S&amp;S Projects is boosting its investment at Rainbow Bay to more than $1 billion after the prolific Gold Coast developer acquired a new site for $20.25 million and immediately laid plans for a new luxury apartment project in the sought-after precinct.

The site, which is the company’s fifth acquisition at Rainbow Bay in the past four years, will be home to the company’s largest project to date after delivering 3 sold-out projects and construction progresses on Radia worth a combined $215m. 
S&amp;S Projects is currently finalising plans for its latest strategic acquisition, a 1,518 sqm site located 209-213 Boundary Street in Coolangatta, with a development application expected to be lodged within weeks.

The luxury residential development will build on the company’s highly successful projects at Rainbow Bay, comprising Flow, Awaken, Esprit and Radia, with Radia currently under construction by Hutchinson Builders.

“We have been unflinching in our commitment to Rainbow Bay and the transformation we have helped drive in this incredible part of the Gold Coast, which is among the city’s most desirable residential locations,” said S&amp;S Projects founder and director Paul Gedoun.

“Our fifth project will reflect the best of what we have done so far to create a lifestyle precinct that is second to none.”

The latest development, which has yet to be named, is proposed to accommodate 88 luxury apartments in a design that will immerse residents in a unique wellness lifestyle that expands on the legacy of S&amp;S Project’s earlier developments at Rainbow Bay.

The development will feature an expansive rooftop garden and wellness centre with a resort- style pool, among a host of lifestyle amenities planned for residents.

“Rainbow Bay, with its beautiful, protected beach and alongside one of the world’s best surf breaks at Snapper Rocks, is the natural wellness heartland of the Gold Coast,” said Gedoun.

“We are taking every advantage to create a truly unique rooftop wellness experience with a natural feel for residents, offering stone features throughout and an underlying theme that emulates a botanical garden.”

The latest acquisition comes as S&amp;S Projects is at the completion of Esprit and construction continues on Radia, which are part of their significant portfolio undertaken by the company at Rainbow Bay since 2022.

The $215 million Radia, which comprises 38 apartments, is currently the flagship development by S&amp;S Projects at Rainbow Bay which is expected to be completed in 2027.

Jayde Pezet, of Pezet Matheson, which has managed sales and marketing for S&amp;S Projects across their Gold Coast portfolio, emphasised the developer’s commitment to continuous improvement and excellence.

“S&amp;S Projects continue to elevate the benchmark of luxury with each development," Pezet said.

“We have worked with S&amp;amp;S on their 4 other projects in Rainbow Bay and their approach reflects a team that is constantly learning, refining, and pushing the standard higher.

“Their hyper-local knowledge and deep expertise within the luxury property sector are what truly set them apart, allowing them to deliver projects that feel both globally sophisticated and authentically connected to their coastal environment”

S&amp;S Projects plans to officially launch its latest project at Rainbow Bay in the second half of this year.

“As we embark on our largest project yet, we have pulled out all stops to create another landmark development that truly reflects the relaxed southern Gold Coast lifestyle,” Gedoun added.

Joel Robinson

S&S buys $20m Rainbow Bay site for fifth beachside apartment project

Japandi, an emerging design trend that combines Scandinavian functionality with Japanese rustic minimalism, remains relatively untested in Australia’s residential development market.

As developers look to differentiate their projects and offer something distinct to buyers, Brisbane-based developer Lantona has embraced the hybrid style for its recently launched Toowong apartment project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/koya-residences-6-josling-street-toowong-qld-4066">Koya Residences</a>, with early response to the design proving positive.

Lantona entrusted Red Door Architecture and interiors practice Luma Design Co with delivering the Japandi brief. The approach blends Japanese minimalism with Scandinavian functionality, emphasising warm, restrained interiors, natural materials and clean lines. Drawing on the Japanese concept of wabi-sabi (beauty in imperfection) and the Scandinavian principle of hygge (comfort and cosiness), it creates serene, uncluttered and sustainable living environments.

These design principles are expressed throughout the Josling Street development, both in its exterior form and across the 40 one-, two- and three-bedroom residences within.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150787 project_image_fid=366229]

Koya reflects a deliberately scaled approach, with the five-storey form designed to align with the surrounding residential streetscape rather than dominate it.

“Koya is conceived as a building that sits comfortably within its surroundings. Every decision, from material selection to spatial planning, has been guided by long-term liveability and enduring relevance,” the developer said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150787 project_image_fid=366243]

Positioned within an established inner-west neighbourhood, the development sits near riverfront parklands and the Bicentennial Bikeway, while remaining within walking distance of Toowong Village and multiple public transport options connecting to the CBD, St Lucia and West End.

Lantona said the location was central to the project’s conception, pointing to Toowong’s balance of green space, transport access and proximity to major education institutions.

“<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/toowong-qld-4066">Toowong</a> combines river access, walkability, immediate CBD connection and a strong educational presence. That balance made it the obvious setting for Koya.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150787 project_image_fid=366230]

Communal amenity is concentrated on the rooftop, where a shared retreat will include a pool, dining areas and outdoor spaces oriented towards neighbourhood and city views. The design allows for both private use and small gatherings, extending the living environment beyond individual apartments.

Koya enters the market at a time when smaller-scale developments are becoming less common in established suburbs, with many recent projects in the suburb shooting for the sky.

In a nod of confidence,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/brisbane-builders">Brisbane Builders</a>&nbsp;has already commenced construction on the building, which is slated for completion in early 2027. Keenan &amp; Byrne is marketing Koya.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150787]

Japandi-inspired Koya Residences launch in Toowong

<section data-scroll-anchor="false" data-testid="conversation-turn-6" data-turn="assistant" data-turn-id="request-WEB:ca872054-bfe3-4cc5-a2c8-b373d4dfeafb-2" dir="auto">
A completed Castle Hill apartment development is returning to market with an uncommon level of financial backing, positioning it as one of the more secure options for buyers in Sydney’s north-west.

Skyview in Castle Hill, originally developed by Top Place and now overseen by capital partner <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a>, is being relaunched following a full remediation process. Central to its repositioning is a substantial financial reserve designed to provide ongoing protection and reduce uncertainty for incoming purchasers.

At the core of this offering is an $11 million bond secured during the project’s remediation phase, negotiated by former NSW Building Commissioner David Chandler. With less than $4 million required to complete the works, approximately $7.2 million remains in reserve, with around 15 years left on the term.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359134]

Rather than a typical insurance-backed structure, the remaining funds are held as cash, creating a readily accessible financial buffer should any future building issues arise. The structure is intended to provide buyers with an added layer of certainty, differentiating the development from more conventional apartment offerings.

Equitifund Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said the structure provides a level of security not typically seen in apartment developments.

“The $11 million bond established for the Skyview Castle Hill development represents exceptional value, providing genuine financial security for purchasers,” Huxley said.

“Unlike a standard insurance policy, this bond consists of real funds held in trust for the Owners Corporation, offering a tangible layer of protection and added peace of mind.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359135]

The remediation process has now been completed in full, with no active rectification orders or outstanding directives linked to the project on NSW Government registers. This outcome reflects the broader tightening of building oversight across the state, while also highlighting the project’s transition into a completed, compliant asset.

In a market where many buyers remain cautious about apartment quality, initiatives like this are designed to restore confidence, giving purchasers greater certainty and a stronger sense of security in their investment.

Equitifund has since acquired the remaining apartments and is managing their reintroduction to the market. With the works finalised and a significant financial reserve in place, the project now presents with a markedly different risk profile compared to its initial release.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359137]

Beyond the added security, the development is positioned in one of Castle Hill’s more established pockets. The Gay Street address places it within close proximity to Castle Towers, one of the country’s largest retail centres, as well as Castle Hill Metro Station, which now connects directly to the broader Sydney Metro network.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett said buyer demand in the area continues to be driven by access to transport and amenity.

“Interest from both owner-occupiers and investors in Castle Hill remains exceptionally strong, with buyers consistently prioritising developments in close proximity to the Metro station and Castle Towers Shopping Centre,” Hamblett said.

“There is a clear trend in the market, with purchasers seeking convenient access to transport and lifestyle amenities that support a seamless, low-maintenance way of living.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359145]

The apartments also enter the market at a relatively accessible price point for the area, with two-bedroom configurations starting from $995,000 and rental demand for similar stock reaching around $900 per week. This combination of pricing, connectivity, and completed status is expected to appeal to both owner-occupiers and investors seeking lower-risk entry into the Hills District apartment market.

For eligible buyers, a limited 3.50 per cent p.a. two-year fixed interest rate is currently available through Equitifund’s lending partners, providing an additional layer of affordability.

EquitiCredit Pty Ltd ACN 676 363 769 holds ACL 559289 and provides credit assistance. Finance is arranged through EquitiCredit and funded by its lending partners. Interest rates are subject to change and eligibility criteria apply. Terms, conditions, fees and charges may apply. This is not financial advice and should not be relied upon as such. Prospective buyers should seek independent financial advice.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=147685]
</section>

Castle Hill apartments offering unmatched buyer protection through dedicated fund

A State-Assessed Rezoning Proposal for the Kurnell Peninsula is now on public exhibition, setting out a plan to deliver up to 4,300 homes alongside new retail, tourism and public open space on a 210-hectare coastal site.

The proposal, backed by the Minns Labor Government, would transform a former sand mining area along Captain Cook Drive into a mixed-use precinct delivered over approximately 20 years.

In addition to housing, the plan includes more than 7,000 sqm of retail and commercial space, new community facilities and approximately 116 hectares of open space, equating to more than half the site.

<img alt="Kurnell" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ce1c6567-1df0-4de0-9fe5-a76be0367834" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-04-13%20at%209.11.51%E2%80%AFAM_0.png?VersionId=dbbTmYaJvROA5fkQbgaxis8cmFwtpB5_" />

<hr data-end="849" data-start="846" />
<h2 data-end="902" data-section-id="ony3l3" data-start="851">Rezoning framework enables mixed-use development</h2>

The rezoning application seeks to amend planning controls under the State Environmental Planning Policy (Precincts—Central River City) and the Sutherland Shire Local Environmental Plan 2015.

Its primary objective is to enable a broader range of land uses across the site, including residential, employment, tourism and community uses, while also formalising environmental protections and land management outcomes .

The proposal has progressed through the state-led rezoning pathway after being identified as a project of regional significance, supported by several years of technical studies and agency consultation .

Development would occur in stages, aligned with the progressive closure and remediation of the existing sand mine.

<hr data-end="1718" data-start="1715" />
<h2 data-end="1768" data-section-id="krwii9" data-start="1720">Master plan structured around three precincts</h2>

The accompanying urban design report outlines an indicative master plan that divides the site into three primary precincts, anchored by a town centre in the western portion of the site.

The town centre is planned as the first stage of development, located on land that has already been remediated. It is intended to accommodate higher-density housing, retail, and community uses.

<img alt="Kurnell" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4bfd5873-4847-4105-b220-0a30c96f5573" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-04-13%20at%209.20.09%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=7aVaSsZLAc6mElSH4g6Ct5bGsNxZcnPL" />

Additional precincts extend toward Bate Bay and Boat Harbour, with built form responding to environmental conditions and proximity to the coastline.

The design framework identifies distinct local character areas, with the master plan structured to reflect “unique natural qualities” across the site.

<hr data-end="2495" data-start="2492" />
<h2 data-end="2544" data-section-id="1vitwqn" data-start="2497">Open space forms core of the design approach</h2>

A key component of the proposal is the allocation of approximately 116 hectares to open space and ecological land.

This includes:

<ul data-end="2846" data-start="2678">
	<li data-end="2702" data-section-id="d96caj" data-start="2678">Three district parks</li>
	<li data-end="2723" data-section-id="17y6uz6" data-start="2703">Nine local parks</li>
	<li data-end="2741" data-section-id="14hui00" data-start="2724">Sports fields</li>
	<li data-end="2778" data-section-id="ts7psx" data-start="2742">Coastal and ecological corridors</li>
	<li data-end="2846" data-section-id="agduax" data-start="2779">Two kilometres of publicly accessible beachfront along Bate Bay</li>
</ul>

The urban design report positions this open space network as central to the structure of the development, rather than ancillary to it.

It is intended to support ecological regeneration, provide recreational amenity and create a connected network across the peninsula.

The plan includes north–south ecological corridors, expanded wetland systems and pedestrian and cycling links designed to connect residential areas to the coastline and open space areas .

<hr data-end="3347" data-start="3344" />
<h2 data-end="3381" data-section-id="ql66rt" data-start="3349">Housing mix and affordability</h2>

The proposal includes approximately 4,300 dwellings across a range of housing types.

This includes high-density apartments, medium-density housing, townhouses and seniors housing.

Affordable housing provision is identified at approximately 240 dwellings, alongside a smaller component of social housing.

The master plan emphasises housing diversity, with the intent of accommodating a range of household types and age groups within the development.

<img alt="Kurnell" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d4baba4d-b5b0-4a86-bcad-5d319b036184" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-04-13%20at%209.11.59%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=udYFz0q8tjEPR3pmKLHRSFRJN4dKakPO" />

<hr data-end="3877" data-start="3874" />
<h2 data-end="3919" data-section-id="rgckdv" data-start="3879">Built form controls and height limits</h2>

Proposed building heights across the site range from three to 12 storeys.

These controls are set out within the rezoning application and are intended to manage visual impact, maintain view corridors and ensure compatibility with the coastal landscape.

Floor space ratios and height limits are applied across different parts of the site to reflect varying environmental conditions and proximity to open space and the coastline .

Higher density is generally concentrated within the town centre, with lower-scale development toward the coastal edge and environmentally sensitive areas.

<hr data-end="4548" data-start="4545" />
<h2 data-end="4588" data-section-id="1minlda" data-start="4550">Retail, tourism and employment uses</h2>

In addition to residential development, the proposal includes retail, commercial and tourism uses.

This includes:

<ul data-end="4896" data-start="4706">
	<li data-end="4775" data-section-id="1jrun76" data-start="4706">Approximately 7,000–9,800sqm of retail and commercial floor space</li>
	<li data-end="4803" data-section-id="10kyifw" data-start="4776">A full-line supermarket</li>
	<li data-end="4830" data-section-id="fz1hdg" data-start="4804">Food and beverage uses</li>
	<li data-end="4896" data-section-id="1aqg2fj" data-start="4831">Tourism accommodation, including hotel and short-stay options</li>
</ul>

The proposal also identifies employment outcomes, with the development expected to support jobs both during construction and in ongoing operations.

These uses are concentrated within the town centre and key activity areas across the site.

<hr data-end="5142" data-start="5139" />
<h2 data-end="5172" data-section-id="162x2kt" data-start="5144">Infrastructure and access</h2>

The proposal includes upgrades to Captain Cook Drive, which provides the primary access to the peninsula.

These upgrades are intended to improve traffic flow and support emergency access.

The transport strategy also incorporates:

<ul data-end="5529" data-start="5407">
	<li data-end="5433" data-section-id="fanquy" data-start="5407">Internal road networks</li>
	<li data-end="5469" data-section-id="o6y80y" data-start="5434">Walking and cycling connections</li>
	<li data-end="5529" data-section-id="jgraft" data-start="5470">Proposed public transport routes and bus stop locations</li>
</ul>

The rezoning report includes detailed analysis of transport, flooding, and infrastructure requirements to support the staged development of the site .

<hr data-end="5723" data-start="5720" />
<h2 data-end="5769" data-section-id="14urh3" data-start="5725">Environmental and cultural considerations</h2>

The site is identified as having environmental and cultural significance, including areas of ecological value and Aboriginal archaeological sensitivity.

The proposal includes measures to protect and enhance these areas, including:

<ul data-end="6230" data-start="6004">
	<li data-end="6056" data-section-id="1pzyouo" data-start="6004">Retention and regeneration of coastal vegetation</li>
	<li data-end="6100" data-section-id="bjn2vz" data-start="6057">Strengthening of biodiversity corridors</li>
	<li data-end="6148" data-section-id="1bpeyoj" data-start="6101">Protection of riparian systems and wetlands</li>
	<li data-end="6230" data-section-id="lg0cka" data-start="6149">Integration of cultural interpretation and recognition of Indigenous heritage</li>
</ul>

The urban design report also outlines opportunities for incorporating Indigenous cultural elements into public spaces and landscape design.

<hr data-end="6893" data-start="6890" />
<h2 data-end="6908" data-section-id="w7rk5f" data-start="6895">Next steps</h2>

The proposal is currently on public exhibition, with submissions open to the community. Feedback received during this period will inform the Department of Planning’s assessment of the rezoning.

If approved, the rezoning would establish the planning framework for future development applications across the site.

<hr data-end="6893" data-start="6890" />
<h2 data-end="6908" data-section-id="w7rk5f" data-start="6895">What the NSW Government says</h2>

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said the planned closure of the sand mine and remediation of the Kurnell Peninsula presents an exciting opportunity to transform the area.

“This proposal envisions a vibrant new beachfront community with thousands of new homes, jobs and great open space in the Sutherland Shire. I encourage the community to have their say during the public exhibition period. Feedback from the community will play an important role in the assessment of the proposal.”

Sydney's newest beachfront city: NSW Gov to unlock 4,300 new homes on Kurnell peninsula

A long-awaited transformation of a former industrial site in Holroyd has been given the green light, with the NSW Government approving the $1.2 billion Crescent Parklands masterplan that will deliver more than 1,200 new homes just south of Parramatta.

The State Significant Development approval clears the way for a large-scale mixed-use precinct at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/1-crescent-street-holroyd-nsw-2142">1 Crescent Street</a>, replacing an underutilised site with a coordinated residential community anchored by new open space, retail, and commercial uses.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a> for WA-based developer Tiberius, the approved scheme comprises seven buildings arranged across two precincts. In total, the development will deliver 1,227 apartments, including 201 allocated as affordable housing, alongside approximately 2,500 sqm of retail and 5,000 sqm of commercial space within a mixed-use podium.

<img alt="Tiberius’ Crescent Parklands to deliver 1,200+ homes in major Holroyd transformation" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1cc82dd2-8184-4b86-8665-90653147820d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Crescent%20buildings.png?VersionId=2ZmVDc_Rfc4AzQ6ShzZJlvdZnACLerVM" />

The project is structured as a masterplanned precinct rather than a standalone tower. Buildings 1 to 4 will rise from a shared podium with shop-top housing, while Buildings 5 to 7 are positioned closer to the northern park interface as residential flat buildings. The built form has been carefully modulated to balance density with amenity, with the design resolving building separation, solar access, and wind impacts at a precinct scale.

A significant focus of the design is the activation of Crescent Street and the integration of public domain. The submission notes that “individual townhouses [were] removed for community based functions to Crescent Street to increase activation and surveillance,” reinforcing a more urban and publicly engaged street edge. Retail, commercial tenancies, and resident amenity spaces are concentrated along this frontage and within the podium to support day-to-day activity.

The landscape strategy underpins the project’s identity, with a network of pedestrian connections, landscaped corridors, and open spaces linking the site internally and to its surroundings. The design prioritises permeability, delivering “increased uninterrupted flow between spaces for pedestrian access” and improved connections through to the adjoining parklands.

<img alt="Tiberius’ Crescent Parklands to deliver 1,200+ homes in major Holroyd transformation" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="19282454-ab2f-4e2c-866f-4b35cf4283d4" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Crescent%20masterplan.png?VersionId=JQdWGYI5B5R1lzmK4omYOp_8KLPkT4Bv" />

Buildings within the western precinct are oriented toward the park, shaping a residential offering defined by proximity to open space. The design describes this approach as creating apartments “immersed in nature with apartments facing the park,” positioning the landscape as a central organising element of the masterplan.

The broader architectural response addresses both infrastructure and context, with taller elements capturing long-range views toward Parramatta while setbacks and separation distances mitigate impacts on surrounding residential areas. Sustainability initiatives, including solar optimisation, cross-ventilation, and integrated landscape systems, are embedded across the scheme.

Located approximately one kilometre south of Parramatta CBD, the 3.6-hectare site is bounded by Crescent Street, Woodville Road, and Holroyd Sportsground. It benefits from strong access to public transport, including nearby bus routes and train stations, and sits within a rapidly evolving corridor earmarked for increased residential density. The design also strengthens connections between surrounding green spaces, including Holroyd Sportsground and Parramatta Parklands.

The approval follows several years of planning, including a rezoning process that enabled significant uplift in height and density across the site. With determination now secured, Crescent Parklands is positioned to play a major role in delivering new housing supply within Greater Parramatta’s growth area.

Tiberius’ Crescent Parklands to deliver over 1,200 homes in major Holroyd transformation

Lowe Group

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As property trends shift and evolve, it's important for developers to constantly keep up with what buyers want. <a href="/developers/lowe-living">Lowe Group</a> Managing Director Tim Lowe had a chat to Apartments.com.au about the buyer requests of 2019, and more specifically, how the concept of "off-the-plan" is shifting to another form of "building your own home" thanks to the response to customer demand for customisation.

Apartments.com.au: Given the success of <a href="/buildings/lumiere-black-rock-68-bluff-road-black-rock">Lumiere</a> Black Rock’s record sales, what do you believe were the stand out features which set the development apart from other properties within the Black Rock area?

Tim Lowe: The contemporary nature of architecture and our partnership with the internationally renowned design partner, Warren and Mahoney, allowed us to create a building that had a rich story behind it whilst also being contemporary and fitting with the area. Further to that, the features being the offering, single-level two and three bedroom apartments with large outdoor areas. Whereas Black Rock is typically renowned for two-level townhouses and large single homes. So it gave an additional opportunity for our downsizer demographic.

<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/lowe2004_black_rock_v07_garden_to_living_low.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="One of Lumiere's expansive outdoor courtyards. Image credit: Lowe Group"><img alt="One of Lumiere's expansive outdoor courtyards. Image credit: Lowe Group" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/lowe2004_black_rock_v07_garden_to_living_low.jpg?itok=Cf-tCFds" style="width: 580px; height: 290px;" title="One of Lumiere's expansive outdoor courtyards. Image credit: Lowe Group"></a>

<figcaption>One of Lumiere's expansive outdoor courtyards. Image credit: Lowe Group</figcaption></figure>U: How do you go about discovering what buyers want in an apartment? What kind of research is involved?

TL: We can confidently say we have a clear understanding of our demographic (downsizer). Firstly, we assess the market by understanding our buyer is a downsizer and they would be looking for an apartment that does allow them to release some equity from their existing home. Therefore we are very considerate about price point and providing varying floorplan considerations, for example at Lumiere we offered 6 unique floorplans each one tailored to suit different buyers and financial provision. Lowe Living also has a rich history working with this demographic and we frequently engage with our clients across all our projects to get feedback, in particular from our customisation/personalisation services, to ensure the next projects include the items they’re typically requesting.

<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/g.01.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Residence G.01"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="262" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/g.01.png?itok=nE1jkvfv" title="Residence G.01" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Residence G.01</figcaption></figure><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/g.02.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Residence G.02"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="255" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/g.02.png?itok=Uqn6ZnIh" title="Residence G.02" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Residence G.02</figcaption></figure><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/g.03.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Residence G.03"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="607" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/g.03.png?itok=KGXMZWX4" title="Residence G.03" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Residence G.03</figcaption></figure><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/1.01.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Residence 1.01"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="335" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/1.01.png?itok=2nQkGvdW" title="Residence 1.01" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Residence 1.01</figcaption></figure><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/1.02.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Residence 1.02"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="248" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/1.02.png?itok=KBph5xxh" title="Residence 1.02" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Residence 1.02</figcaption></figure><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/1.03.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Residence 1.03"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="506" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/1.03.png?itok=T1sYruPb" title="Residence 1.03" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Residence 1.03</figcaption></figure>U: In what ways have apartment characteristics and features changed, and how much of that is influenced by economic, societal and environmental factors?

TL: In the areas in which we play (broader Melbourne, in particular, Bayside), apartments were typically tailored to the first home buyer and investor with limited amounts of amenity and lifestyle. Now we are tending to find that because of that ageing demographic and the capital growth that people have seen in our areas with their existing home, we are finding a more considered buyer who is more particular on quality of amenity (larger master suites, walk-in robes, home-style kitchens, fireplaces, sense of entry), access to ground floor, private open space and high-quality finishes and finishes. Our demographic is also taking the opportunity to move closer to the epicentre of the community with easy access to local shops and cafes/restaurants.

<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/lowe2004_black_rock_v02_living_g03_low.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Living area in one of the Lumiere residences. Image credit: Lowe Group"><img alt="Living area in one of the Lumiere residences. Image credit: Lowe Group" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/lowe2004_black_rock_v02_living_g03_low.jpg?itok=1XA9XaNU" style="width: 580px; height: 299px;" title="Living area in one of the Lumiere residences. Image credit: Lowe Group"></a>

<figcaption>Living area in one of the Lumiere residences. Image credit: Lowe Group</figcaption></figure>U: In your opinion, which design choices and additional features add the most value to a development?

TL: Firstly, the uniqueness of the project design. For our buyer, key design choices include flexibility of living spaces and be able to cater for large family gatherings on an infrequent basis. We ensure the areas that are most frequently used within the apartment – kitchen, master suite, living and dining – assimilate the level of amenity that they’re accustomed to in their larger homes but providing a more functional and effective floorplan. We also make a lot of considerations around the key fundamentals of a home, including a sense of entry and segregation of spaces within an apartment such as having privacy to your master bedroom (leading off a hallway). The building's geometry is also very important, where we consider liveability within the design, offering less reliance on systems with the prospect of natural air flow and solar in the Winter. Whilst also leverage off our Bayside location by using neutral tones and giving great consideration to bright spaces, with low maintenance material selection.

<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/lowe2004_black_rock_v04_kitchen_g03_low.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Modern kitchens with high end appliances and bespoke cabinetry. Image credit: Lowe Group"><img alt="Modern kitchens with high end appliances and bespoke cabinetry. Image credit: Lowe Group" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/lowe2004_black_rock_v04_kitchen_g03_low.jpg?itok=om_9eBKD" style="width: 580px; height: 322px;" title="Modern kitchens with high end appliances and bespoke cabinetry. Image credit: Lowe Group"></a>

<figcaption>Modern kitchens with high-end appliances and bespoke cabinetry. Image credit: Lowe Group</figcaption></figure>U: Do you ever experience buyers making customisation requests prior to construction? 

TL: This part of our Lowe Living offering, where we engage closely with our buyer to ensure they understand the particulars of their future home and allow them to personalise their home prior to construction. We promote them to consider how the space can work for them and ensure the space is how they envisioned when we deliver the final product. We are conscious of our client’s unique individual preferences, in terms of how they like to live within their home. We also offer a professional service from the Managing Director through to the Project Architect to ensure every detail is covered. We find all our clients engage in this service before construction and this is evident across all our projects to date.

U: What are the key design trends of 2019 you've found to be the most popular among buyers of your developments?

TL: Personalisation and a strong focus on Client Services (customer services), first and foremost. 2019 has seen a more astute and considered buyer enter the market, as the dynamic of the market has changed. Our buyers are expecting more engagement with the product and a better level of customer service. Buying off the plan is almost becoming more akin to a process of building your own home, where buyers want to be involved throughout the entire process including frequent inspections and being kept up to date with progress and activity. We have responded to this market with a dedicated Client Services team, where our client is at the forefront of our business.
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Olivia Round

"Buying off the plan is almost becoming more akin to a process of building your own home" says Lowe Group's Tim Lowe

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Urban recently spoke with Tim Lowe, founder and Managing Director of privately-owned property development and construction firm Lowe Group.

Active across Melbourne's bayside suburbs since 2015, Lowe Group has forged a reputation for unique small-scale projects. With expansion plans afoot, Urban posed a number of questions to Tim in order to understand what has underpinned Lowe Group's success to date and in what direction he intends to guide the blossoming business.

After growing up in his family’s construction business and working in Tier 1 construction, Tim created Lowe Group with the intentions of solely aiming his projects at owner-occupiers. To this end, all developments undertaken by Lowe Group thus far have common traits.

A lineage of high spec projects is the result, with a premium placed on functional spaces. Larger apartments at a specific price point is very much in Lowe Group's wheelhouse given that the target sales profile for all projects is 100% owner occupier.

<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/image1_10.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Design to the fore: Promenade Aspendale"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="629" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image1_10.jpg?itok=dKDEH7TO" title="Design to the fore: Promenade Aspendale" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Design to the fore: Promenade Aspendale</figcaption></figure>Tim Lowe noted the firm has grown rapidly since inception to a point where a development pipeline valued at $77.1 million is in place, backed by a confirmed construction pipeline of $48.6 million.

Pescar in <a href="/new-townhouses/mordialloc-vic-3195">Mordialloc</a> is the firm's most recent completion, whilst Promenade Aspendale is now at construction. 

Both are representative of the type of project undertaken by the developer, where Pescar achieved a record for a 3-bedroom off-beach apartment in the area at $1.25 million. Promenade's $1.45 million 135 square metre penthouse also notched the highest price achieved for a non-beachfront apartment in Aspendale.

Recent events have seen Lowe Group attain planning approval for a $21 million high-end residential project on the Black Street and St Andrews Street intersection in Brighton, in addition to settling on a 2,150 square metre site in Parkdale. 

<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/image33_14.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Linacre Park Apartments by Lowe Group, designed by Maddison Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="312" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image33_14.jpg?itok=C5spTFNd" title="Linacre Park Apartments by Lowe Group, designed by Maddison Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Linacre Park Apartments by Lowe Group, designed by Maddison Architects</figcaption></figure>Quizzed as to how Lowe Group attains the right architect for a given project, Tim explained that the selection process revolves around the ability to identify which design practices have functionality at their core. Beyond the initial meeting, its a matter of ensuring that both developer and architect maintained aligned in terms of values and project goals, according to Tim.

Lowe Group maintains two divisions; Lowe Living which covers off property development, and Lowe Create which is tasked with design and construction.

Tim Lowe explained that the in-house nature of the business allows for a heightened degree of quality control across all aspects of a given development. With marketing and sales also maintained internally, this allows Lowe Group to react swiftly to any changes requested by buyers.

<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/image34_15.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Promenade Aspendale"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="311" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image34_15.jpg?itok=jSWgWxb5" title="Promenade Aspendale" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Promenade Aspendale</figcaption></figure>In terms of expansion plans Lowe Group is being positioned for a tilt at Melbourne's inner eastern bluechip suburbs. Geographically the firm won't be constrained to bayside suburbs, now looking to transfer a successful development formula to the likes of Toorak.

Quizzed as to whether more sizeable projects are envisaged, Time explained that growth aspirations do not necessarily translate to tower-scaled developments. Rather the size of any project will be limited to the firm's ability to still meet their internal values and the need to maintain customer service at the fore.

Asked how Lowe Group be perceived in five years, Tim's answer revolved around being an accountable brand. Known for maintaining the focus on the purchaser and maintaining an open front door policy is paramount.

There's no set timeframe to achieve certain goals, but there is a want by Tim Lowe to expand the business to Perth in particular where he has experience.

In nominating Perth Tim says he understands the fundamentals, despite current market conditions. He believes a niche exists in the market that Lowe Group are looking to capitalise upon.
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