IN BRIEF

<ul>
	<li>
	Just three double-storey Sky Homes sit at the top of The Waterline, each with its own private marina berth and rooftop terrace.
	</li>
	<li>
	Construction on The Waterline is complete, with the first residents expected to move in from mid-October.
	</li>
	<li>
	Sky Homes range from 282 sqm to 367 sqm and are priced from $3.65 million.
	</li>
</ul>

<hr />
Lewis Land has opened the first completed sky home for inspection at Harbour Shores, giving buyers their first opportunity to step inside one of just three double-storey residences crowning The Waterline.

Each sky home comes with its own private marina berth, rooftop terrace and Broadwater views, combining the scale of a larger home with direct access to the boating lifestyle that underpins the wider <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/harbour-shores-biggera-waters-564-oxley-drive-biggera-waters-qld-4216">Harbour Shores</a> masterplan.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113271 project_image_fid=366708]

Lewis Land Head of Development Michael Long said the inclusion of a berth with every Sky Home had become increasingly valuable as marina access across the Gold Coast tightened.

“Marina berths are becoming increasingly difficult to secure across the Gold Coast, so including one with every Sky Home makes this a genuinely rare offering,” Long said.

“The private 70-berth marina will accommodate boats up to 12 metres in length and is positioned just 2.5 kilometres from the Broadwater, placing the open ocean only 15 minutes away.

“Being able to step out of your home onto your boat is a rare luxury, and it’s something residents here can look forward to when it opens later this year.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113271 project_image_fid=366709]

The display opening comes as construction completes on The Waterline, with the first residents expected to move in from mid-October.

The three Sky Homes range from 282 sqm to 367 sqm and each feature three bedrooms, three bathrooms, multiple living zones, expansive kitchens with butler's pantries and large balconies taking in the Broadwater outlook.

Each residence also has three secure basement car spaces and additional storage.

“This is the first opportunity the Gold Coast has had to step into Harbour Shores and see, touch and feel what we’re bringing to life here,” Long said.

“There are only three Sky Homes within The Waterline, ranging in size from 282sqm to 367sqm, with each residence featuring three large bedrooms, three bathrooms, multiple living zones, expansive custom-built kitchens with butler’s pantry, and large balconies capturing Broadwater views.”

<img alt="Harbour Shores" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bab65e10-4fab-45e1-92d8-fc56e2ab98ff" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%202.00.16%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=XT8q76LsPkw3cYTsvN3JfFDaPLud90PN" />

Residents of The Waterline will have access to a private pool, along with Harbour Shores' wider collection of amenity including a lagoon pool, social clubhouse, tennis court, gym, yoga facilities and sauna.

Lewis Land partnered with Studio Collective to furnish the completed display, with the interiors designed to demonstrate how the residences could function as permanent homes rather than simply as show apartments.

Studio Collective Director Melissa Park said the surrounding waterways informed the interiors, but in a more restrained way than a traditional coastal scheme.

“We drew inspiration from the canals and coastal surrounds, but our approach was to interpret that subtly through layered materials and a grounded palette of earthy tones, rather than literal coastal references,” Park said.

“We introduced hero moments of green and teal to reference the surrounding waterways, while mirrored elements help reflect natural light.

“The result is a residence that feels elevated yet comfortable, somewhere buyers can genuinely imagine themselves living, entertaining and unwinding.”

Sky Homes are priced from $3.65 million.

Lewis Land is also offering private marina berths with The Residences, its limited collection of three and four-bedroom villas positioned directly along the Harbour Shores waterfront boardwalk.

Three-bedroom villas are priced from $2.99 million, while four-bedroom residences start from $3.19 million.

Harbour Shores is being marketed by Colliers International.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=113271]

Joel Robinson

Lewis Land opens sky home display as The Waterline completes at Harbour Shores

St Vincent de Paul Society Housing Australia has filed plans for a major mixed-use housing precinct on the southern edge of the North Sydney CBD, adding another significant proposal to a pocket around North Sydn​ey Station that is quickly becoming one of the LGA's busiest development zones.

The State Significant Development Application covers a 5,990 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/1-19-mackenzie-street-lavender-bay-nsw-2060">1-19 MacKenzie Street and 211 Blues Point Road in Lavender Bay</a>, immediately south of Nor​th Sydney Station and between the commercial core and the lower-rise Lavender Bay Heritage Conservation Area.

Designed by Wardle, the proposal would deliver a new residential tower comprising 88 build-to-sell apartments and 19 affordable apartments, alongside a separate co-living building with 57 rooms and a building manager's studio.

It would also see the significant restoration and upgrade of St Francis Xavier Catholic Church, the adaptive reuse of the former school building, new parish facilities, retail, a new public square and around 1,000 sqm of publicly accessible open space.

<img alt="Vinnies North Sydney" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d5dd7f87-a617-463e-b577-17541e01f0e9" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%209.10.13%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=4R8TsFN3P_LrrXO2HswTOIrx2blil8lh" />

The project is seeking a concurrent rezoning of the site to R4 High Density Residential and an increase in the maximum building height to allow a tower reaching RL120, or up to 20 storeys. The proposal was progressed through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority pathway.

The build-to-sell component will be weighted toward larger apartments, with just six one-bedroom apartments compared with 31 two-beds, 43 three-beds and eight four-bedroom residences.

The 19 affordable apartments will comprise two studios, 15 one-bedroom apartments and two two-bedroom apartments, taking the total apartment component to 107 residences before the 58 co-living rooms are included.

<img alt="Vnnies" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7d568ca5-cb90-4e18-96c6-d9795dba0c56" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%209.10.05%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=GY2R5M9VtQh0EKy1vajaea19PSLOPuRD" />

Wardle's design for the Vinnies site has sought to negotiate that emerging high-rise context while retaining the lower-scale character of MacKenzie Street and the adjoining heritage conservation area.

The main building adopts a three-storey podium and tower arrangement, with the podium aligned to the ridgeline and front setback of St Francis Xavier Church.&nbsp;Wardle has designed the podium with colonnades, seating, recessed entries and active ground-floor frontages, with sandstone-toned precast concrete and face brick referencing the materiality of the existing church.

The tower then steps back eight metres to the south and six metres to the north before rising in a sculpted form comprising four interlocking quadrants. Wardle has also introduced rounded forms and chamfered corners to reduce the tower's perceived bulk and improve view sharing with neighbouring development sites.

Resident facilities and outdoor areas are planned at the separation between the podium and tower at Level 3, oriented toward Sydney Harbour and the CBD skyline.

The tower itself will feature a glass reinforced concrete facade, with recessed balconies and deep reveals used both to provide shading and privacy and frame views toward the harbour and city. The lower levels take a different architectural approach, using brick and sandstone-toned finishes intended to establish a stronger relationship with St Francis Xavier Church. The Church itself will be conserved and upgraded for its continued use, while the former school building will be adaptively reused as part of the co-living component.

<img alt="Lavendar Bay" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2d4418ad-90aa-4d49-af93-c80b140aea80" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%209.09.47%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Kv4gzbsACaGvZSRuaqcfGC54jEJRXIDJ" />

&nbsp;

The proposal adds to an increasingly concentrated pipeline of residential development around Blue Street, MacKenzie Street and Lavender Bay.

Just west of the site, Central Element lodged plans earlier this year for one of the most significant residential developments proposed in Lavender Bay in recent years.

Central Element's SJB-designed scheme at 64-66 Lavender Street and 3-7 Middlemiss Street would deliver 163 apartments across two towers rising 23 and 32 storeys, replacing five existing apartment buildings containing 32 homes. The project also forms part of the Housing Delivery Authority pathway.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-central-element-reveals-lavender-bay-apartment-plans?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener" target="_blank">First look: Central Element reveals Lavender Bay apartment plans</a>

Immediately around North Sy​dney Station, another two significant proposals have emerged at 5 and 15 Blue Street.

Zurich Australian Insurance Properties is seeking to adaptively reuse its longstanding commercial building at 5 Blue Street, directly above North Sydney Station, rather than demolishing the structure.

Its SSDA proposes converting the building into a 14-storey mixed-use development with 62 apartments and 86 co-living rooms, together with ground-floor retail and a major refurbishment of Blue Street Plaza. The application is currently at the Response to Submissions stage.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-zurich-targets-north-sydney-office-conversion-with-148-unit-proposal-above-metro-station">First look: Zurich targets North Sydney office conversion with 148-unit proposal above Metro station</a>

&nbsp;

First look: Vinnies files for 20-storey Lavender Bay apartment tower as North Sydney housing pocket heats up

When the opportunity arose for South Australian developer Palumbo to return to Kent Town, where it had previously delivered East Park Apartments and the East 
Rundle Apartments, it wasn't one the longstanding developer-builder was going to pass up.

The decision was quickly vindicated, with more than 30 apartments sold within the first month of launching <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/royal-apartments-kent-town-2-8-north-terrace-kent-town-sa-5067">Royal Apartments</a> to the market.

The 206-apartment development, which will bring significant new supply to Adelaide's tightly held eastern city fringe, also gives <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/palumbo">Palumbo</a> the opportunity to bring new life to one of Kent Town's most recognisable watering holes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6109 project_image_fid=376073]

Royal Apartments incorporates the historic Royal Hotel, a venue Palumbo Managing Director Daniel Palumbo said has a longstanding connection with the local community.

"Everyone in the area has history with the Royal Hotel," Palumbo told Apartments.com.au.

"It was quite an active pub and social gathering place for locals. We want to bring it back to its former glory."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6109 project_image_fid=376072]

The wider development will comprise two residential towers alongside the restored hotel, sitting on North Terrace opposite the Adelaide Park Lands.

For Palumbo, the project also marks a return to familiar territory.

The developer completed East Park Apartments next door more than a decade ago and jumped at the opportunity to develop in Kent Town again when the Royal Hotel site became available.

"The opportunity emerged, and we moved to secure the site," Palumbo said.

"We were approached by the previous landowner, who said they had extensive commitments in Sydney and weren't in a position to deliver the project.

"We took over the site and within six months recut the design scheme to be more in keeping with the type of development we want to bring to Adelaide.

"Now we're on the market and those changes have really resonated with local buyers."

That has translated into a strong start to sales, with 33 apartments transacting in the project's first 35 days.

Palumbo said the early purchaser profile had been consistent with the group's traditional focus on owner-occupiers rather than investor-led apartment stock.

"Local owner-occupiers have always been our market," he said.

"There are always some investors, but we've never developed what would be called traditional development stock. Owner-occupiers are very much our market."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6109 project_image_fid=376068]

The buyer mix has been diverse so far, with downsizers and younger professionals both accounting for a significant portion of early sales.

South Australia's current stamp duty settings, which allow&nbsp;eligible homeowners in South Australia aged 60 savings of up to $103,830 on stamp duty when they downsize to a new property valued at up to $2 million,&nbsp;have helped encourage downsizer activity, while younger buyers in their late 20s and early 30s have been attracted to the opportunity to live immediately outside the CBD while still being able to walk into the city.



Location has been a major part of the proposition for both buyer cohorts.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6109 project_image_fid=376075]

Royal Apartments sits on North Terrace directly opposite the Adelaide Park Lands, with residents able to walk through the parklands toward the East End, Rundle Street and Rundle Mall.

Apartments have been positioned to capture views across the parklands, Adelaide skyline, Botanic Gardens and Adelaide Hills.

Palumbo believes the scarcity of developable land along this section of the Park Lands makes the site particularly difficult to replicate.

"There's very few allotments on that side that can be developed," he said.

"If this location was in New York and you were sitting on Central Park, you'd be talking about a $60 million apartments."

Royal Apartments will offer a broad mix of residences, ranging from one-bedroom apartments through to four-bedroom sub-penthouses and penthouses.

Current listings include one-bedroom apartments from $680,000, while larger three and four-bedroom residences are priced around $2.5 million.

Residents will have access to a swimming pool, gym, barbecue and recreation areas, residents' lounge and dining space, and a communal deck.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6109 project_image_fid=376067]

The apartments will feature generous balconies, while secure parking, bicycle storage and storage cages will also be provided.

A porte-cochère-style arrival and drop-off area has also resonated with buyers, particularly those attracted to being able to walk into the CBD during the day while retaining secure vehicle access at home.

Palumbo is acting as developer, architect and builder on Royal Apartments, continuing the vertically integrated model it has used across its South Australian portfolio.

The group was also behind the $150 million Sofitel Adelaide, the 251-room five-star hotel and residential tower which opened in 2021.

Palumbo said Royal's launch had come at an interesting time for the broader Adelaide apartment market.

Buyer confidence had initially been impacted by uncertainty surrounding the Federal Budget and broader economic conditions, but Palumbo believes sentiment is beginning to improve against a backdrop of significant investment flowing into South Australia.

He pointed to increased activity across defence and resources, including Olympic Dam, as potential long-term drivers of the state's economy and housing market.

"Money is starting to flow into Adeliade, significant amounts as Adelaide bucks the trend of the rest of the country.," Palumbo said.

"There's a lot of activity in the economy over the next decade. I think more investment will come into this market."

Early works on Royal Apartments are expected to commence this year, with major construction activity and cranes anticipated on site from early next year.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=6109]

Palumbo's return to Kent Town strikes early chord with buyers

Go-to builder-developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/graya">GRAYA</a> is continuing to bulk out its already impressive and diverse apartment portfolio across South East Queensland. Their latest milestone is securing development approval for Silk, its boutique riverfront apartment development in St Lucia.

The approval clears&nbsp;the way for the team to begin construction planning for the 22-residence project.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/silk-st-lucia-16-18-sandford-street-st-lucia-qld-4067">Silk</a> will rise 15 levels from an 810 sqm site at 16-18 Sandford Street, occupying a prominent bend of the Brisbane River with a prized northern aspect across Orleigh Park toward the Brisbane CBD.

The approved scheme will comprise 16 split-floor and six full-floor residences, continuing GRAYA's move into larger-format apartment developments targeting Brisbane's prestige owner-occupier market.

The project has been designed around the site's broad river frontage and dual-direction views, with GRAYA prioritising larger residences, privacy and outlook over apartment yield.

<img alt="Silk St Lucia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="aa5c2349-f96c-4914-a812-1f2cd6827af8" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%208.25.44%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=WY0vEU_7vYjeRJKQHiCwFdMxu8PvFh52" />

GRAYA Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer Rob Gray said the project had been shaped around local homeowners wanting to remain in St Lucia without maintaining a traditional family home.

"St Lucia is one of those suburbs people do not want to leave," Gray said.

"They know the river, the trees, UQ, the golf course, Toowong and Indooroopilly, and that familiarity is hard to replace.

"True riverfront opportunities here are exceptionally scarce. What we have designed at Silk is a way to stay in the suburb people love, with the scale and privacy of a private home and far less to maintain.

"This is not typical apartment product. It is a proper home on the river, and that is exactly what this market has been missing."

The approval comes as new apartment development continues to increase across the St Lucia and neighbouring Toowong corridor, although direct riverfront sites remain considerably more tightly held.

GRAYA Co-founder and Managing Director Andrew Gray said securing the approval had removed a significant element of development risk from Silk.

"Genuine riverfront sites of this quality in St Lucia are not something that comes up regularly," Gray said.

"The approval removes a substantial layer of execution risk, and the location underwrites demand in a way very few inner-city sites can.

"The fundamentals here are as strong as anything we have assessed in Brisbane."

<img alt="Silk St Lucia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d0f3d734-65e1-48e8-8ed3-2e0715ffcdd9" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%208.25.56%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=sOLSs_jdHkXLWbBKzRyayf5BfTb2vPsD" />

Silk will see GRAYA return to a stretch of the Brisbane River where it already has recent construction experience. The vertically integrated group recently completed ARC in neighbouring Toowong as builder for developer Spyre, delivering the riverfront project on a constrained site.

GRAYA will take a different role at Silk, controlling the project from design and development through construction and aftercare under its vertically integrated model.

The development will include a gym and resident leisure areas at ground level, integrated with the river's edge.

Silk joins a growing pipeline for GRAYA across Brisbane and the Gold Coast, which includes Enclave, The Gallery, Coral and Ripple.

The developer-builder has also recently lodged plans for its largest project to date, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-silo-19-chester-street-newstead-qld-4006">The Silo</a>, a proposed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/graya-buys-frasers-newstead-site-plans-the-silo-between-james-street-and-gasworks-precincts">$700 million mixed-use development</a> in Brisbane's James Street precinct.

Silk is expected to predominantly target local owner-occupiers and prestige buyers seeking a permanent riverfront home in Brisbane's inner west.

Registrations of interest are now open, with further details on the project and construction program to be released as it progresses.

<hr />
<h2>SILK PROJECT FACTS</h2>

Developer-builder: GRAYA

Project: Silk

Location: 16-18 Sandford Street, St Lucia

Apartments: 22

Built form: 15 levels

Site: 810 sqm riverfront holding

Mix: 16 split-floor and six full-floor residences

Status: Development approved

Next step: Construction planning underway

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152168]

GRAYA greenlit for riverfront St Lucia apartment development, Silk

Abadeen has released the whole-floor penthouse crowning its recently completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/park-residences-cremorne-2-sutherland-street-cremorne-nsw-2090">Park Residences</a> development in Cremorne, bringing the near-300 sqm residence to market for the first time.

Occupying the entire top floor of the boutique Lower North Shore development, the penthouse includes 221 sqm of internal living and a 74 sqm wraparound terrace, with a prized north-facing aspect taking in views across Middle Harbour.

The residence has been completed and fully furnished following a collaboration between Abadeen Executive Chairman Justin Brown and internationally recognised interior designer Jack Freeman, Founder and Managing Director of FREEMAN &amp; CO.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen">Abadeen</a> and Freeman approached the penthouse as a finished home, sourcing furniture, artwork, lighting and objects from Australia and overseas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378718]

Pieces from Parisian design house Pierre Augustin Rose sit alongside contemporary artworks and bespoke lighting, with Freeman drawing on recent visits to PAD Paris and Salone del Mobile Milano for the final collection.

Brown said the aim was to create a penthouse that felt more like a large-scale private home than a traditional apartment.

"The experience begins the moment the lift doors open. You're welcomed into an elegant dining room before the home opens into an extraordinary living space framed by sun-drenched harbour views.

"Every time someone walks through the front door they pause. It's not just the view, it's the incredible sense of space, the warmth created by the northern sunlight that fills the interiors, and the way every room connects so effortlessly.

"It has all the proportions of a luxury home, while delivering the effortless lifestyle and personalised experience of living in a world-class six-star hotel, combined with the simplicity and convenience of apartment living."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378713]

A secure lift provides exclusive access to the penthouse level, opening to a dedicated arrival foyer and dining area before the residence expands into its main living and entertaining spaces.

Floor-to-ceiling glazing runs across the northern side of the home, connecting the interiors with the terrace and Middle Harbour outlook.

The penthouse also features a fireplace and substantial chef's kitchen, while the wraparound terrace has been designed to accommodate both everyday outdoor living and larger-scale entertaining.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378720]

Freeman said the interiors had been deliberately kept restrained to complement the scale, natural light and outlook already established by the architecture.

"The penthouse is a serene study in quiet luxury," Freeman said.

"The interior pairs soft, sculptural forms with warm timber, pale stone and a restrained neutral palette. Curated artwork and metallic accents add depth, while abundant natural light creates a calm, effortlessly refined atmosphere. In my world, less is always more."

Freeman said the approach was centred around collecting individual pieces rather than simply decorating the apartment.

"Every material, every object and every piece of furniture has been curated with intention. I am a true believer in collecting versus decorating.

"The architecture already provided extraordinary natural light, remarkable volume and an uninterrupted connection to Middle Harbour. Our role was to complement those qualities with unique one-of-a-kind pieces of fine art and collectible design sourced from recent travels around the world."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378694]

Among the collection are solid bronze sculptures by Lorenzo Quinn, alongside a curated crystalware collection and pieces sourced from international design fairs.

Park Residences sits opposite Cammeray Golf Club, Cammeray Croquet Club and Grand Slam Tennis Cammeray, around 300 metres from Neutral Bay Village and its established collection of restaurants, cafés and retail.

Brown said the combination of a whole-floor floorplan, northern aspect and proximity to Neutral Bay was becoming increasingly difficult to find on the Lower North Shore.

"Completed whole-floor penthouses with a sun-drenched north-facing aspect and sweeping Middle Harbour views are exceptionally rare," Brown said.

"Add a quiet position opposite golf, croquet and tennis facilities, a level walk to Neutral Bay Village and only minutes to the CBD, and you have a lifestyle that's incredibly difficult to replicate.

"This is a home that offers the privacy and generosity of a luxury residence together with the convenience of one of Sydney's best-connected harbourside locations."

The penthouse will be exclusively marketed by SRM Residential.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=114246]

Abadeen unveils penthouse at Park Residences in Cremorne

Newcastle

Sam Arnaout’s Iris Capital is set to fast-track development of the final stages of its $1 billion East End Village in Newcastle after securing $50 million in sales just a month into their launch.

The rich lister is aiming to start construction of stages three and four of the transformational development by the end of this year following the massive sales run that has been led by local buyers.

“The market response to our final release of apartments has been exceptional and we will begin construction as soon as final approvals have been granted,” said Arnaout.

<img alt="Render of the final East End stage in Newcastle" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="66cdd2cc-c38c-4a88-b318-b23cc700aaf2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/EE_S3_S4_Cam09B_FINAL.jpg?VersionId=TfiV3Zq550nZ7EUsXrSkHFOBXAAQZjY_" />Render of the final East End stage in Newcastle

“We entered the Newcastle market with confidence when we took on the East End Village development in 2016, and that confidence has never waned. The infrastructure spent over recent years to transform the city have made Newcastle CBD one of the most sought-after addresses for locals as well as buyers from Sydney.”

Project marketers Urban Activation, led by Matt George, was appointed in early March to oversee marketing and sales of the East End Village with the team for the $450 million final stages.

“Our team hit the ground running with the latest release of apartments which offer buyers the last chance to be a part of the most significant urban renewal development ever undertaken in Newcastle,” George said.

“Our team has been inundated with inquiries from buyers, most of them locals, as demand for inner-city living in Newcastle continues to firm in the current market. Buyers are looking for premium residences with urban amenities right at their doorstep.

“The sales already achieved by our team support our longer-term view that Newcastle and the Hunter Valley are among the strongest residential property markets in Australia at the moment.”

<img alt="Render of the Newcastle project East End" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="15f79f65-9643-4f6f-b248-fa64145bc171" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/EE_S3_S4_Cam03A_FINAL.jpg?VersionId=g1DuBHs_YcGgIPYiRYKEb8_b6s0x6q_m" />Render of the Newcastle project East End.

Iris Capital’s vision for East End Village spans twelve new buildings over four blocks in the Newcastle CBD, including the sold out first stage comprising the historic Fabric House, Washington House, and Perkins &amp; King buildings which have been transformed into a retail and multi-residential precinct that is centred on the open space of Lyrique Lane.

The final two stages are a collaboration between three architectural firms, SJB, DBJ and Curious Practice, all of which won a design competition for the best achieved design excellence amongst their peers.

One-bedroom residences in the final stages of East End Village are priced from $750,000, while two-bedroom offerings are priced from $1.15 million and three-bedrooms from $2.75 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=107744]

alisonwarters@gmail.com

Iris Capital secure $50m sales blitz in a month for final Newcastle East End stages

Iris Capital, headed by developer and rich lister Sam Arnaout, is gearing up to launch the third and fourth stages of their multi-award winning $1 billion East End Village project in Newcastle.

The first two stages of East End Village have sold out, with construction of the second stage approaching completion of what will become the city's biggest rejuvenation project.

Urban Activation will oversee the marketing and sales of the $450 million final stages of East End Village.

Urban Activation Director Matt George says the final two stages will include some of the most exclusive residential offerings in the entire development.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107744 project_image_fid=211151]

“Stage three and four represent the final release of East End Village and will feature the most luxurious penthouses yet,” George said.

“The open floorplans unfold onto a private balcony towards one of Newcastle’s many sights including the harbour foreshore, ocean horizon, or verdant hilltop grounds of Christ Church Cathedral."

On the wider development, George says&nbsp;East End Village has been one of the most significant urban renewal developments ever undertaken in Newcastle, delivering a step change for the city and leveraging off the massive infrastructure spending program that has revitalised the inner city in recent years.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107744 project_image_fid=211152]

“East End Village is among the latest catalysts to the ongoing revitalisation of Hunter Street and the Newcastle CBD, and this is having a knock-on effect to the entire region," George says, adding that he believes&nbsp;the Hunter Valley is currently one of the hottest property markets in Australia."

Once complete, East End Village will create a vibrant urban precinct across four city blocks in Newcastle’s inner-city area.

Local downsizers and upsizers who want to live in the transformed CBD have shown the most interest in East End. George expects this trend to continue in the final two stages.

The development, set across five buildings incorporating original heritage architecture, will deliver a blend of residential, retail, entertainment and dining to the city’s heart.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107744 project_image_fid=211155]

The completed first stage includes the historic Fabric House, Washington House, and Perkins &amp; King buildings which have been transformed into a retail and multi-residential precinct that is centred on the open space of Lyrique Lane.

With interiors designed by SJB, the apartments have been designed to transcend the typical standards of apartment living, while also embracing coastal views.&nbsp;&nbsp;

One-bedroom residences are priced from $750,000 whilst two-bedroom offerings are priced from $1,150,000 and three-bedrooms are priced from $2,750,000.

Following a design competition, the final stages of the project will be designed in collaboration between architects SJB, DBJ and Curious Practice, with the release set to include the most luxurious penthouses yet.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=107744]

Urban Activation Director Matt George says the final two stages will include some of the most exclusive residential offerings in the entire development

Iris Capital kick off final stages of $1 billion East End Village, Newcastle development

Australian property developer Third.i continues to defy the property market downturn, exchanging on a string of record-breaking apartment sales across two projects in Newcastle and one in Coffs Harbour.&nbsp;

As the first project for Third.i in Coffs Harbour, Sable at the Jetty has been met with strong interest, with the penthouse selling for $2.35 million, recording a record for the region.&nbsp;

Over 80 per cent of the apartments have been sold since launch in October last year, with Third.i's Co-Founder Luke Berry saying the strength of the sales at Sable at the Jetty demonstrate that regional cities are seeing a consistent uptake of sales activity.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135621 project_image_fid=210447]

"There is still growth in the market here, with property sales in the New South Wales north coast holding steady," Berry said.&nbsp;

“There’s heaps of opportunity for growth in Coffs Harbour and this record penthouse sale tells us buyers feel the same way."

With only a handful of apartments remaining, the $35.5 million project is set to deliver a mix of one, two and three-bedroom residences, with construction due to commence in the coming months, with completion slated for mid-2024.&nbsp;

Located on the corner of Collingwood and Edgar Streets, Sable at the Jetty is within walking distance from the beach, local schools, cafes and shops, and also offers numerous transport links at your doorstep. Remaining apartments are priced from $650,000 to $1.6 million.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=109979 project_image_fid=187062]

Sable at the Jetty joins a growing list of Third.i’s record sales in New South Wales, following three record sales in Newcastle, with the sale of the penthouse at Dairy Farmers Towers going for $6.5 million and two back-to-back $3.5 million penthouse sales at the group's retirement living project, The Merewether Residences.&nbsp;

The extensive whole floor penthouse in Dairy Farmers Towers, located at 924 Hunter Street, Newcastle West sold to a local family who swooped in to secure their slice of the iconic project which pays homage to the site’s history as the original head office for Dairy Farmers Limited in Australia.

The buyer is a Hunter Valley legend, winemaker and businessman, who says the level of offering at Dairy Farmers was exactly what he and wife were looking for in an inner-city abode.

When asked about the status of setting a record with their purchase, the buyer said, “We love Newcastle and Novocastrians, and are excited to have an apartment there. We can’t wait to move into such an iconic property and participate in the fantastic social activities Newcastle can offer.”

The penthouse is in the project’s North Tower, which offers a combined 440 sqm ‘Sky Home’ sitting 100 metres above sea level.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=109979 project_image_fid=187069]

The four-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bathroom, four-car property features multiple living and dining rooms, a separate chef's kitchen, bar and adjoining wine cellar, library, and study.

All rooms will have three-metre high ceilings and floor to ceiling glazing, which will deliver 360-degree views of Newcastle all the way to the Broken Back Range in the Hunter Valley, a crucial feature for the buyers who previously lived under the Broken Back Range.

The project has also been met with a swarm of interest from downsizers and owner occupiers, with more than 70 per cent of the project sold since its launch in late 2022.

Third.i secure string of record-breaking apartment sales across New South Wales

Sydney-based developers, Iris Capital, has continued to notch up awards for their East End project.

Having initially focussed on Sydney’s fast growing south-west corridor, the group has most recently taken a leap up the coast, dipping into the prospers of the Newcastle region to deliver a masterplan set to transform the suburb.

Encompassing a 1.66-hectare site, from Perkins Street to Newcomen Street, the East End precinct will be delivered across four stages, with the entire project slated for completion by 2027.

Cited as one of the country’s first large-scale urban regeneration projects, East End is focused on delivering the perfect blend of residential, retail, entertainment and dining to Newcastle.

Stage one of the billion-dollar East End development comprises four buildings, three of which are complete mixed use residential buildings and one a QT hotel.

And the accolades have continued for the project, after having been crowned the winner of the 2022 UDIA NSW award for excellence in mixed use developments, which celebrate innovation, sustainability, industry leadership and excellence in urban development across NSW and the ACT.

Alongside the 2022 UDIA NSW award for excellence in mixed use developments, Iris Capital has already secured seven awards and a high commendation under its belt, as well as being a finalist twice.

The group was recently awarded three awards from the 2022 Newcastle Australian Institute of Architects including the Urban Design award, Residential Architecture – Multiple Housing award and the Newcastle 2022 Medal, which is considered a prestigious top award.

The 2022 NSW Australian Institute of Architects also awarded the group with another three awards including the Urban Design award, Residential Architecture – Multiple Housing award and the Premiers Prize.

Iris Capital also secured first place for Urban Taskforce Australia’s Urban Renewal Development award and received a high commendation from Think Brick Awards for its Horbury hunt Commercial Award in 2021.

CEO of Iris Capital, Sam Arnaout, said he is proud to have received another round of nominations after winning eight awards this year alone for the Newcastle East End development, attributing the success to Iris Capital’s attention to detail and passion for delivering market-leading projects.

“I’ve been joined by so many great people around me at Iris Capital and it’s a massive team effort to achieve what we have for the East End project,” says Arnaout.

“We are delighted that our ongoing efforts to deliver an urban city sanctuary with our East End development are being recognised once again with Iris Capital being a finalist for four awards.

“Being awarded the UDIA award for excellence in mixed use development reflects our unwavering commitment to developing communities that set a benchmark for the industry and these accolades only deepen our resolve to continue creating a revitalised and flourishing community in Newcastle.

“Iris Capital is grateful for the awards and nominations we have secured so far, for our East End development, and look forward to the next stages of our master planned high quality integrated residential and mixed-use development.”

Iris Capital will now progress through to the National Architecture Awards and the National UDIA Developer Awards which will be determined later this year.

Iris Capital is one of Australia’s leading private property and hotel enterprise headed by Sam Arnaout. The company’s investment and development activities have seen it create five billion dollars in enterprise value over more than 25 years with the Iris Capital group now generating annual revenue of $500 million and employing more than 1500 people across Australia.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=107744]

Iris Capital take out UDIA award for Newcastle mixed-use development, East End

Poised to bring the next generation into the property market, heavyweight property developer Third.i has received the green light from the City of Newcastle council to bring its latest offering to reality, the Dairy Farmers Towers project in the heart of Newcastle&rsquo;s West End.

The project burst onto the market just a few months ago, drawing buyer attention before the project had even launched.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=109979 project_image_fid=187054]

The Dairy Farmers project is set to deliver 184 one, two and three-bedroom apartments over two towers, topping a five-storey residents&rsquo; only shared work hub with over 1600 sqm of commercial and retail space.

Third.i is also one of the largest providers of Specialist Disability Accommodation apartments along the East Coast of Australia, partnering with numerous Specials Independent Living Advisors to provide suitable accommodation in their large scale developments, including Dairy Farmers Towers, which will deliver eight SDA apartments.

With development approval under its wing, Third.i will commence construction in the third quarter of this year with expected completion for the back end of 2024.

The project will offer an exclusive deposit scheme, a first for Newcastle, in collaboration with CoPosit, which will see a fee-free app-based service allowing buyers to purchase a property with just $10,000 in savings, with the remainder of the deposit paid over weekly instalments.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=109979 project_image_fid=187062]

Third.i Co-Founder and Director, Luke Berry, says the DA approval paves the way for Third.i to fulfil a dream to help people enter and re-enter the property market with overwhelming local support from hungry buyers.

&ldquo;We are thrilled to receive our development approval from the council for Dairy Farmers Towers, a project that is providing achievable deposit schemes for those looking to secure their slice of the real estate market,&rdquo; said Berry.

&ldquo;The West End is quickly becoming Newcastle&#39;s beckoning lifestyle hub, complete with an eclectic mix of urban flair and character. Dairy Farmers Towers joins our stable of West End projects and has already become a legacy project for everyone to enjoy. When you&rsquo;ve also got the CoPosit initiative to help Australians purchase their first homes, I couldn&rsquo;t be prouder of the calibre that will soon be brought to life with this DA approval,&rdquo; he added.

Berry also noted how using the scheme could save buyers money in the long run as well as securing a new build property now, rather than buying one after competition at a higher price, which sees a lot of buyers traditionally priced out of the market.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=109979 project_image_fid=187064]

Dairy Farmers Towers is set to include a deluxe range of exclusive amenities featuring co-working spaces, cabana pool areas with a lap pool, a wine bar and cellar, a state-of-the-art gym and a Pilates studio, as well as multiple function rooms.

A young buyer who purchased through the CoPosit scheme said that if not for the scheme offered at the project, it would&rsquo;ve taken them an additional two years to save for a normal deposit.

&ldquo;What drew me to Dairy Farmers Towers was the bespoke amenities on offer and the opportunity to purchase through CoPosit. I have never seen such a great initiative within Newcastle that assists first home buyers get into the market at such a high-quality level of development,&rdquo; said the Dairy Farmers Towers buyer.

&ldquo;The process was really simple and straightforward. I have been really impressed so far with the service and how many people there are to assist with any of my questions. I think more people should consider purchasing with CoPosit because of how easy and rewarding it has been being able to actually put my name on my dream apartment without having to wait another two-years to save my deposit.&rdquo;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=109979 project_image_fid=187069]

The green-lit Newcastle West site was once home to Dairy Farmers - one of Australia&rsquo;s largest dairy producers.

In a nod to the history of the site, Third.i has reimagined the heritage-listed, iconic milk bottle and clock towers as part of the project through a pedestrianised, broader public art installation.

&ldquo;Residents will have some of the best views in town, as well as access to the harbour, great dining and entertainment options, and the transport interchange at their doorstep. We wanted Dairy Farmers Towers to be a West End icon, a landmark reborn to create a new chapter as a great place to live, work and play. With construction commencing later this year, we can&rsquo;t wait to do exactly that,&rdquo; concluded Berry.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=109979]

The Dairy Farmers project is set to deliver 184 one, two and three-bedroom apartments over two towers, topping a five-storey residents’ only shared work hub with over 1600 sqm of commercial and retail space.



 Council gives green light for Dairy Farmers Towers, paving the way for Newcastle’s latest apartment development 

Plus Architecture has won the design competition for a $100 million two-tower development on the site of a former big-format retailer in Newcastle.

The redevelopment of the 4726 sqm site at 711 Hunter Street will comprise 267 apartments across two towers rising to 90 metres, as well as 1,400 sqm of commercial space.

Along with the City of Newcastle, prominent Newcastle developers St&nbsp;Hilliers&nbsp;Property and Spotlight Group partnered to run the design competition, which St&nbsp;Hilliers&nbsp;Property project director Paul Smith said had unearthed the best architectural talent and ideas for the prominent West End site.

&ldquo;The quality of architectural design presented by Plus Architecture is really impressive and we look forward to further refining the design by incorporating the jury&rsquo;s recommendations before proceeding to the next phase,&rdquo; Smith said.

&ldquo;With a development of this significance, we will work closely with Plus Architecture to set sustainability targets and quality design outcomes during the more detailed development application phase, including a focus on thermal comfort, energy, waste and water.&rdquo;

<img alt="" height="897" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-02-17_at_9.45.00_am.png" width="1145" />

Unanimously selected, Plus Architecture&rsquo;s design included a &lsquo;meeting place&rsquo; concept, with a public domain to facilitate and encourage socialisation.

Plus Architecture Director Sumedh Kataria said that the news was a testament to Plus Architecture&#39;s vision, deep appreciation for community needs and team talent.

&ldquo;Projects that have the potential to change the face of a city, and its skyline into a new era, require an elevated element of design with beauty, form and end-use at the fore,&rdquo; Kataria said.

&ldquo;Our vision for this project is about creating a place that reflects the heart and soul of the city - past, future.

&ldquo;Plus Architecture&rsquo;s winning design concept is intended to deliver a development that celebrates its connection with place and country, adds to the richness of the urban fabric within which it sits and embraces its role as a key contributor to the city&rsquo;s future identity.&quot;

<a href="/new-apartments/711-hunter-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302"><img alt="" height="764" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-02-16_at_11.33.54_am.png" width="775" /></a>

Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the architectural design competition had delivered design excellence for the redevelopment of 711 Hunter Street which will lead to positive outcomes for the city and a transformation of the city&rsquo;s skyline.

&ldquo;City of Newcastle congratulates Plus Architecture on their winning design and commends the joint venture partners, St&nbsp;Hilliers&nbsp;and The Spotlight Group, for their commitment to the ongoing revitalisation of Newcastle&#39;s West End,&rdquo;&nbsp;Nelmes&nbsp;said.

&ldquo;The construction associated with a redevelopment of this size will generate jobs and help buoy Newcastle&rsquo;s economy which is a positive as we come up against the ongoing impacts of&nbsp;Covid&nbsp;and look to the future.&rdquo;

Manager Regulatory, Planning and Assessment, Michelle Bisson said the competition will raise the benchmark of architectural design excellence in Newcastle.

&ldquo;Ongoing revitalisation and development is continuing to transform Newcastle particularly in the West End, and 2022 is shaping up to be another exciting and busy year for our city,&quot;&nbsp;Bisson&nbsp;said.

<img alt="" height="923" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-02-17_at_9.44.54_am.png" width="1442" />

&ldquo;Once constructed, 711 Hunter Street will boast a hallmark building that will stand the test of time for future generations to admire.&quot;

The architectural design competition was run by an independent jury process under the governance of City of Newcastle and the NSW Government Architect&#39;s Office. Consultants&nbsp;Urbis&nbsp;administered the design competition on behalf of property developers St&nbsp;Hilliers&nbsp;and The Spotlight Group.&nbsp;

The developers are expected to lodge a detailed development application for the site in the first half of this year.

The redevelopment of the 4726 sqm site at 711 Hunter Street will comprise 267 apartments across two towers rising to 90 metres, as well as 1,400 sqm of commercial space.

Plus Architecture take out Newcastle apartment development design competition 

Newcastle is set for its joint-tallest residential apartment tower, as Sydney developer Third.i. Group lodge plans for two towers on the landmark Dairy Farmers Corner site in Newcastle West.

The two towers, on the corner of Tudor and Hunter Streets, will home 184 apartments across the two buildings. One will rise nearly 100 metres, and 30-storeys, which will be the same number of levels as Pinnacle Apartments. There will be an adjoining five-storey building for retail and commercial.

Local architecture firm CKDS has designed the project. They are behind a number of&nbsp;the city&rsquo;s new residential and commercial buildings including the multi-award winning Verve Residences, Horizon Lee 5 and East End Stage 2.

A mix of one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments&nbsp;will be on offer, which Third.i Director, Luke Berry, says will have some of the best views in town, as well as the harbour, great dining and entertainment options, and the transport interchange at their doorstep.

To keep up to date with the development and its launch, enquire here

&quot;To create a true sense of community for residents we&rsquo;ve focussed on incorporating communal and green spaces and facilities such as a gym, a cabana pool area with lap pool, wine bar and cellar, and function rooms,&rdquo; Berry says.

<img alt="" height="525" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/dairy_farmers_newcastle_3.jpg" width="1200" />

Third.i positions Newcastle as an exciting market to work in with great potential which presents a sea change for Sydneysiders, empty nesters and downsizes, given its close proximity to Sydney, and a relaxed return to the office, post pandemic.

&ldquo;In what we believe is a first for the city, we want to use some of the commercial space as a residents&rsquo; shared work hub, so they can work from home without being in their apartment,&rdquo; Berry added.

To keep up to date with the development and its launch, enquire here

The Newcastle West site was once home to Dairy Farmers - one of Australia&rsquo;s largest dairy producers. In a nod to the history of the site, Third.i will re-imagine the heritage-listed, iconic glass milk bottle and clock towers as part of a pedestrianised, broader public art installation.

<img alt="" height="632" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/dairy_farmers_newcastle_2.jpg" width="1200" />

Dairy Farmers Towers is the fourth West End apartment project for the Sydney-based developer. It has already completed the West, Eaton on Union, and Stella on Hannell apartments in Wickham, creating 381 inner city homes.

Third.i&rsquo;s retirement living division ThirdAge is partnering with Merewether Golf Club on the recently approved luxury resort retirement living project &ndash; The Merewether.

To keep up to date with the development and its launch, enquire here

&ldquo;We feel like the West End is our second home and we are excited to be part of its revitalisation. We want Dairy Farmers Towers to be a West End icon, a landmark that will be reborn to create a new chapter in the West End&rsquo;s growth as a great place in which to live, work and play.&quot;

The project has been designed by leading local architectural firm CKDS. The firm is behind the designs of a number of the city&rsquo;s new residential and commercial buildings including the multi-award winning Verve Residences, Horizon Lee 5, East End Stage 2, and the Gateway l and ll buildings.

Third.i Director, Luke Berry, says the apartments will have some of the best views in town

Third.i to create Newcastle joint-tallest apartment development at the Dairy Farmers site

Although summer has passed by, Sydney&rsquo;s latest lockdown has reminded many Australians of the benefits that come with investing in a coastal holiday home.

SQM Research managing director Louis Christopher claimed that its likely regional occupancy has already reached its highpoint.

&ldquo;With the costs of renting a holiday home soaring thanks to huge local demand, combined with record-low interest rates, we&rsquo;re experiencing a unique situation where it may actually be more cost-effective to buy rather than regularly rent a holiday home&rdquo;, said David Hancock, senior financial planner at Montara Wealth.

To assist in your search, Urban takes a look at five stunning coastal properties to consider in regional NSW.

1. Horizon, Gosford 
Developer: JMGM 
Two-bedroom apartment prices available upon request

[smartcode_project:default project_id=101204 project_image_fid=162047]

Delivered by JMGM, Horizon comprises 184 architecturally-designed in one, two and three-bedroom configurations.

Set across 24 stories, the mixed-use development boasts spacious interiors and 2,500 sqm of retail space that forms a vibrant precinct in the heart of Gosford.

In the beautiful Gosford region of the NSW Central Coast, residents can enjoy magnificent national parks, sparkling waterways and golden sandy beaches.

2. Ridgewaters, Kiama 
Developer: St Trinity Property Group 
Three-bedroom apartments from $945,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27858 project_image_fid=162070]

Positioned amongst Kiama&rsquo;s serene landscape and only a short walk to pristine beaches, Ridgewaters is a selection of three-bedroom apartments.

This collection of luxury apartments presents an ideal home for a range of purchasers, from retirees and young families to investors and holidaymakers searching for a laid-back coastal lifestyle.

Located just 90 minutes south of Sydney and 30 minutes from Wollongong CBD, the boutique two-storey development promises convenience and local amenity.

3. Sky Residences, Newcastle 
Developer: GWH 
Two-bedroom apartments from $675,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8430 project_image_fid=28045]

Sky Residences is Newcastle&rsquo;s newest skyline tower in the heart of the CBD&rsquo;s Civic Cultural Precinct, connecting residents to everything they love.

Offering a choice of 180 apartments in one, two and three-bedroom configurations, Sky boasts light-filled living spaces, security swipe access and energy-efficient fittings.

&ldquo;We reserved the prime rooftop space, making it possible for every SKY resident to enjoy unprecedented 360-degree views and contemporary lifestyle amenities that enrich the way they live&rdquo;, GWH managing director Jonathan Craig said. 
 
4. Midtown, Wollongong 
Developer: Level 33 
Two-bedroom apartments from $575,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=34275 project_image_fid=153610]

Midtown encompasses a collection of studios, one, two and three-bedroom apartments that capture the impressive views of the Illawarra Escarpment.

Delivered by Level 33, the home includes a ground-level retail podium that activates the building, a number of apartments that boast ocean views and a communal rooftop entertaining terrace.

The development is perfectly located for those who desire convenience and connection, and will benefit from the Wollongong Council&rsquo;s $800 million infrastructure investment 2018-2022.

5. Highpoint, Charlestown 
Developer: GWH 
Two-bedroom apartments from $640,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8980 project_image_fid=28277]

Developed and built by Hunter locals, GWH, Highpoint boasts premium finishes and fittings that are purposefully designed to reflect the needs of today&rsquo;s living.

The development is located in Charlestown, the shopping, dining and entertainment precinct of Lake Macquarie, ideal for young families and downsizers.

Exclusive to Highpoint residents is the terrace garden, entertainment and barbeque area on the level three podium, as well as a rooftop entertaining space.

Although summer has passed by, Sydney’s latest lockdown has reminded many Australians of the benefits that come with investing in a coastal holiday home

max.kwok_55688

Five coastal apartments to consider in NSW

The Newcastle developer GWH has seen a spike in sales of their Newcastle CBD development Sky Residences since the start of 2021.

GWH sales and marketing manager&nbsp;Matthew Waddell puts it down to an increase in investor activity in the region, which posted 3.6 per cent dwelling price growth&nbsp;in March, second only to Sydney in price growth of major regions across the country.

"For this current quarter (January to March), we have seen more sales than any period during the marketing of the project", Waddell says.

There's been a dramatic increase in enquiry from investors, more specifically from investors outside Newcastle, Waddell notes.&nbsp;

<a href="/new-apartments/sky-residences-509-hunter-street-newcastle"><img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="896" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/sky_residence_2.jpg" width="1200" /></a>

Investors have accounted for 36 per cent of sales since the turn of the year at Sky Residences, just behind owner-occupiers who accounted for 38 per cent. And now over a third of those buying are coming from outside of Newcastle.

"Buyers are making their purchasing decision quicker as well, with a previous ratio of appointments to sales of 7:1 now shortening to 3:1", Waddell says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8430]

Set in the heart of the CBD's Civic precinct, Sky Residences,&nbsp;designed by DBI, homes 180 apartments, made up of one, two, three and four bedroom units.

There are 1,100 sqm of premium hotel-style amenities for residents, including a heated outdoor lap pool, gym and fitness centre and a rooftop sky lounge with 360-degree views across Newcastle. On the roof there's indoor and outdoor facilities, a landscaped lawn terrace, barbecues and dining spaces.

<a href="/new-apartments/sky-residences-509-hunter-street-newcastle"><img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="894" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/sky_residence_3.jpg" width="1200" /></a>

Inside there's a lounge area with a fireplace and a cinema screen and bar.

Remaining one bedroom apartments start from $485,000, with the highest remaining three bedders on level 16 for sale at $1.6 million. The north-east facing penthouse sold for $3.3 million.

<h2>About the developer</h2>

GWH have been developing property in the Newcastle region&nbsp;for over 25 years, with over $1 billion of completed projects&nbsp;delivered.

Led by Jonathan Craig, GWH are behind Aero in Newcastle, which won the Master Builders Association award for&nbsp;Apartment Development of the Year in 2018, Highpoint in Charlestown and 121Elder in Lambton.

There's been a dramatic increase in enquiry from investors, more specifically from investors outside Newcastle.



Sales spike hits Newcastle's Sky Residences as investors return

Buyers have moved in to the first stage of East End, Newcastle&#39;s newest apartment development, with stage two sales well underway.

The recently completed stage one of the Sam Arnaout-led Iris Capital&nbsp;development in the heart of Newcastle on Hunter Street comprises three buildings, Fabric House, Perkins &amp; King and Washington House.

Each building has been created by a different architect.

The most striking is Washington House,&nbsp;where architecture firm TZG had to incorporate the historic Washington House in to their design which retained the front facade.

<a href="/new-apartments/east-end-stage-2-newcastle-147-hunter-street-newcastle"><img alt="" height="837" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/washington_house_1.jpg" width="1600" /></a> 
Washington House, built in the early 1900&#39;s.

Washington House was once the Charleston Studios, operated by the photographer Harry &#39;Henry&#39; Charleston in the 1930s, before being completely remodelled&nbsp;by Washington Handley Soul, of the investment firm now known as Washington H Soul Pattinson.

Washington House features an outdoor landscaped terrace on level three, complete with a private garden, barbecues and outdoor dining.

Durbach Block Jaggers created Fabric House with curved glass and the arched windows, while SJB designed Perkins &amp; King.

Interior design firm Turners handled the interiors.

Around 90 per cent of stage one has sold, with just the nine apartments remaining. Around 50 per cent have sold to owner-occupiers.

Stage two, which comprises Soul and Lyrique, both designed by&nbsp;CKDS Architecture, is around 50 per cent sold.

<a href="/new-apartments/east-end-stage-2-newcastle-147-hunter-street-newcastle"><img alt="" height="1044" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/east_end_newcastle_2.jpg" width="1400" /></a> 
The rear of Lyrique

PRDnationwide agent Ryan Houston says they are seeing a lot of local downsizers and young professionals who no longer want to mow the lawns.

&quot;They want to live the inner city lifestyle,&quot; Houston says, adding that there are out of town buyers&nbsp;from&nbsp;Sydney, as well as areas around Mudgee, Armidale and Dubbo looking for a weekend or even a sea change.

&quot;We are seeing a lot of interest recently in apartments as the market are seeing apartments as the futures of real estate and betting on the fact the market will continue to rise.

&quot;Best thing is that they can lock in a price today at todays prices for only a 10% deposit.&quot;

About the developer

Arnaout&#39;s Iris Capital are behind the likes of the residential developments Omnia in Potts Point, Grand Bondi Junction and Wattle Hill at Hurlstone Park.

Iris Capital also owns a number of hospital venues&nbsp;including the Manly&#39;s Hotel Steyne and Ivanhoe Hotel. Iris has&nbsp;prominent around the Kings Cross area for a number of years where they own&nbsp;the Bourbon.

On the East End project, Arnaout says &quot;This is something that we won&rsquo;t be able to replicate anywhere else and it&rsquo;s something we&rsquo;re proud to be delivering for the people of Newcastle.&quot;

<h2>Recently listed properties:</h2>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29359]

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29679]

[smartcode_project:default project_id=21618]

&nbsp;

Each building has been created by a different architect

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