When Antoinette Chan and her architect husband, Peter began casually searching for an investment property, they weren’t expecting it to evolve into a life-changing family decision.

But one visit to the display suite of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen-group">Abadeen</a>’s <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/koyo-crows-nest-1-11-rodborough-avenue-crows-nest-nsw-2065">KOYO</a> development in Crows Nest changed everything, and sparked a remarkable story of three generations choosing to live side by side in one of the suburb's most architecturally-striking new developments.

Antoinette, her mother Janet Khoo, and her sister, who is currently living in Singapore, each purchased an apartment in the same building, creating a rare and meaningful multi-generational living arrangement underpinned by modern design, community values, and premium convenience.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108800 project_image_fid=356083]

“It wasn’t planned,” says Antoinette, who purchased a three-bedroom garden apartment with her husband and teenage daughter. “Peter came across KOYO and encouraged me to visit because he had a lot of respect for Abadeen’s previous work. As soon as we saw it, we knew it wasn’t just an investment, this was a home.”

Shortly after, Antoinette suggested her mother, Janet Khoo, take a look at the same development. A long-time inner-city resident who had recently sold her property in The Rocks, Janet had experienced some health setbacks and was contemplating a move closer to her daughter.

“I walked into the display apartment, and it just felt right,” says Janet. “I didn’t look anywhere else. The space, the simplicity of the design, the light, everything gave me a sense of peace. It’s a new beginning, but it also feels like home.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108800 project_image_fid=356093]

In a stroke of serendipity, Janet selected the two-bedroom apartment next door to her daughter, completely unaware of Antoinette’s purchase. Around the same time, Antoinette’s sister, who resides in Singapore, viewed the property via a virtual tour and chose to buy the apartment directly above Janet’s.

“We were all drawn to KOYO individually, and it just happened that our homes ended up vertically stacked, ground, first, and second floor,” Antoinette laughs. “It was a coincidence, but also a sign. This is where we’re meant to be.”

Designed by celebrated architect <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/koichi-takada-architects">Koichi Takada</a>, KOYO delivered on all fronts for the Chan-Khoo family.

“Our garden apartment gives us the feel of a standalone home but with none of the maintenance,” says Antoinette. “All three bedrooms open onto a generous private garden, which is perfect for our dog Archie, and for entertaining. The open-plan layout and high ceilings make it feel airy, calm and luxurious.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108800 project_image_fid=356092]

For Janet, security and accessibility were top priorities, and KOYO offered the ideal balance.

“At my age, I didn’t want to be climbing stairs,” she explains. “The first-floor apartment opens directly to the garden, and the building is small, which gives it a more personal, village-like feel. Yet I’m just steps away from my daughter and granddaughter. That gives me so much peace of mind.”

The family also appreciated the thoughtful amenities that avoided the excesses of some larger developments.

“We didn’t want a complex with too many facilities we wouldn’t use,” explains Antoinette. “KOYO has everything we need, generous storage, secure parking, beautifully landscaped walkways, and a stunning rooftop terrace with BBQ facilities that feels serene rather than busy.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108800 project_image_fid=355428]

The location was another critical factor in the family’s decision. Though they had always lived closer to Sydney’s eastern suburbs, Antoinette says the transformation of Crows Nest was a revelation.

“When we returned from living overseas, we discovered Crows Nest had become this vibrant, walkable hub,” she says. “We love being able to stroll to cafés, restaurants, and shops on Willoughby Road. The new Metro makes the commute into the CBD effortless, and our daughter can walk to her school, it’s just next door."

Janet agree. “I was worried about giving up my inner-city lifestyle, but I’ve fallen in love with this area. It has everything I need, supermarkets, quiet streets, friendly faces, and it’s all a short walk away. I feel safe, independent, and connected.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108800 project_image_fid=356085]

While design and location were important, the family also credits their decision to Abadeen’s reputation and responsiveness. With decades of experience delivering high-quality residential projects, Abadeen’s track record helped build trust during a volatile market period.

“The waiting game was tough, especially after selling my old apartment,” says Janet. “But the Abadeen team kept me updated every step of the way. They were professional, courteous, and transparent.”

Antoinette said Peter works in property and had already heard of Abadeen. "The quality of their work really impressed us, and as the project neared completion, they went above and beyond to keep us informed and supported. That level of communication is rare.”

Only a handful of three-bedroom residences remain for sale, priced from $3.5 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108800]

Joel Robinson

Three generations, one address: How a family found sanctuary and connection at Abadeen's KOYO in Crows Nest

Sydney-based developer Gold Partners Australia is making its move on the Gold Coast, launching what is one of the most affordable towers to the booming Broadbeach market.

Its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/harmony-on-broadbeach-2797-gold-coast-highway-broadbeach-qld-4218">Harmony on Broadbeach</a> project, just 400m from the beach, has prices starting from $975,000 for its two-bedroom apartments that measure nearly 90 sqm internally.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113098 project_image_fid=355607]

There will be 113 two- and three-bedroom apartments spread out across the 33-storey tower on the 1,201 sqm site that will front First Avenue. Gold Partners Australia, which has delivered several major projects in Sydney's Norwest and has an active pipeline with projects in Hornsby and Carlingford, secured the block vacant, and want to start preliminary site works early next year through their in-house construction capability.

DBI Architects designed the tower with a four-level podium which will have an open-air swimming pool, sun deck, outdoor lounges, alfresco dining spaces, and a gym with adjoining yoga lawn. A hospitality venue will anchor the building at street level.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113098 project_image_fid=355611]

Olympus Property Group is selling Harmony on Broadbeach on behalf of Gold Partners Australia. Olympus Director Deanna Lockett says the project is resonating with everyone from locals, investors, those moving from interstate, and second home buyers from Brisbane.

"There's been nothing new come to the market in Broadbeach at this price point for nearly a year," Lockett recalls. "It hits the sweet spot of affordability, good sized apartments, in a great location."

Construction will commence in Q2 2026, and wrap up, all going well, by the end of 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=113098]

Harmony on Broadbeach launches to booming Gold Coast suburb

Display apartments play a crucial role in helping buyers imagine how a space will look and feel once complete.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-albertine-by-mirvac-melbourne-31-queens-lane-melbourne-vic-3004">The Albertine</a> in Melbourne, development giant Mirvac has partnered with furniture maker and retailer MCM House to create a fully furnished, full-scale prototype that showcases the proportions, finishes, and design intent of the project’s three-bedroom residences.

As an added incentive, purchasers of any two- or three-bedroom apartment can receive up to $50,000 worth of MCM House furniture, allowing them to curate their new home with the same craftsmanship, contemporary design, and aesthetic showcased in the display apartment.

<a data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ae2e947b-2d51-4288-88fa-a35638e3be0f" href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-albertine-by-mirvac-melbourne-31-queens-lane-melbourne-vic-3004"><img alt="Albertine" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-11-25%20at%209.27.26%E2%80%AFAM_1.png?VersionId=T5uSwgtTFwd1m5EdQF1inB.tBDgxqbtZ" /></a>

Oversized sofas, solid timber dining tables, and relaxed, low-profile seating demonstrate how the space accommodates real furniture, helping buyers clearly visualise how their new apartment could look, complete with pieces that genuinely suit the scale and design of the home.

The styling is simple but deliberate, with materials that pick up on the apartment’s natural light and neutral tones, creating cohesion without crowding the space.

<a data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="355f10d8-ee75-4546-a42e-4a54abcc806e" href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-albertine-by-mirvac-melbourne-31-queens-lane-melbourne-vic-3004"><img alt="Albertine" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3e0b920b-3f17-47f0-8885-f67697a5f842" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-11-25%20at%201.17.07%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=tPcmBls5kt_SLqE2ONXrxgk5SnC1xERs" /></a>

Mirvac is now welcoming buyers through the display at The Albertine. Quietly yet conveniently positioned just off St Kilda Road on Queens Road, the development has attracted strong interest from inner-Melbourne and Bayside downsizers, professional couples seeking luxurious low-maintenance living, and design-focused buyers who want proximity to the CBD.

Apartments have been designed by Mirvac's inhouse design team with owner-occupiers at the forefront.&nbsp;The living and dining areas open directly onto a balcony, reinforcing the project’s emphasis on indoor-outdoor flow, while kitchens feature integrated appliances and soft-curve cabinetry which mirror the larger architectural themes at play throughout the building.

<a data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e8f9b371-17e1-4122-a615-074113096135" href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-albertine-by-mirvac-melbourne-31-queens-lane-melbourne-vic-3004"><img alt="Albertine" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-11-25%20at%209.30.16%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=NCYvtMavnE1_YDhX6slAr7g84MWP0Ymp" /></a>

The Albertine offers one to four-bedroom residences complemented by exclusive resident-only amenity, including The Circadian Club, a wellness centre with an indoor pool and spa, gym, yoga and Pilates studio, and sauna, as well as The Elysian Room, a private dining space on level 10 with sweeping views across Melbourne.

Mirvac will welcome residents to The Albertine in 2026, having recently celebrated topping out the&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mirvac">Mirvac</a>&nbsp;recently topped out&nbsp; the topping out of The Albertine, with completion expected in 2026.

To find out more about the generous furniture offer with MCM House, enquire below.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=138659]

Mirvac unveils The Albertine display, offering up to $50k in MCM House furniture

Since the pandemic hit Australia, there’s arguably not been a suburb anywhere in the country more popular than Palm Beach. Data from Apartments.com.au showed that from 2020 to 2021, enquiry spiked by 130 per cent, driven predominantly by local and interstate purchasers snapping up luxury beachfront apartments.

While enquiry levels returned to early (though not pre-pandemic) levels in 2022, the appetite for living in the coastal enclave didn’t fade. The dip in enquiry was due simply to supply running out; every development was selling out in record time. Search traffic, one of the clearest indicators of buyer interest that reflects demand beyond available supply, remained as high as when enquiries peaked.

Developers responded quickly. They were snapping up sites left, right, and centre, racing to bring projects to market to meet the ongoing demand. Many of those who benefited from the COVID-induced boom are now back in the suburb again.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa Property Group</a> is one such developer. Having perfectly timed its entry into the Palm Beach market, Sherpa launched Perspective Two Sea and Perspective 488 at the height of the boom. Perspective 488 sold out in three months, impressive in itself, before the developer went on to sell out Perspective Two Sea, just nine full-floor apartments, in a matter of weeks, with prices ranging between $3.5 million and $4.75 million.

Sherpa has since completed Perspective Nexus, which sold out prior to its recent construction completion, and has just commenced work on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/amargo-6-12-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Amargo</a> on Sixth Avenue, the first project under its new Flourish brand, designed to offer more price-accessible apartments. Already, 85 per cent of Amargo’s apartments have sold, starting from under $600,000, and Sherpa has secured three more sites in the suburb for future projects.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146527 project_image_fid=306037]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ignite-projects">Ignite Projects</a>, led by Josh Foote, followed a similar trajectory. Foote delivered Periscope in 2019, then rode the post-COVID boom, selling out Cabana Palm Beach, 30 apartments, in just eight weeks. It was one of the fastest-selling projects on the Gold Coast at the time, with prices ranging from $1.775 million to over $5.5 million.

Foote has now re-entered the Palm Beach market with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/retreat-palm-beach-188-jefferson-lane-palm-beach-qld-4221">Retreat Palm Beach</a>, a 56-apartment development on Jefferson Lane, featuring two- and three-bedroom residences, most with butler’s pantries, private outdoor spaces, and curated interior finishes. Prices range from $1.35 million to $3.95 million. Ignite will soon commence construction, having recently brought building capability in-house.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134965 project_image_fid=1851]

Foote says Palm Beach has transformed dramatically in the last six years. “The buildings we knocked down for Periscope had needles and all sorts falling out of the walls. The units themselves literally had junkies and prostitutes living in them,” Foote recalls. “In many ways, the development in Palm Beach has obviously done the suburb a huge benefit. I feel the planning department could be a little loose now though, and there will be regrets later as it changes so rapidly.”

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[smartcode_project:default project_id=134965 project_image_fid=1845]

It’s been a little longer between projects for Brisbane-based <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/bpg-developments">BPG Developments</a>, which completed Sable Palm Beach in 2019, shortly before the COVID boom. The developer is now returning with plans for a 14-storey tower featuring 68 apartments and three double-storey townhouses facing Jefferson Lane.

BPG Director Glen Williams, who runs the company alongside Nick Parr, says the duo only develop in locations they love. “I’ve been a part of the Currumbin Surf Club for the last two decades,” Williams says. “We love the southern end of the Gold Coast and are looking forward to bringing more apartments to the area.”

The appeal of Palm Beach has also drawn interstate developers. Sydney-based <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen-group">Abadeen</a> selected the suburb for its Gold Coast debut, securing a site on Mawarra Street near Palm Beach State High School. The developer is nearing completion of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/villea-palm-beach-26-mawarra-street-palm-beach-qld-4221">Villea</a>, a 69-apartment project that will sit above an activated ground plane. Abadeen Founder and Chairman Justin Brown says Palm Beach was a natural choice.

“We recognised an opportunity to introduce our prestigious brand into a location that is absolutely thrumming with demand for high-end living,” Brown says. “Palm Beach is widely regarded as the embodiment of coastal idyll and one of the Gold Coast’s premium lifestyle locations, and we intend to honour that with a collection of contemporary residences that accentuate the area’s appeal.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106840 project_image_fid=336441]

Also nearing completion is <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/elevaire-palm-beach-1409-1411-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Elevaire</a>, a 40-apartment project at the northern end of Palm Beach on the Gold Coast Highway. The building includes hot and cold magnesium plunge pools, with remaining apartments starting from just under $1.4 million.

SRQ Projects Director Nicholas Clydsdale, who is marketing both Villea and Elevaire, says Palm Beach continues to top the list for buyers for a number of reasons. “It’s the most accessible beachfront suburb on the southern Gold Coast,” Clydsdale says. “It’s also got the most beautiful beach, bookended by two of Queensland’s most stunning headlands — Currumbin and Burleigh.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112941 project_image_fid=216015]

Also joining the Palm Beach boom are Gold Coast locals Tim Gordon and Bruce Mathieson, the duo behind the ultra-luxury Mantaray Residences and Marina at Main Beach’s The Spit. Their project, Elle on Jefferson, designed by Cottee Parker, comprises 58 apartments and a suite of wellness amenities, including a 15-metre lap pool, hot and cold plunge pools, private cabanas, a sauna, steam rooms, and a holistic gym offering cardio, weights, yoga, and Pilates.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147111 project_image_fid=356658]

Having developed Lyra Hope Island, Sydney and Gold Coast developer Changfa found an affordable pocket for their recently launched new development Corallo, where one-bed apartments start from just $845,000.

The $200 million mixed-use project on the corner of the Gold Coast Highway and Palm Beach Avenue includes ground floor dining and retail and is considered so valuable its developer,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/changfa-group">Changfa Group</a>, will be staging its release of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments and penthouses to the market.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112194 project_image_fid=805]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/colliers">Colliers</a>&nbsp;International, Director, David Higgins, said the development’s location, just metres from the beach,&nbsp;influenced the sculptural design by the acclaimed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-architecture" target="">Plus Architecture</a>&nbsp;studio.

“<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/palm-beach-qld-4221">Palm Beach</a>&nbsp;locals understand the rare opportunity here at Corallo, particularly being the tallest building in the suburb and its proximity to the beach and local restaurants, and they’ve represented the bulk of pre-launch enquiries,” Higgins said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112194 project_image_fid=799]

“The orientation of the apartments captures views of the coastline from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/surfers-paradise-qld-4217" target="">Surfers Paradise</a>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/currumbin-qld-4223" target="">Currumbin</a>, and the diversity of floor plans and apartment types provide an exceptional level of choice.

“The first release includes just 59 one-, two and three-bedroom apartments and two half-floor penthouses, with flexible use designed to appeal to both owner-occupiers and investors."

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No slowing down Palm Beach as new apartment market takes centre stage, again

Plans have been revealed for the third and final stage of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/billbergia">Billbergia</a>’s $3 billion Rhodes Central masterplan, bringing the iconic new town centre closer to completion.&nbsp;

The final tower, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/cascade-23-25-marquet-street-rhodes-nsw-2138">Cascade</a>, at&nbsp;23-25 Marquet Street in Sydney’s inner west, will comprise 361 new dwellings, a mix of critically needed affordable housing and multi-generational apartments.&nbsp;

Vibrant retail, interactive public space, an upscale food and beverage offering and an alfresco dining plaza will also be delivered alongside Cascade tower as part of the final stage, which comes off the back of&nbsp;the masterplan’s successful first two stages.&nbsp;

Stage one saw 568 apartments delivered along with the national award-winning Rhodes Central shopping centre, while stage two has delivered a further 673 apartments atop the $85 million Rhodes Recreation Centre.&nbsp;

Officially opened in November 2025 by Mayor Michael Megna, the Recreation Centre was delivered under a Voluntary Planning Agreement with City of Canada Bay Council. It features essential community facilities including a gym, early childhood learning centre, indoor sports courts, and a gymnastics area as well as commercial tenancies and amenities.

Once complete, the five-tower Rhodes Central masterplan will deliver a combined total of over 1,600 new homes for about 3,500 people, along with community infrastructure, retail, dining, and an expansive new public domain and plaza along Marquet Street. A new basement and podium rooftop will connect all five buildings and allow residents to share amenities.

<img alt="$3 billion Rhodes Town Centre vision comes to life with final stage" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="973ae3a2-58e6-4994-8965-ed9332a57e8a" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Masterplanaerialimage.jpg?VersionId=Mj.mjUQyfh334xG71LQr7wCFu3mmDxnj" />

“We’re now a step closer to realising our vision for Rhodes Central,"&nbsp;said Saul Moran, Development Director – Planning and Design at Billbergia..

"With brand new retail and more public open space, this final stage embodies our commitment to creating connected communities and delivering housing diversity amid Sydney’s housing crisis. It also completes the landmark town centre precinct that has been almost 20 years in the making."

The project sets a benchmark for Transport Orientated Development. It brings life to Billbergia’s vision for a future-focused, liveable urban environment that prioritises amenity, not just density. &nbsp;Overall, it will deliver more than 25,000 sqm in publicly accessible amenity, including Rhodes Central Shopping Centre, Rhodes Recreation Centre, commercial office space and a further 1,200 square metres of retail space in stage three.

“Rhodes has evolved over two decades from a former industrial site into a connected, thriving community," said John Pradel, Partner and Master Plan Lead at SJB.

"Each stage has built on the last, adding not just housing, but the civic and social spaces that make a place truly liveable and allow the community to flourish."

<img alt="$3 billion Rhodes Town Centre vision comes to life with final stage" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7e96de93-e50a-424f-9de8-7b3d9c2c0f12" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/BLBG0900_RCSGIII_R02%20Retail%20Laneway%20copy.jpg?VersionId=3TksNisT5iwyBCGhGUvHDtR9aIca9_OQ" />

Ideally positioned adjacent to the 13,000 sqm Rhodes Central shopping centre, stage three will boast an additional 10 per cent of retail space, an upmarket restaurant offering, an open-air dining plaza and an expansive 2,000-square-metre addition to the public domain extending into the retail forecourt.&nbsp;

This new realm will enhance pedestrian connectivity while showcasing an interactive water feature and engaging public art. It has been designed as an active community space and will also feature pop-up civic infrastructure, including a community stage and kiosk for placemaking events.

The residential tower Cascade will comprise 361 apartments over 39-levels, including 72 affordable dwellings. Apartments will be available in a range of floorplans from one to four-bedroom configurations, with a luxe two-storey “skyhouse” spanning the top two levels. Communal viewing decks and gardens with BBQ facilities will crown Cascade’s rooftop, offering expansive views of the Blue Mountains to the West and Brays Bay and Sydney CBD to the East.&nbsp;

<img alt="$3 billion Rhodes Town Centre vision comes to life with final stage" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="814da600-5368-49d3-8fec-025521a4d0e2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/BLBG0900_RCSGIII_IN01%20Apt%2037.04%20Livingy%20copy.jpg?VersionId=.xA6cpRQLx4kJiQayt3OrydVQ9ReGmXP" />

High-profile architecture firm <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a> will design the final stage after winning a design excellence competition in collaboration with Land and Form in September 2024. The Rhodes Central masterplan was originally conceived by SJB in 2005, with the firm subsequently delivering the design for Stages One and Two.&nbsp;

Cascade has a striking design with a slender tower grounded by a four-storey podium. The tower is divided into three forms, with a distinctive silhouette that resembles three fingers. The design optimises amenity and privacy while maximising views towards both Sydney CBD and Homebush Bay.&nbsp;

According to SJB, the project’s design aims to deliver a range of dwelling types, including multi-generational floorplans, catering to emerging needs of the growing population.

Emily Wombwell, Director and Design Lead at SJB, said their concept encompasses a broader site vision that integrates this site with Rhodes Town Centre through a new iconic building and generous public domain.

"Cascade’s design offers a variety of living typologies that cater to a diverse range of existing and emerging demographics. The proposal aims to improve social and environmental connections by creating a safe and welcoming landscape for existing and future communities of Rhodes."

Billbergia has filed a&nbsp;State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for the final stage. Demolition has been completed on site, early works including excavation will begin early 2026, with completion estimated in 2030.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135080]

Billbergia unveils new Cascade apartment tower with final stage of $3 billion Rhodes Town Centre

Coworking

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Co-work space specialist WOTSO has leased a large-scale office space in Zetland.
It has committed to 2,600sqm at 1-5 Link Road in the recently developed Paragon development. 
The five-year lease – attached to another five-year option, is the largest office lease in the South Sydney suburb for several years.
The lease is WOTSO’s first foray into the South Sydney market, adding to their existing co-work facilities at North Strathfield, Pyrmont, Penrith, Bondi Junction and Neutral Bay. 
LJ Hooker Commercial South Sydney Director William Tong managed the lease on behalf of developer, HiFu Capital. 
“WOTSO’s lease represents the largest office commitment in Zetland for more than two years,” he said.  
Whilst details of the lease are confidential, Mr Tong said A-grade office space throughout the wider South Sydney market was commanding between $500-$550psm.  
“The shortage of quality office stock has driven up rents by about 30% in the last three years,” said Mr Tong. 
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Co-work space company WOTSO break Zetland lease drought

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Bates Smart has completed its co-working space at Hub Parliament Station on Nicholson Street, East Melbourne.
Spanning 2,775 sqm, Hub Australia’s latest Melbourne venture occupying the top three floors (levels 16 to 18) of the iconic ICI House is currently known as Orica House.
The Hub Parliament Station interior is inspired by its base building’s mid-century classic design with a Palm Springs-like influence.
Bates Smart Director, Kellie Payne said, “The building is open and invites natural light with the most incredible views of Melbourne with aspects that overlooks the Parliament Gardens and the top-end of Spring Street, and the other over the Carlton Gardens with the Royal Exhibition Building in the background."
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/7/16/east%20mel%202.png" alt="">
Accommodating over 500 members, the new co-working space includes a café, integrated barista bar/hot desks, a boardroom, large serviced meeting rooms, private offices that can be open or screened, member kitchen and lounge, fitness centre, parent and wellness rooms and a media hub.
The work-zone spine runs centrally through each floor, made up of a series of flexible, open-plan workspaces, breakout zones and dedicated rooms.
Elements of the original documentation of the base building have been incorporated within Hub Australia’s new workspace. 
Breezeblocks are used throughout, in screens, walls and joinery, referencing the existing concrete waffle slab and ground floor lobby brickwork.
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Bates Smart completes new co-working space in East Melbourne

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The first month of Orion Springfield Central’s new mobile worker hub, The Third Space, has seen over 120 enquiries in the first month.
Facilities on offer at the Mirvac facility include the use of meeting spaces, individual work stations and flexible co-working areas, plus free services like scanning and printing.  
Kimberley Hill, Experience and Business Development Manager for The Third Space said, "high speed internet, parking and free printing along with our kitchen facilities are popular and the child-minding service for free at Mini Minders is a winner."
“We are already seeing monthly membership sign ups to secure spots,” Kimberley said.  
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/7/16/20190603-RRP_1864.jpg" alt="">
Users range from technology and financial services businesses through to musical and massage therapy consultants utilising the free child care services and great desk space with other like-minded flexible workers.  
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It already offers free parking and a dedicated concierge who responds to calls and drop in enquiries.  
The Third Space is located in the Target Mall opposite Mini Minders, operating from 8.30am to 5.30pm, Monday to Friday, with both casual rates and monthly memberships offered during a 12-month trial of the concept.
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Mirvac's Third Space at Orion is receiving heavy enquiry

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Co-working office spaces increased by nearly 300% in the last five years, with Melbourne holding the largest share.
Co-working office space is one of the fastest growing segments of the commercial leasing market, the latest report by Herron Todd White (HTW) noted.
Research shows the number of co-working spaces in Australia grew by 297% between 2013 and 2017, occupying 193,190 square metres across six cities.
Melbourne holds the largest concentration of co-working spaces with 49% followed by Sydney with 38%.
"We expect this segment of the market to continue growing strongly," the HTW report noted.
Melbourne CBD’s overall office vacancy rate has reduced to 4.6% over the six months to January 2018, according to the Property Council of Australia’s Office Market Report.
Melbourne CBD is now level with Sydney CBD, together showing the lowest vacancy rates amongst all of Australia’s CBDs.
According to the latest report from HTW, the reduction in vacancy is primarily due to the high net absorption rate of prime Melbourne CBD office stock.
The North-Eastern and Docklands precincts have the lowest vacancy rates at 1.5% and 1.2% respectively, while vacancy rates are highest in the Western and Spencer precincts, reflecting vacancy rates of 6.6% and 8.2% respectively.
There is limited new prime office supply in the CBD due for completion over the next two years before the large increase of supply forecast for 2020.
Therefore, it is anticipated that vacancy rates will continue to fall over 2018 and 2019 before rising again in 2020.
The report suggests the market will see potentially sharp rental growth over the next two years as well as a decline in incentives, before levelling out again from 2020.
Strong demand is continuing for good quality office properties and properties with value-add or redevelopment potential within the Melbourne CBD, Metro and St Kilda Road office markets.
This is primarily due to the lack of suitable stock on the market and weight of capital seeking limited investment opportunities in this segment of the market.
The two recent sales in the CBD this year, 470 Bourke Street and 454 Collins Street, both achieved strong results.
470 Bourke Street, the headquarters of The Law Institute of Victoria, sold subject to a short-term leaseback for more than $35 million.
The nine-storey office building with excess land to the rear was purchased by an offshore investor with a capital value rate of circa $10,500 per square metre which reflects the balance land of 368 square metres.
454 Collins Street, an 11-storey C grade building situated at the corner of Collins and Williams Streets, was sold to a Macau investor for $40.1 million on a sharp fully leased yield of 4.21%.
The property was sold subject to a single-tenant leaseback to Robert Christie’s national co-working business on a 10-year term.
The valuation firm suggests that market yields are firming for well located investment grade assets exhibiting sound fundamentals, such as strong lease profiles and limited capital expenditure requirements.
The report suggests that investor demand is particularly strong for assets in the vicinity of $5 million to $50 million within the CBD and inner suburban locations.
The new statutory revaluations will be conducted as at January 2018 and valuations will be released as part of the FY2018/19 council rates notices and 2019 Land Tax assessments.
The valuers estimate that council site values will continue to increase across the CBD owing to strong capital growth over the past two years since the last Council revaluation in January 2016.
The potential rise in site values implies higher council rates and land tax costs which may impact upon the cash flow of landlords, especially where properties are subject to gross leases.
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Melbourne holding the largest share of nation's co-working office spaces: HTW 

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Flexible workplace provider Spaces is expanding, announcing that it will open a new co-working space at 60 Martin Place in Sydney’s CBD.
The three podium level, 4,500 square metre space in the building owned by Investa &amp; Gwynvill Group will open in February 2020.
Spaces is an IWG brand and its new co-working space will aim to offer professionals a creative working environment for the city’s entrepreneurs.
The IWG Global Workplace Survey 2019 found that, in Australia, the demand for flexible working has grown among employees, while 92% of employees can become more productive through introducing flexible work.
Simon van Grootel, Development Director for IWG Australia, said the new Martin Place location fits with the growth of the Spaces brand with and its dynamic relationship with occupiers and landlords.
“Undoubtedly the best building to be built in Sydney for a number of years, this presented a fantastic opportunity to further our existing relationship with Investa and bring to market our first Sydney CBD Spaces location in Martin Place,” van Grootel said.
“As we continue to grow our footprint nationally this will be a great showcase to occupiers and landlords alike as to the engaging environment that Spaces provides.”
Damien Sheehan, Country Head of IWG Australia, said it was important for Spaces to expand their brand across Australia.
“We are very excited about this new offering and the timing couldn’t be better with demand from our enterprise clients showing dramatic growth,” Sheehan said.
Joe Ward mentioned that IWG plc has been seeking a flagship premises for Spaces in Sydney CBD for around two years.
“The attraction for Spaces was a premium grade, landmark building in the central iconic location of Martin Place which is positioned amongst major tech and professional services businesses,” said Ward.
“As a hotly contested space, the landlord was keen to secure the right flexible workspace provider for the building to match to quality of the building and align with the future tenants expected to occupy this new 31 level tower.
“The three large podium floors overlooking Martin Place, is ideal for Spaces to introduce more collaborative workspaces and rapidly grow the brand nationally.”
Ward said Spaces has four locations in Australia across Melbourne and Sydney, which is set to double in 2020 and expand across all the major capital cities.
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

New co-working space at 60 Martin Place announced 

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The Queensland-based co-working space and business incubator Little Tokyo Two has been placed into voluntary liquidation.
Its founder and entrepreneur Jock Fairweather sending a message saying the business had become “unsustainable”.
Founded four years ago, Little Tokyo Two (LT2) had five locations across Brisbane and the Gold Coast.
The business was primarily offering a co-working space service to startup founders and aspiring entrepreneurs. However, the business had also recently expanded into offering incubation services and ‘growth plans’ for startups.
In the message, Fairweather said while the incubation offerings had performed well, the co-working model had become unprofitable and criticised new market entrants for “undercutting” prices.
“The business of running a co-working space has been struggling, with increased competition in the market and new entrants, who undercut prices to attract new members,” Fairweather said.
“After stress testing our future financial model and the financial difficulty we have recently faced we have concluded that the viability of the LT2 as a co-working space is an unsustainable option for our future.”
The Courier-Mail reports Brisbane City Council had invested $5 million in innovation hub The Capital, which Little Tokyo Two was a “foundation tenant” of.
The council told The Courier-Mail it was trying to find a new operator to “provide certainty for tenants”.
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Brisbane co-working space Little Tokyo Two collapses into voluntary liquidation

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Co-working space ‘The Commons’ was the 2017 Gold Winner of the Melbourne Design Awards thanks to it's glowing 100% renewable energy credentials and insightful design, where multiple spaces have been created with the ability to cater to people’s various moods and needs.

Urban.com.au caught up with CEO of ‘<a href="https://thecommons.io">The Commons</a>’ Cliff Ho, who explains the key differences of co-working facilities in comparison to traditional office spaces, and how the team have used intuitive design to enhance the health and wellbeing of employees. 

<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/commons1.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/commons1.jpg?itok=pJ5TkXto" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Commons, South Melbourne. Credit: The Commons</figcaption></figure>Urban: What were the influencing factors in deciding the locations and properties of the new office spaces? (QV &amp; Sydney)

Cliff Ho: In Sydney, we chose Chippendale as it’s known for its creative scene and converted warehouses, Chippendale has become popular in recent years for its beautifully designed cafes, stores and art galleries; it was the perfect location for our first space in Sydney.

In July 2019, we will open our first space in Melbourne’s CBD in QV.

We wanted to find the best spot for this location and we landed on a place with some of the best retail stores and most delicious restaurants. Located at 3 Albert Coates Lane, we will only be a minute walk to Swanston Street, Melbourne Central Station and Chinatown.

<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/commons3.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/commons3.jpg?itok=i8fSJr-H" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Commons, South Melbourne. Credit: The Commons</figcaption></figure>U: What benefits do users get from working in a shared office compared to a private office?

CH: We've really set ourselves apart with a strong focus on three main components, community, wellness and logistics. 

The Commons is built on the belief that Community in the workplace is the foundation for success. Our primary objective has always been to cultivate a group of people and businesses who contribute to the growth and happiness of everyone under The Commons roof.

We take our wellness seriously and we know our members value it as well.  We provide members with weekly on-site yoga, meditation and spin classes.

Lastly, in comparison to a traditional office, you can expect to save 66% in your first year of business and 30% in each consecutive year after. We provide all the amenities you need with none of the administrative hassles, so you can enjoy the all-inclusive services and benefits with no hidden costs.

<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/commons4.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/commons4.jpg?itok=yCSSv6Ns" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Commons, Collingwood. Credit: The Commons</figcaption></figure>U: In what ways have The Commons offices been designed in an environmentally conscious way, and to achieve a low carbon footprint?

CH: The Commons is offset by 100% renewable wind and solar energy. We give our members easy options to make sustainable decisions in their daily lives by providing reusable containers and eliminating single-use plastic, encouraging alternative modes of transportation and keep recycling bins accessible in all our spaces. Furthermore, we are always seeking more information and diffusing it to our community so we all can make better decisions together.

<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/commons2.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/commons2.jpg?itok=XTNX2Xmq" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Commons, South Melbourne. Credit: The Commons</figcaption></figure>U: How has the office been ergonomically designed to support the health and wellbeing of its users?

CH: After extensive research, we’ve designed an environment that is catered to people’s various moods and needs. Our architects, designers of both Google's and Facebook’s head office, sought to build a space where members could feel calm and inspired and be productive and creative.

Our spaces have been designed with meticulous attention to detail and the belief that well-considered design is essential to improving the work life of our members. Every aspect of The Commons exists to create a path for creativity and shed unnecessary obstacles, so our members can focus on their ideas.

The services we provide are centred on helping our members achieve a balanced and integrated work life. From our onsite wellness program to our dedicated quiet zones, we’re always tailoring an experience catered to our complex and diverse human needs.

<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/commons5.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/commons5.jpg?itok=fjbkPgr5" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Commons, Collingwood. Credit: The Commons</figcaption></figure>U: Do the industries you market your services to determine what you include in your design?

CH: Our designs are firstly informed by human need and secondarily by industry needs. We also do a lot of listening to our members and create amenities that they ask for. For instance, our spaces feature podcast studios, photography studios and even a Maker space, but at the core, we design with people in mind.
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Olivia Round

'The Commons' CEO Cliff Ho discusses the differences between co-working spaces vs traditional offices

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International Workplace Group’s (IWG) co-working brand Spaces has secured approximately 7,000 square metres of space across two buildings within Lendlease’s Melbourne Quarter precinct.
Spaces will occupy one floor at One Melbourne Quarter and more than 4,000 square metres over two floors at Two Melbourne Quarter.
They will also utilise the business lounge facilities in each building’s lobby as extensions of their workplace.
Spaces’ members will also have access to the precinct’s Wi-Fi enabled Sky Park.
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There will be over 700 flexible workstations available when Spaces moves into One Melbourne Quarter (pictured above) in May this year and Two Melbourne Quarter (pictured below) once it is complete in mid-2020.
The precinct will also be the Victorian home of AMP and EnergyAustralia, which will join Arup and Lendlease.
Spaces’ model allows customers to pay only for the space they need, scaling operations up or down to boost employee productivity in their choice of work environments.
The Lendlease managed Australian Prime Property Fund (APPF) Commercial owns One Melbourne Quarter and has a 50% joint interest in Two Melbourne Quarter with First State Super.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/1/22/Two%20Melbourne%20Quarter%20-%20artists%20impression.jpg" alt="">
"There is a workspace revolution underway in Australia and businesses of all sizes are waking up to the strategic and financial benefits that flexible office space can provide," said  Damien Sheehan, Head of IWG, Spaces parent company in Australia &amp; New Zealand.
"This will be the fourth Spaces co-working centre located in Victoria and we are extremely excited to be located in the new Melbourne Quarter Precinct."
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Co-working operator Spaces joins Melbourne Quarter precinct 

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Developer Lendlease has announced that it has secured International Workplace Group’s (IWG) co-working brand, Spaces at its Melbourne Quarter precinct within Melbourne's Docklands urban regeneration project.

Spaces will occupy approximately 7,000 sqm of space across two buildings comprising, one floor within the recently completed One Melbourne Quarter, and upon completion, more than 4,000 sqm across two floors at Two Melbourne Quarter, currently under construction.

As part of their tenancies, Spaces will also utilise the business lounge facilities in each building’s lobby providing extensions of their workplace with members also having access to the precinct’s wi-fi enabled Sky Park.

<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/mq_towers.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Spaces will be occupying 7000sqm across two buildings at Lendlease's Melbourne Quarter. Images: Lendlease"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="404" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/mq_towers.jpg?itok=bkdniqqz" title="Spaces will be occupying 7000sqm across two buildings at Lendlease's Melbourne Quarter. Images: Lendlease" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Spaces will be occupying 7000sqm across two buildings at Lendlease's Melbourne Quarter. Images: Lendlease</figcaption></figure>Overall, Spaces will provide 700 flexible workstations when it moves into One Melbourne Quarter in May and Two Melbourne Quarter once it is complete in mid-2020. Space will join future Melbourne Quarter tenants AMP and EnergyAustralia,and Arup and Lendlease, who have already taken occupation of their respective workspaces within One Melbourne Quarter.

According to Spaces, its model allows customers to pay only for the space they need, scaling operations up or down to boost employee productivity in their choice of work environments.

Meanwhile, construction is continuing in earnest at Melbourne Quarter with Two Melbourne Quarter's floorplates and core now well above street level and the first panels of facade now installed on East Tower. 

<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/tmq_construction_progress.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Construction progress at Melbourne Quarter. Images: Urban forum member redden"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="216" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/tmq_construction_progress.jpg?itok=4xDRYuIh" title="Construction progress at Melbourne Quarter. Images: Urban forum member redden" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Construction progress at Melbourne Quarter. Images: Urban forum member redden</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say...</h2>

<blockquote>
Spaces’ presence at Melbourne Quarter will provide businesses with more adaptable and dynamic places to work. Lendlease is designing precincts with flexible workspaces that provide transport connectivity, outdoor green spaces and retail amenity in one location.

Spaces will introduce a broad range of organisations to Melbourne Quarter, presenting an exciting proposition for the precinct’s existing workforce and retailers.

- John Burton, Lendlease’s Managing Director, Urban Regeneration
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
There is a workspace revolution underway in Australia and businesses of all sizes are waking up to the strategic and financial benefits that flexible office space can provide.

This will be the fourth Spaces co-working centre located in Victoria and we are extremely excited to be located in the new Melbourne Quarter Precinct. This year, the growth of flexible working is predicted to rise across Australia, as more office-based activity is demanding greater choice and flexibility in the workplace, for businesses, organisations and their employees.

- Damien Sheehan, Head of IWG, Spaces parent company in Australia &amp; New Zealand
</blockquote>

 

 
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Laurence Dragomir

Lendlease welcomes co-working operator Spaces to Melbourne Quarter

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GUEST OBSERVATION
Cities are seeing a growing number of shared working, or co-working, spaces. They include spaces where individuals and businesses can flexibly rent desks or rooms, or do shared work in “third spaces” such as libraries and cafes.
Co-working spaces offer a range of benefits and risks to the local economy. Our research looked at the role policy-makers, regulators and city planners can play in ensuring that these spaces make a positive contribution to our cities.
We found shared work spaces emerging in regulatory voids left by outdated policy frameworks. To exist, they are relying on the forward thinking of local innovators seeking to revitalise urban centres.
Types of spaces
Shared work spaces vary by the type of work they facilitate, from knowledge work (such as IT and professional services) to small-scale manufacturing. Some are purpose-built for co-working, whereas others (such as cafes) are informally used as such.
Some also target particular markets by offering additional services such as a crèche for childcare, seminars for professional development and events for networking.
Shared working spaces also differ in their models of ownership. These range from privately owned and managed, to government subsidised and cooperatively managed community resource centres.
<img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/217491/original/file-20180503-153884-q4pery.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" alt="">
Pubs, such as this one in London, can become informal shared work spaces. Carey Curtis
The ownership and funding of individual co-working spaces may also change through time, as they may receive new sources of government funding, attract new types of clients or relocate to new facilities.
What are the benefits?
There are many potential benefits for sharing a working space, including access to common spaces, equipment, tools, and technologies. Some people may only need a space for a few hours a day or on one occasion for a special project, so they can hire spaces in desirable locations without high rental charges.
Shared working spaces also offer social benefits through greater opportunities to interact, network and collaborate with like-minded workers.
A co-working space can be a good use of unused spaces in buildings and be birthing places of new enterprises. They can also support local businesses by hosting large groups of potential customers.
And they may afford people a place to work closer from home, reducing the need for long commutes.
What are the downsides?
Big players in the sharing economy – such as Uber, Lyft and Airbnb – have had a disruptive effect on existing markets by reducing opportunities for less advantaged people and workers in the market, and confusing regulators.
A similar scale of disruption may be on the horizon with the rapid growth of big players in co-working spaces such as WeWork. These could threaten existing shared work spaces by absorbing customers and competitively leasing out available buildings.
Shared work spaces could potentially contribute to the gentrification of older neighbourhoods by pushing up the price of real estate, and displacing established small businesses and residential tenants.
Co-working spaces has also been seen as representative of an increasing casualised workforce, as such spaces may host short-term contractors doing work that was previously performed by full-time internal staff members.
What we found
We analysed planning and economic development policy and interviewed founders and users of shared working spaces in Western Australia.
We identified around 20 shared work spaces in Perth and regional Western Australia. Many were in retrofitted older and under-used buildings such as an old department store, maternity hospital or converted office space.
Most founders told us that shared working spaces needed to be accessible to be viable. Many also identified the quality and intensity of activities around the area as essential to attracting workers to their space.
<img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/217489/original/file-20180503-138586-nkkep4.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" alt="">
Shared work spaces can facilitate knowledge work, as well as manufacturing (like this one in Fremantle, WA). Carey Curtis
But founders identified regulatory frameworks, including land use permission controls, as significant barriers to establishing these spaces. For instance, a shared work space where people repair furniture or make jewellery could be considered as being used for manufacturing.
This type of activity may not be permitted in a disused department store that falls within a retail zone.
We found that often, local councillors and economic developers, have thrown their hat in the ring to help establish shared work spaces in their area. They would do so by helping founders secure required approvals, such as building accessibility certifications and emergency management plans.
Knowing the potential contribution of such spaces to the economy, they’ve also helped founders navigate regulations and planning controls intended for more permanent use of spaces.
But we found that town planners were rarely engaged in early conversations with shared work space founders. Planners generally didn’t identify or facilitate opportunities to host shared working spaces in unused buildings.
Planning policy documents and city planning departments didn’t actively recognise co-working spaces as a major new way people use buildings in cities.
Sharing spaces better
Technologies are creating new ways to match a mobile and flexible workforce with work spaces. This is leaving regulators to manage the impacts from the temporary uses of many shared work spaces.
City planners should be prepared to recognise and plan for the benefits these spaces bring, while minimising possible negative impacts on users, neighbours, and the broader community.
Planning strategies that seek to regenerate urban places and provide economic and social opportunities in urban growth areas will need to prompt more engagement with shared work space proponents, users, neighbouring businesses and residents, and local government divisions.
<img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/95923/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1">Shared work spaces have a positive role to play in Australian cities and regional centres. However, it seems planners are at risk of missing the boat when it comes to using shared work space to achieve more socially and economically viable planning outcomes.
Courtney Babb, Lecturer in Urban &amp; Regional Planning, Curtin University
Carey Curtis, Professor of City Planning and Transport, Curtin University
Sam McLeod, Urban Planning Researcher, Curtin University
This article was originally published on <a href="http://theconversation.com" target="_blank">The Conversation</a>. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/co-working-spaces-are-part-of-the-new-economy-so-town-planners-better-get-with-the-times-95923" target="_blank">original article</a>.
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