-towers-at-elizabeth-quay-11-barrack-square-perth">Ritz Carlton in Perth</a>, the renowned developers have shifted their focus to its new $1.4 billion project which will take place in Perth's Northbridge. Four years ago, <a href="/developers/far-east-consortium">Far East Consortium</a> acquired the prime location for the complex, with plans to transform the site into a dual-tower multi-use complex.

The <a href="/architects/cottee-parker-architects">Cottee Parker</a>-designed '<a href="/new-apartments/perth-hub-600-wellington-street-perth">Perth Hub</a>' has undergone many design iterations over the journey, before gaining approval last year. One tower stands at 32-storeys tall and comprises 304 residential apartments. The second tower will house the 4-star Dorsett hotel and will feature 250 rooms across 23-storeys. An exception to the tower height restriction was made, due to the floor space being creatively redistributed throughout the tower – <a href="https://www.watoday.com.au/national/western-australia/perth-city-link-158-million-two-tower-development-project-approved-20180809-p4zwh7">demonstrating design excellence</a>.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/perthhub_web02.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The two towers situated in the heart of Northbridge shopping district. Credit: Far East Consortium"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="395" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/perthhub_web02.jpg?itok=Z722K6WK" title="The two towers situated in the heart of Northbridge shopping district. Credit: Far East Consortium" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The two towers situated in the heart of Northbridge shopping district. Credit: Far East Consortium</figcaption></figure>Situated across the popular shopping strips of King, Perth and Lake Streets, the property will act as a gateway to the city’s famous shopping district, as well as housing its own 1,200 square meter retail shopping complex. It’s also close to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches and walking distance to cultural landmarks including Scitech Science Museum, His Majesty’s Theatre, Kings Park, and the Art Gallery of Western Australia. The project is estimated to bring approximately 1 million visitors to the area per year, which will assist with boosting Perth’s annual tourism rates.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/perthhub_web04.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The 4-star Dorsett Hotel. Credit: Far East Consortium"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="395" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/perthhub_web04.jpg?itok=n0k2raxn" title="The 4-star Dorsett Hotel. Credit: Far East Consortium" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The 4-star Dorsett Hotel. Credit: Far East Consortium</figcaption></figure> 

<blockquote>
"As construction and development progress over coming years, we will see retail, hospitality and hotel operations continue to boost the State’s economy… local, interstate and international visitors have Perth Arena and Yagan Square at their feet with the added bonus of direct train services to key destinations. With new hotel options, this will now be the ultimate destination for commuters and a popular weekender escape." 

- Planning Minister Rita Saffioti
</blockquote>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/perthhub_web03.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Perth Hub residential tower. Credit: Far East Consortium"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="395" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/perthhub_web03.jpg?itok=PkC63IIL" title="Perth Hub residential tower. Credit: Far East Consortium" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Perth Hub residential tower. Credit: Far East Consortium</figcaption></figure> 

The residential tower has been designed with a range of apartment configurations available, to facilitate first-home-buyers entering the property market.

<blockquote>
“We think Perth Hub is going to be a really good opportunity for youthful buyers. We are very much targeting it at the young or young at heart.” 

- FEC WA manager Dan Sweet.
</blockquote>

The desirable location and affordable rates have seen 120 off-the-plan apartments sell almost instantly, with only 184 residential properties left on the market. Interested? <a href="/new-apartments/perth-hub-600-wellington-street-perth">Enquire here</a>.

Guest and resident amenities include a lobby bar, meeting space, spa facilities and a direct connection to the underground Perth Central Station and Bus Port.

Completion is anticipated for mid-2020.
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Far East Consortium's ‘Perth Hub’ proves popular with buyers who want to live next to Perth Arena

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While Victoria was preparing for the Melbourne Cup last week, the Queensland State Government announced it had approved a Master Plan for The Star Gold Coast valued at over $2 billion, providing a massive boost for tourism across South East Queensland (SEQ) and creating 10,000 jobs in the region. 

In approving the Master Plan concept, The Premier, Annastacia Palaszczuk, said the proposal by The Star Entertainment Group and its partners Far East Consortium and Chow Tai Fook Enterprises, provided a platform for further investment at the Broadbeach Island integrated resort site.

The Master Plan approves the construction of four new towers, each with the potential to generate up to 1,800 jobs during construction. A further 3,000 ongoing operational jobs would be created between the towers, restaurants, bars, days spas and other facilities.  Along with the four additional towers, the $2 billion-plus Master Plan includes the following:

<ul>
<li>Significant new restaurant and bar precincts</li>
	<li>Increased entertainment and retail options </li>
	<li>Lush new resort facilities</li>
</ul>
<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/the_star_gc_master_plan.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The approved $2bn Master Plan will feature an additional four towers. Image: The Star Entertainment Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="892" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/the_star_gc_master_plan.jpg?itok=iBHQ4eEz" title="The approved $2bn Master Plan will feature an additional four towers. Image: The Star Entertainment Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The approved $2bn Master Plan will feature an additional four towers. Image: The Star Entertainment Group</figcaption></figure>The approval of The Star's Master Plan follows a series of major milestones as part of an initial $850 million redevelopment including:

<ul>
<li>the opening of the luxury hotel The Darling</li>
	<li>the redevelopment of The Star Grand</li>
	<li>the purchase of The Sheraton Grand Mirage and;</li>
	<li>the start of construction of the Dorsett hotel and apartments tower.</li>
</ul>
The Star was the first official partner of the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games, the host venue for the Logies in July, and will host the Queensland Tourism Awards this month.The Star has also committed to delivering these tourism investments with no extra poker machines.

The first phase of the overall Master Plan’s five new towers  - dubbed 'The Star Residences' - was approved in December 2016 and is currently under construction. The 53-storey tower has been designed by DBI Design and Cottee Parker and will include a 316 room Dorsett hotel in addition to 423 residential apartments with an expected completion date of 2022. 

A phased approach is proposed for the development of the additional four towers and facilities. According to The Star Entertainment Group, the latest segment of the Master Plan is over and above the already-committed multi-billion dollar investments from the consortium partners into SEQ.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/slider-star-gc-01-2000x1125.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The now under construction Star Residences represents the first phase of the new Master Plan. Image: Far East Consortium"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/slider-star-gc-01-2000x1125.jpg?itok=x1-2m3Fq" title="The now under construction Star Residences represents the first phase of the new Master Plan. Image: Far East Consortium" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The now under construction Star Residences represents the first phase of the new Master Plan. Image: Far East Consortium</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say...</h2>

<blockquote>
This approval gives The Star and its partners the opportunity to lift The Star's profile with international tourists to even greater heights. Over the past four years Star has demonstrated its confidence in Queensland’s tourism outlook by making significant investments to drive economic growth and job creation on the Gold Coast.

The Star Entertainment Group is driving a massive injection of private sector funding into Queensland’s tourism industry, creating thousands of construction and operational jobs and opening up countless new supply opportunities for Queensland businesses.

On completion of The Star Gold Coast and its $3.6 billion Queens Wharf Brisbane development, the consortium will have created up to 10 hotels, with almost 3,000 rooms between them, and up to 100 restaurants and bars. This translates into some 15,000 new jobs for Queenslanders.

Queensland is pivotal to The Star Entertainment Group’s approach and it continues to proudly support and host major events in Australia’s events capital of the Gold Coast. As a top 100 ASX company, The Star Entertainment Group, also plans to relocate its corporate office to Brisbane, which is another salute to Queensland.

- Annastacia Palaszczuk, Queensland Premier
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
The Master Plan in its entirety would see The Star Gold Coast boast more tourism accommodation than any other resort in Australia. The 3000 hotel rooms and apartments would also exceed what the world-renowned Marina Bay Sands in Singapore offers, and be on a scale to compare with the largest integrated resorts in Las Vegas.

Once the Queen’s Wharf Brisbane transformation is complete, and if The Star Gold Coast Master Plan is rolled out in full, we will have tourism assets across SEQ worth around $9 billion. This includes the original assets on the Gold Coast and Brisbane, and the considerable and ongoing investments we have made in both those destinations.

We are delighted to receive the State Government’s approval of our expanded Master Plan. Our site at Broadbeach is the perfect location for continued development of tourism assets that will deliver to the Gold Coast an integrated resort capable of competing with the best on a domestic, regional and global basis.

This would be a project of incredible scale, delivering substantial economic benefit to the State from jobs and increased tourism visitation. In addition to The Star Grand, The Darling and The Dorsett hotel tower, our expanded Master Plan provides the opportunity for another four towers and world-class facilities.

They would include a stunning recreational deck, water features and hero pools, a quality day spa, new dining precincts, more bars and cafes, exciting entertainment facilities, plus a nightclub where international acts can be showcased.

The Master Plan also looks at ways to enhance the connection of Broadbeach Island with Pacific Fair, the Gold Coast Convention Centre and the surrounding Broadbeach precinct.

-  Matt Bekier, Managing Director and CEO of The Star Entertainment Group
</blockquote>
</body></html>

Laurence Dragomir

The Star Gold Coast receives State approval for Massive $2 billion Master Plan

Milton-based Pointcorp has added another residential development in waiting to its portfolio, this time in Burleigh Heads.

41 apartments are spread over the 15 level Cottee Parker-designed high-rise at&nbsp;1827 Gold Coast Highway. Reflective of another high-end planning application for Broadbeach&nbsp;<a href="/news/bassar-group-to-test-broadbeachs-luxury-apartment-market-depth">first outlined by Urban.com.au last week</a>, the Burleigh Heads developments consists of oversized apartments aimed at owner-occupiers.

Pointcorp's newest project consists of purely three bedroom apartments. What is effectively a repetitive floorplate sees apartments sizes in three options;&nbsp;172, 205 and 207 square metres.

The prominent 1,271 corner site is currently a service station, with nearby towers having already created a comparable height precedent.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/image5_22.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Cottee Parker's new Burleigh Heads addition."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="454" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image5_22.jpg?itok=koP3UXa1" title="Cottee Parker's new Burleigh Heads addition." width="580" /></a>

<figcaption>Cottee Parker's new Burleigh Heads addition.</figcaption>
</figure>

<blockquote>
The development represents a distinct podium and tower form, with a highly articulated and modulated built form and façade. At ground level the retail space extends along the Goodwin Terrace frontage and part of the Gold Coast Highway.

The retail spaces includes glazing and openings to these frontages to encourage the activation of the streetscape and the continuation of activity along Goodwin Terrace. A residential foyer, plant and services and driveway access are located on the Gold Coast Highway frontages.
<cite>Cardno Town Planning Report</cite></blockquote>

1827 Gold Coast Highway represents Pointcorp's first major apartment development outside of the Brisbane market. The&nbsp;Burleigh Heads application is also another notch in Pointcorp's growing development pipeline.

In another step toward diversification Pointcorp is also at the helm of Brisbane's 458 Brunswick Street which will be branded&nbsp;Hotel Indigo&nbsp;Brisbane&nbsp;Fortitude Valley.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/image8fg.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hotel Indigo Brisbane Fortitude Valley is part of the Pointcorp stable"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="486" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image8fg.jpg?itok=0fgOVROF" title="Hotel Indigo Brisbane Fortitude Valley is part of the Pointcorp stable" width="580" /></a>

<figcaption>Hotel Indigo Brisbane Fortitude Valley is part of the Pointcorp stable</figcaption>
</figure>

Alongside 30 high-end apartments and 1,000 plus square metres of commercial space, the project has also signed on&nbsp;IHG to operate 146 hotel rooms. It has a nominal completion date of 2020.

Pointcorp's bread and butter to date has been residential projects across Brisbane.

Construction continues on&nbsp;Teneriffe's Fabric Apartments which includes 73 dwellings within a golden-clad Cottee Parker-designed mid-rise. Construction recently wrapped up on The Maxwell at New Farm's&nbsp;40 Maxwell Street, and Pointcorp has in its keep a luxury Elenberg Fraser-designed project next door.

44 Maxwell Street is a&nbsp;riverfront block that has approval for&nbsp;14 three bedroom apartments capped by a single penthouse. A sizeable rooftop terrace and pool would maintain&nbsp;sight lines over Story Bridge.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/p8310239-1024x768.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Pointcorp's image of Fabric's construction progress during August"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/p8310239-1024x768.jpg?itok=W8R7Po-S" title="Pointcorp's image of Fabric's construction progress during August" width="580" /></a>

<figcaption>Pointcorp's image of Fabric's construction progress during August</figcaption>
</figure>

silvermb

Pointcorp adds a luxury Burleigh Heads project to its boom portfolio

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The fourth and final tower within Far East Consortium's (FEC) $1b West Side Place multi-tower development has been released. Located on Spencer and Lonsdale Streets, West Side Place is directly opposite FEC's now complete Upper West Side neighbourhood.

Known as The Park Release, the 70-storey mixed-use tower follows the success of the 72-storey Gold Release fronting Lonsdale Street. The approx. 235m high building will accommodate 684 apartments and a 4-star 312 room Dorsett branded hotel, offering views across the Flagstaff Gardens.

As part of the redevelopment of the 12,000 sqm former Age site, a new laneway will be developed connecting Lonsdale St and Little Lonsdale St, providing restaurants and an extensive number of retail sites focused around a central landscaped public realm.

The Park Release features a mix of one, two and three bedroom apartments all designed to maximise natural light and completed with high-end quality fit-outs.

Residential amenities are located on levels 9 &amp; 10 and include a residential lounge, private dinning rooms, wine tasting room with wine cellar, garden terrace with BBQ facilities, rooftop cinema, virtual golf, lap pool, plunge pools, gymnasium and yoga and pilates spaces and more.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/wsp02.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Park Release draws on its location adjacent to West Side Place's central park. Image: Far East Consortium"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="414" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/wsp02.jpg?itok=Dtqv-Rwq" title="The Park Release draws on its location adjacent to West Side Place's central park. Image: Far East Consortium" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Park Release draws on its location adjacent to West Side Place's central park. Image: Far East Consortium</figcaption></figure><h2>The Park Release Quick Facts</h2>

<ul>
<li>70-storeys, approx. 235m in height</li>
	<li>684 apartments</li>
	<li>4-star Dorsett hotel comprising 312 suites</li>
	<li>Over 3,000 sqm ground floor retail space</li>
	<li>Over 475sqm of park and open space</li>
	<li>Views over Flagstaff Gardens and the city skyline</li>
	<li>World-class amenities including lounge, private dining rooms, rooftop cinema and more.</li>
</ul>
Meanwhile, head contractor Probuild is ramping up construction on Stage 01 with the erection of two tower cranes and the formation of the first core.

Stage 01 comprises a total of 1,359 apartments and Melbourne's first Ritz-Carlton hotel across two towers - the 81-storey Tower 1, which will house the Ritz-Carlton and the 64-storey Tower 2 which will rise to heights of 270m and 211m, respectively.

Stage 01 of West Side Place is scheduled for completion in 2022.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/wsp_probuild.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Probuild is progressing with construction of stage 1. Image: Probuild"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="582" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/wsp_probuild.jpg?itok=xSX3j6jM" title="Probuild is progressing with construction of stage 1. Image: Probuild" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Probuild is progressing with construction of Stage 01. Image: Probuild</figcaption></figure>
</body></html>

The Final Stage of West Side Place released as construction ramps up on stage 01

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Developer <a href="/developers/far-east-consortium">Far East Consortium</a> has unveiled its expansive green rooftop garden atop its 2,500 apartment Upper West Side development. Spanning over 4,000sqm, and situated 25 metres above the street, the rooftop has been developed to create a new benchmark for green inner-city spaces.

Urban.com.au was invited on a tour of the development by the project team.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/img_1772.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Upper West Side rooftop garden."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_1772.jpg?itok=4GbaslxS" title="Upper West Side rooftop garden." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Upper West Side rooftop garden.</figcaption></figure>Located in the heart of <a href="/new-apartments/melbourne-vic">Melbourne’s CBD</a>, on the site of the former Lonsdale Street powerstation, Upper West Side’s communal rooftop represents almost one acre of landscaped podium rooftop gardens, lounge areas, barbecue spaces and ‘The Bouldering Cave’, an innovative horizontal rock-climbing wall area.

A resort-style pool will be added to the mix upon completion of the Manhattan building and its associated podium, thus completing the expansive rooftop area. While a fifth tower aptly named '<a href="/buildings/the-fifth-605-lonsdale-street-melbourne">The Fifth</a>' will complete the rebranded Rose Lane frontage to the development, it is seen as a stand-alone project independent of Upper West Side with its own podium and rooftop.

Designed by <a href="/architects/cottee-parker-architects">Cottee Parker Architects</a> in conjunction with njr and associates, Upper West Side’s green rooftop amenity represents an investment in excess of $3.5 million and includes a range of soft and hard landscaping features to enable greater recreational opportunities for residents, setting a new standard for inner-city living.

There are 40 species of trees and plants with the trees ranging in age from 8-25 years. Water is drawn from the rainwater collected on the rooftop and grey water from the Midtown tower's showers.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/img_1776.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The gardens draw on rainwater collected from the rooftop and grey water."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_1776.jpg?itok=nTRzkHGr" title="The gardens draw on rainwater collected from the rooftop and grey water." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The gardens draw on rainwater collected from the rooftop and grey water.</figcaption></figure>Architect Shane Williams of Cottee Parker Architects describes Upper West Side’s rooftop space as a garden in the sky, designed to allow residents and their visitors the opportunity to relax in a space as close to a natural environment as possible despite living in an apartment building.

<blockquote>
When designing Upper West Side’s outdoor rooftop spaces, we carefully considered how each plant would establish over the next 10 to 20 years, choosing plants that had colour, vibrancy and variety, with fruit-bearing, flowering and edible vegetable species included to ensure we could create a as well as sensory- pleasing garden for residents.

Each rooftop space varies in size, weaving in and out between buildings, with the various podiums and tower roofs not only offering various levels of quiet and intimacy for residents but also designed to capture optimum rainfall, to in turn irrigate and cultivate all on-site planting.

Urban forestation is very topical at the moment and we were keen to embrace this as much as possible with Upper West Side.

In addition to notably lowering peak temperatures caused by hard-surface heat radiation, the rooftop design will retain storm water flow for continued plant growth.
<cite>Shane Williams, Lead architect, Cottee Parker Architects</cite>
</blockquote>

Another key point of difference to Upper West Side is ‘The Bouldering Cave’: an area devoted solely to a set of rock climbing walls. Strategically positioned, the walls have an organic appearance and are crafted with a cementitious material, while the floors manufactured with a recycled rubber material, to allow residents to feel they are climbing on actual cliff faces.

The space also serves the dual purpose of providing wind mitigation to the inner rooftop garden areas.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/upper_west_side_-_the_bouldering_cave.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The 'Bouldering Cave'. Image courtesy of Far East"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/upper_west_side_-_the_bouldering_cave.jpg?itok=mzQpq1ug" title="The 'Bouldering Cave'. Image courtesy of Far East" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The 'Bouldering Cave'. Image courtesy of Far East</figcaption></figure>Other amenities include bocce fields, outdoor lounge areas, communal kitchen/barbecue and dining spaces, a 25-metre indoor lap pool and sauna, a fully equipped gymnasium and a shared function/study area.

<blockquote>
We believe Upper West Side has set a new benchmark for green living in Melbourne’s CBD. Just because we are building apartments rather than traditional quarter-acre blocks, doesn’t mean we can’t also deliver on dynamic green spaces for our residents, too.

With such a growing number of apartment buildings, comes a requirement to deliver adequate green spaces and amenity. The rooftop gardens and creative amenity spaces at Upper West Side highlight just how far we can take it.

The response from our residents reinforces Far East Consortium’s development direction towards creating expansive garden spaces within each of our projects.

The success of the project really comes down to the shifting trends in the CBD apartment market – green spaces are essentially the way of the future.
<cite>Craig Williams, Executive Director, Far East Consortium</cite>
</blockquote>

With Manhattan racing towards completion and The Fifth well out of the ground, both Far East and Cottee Parker's attention now turns to the mammoth $2.5 billion West Side Place development.

Located across the road on the former site of The Age, the project represents a further evolution and development of some of the key aspects of Upper West Side. The project is officially due to be launched on the 4th of June but has already attracted strong interest from prospective purchasers.

Stage 1 of the project comprises 1370 apartments across two towers and featuring a 263 room Ritz Carlton Hotel, sky lobby and associated hotel facilities, in addition to ground floor retail and food and beverage.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/1_west-side-place-update.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="West Side Place. Images courtesy of Cottee Parker"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="253" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/1_west-side-place-update.jpg?itok=Ub2EEUSb" title="West Side Place. Images courtesy of Cottee Parker" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>West Side Place. Images courtesy of Cottee Parker</figcaption></figure>
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Moving on up: Upper West Side unveils its rooftop garden

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Media circles last week reported that Melbourne CBD's tallest tower (to date) had received planning approval. With news of the revised planning application <a href="/news/the-dawn-of-a-new-age-and-melbournes-new-tallest-building" target="_blank">first broken by Urban.com.au</a> during November last year, recent reporting of approval for 250 Spencer Street relates to the site masterplan. In effect, approval for an overarching development envelope rather than the final design.

Indeed approval has been given for four towers of between 205 and 300 metres in height, although the ultimate design for each has yet to be submitted. What is known is architecture firm Cottee Parker will deliver near on 3,000 apartments and two hotels of some 488 rooms over the four towers.

<a href="http://www.afr.com/p/business/property/new_melbourne_skyscrapers_approved_2FE9rMf2vSkp83L8dLVOYI" target="_blank">As reported</a> in the Australian Financial Review last week, Far East consortium have secured Ritz-Carlton to anchor the premium hotel space, located within the top 15 levels of the tallest, 300 metre tower.

With the final design not yet submitted for approval, a grainy yet excellent indicator was included in developer Far East Consortium's newly published 2014 Annual Report. The hulking towers seen below dwarf neighbouring northern residential developments, and bare a strong resemblance to the <a href="/news">endorsed masterplan concept</a>.

<figure><img alt="" height="572" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/pictures/article-images/image2250s.jpg" title="The expected development? Image sourced via the FEC Annual Report" width="454"><figcaption>The expected development? Image sourced via the FEC Annual Report</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
In June 2013, the Group acquired another piece of land (known as 250 Spencer Street Site), located next to the Upper West Side development with site area of approximately 1.176 hectares. 250 Spencer Street Site is currently with a planning permit for residential development with a total sellable area of approximately 2.2 million sq. ft.

The project is expected to consist of approximately 3,000 residential apartments and will be developed in phases.
<cite>Far East Consortium 2014 Annual Report</cite>
</blockquote>

As outlined within the statement above, Far East Consortium aren't strangers to delivering large-scale projects as directly opposite the company has recently released for sale <a href="/news/the-fifth-605-613-lonsdale-street-melbourne" target="_blank">The Fifth</a>. Its 399 apartments join the 2,207 existing/under construction apartments of Upper West Side for a staggering total of 2,606 dwellings over five towers. All five residential buildings were also conceived by Cottee Parker.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/img_6987.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Piling work along the southern boundary"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_6987.jpg?itok=wUdnC0ev" title="Piling work along the southern boundary" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Piling work along the southern boundary</figcaption></figure>Currently 250 Spencer Street resembles a bomb site of sorts as Guilfoyle Demolition reduce The Age's former citadel to little more than dust. While demolition continues, a piling rig has also been plying its trade onsite implying that at the very least Far East Consortium intend to waste no time emulating the success of Upper West Side.
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Far East Consortium's massive 250 Spencer Street design unveiled?

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Hong Kong-backed local developer Far East Consortium has begun pre-sales marketing for the fifth and final installment of their Upper West Side residential development. Currently at planning, The Fifth Apartments otherwise known as 605-613 Lonsdale Street, continues the strong working relationship between developer and architects Cottee Parker.

Responsible for the initial four residential buildings that constituted Upper West Side, Cottee Parker have again delivered a scheme for 605-613 Lonsdale Street which was purchased by Far East Consortium, enabling a fifth tower within the greater development.

<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image100.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="As envisaged from Spencer Street. Image © Cottee Parker"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="905" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image100.jpg?itok=5xKWoMtW" title="As envisaged from Spencer Street. Image © Cottee Parker" width="580"></a>

<h2>Planning assessment details</h2>

<ul>
<li>The Fifth Apartments @ 605-613 Lonsdale Street</li>
	<li>51 levels and 165.45 metres in height</li>
	<li>1,491 sq.m site including 133 sq.m under Rose Lane</li>
	<li>399 apartments - 64 x one bedroom, 291 x two bedroom, 44 x three bedroom</li>
	<li>279 sq.m of retail over four separate tenancies to Rose Lane and Lonsdale Street</li>
	<li>204 car spaces, 6 motorbike spaces, 122 bicycle spaces provided within two basement levels and six podium levels, accessed via two car lifts from Lonsdale Street. </li>
</ul>
<h2>Cottee Parker guiding factors</h2>

<blockquote>
From a built form perspective the proposed design aims for three principal objectives: to activate the ground plane with retail tenancies and foyer entry to the exposed frontages; to provide a podium activated with apartments and of a scale that contributes and enhances the street wall face to both Lonsdale Street and Rose Lane; and a tower of apartments that reinforces the Hoddle Grid in its orientation on the site, is set back off its boundaries to separate its form from the podium below, and offers maximum access to sunlight and views across the city and beyond.
</blockquote>

Externally the tower varies from its neighbours by featuring copper and champagne metal cladding over the tower, whereas other UWS towers rely upon curtain wall glazing or precast finishes. Arranged in a rectilinear pattern, The Fifth's facade is accentuated by bronze tinted glass balustrades and is presented in almost a haphazard manner to pique visual interest.

<blockquote>
The resultant expression is of a random cellular nature with added layers of complexity developed by the location of the glazing and the secondary solid balustrade components.
</blockquote>

Although the western end of the CBD continues to flourish with a bevy of new developments, The Fifth will find its only direct residential interface with the adjoining 56 level Manhattan which is currently under construction. Both buildings front Rose Lane and as such 3.86 metres separate the towers at street level. Setbacks to Lonsdale Street above podium level maintain a minimum of six metres while separation to the adjoining Manhattan above podium is generally maintained at ten metres.

<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/roi-image-02-1927x1101.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A touch of Jack Merlo. Image © thefifthapartments.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="331" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/roi-image-02-1927x1101.jpg?itok=r3oTMHJz" title="A touch of Jack Merlo. Image © thefifthapartments.com.au" width="580"></a>

<h2>Internal amenity</h2>

Jack Merlo has been charged with delivering The Fifth's recreational areas, totalling 396 sq.m. Residential amenity over level 6 includes a gym, lounge and terrace while pool, spa, teppanyaki grill and rooftop garden are also present.

Nine apartments per floor is the norm for the tower component with fewer apartments located over the podium levels, acting as a car park wrap. No less than 22 separate apartment floorplans are available within The Fifth with the most proportionately generous being a level seven 2bed/bath at 225 sq.m, 156 sq.m of which is terrace. More typical spaces of between 47 sq.m and 108 sq.m constitute the majority of the 399 apartments expected to head to sales upon final approval.

<h2>Development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Far East Consortium</li>
<li>Architect: Cottee Parker Architects</li>
<li>Structural &amp; Civil: Winward Structures</li>
<li>Traffic: Cardno</li>
<li>ESD Consultant: Wood &amp; Grieve</li>
<li>Services, Fire &amp; Lift Engineer: Wood &amp; Grieve</li>
<li>Hydraulics: Hydrautech</li>
<li>Acoustic Engineer: Acoustic Logic</li>
<li>Surveyor: Jeavons &amp; Tomkinson</li>
<li>Building Surveyor: Phillip Chun</li>
<li>Waste: Wastech</li>
<li>Town Planner: Fulcrum Planning</li>
<li>Wind Engineer: Melconsultants</li>
<li>Facade Engineer: BG&amp;E Consulting</li>
<li>3D Renders: Luminova</li>
</ul>
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