Brisbane-based developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/red-co">Red &amp; Co</a> has made a striking debut on the Gold Coast, officially unveiling its $250 million COMO development in Varsity Lakes, a lifestyle-driven residential project anchored by an extensive rooftop wellness and activity precinct.

Having recently launched to market, construction has already been fast-tracked by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/5point-projects">5Point Projects</a>, ensuring momentum continues on what is set to become a landmark residential address for the growing Varsity Lakes community.

Located at 22 Lake Street, Varsity Lakes, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/como-varsity-lakes-22-lake-street-varsity-lakes-qld-4227">COMO</a> will comprise 156 apartments across 16 levels, comprising one-, two- and three-bedroom residences designed for modern living. However, it is the project’s rooftop amenity offering that sets COMO apart.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135546 project_image_fid=363510]

Designed as a dedicated wellness and recreation hub, the rooftop will feature a 25-metre lap pool, fully equipped gymnasium, and multiple pickleball and paddleball courts - amenities rarely seen in boutique apartment projects.

Residents will also have access to a sauna and plunge baths, while landscaped gardens and relaxation zones will provide tranquil spaces overlooking sweeping panoramic views across the Gold Coast skyline.

The rooftop precinct has been designed to function as the social and wellness heart of the development, encouraging residents to embrace an active, balanced lifestyle within their own building.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135546 project_image_fid=363512]

Red &amp; Co director David Laverty said the amenity offering was central to the project’s design from the outset.

“Amenities were at the forefront of our decisions,” Laverty said.

“Buyers today are looking for more than just an apartment - they want a lifestyle that promotes health, connection and balance.

“The rooftop at COMO has been designed to be the epicentre of that lifestyle, with a suite of wellness and recreation facilities that are quite unique for a boutique development of this scale.”

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135546 project_image_fid=363514]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bda-architecture">BDA Architecture</a>, the residences prioritise liveability, featuring spacious layouts, 2.7-metre ceilings and high-quality finishes throughout.

The development sits beside Bond University, placing residents within walking distance of education, retail and dining options within the vibrant Varsity Lakes precinct, including Robina Town Centre, Varsity Lakes Train Station and a range of leading schools.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135546 project_image_fid=363511]

Laverty said the location was a key driver behind Red &amp; Co’s decision to bring the project to the Gold Coast.

“<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/varsity-lakes-qld-4227">Varsity Lakes</a> was a clear choice for us to invest in as it’s a lifestyle hub that seamlessly blends lakeside living with urbanity,” he said.&nbsp;

“Como will capitalize on this great location, delivering a project that not only creates premium homes, but a lifestyle defined by community, wellbeing, and connectivity.”

Red &amp; Co has delivered more than 500 apartments and townhouses across 26 projects in Brisbane in recent years, with COMO marking the company’s first major Gold Coast development.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135546]

Joel Robinson

Red & Co unveils amenity-rich Como development in Varsity Lakes

Gold Coast developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/big-projects">Big Projects</a> has secured approval for its second Mermaid Beach project.

The developer, currently selling <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-frederick-mermaid-beach-2265-gold-coast-highway-mermaid-beach-qld-4218">The Frederick in Nobby Beach</a>, has secured approval for its next project just 1.5 kilomnetres up the road.

The new development, dubbed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/glenelg-residences-2462-2472-gold-coast-highway-mermaid-beach-qld-4218">Glenelg Residences</a>, has been designed by BDA Architecture and&nbsp;will have just under 100 apartments across an 11-storey building&nbsp;at 2462–2472 Gold Coast Highway, on the corner of Glenelg Avenue just under 300m from the future Mermaid Beach Light Rail stop.

The apartments, a mix of two- and three-bedrooms, will sit above a retail-focused ground plane and under extensive rooftop resident amenities.

<img alt="Exclusive: Big Projects plot Mermaid Beach apartment development, Glenelg Residences" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_75/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Screen%20Shot%202024-06-11%20at%209.55.04%20am.png?VersionId=z6NV4izeuvhBSSVlY6vK6TPO1LxrFeaG" />

BDA said in its planning submission that the project is intended to support the area’s transition toward higher-density, mixed-use living. “This project offers the opportunity to generate appropriate higher-intensity development within the future Light Rail corridor of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/mermaid-beach-qld-4218">Mermaid Beach</a>,” the submission noted.

At ground level, Glenelg Residences will include eight retail tenancies designed to activate the street frontage, complemented by a basement bar offering an additional hospitality element. Above, residents will have access to a rooftop amenity deck featuring an infinity pool, hot and cold plunge spas, day beds, and barbecue facilities.

The architectural approach adopts a restrained material palette of brick, textured concrete, and integrated landscaping, with cantilevered concrete frames and cascading planting intended to soften the built form. BDA described the design as aiming to create “a memorable sculptural mid-rise mixed-use building” that responds to both its coastal setting and urban context.

<img alt="Exclusive: Big Projects plot Mermaid Beach apartment development, Glenelg Residences" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-06-11%20at%209.55.45%20am.png?VersionId=cpjIVBqcT_sujmo2UMWkVyLcQ7WGJHaQ" />

The approval comes as the City of Gold Coast continues to plan for significant population growth, with regional targets requiring more than 100,000 new high-density dwellings by 2046.

<section data-scroll-anchor="false" data-testid="conversation-turn-36" data-turn="assistant" data-turn-id="request-WEB:55d7c6ac-8e6d-4881-ad49-0ed9bf66d1cc-17" dir="auto">
Big Projects, led by Matthew and John Barrett, is part of a growing cohort of developers that deliver construction in-house, providing a high level of confidence to prospective purchasers.
</section>

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150260]

Big Projects secures approval for Glenelg Residences in Mermaid Beach

Sherpa Group is ramping up its investment in the southern Gold Coast by lodging a development application for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-viver-87-griffith-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Flourish Viveré</a>, a new $350 million project in Coolangatta.

The move comes after the group’s $27 million acquisition of the 2,029 sqm site on the corner of Griffith and Warner Street, last year.

They will develop 194 apartments across a 26-storey tower, which will become Sherpa’s largest project to date.

Viveré will be the next chapter in the Flourish story, following closely behind Amargo, Oasis, and the Avenues in Palm Beach, as well as Symphony in Brisbane, all designed to deliver affordable housing in lifestyle-rich locations, giving locals a real chance to secure a residence close to the beachfront.

The HAL Architect-designed project will offer a diverse range of residences, from one-, two, and three- bedroom apartments to the premium Canopy range to luxury penthouses.

<img alt="Vivere" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c85f5a7e-a22f-4745-8def-400adb3c0b35" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-04-15%20at%209.53.43%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=OY.chur3BPExn1exQ2q8clHqWnW_CaBi" />

“The Gold Coast is undergoing a period of immense growth, with more people drawn to the incredible 
lifestyle that’s available, leading to strong growth in property prices,” said Christie Leet, founder of Sherpa 
Group.

“Our goal at Sherpa is to ensure locals are not priced out of the market in prime locations, which is why we 
created the Flourish collection.

“Flourish Vivere will form the next chapter in our portfolio, and we are so excited to be lodging the DA, marking our first project in Coolangatta.”

A signature of the Flourish developments is the communal rooftop. Flourish Vivere will showcase a private resident’s lounge, outdoor dining with barbecues and pizza ovens, heated pool, fully-equipped gym, and a wellness centre with sauna and steam room.

<img alt="Vivere" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c09372cc-aae6-4458-af2e-f291bd19a5e5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-04-15%20at%209.53.49%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Sc_RLXl5jiff.tnadogXjQJ_WIpDjf3p" />

The project is strategically located to offer a walkable lifestyle, with the Strand shopping centre, cafes, restaurants, shops and the beach, all just a short stroll away.

“We have meticulously planned Vivere to build on the Flourish legacy, creating a truly special project,”&nbsp;Leet added.

“Wellness, lifestyle and community are at the forefront of every decision we make, and that has not 
changed for Vivere.”

With the DA now lodged with the Gold Coast City Council, Sherpa has moved quickly to secure LPS Group as the builder, offering buyers a level of certainty that is rarely seen in today’s market.

Sherpa has delivered 16 residential projects over the past seven years with a pipeline of $1 billion, with more under construction.

Sherpa takes Flourish brand to Coolangatta, lays plans for Flourish Vivere 

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.

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

Luxury Perth Apartments

The partnership between Aria Land and Blueways Group has led to a suite of new Nedlands apartment developments with Rivean Residences proving to be the most popular so far.

Construction is underway at Rivean, which is already over 50 per cent sold. Completion of the 28 Giorgi-designed apartments is slated for 2023.

Urban sat down with Blueways Development Manager, Paul Simpson to get some insider information on the popular Perth development

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95299 project_image_fid=178797]

Max Kwok: Rivean Residences is a cooperative effort between Blueways and AriaLand. What strengths do each party bring that add value to the project?

Paul Simpson: Blueways brings its property development experience in Melbourne and substantial capital strength, whilst Aria Land contributes its expertise experience in Perth, where it has established a track record of the development of highly regarded and awarded high-end residential developments.

MK: What are the highlights of Rivean and what is attracting buyers to the project?

PS: Rivean&rsquo;s architects are Giorgi, with whom Aria Land has collaborated in the development of what are considered Perth&rsquo;s most exclusive residential projects, Ten Bellevue and Echelon, which were both awarded HIA Australian Apartment of the Year and WA Apartment of the Year. Giorgi&rsquo;s name is highly regarded in Perth, and has been an attraction to buyers, most of whom emanate from Perth&rsquo;s western suburbs, where Giorgi&rsquo;s architecture is best known and sought after.

Rivean is at the river-end of Broadway, and enjoys wonderful vistas ranging from Kings Park, the CBD and over the Swan River. These views have proven a great attraction to buyers, in addition to the amenity of the Broadway caf&eacute; and retail strip, and the nearby UWA and Queen Elizabeth Medical Centre.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95299 project_image_fid=178804]

MK: What were the goals you set out for the architect team at Giorgi?

PS: A contemporary outcome was sought, with clean lines. The balustrade glazing is frameless, to lighten the fa&ccedil;ade, which features planters on various floors and building corners. Giorgi was asked to provide oversized two and three bedroom residences, including two top-floor penthouses. The foliage is designed to be viewed from both inside and outside the development, to further fit in to the leafy Nedlands environment.

The development was also designed to cater for those who may want to work from home, and so most apartments enjoy studies or study nooks, whilst the ground floor features a Business Hub. The residents&rsquo; parking bays and storerooms are also over-sized, which differentiates the development to all others on offer.

MK: Where have buyers for Rivean come from, and who is the development appealing to?

PS: The development is designed for down-sizers, primarily local residents moving from a larger, older home, typical of Nedlands and adjacent suburbs. The proximity to UWA and the QEII Medical Centre has also attracted interest from academics and the medical profession.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95299 project_image_fid=178805]

However, this being the first development in Nedlands under the recently introduced town planning allowing residential buildings of 6 levels in small pockets of the suburb, many of Rivean&rsquo;s apartments are only half the price of a typical Nedlands house. This has provided an entry to the aspirational buyer, who was previously precluded from the western suburbs market due to the house pricing reflecting its exclusivity.

MK: How does Rivean Residences stand out compared to your other upcoming Perth projects?

PS: Most of our other developments also entail a number one bedroom/study apartments, particularly those closer to the UWA and Medical Centre. Rivean residences are larger on average, both internally and in terms of balcony or terrace size. The gym facilities are larger, and the number of residences is fewer, adding to Rivean&rsquo;s exclusivity. Being closer to the river, its views are also sought after.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95299 project_image_fid=178799]

MK: Were there any challenges during the development process that had to be overcome? How did you handle the lockdowns?

PS: The merits of the architecture and new living opportunities of lock and leave, no maintenance accommodation won the approval for our four Nedlands developments and was achieved over a six month period.&nbsp;

The speed of the sales uptake has supported the recent town planning changes; Rivean and our other developments in Nedlands are satisfying a home sector which previously didn&rsquo;t exist. The approval process wasn&rsquo;t affected by COVID, as WA has been fortunate in avoiding the long lockdowns of other states. COVID did, however, allow us to include design features in our apartments, such as a separate study or desk space to accommodate working from home, the new normal following COVID.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=95299]

Construction is underway at Rivean, which is already over 50 per cent sold. Completion of the 28 Giorgi-designed apartments is slated for 2023

max.kwok_55688

How Nedlands apartment development, Rivean Residences, was planned: Five minutes with Blueways Development Manager Paul Simpson

A partnership between Aria Land and Blueways Group has led to several new Nedlands apartment developments with the most popular so far being Rivean Residences.

The boutique apartment development comprises just 28 apartments with&nbsp;design&nbsp;handled by Giorgi an integrated architecture studio and building company behind award-winning projects like Echelon Residences, Caversham and 10BVT.

Giorgi&#39;s philosophy is instead of being separate processes, architecture and construction are unified from the outset, leading to smarter solutions as well as a more streamlined&nbsp;process.

&quot;Rivean draws on local historical materials and innovative design techniques to spark a revitalization of the surrounding community,&quot;&nbsp;Giorgi says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95299 project_image_fid=178805]

&quot;The design is responsive to the environment, providing excellent access to natural light, fresh air and generous outdoor space, whilst also offering a range of spaces and activities that will promote a sense of community.&quot;

Over 50 percent of the two and three bedroom apartments have been sold.&nbsp;We&#39;ve looked at the floorplans on offer.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95299 project_image_fid=178800]

<ul>
	<li>Two Bed | Two Bath | Zero - One Study&nbsp;| 20&nbsp;-&nbsp; 68 sqm Balcony/Terrace&nbsp;| 115&nbsp;- 183&nbsp;sqm | $909,000+</li>
	<li>Three Bed | Two - Three Bath&nbsp;| Zero - One Study&nbsp;| 24&nbsp;- 116&nbsp;sqm Balcony/Terrace&nbsp;| 162&nbsp;- 277&nbsp;sqm | $1,139,000 +&nbsp;(pictured below is the Type K)</li>
	<li>Penthouse&nbsp;|&nbsp;Three Bed | Two - Three Bath | One Study&nbsp;| 81&nbsp;- 130&nbsp;sqm Balcony/Terrace&nbsp;| 296&nbsp;- 367&nbsp;sqm |&nbsp;Over $1.8 million</li>
</ul>

<img alt="" height="663" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/rivean_type_k_0.jpg" width="593" />

Rivean Residences offers spacious living areas with an open indoor/outdoor&nbsp;flow between balconies and terraces, with a vista down Broadway towards the Nedlands foreshore.

There are high class finishes throughout Rivean, including Miele appliances, a choice of 3 designer selected colour schemes, engineered timber flooring and several car spaces depending on the apartment.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95299 project_image_fid=178815]

The two penthouses see an even higher level across larger spaces, holding the best views in the development.

Situated at 139 Broadway, Kings Park is just moments away, together with the many offerings of nearby Elizabeth Quay and the Foreshore parks.

Construction is scheduled for November 2021,&nbsp;with completion estimated for 2023.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=95299]

"Rivean draws on local historical materials and innovative design techniques to spark a revitalization of the surrounding community," Giorgi says

Luxury Perth Apartments

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Luxury Perth Apartments

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News