Repeat buyers are one of the strongest measures of confidence in any apartment development.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/era-newcastle-west-124-126-bull-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">ERA</a> in Newcastle West, some purchasers are returning to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> after living at the developer's One Apartments. Their decision to purchase again was driven by the quality of life they found after moving into their first GWH home.

Keith Wilton had spent years living in a house in East Maitland before deciding it was time for a change. Apartment living had always been on his radar, but he was selective about what he wanted.

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"I had some boxes I wanted to tick," he says.

Keith points to the open-plan design, generous outdoor areas and considered inclusions as key reasons One Apartments worked for him.

“One of those things was a nice indoor open plan area, but also I wanted a nice outdoor open area that I could entertain on in summer or Christmases or birthdays,” he says.

He also found value in the smaller details, from integrated appliances to shared resident spaces including the pool, cinema and rooftop areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356818]

After comparing several developments, he chose One Apartments because of GWH's longstanding local reputation and his own experience working with the developer on a commercial project more than a decade earlier.

"I knew that they were local, that the quality of the build was going to be up there. I'd looked at other apartment complexes around and close by, and I just knew that here was a better decision location wise."

Today, Keith says the move has completely changed how he experiences Newcastle.

"I enjoy living in this location because it's more of a lifestyle change. That Newcastle city living where you can walk to restaurants and bars and even beaches and parks and even shopping across the road."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356828]

Beyond the location, he says it's the sense of community that has surprised him most.

"Everyone loves living here because they chose to live here, but everyone looks out for each other. It's a real great community feel here."

For Aimee and Lyle Goodman, the journey started almost by chance.

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The couple happened to be having coffee in Newcastle when they noticed the site where One Apartments was about to begin construction.

"We were aware GWH was planning a development," Aimee says. "We made one phone call and things moved pretty quickly after that."

As busy business owners, they initially thought apartment living would simply reduce the maintenance that came with larger homes. Instead, it fundamentally changed how they spent time together.

"We actually catch up more as a family now," Aimee says.

"We've had homes with big yards and lots of space, but everyone ended up in different rooms. Here we'll have dinner together, the kids can play, and we spend far more quality time together."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356829]

Lyle says their confidence came from GWH's reputation within Newcastle's building industry.

"I know people who've worked across different apartment projects, and whenever GWH came up the feedback was always the same. They're rock solid. They're quality."

That confidence only grew throughout the buying process.

"One of the things that really impressed us with GWH was the whole process, was the communication," Lyle says. "It was consistent, it was regular, there was no problem if we had some weird questions, there was no problems in getting answers."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351104]

Aimee says one moment stood out.

"The project actually finished on time. We realised we needed to hurry up and sell our house because everything was happening exactly when they said it would."

The positive experience at One Apartments ultimately gave all three buyers the confidence to purchase again with GWH, this time at ERA.

Their confidence reflects what many buyers are seeking in today's apartment market. Location remains important, but so too does certainty around delivery, quality and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356822]

ERA builds on those foundations with 280 one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two landmark towers in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Newcastle West</a>.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a>, the project will include more than 2,000 square metres of resident amenities, including a resort-style pool, gym, sauna, private cinema and rooftop entertaining spaces overlooking the harbour and coastline.&nbsp;

The development is also within walking distance of the Newcastle Interchange, Honeysuckle, Darby Street, the harbour foreshore, restaurants, retail and the city’s beaches, continuing the walkable lifestyle that existing GWH buyers say has transformed how they live.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356826]

For Keith, the appeal remains straightforward.

"You feel at home even before you've moved into your home."

For Aimee, the change is measured in time.

“I just felt like I had more time,” she says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351102]

Construction at ERA is now underway, with more than half of the residences already sold and limited two and three-bedroom apartments remaining in the East Tower release. Priced from $980,000 for two-bedroom residences and $1.46 million for three-bedroom residences, buyers can secure an apartment with a 10 per cent deposit, with premium homes offering ocean views from Level 8 and harbour views from Level 10.

ERA is also backed by Resilience Insurance's 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing protection against structural or waterproofing defects for 10 years after completion. The project is anticipated to be completed in early 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135096]

Joel Robinson

From ONE to ERA: Why buyers are choosing GWH again in Newcastle West

Virgate Property Group is preparing to commence construction of Verdé, its new apartment development in Melbourne's Arts Precinct at Southbank, following a strong run of sales that has seen more than half of the project's 173 apartments secured.

Verdé has attracted a broad mix of first home buyers, owner-occupiers upgrading from nearby inner-city suburbs and investors, with younger owner-occupier couples aged between 28 and 45 accounting for the strongest enquiry. Many are already living in Southbank, South Melbourne, Albert Park, Port Melbourne, South Yarra and the CBD.

"Verdé is located in one of the most desirable pockets of southern Melbourne," Blair Property Group Director Darren Blair, who is managing sales at Verdé, said.

"It's within walking distance of the Arts Centre, Royal Botanic Gardens, Albert Park Lake, and Southbank's restaurants and retail. It's a great lifestyle location with strong amenity and liveability, which made it a very attractive choice for the project."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372549]

Virgate was already familiar with the precinct, having previously delivered the successful Domain House development in neighbouring South Melbourne. That experience gave the developer confidence to acquire the Coventry Street site and continue expanding its presence in Melbourne's inner south.

"We had been keeping an eye on the site and the broader precinct for a few months before deciding to move forward with the acquisition," Virgate said.

The project was ultimately secured in 2020 following feasibility studies, planning assessments and due diligence, with the brief centred on delivering "a high-quality, considered design that feels both refined and fit for purpose."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=314259]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bruce-henderson-architects">Bruce Henderson Architects</a>, Verdé comprises 173 one, two and three-bedroom apartments priced from $599,000. The architecture is distinguished by a faceted glass façade that responds to both the site's outlook and Melbourne's changing light conditions.

According to Bruce Henderson Architects, the coloured glazing gives the building a distinctive identity while also providing privacy and solar shading, with residences oriented to capture views across the bay, city skyline and surrounding parklands.

Inside, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/designoffice">DesignOffice</a> has created interiors focused on natural light, efficient planning and enduring materials. Apartments feature engineered oak flooring, natural stone benchtops, floor-to-ceiling glazing and SMEG appliances, while a restrained material palette aims to complement the expansive outlooks rather than compete with them.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372550]

Resident amenity has also been designed around everyday functionality rather than occasional use. Facilities include a concierge-serviced lobby, residents' lounge with fireplace, library and co-working space, gym, terrace garden with barbecue facilities, ground-floor café, and package delivery management.

The project's location continues to be one of its strongest drawcards. Positioned on Coventry Street, Verdé sits within walking distance of the National Gallery of Victoria, Arts Centre Melbourne, Royal Botanic Gardens and Albert Park Lake, while Southbank's dining precinct, Sturt Street trams and the new ANZAC Station are all nearby. The surrounding education catchment also includes Melbourne Grammar, Melbourne Girls Grammar, Mac.Robertson Girls' High School and several major university campuses.

The sales team says buyers have responded particularly well to the combination of location, design quality and long-term liveability.

"They're responding really positively to the quality of the design, premium resident amenities and the uninterrupted views. Many also appreciate the location and how connected it is to everything they need."

The ability to secure stamp duty savings before completion has also been a key factor for purchasers, alongside the opportunity to personalise finishes ahead of settlement.

With construction set to commence soon and more than half the apartments already sold, Verdé enters its next phase as one of the Arts Precinct's more established apartment developments, offering remaining buyers an opportunity to secure a residence before construction advances further. Expected completion is scheduled for late 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=4661]

Virgate's Verdé Southbank moves toward construction as sales fly past halfway stage

Downsizer-focused apartment development Kooyongkoot in Hawthorn has been recognised at the 2026 Better Future Melbourne Design Awards, taking home Gold and Silver awards in two categories.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kooyongkoot-hawthorn-1-kooyongkoot-road-hawthorn-vic-3122">Kooyongkoot</a>, currently being delivered by developer PQD and designed by Cera Stribley, received Gold in the Interior Design – Proposed category and Silver in the Architecture – Proposed category.

The dual recognition reflects the design approach behind the boutique development on prestigious Kooyongkoot Road, where the focus has been on creating homes for downsizers seeking the space, quality and functionality of a detached house within a low-rise apartment building.

Rather than maximising apartment numbers, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pqd">PQD</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a> limited the development to just 18 residences, allowing for larger floorplans, greater privacy, generous landscaping and expansive communal spaces.&nbsp;The majority of the apartments also benefit from corner aspects, allowing for dual sources of natural light.

Now around 70 per cent complete and on track for completion in November 2026, Kooyongkoot will comprise a mix of garden residences, ter​race apartments, sub-penthouses, and is crowned by two half-floor penthouses with direct lift access and private rooftop terraces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355297]

The Silver Award for Architecture recognised the way the building responds to its prominent corner position at the ent​rance to Hawthorn's Scotch Hill precinct, one of Melbourne's most established residential neighbourhoods.

Rather than competing with the grand homes that line Kooyongkoot Road, the architectural approach focused on restraint and longevity, using curved brickwork, generous landscaping and carefully considered proportions to integrate with the existing streetscape.

"The form feels fluid and timeless, as though shaped by the landscape itself – architecture that belongs, rather than competes," said Chris Stribley, Co-Founder and Managing Principal of Cera Stribley.

The judging submission also highlighted practical innovations throughout the building, including lift cores servicing only nine homes each, a central landscaped lightcourt designed to bring daylight and ventilation into the building, and fully enclosed private storage rooms with lighting, power and shelving to better accommodate residents transitioning from larger family homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355293]

The Gold Award for Interior Design recognised the project's focus on long-term liveability rather than display-home aesthetics.

According to the awards submission, the interiors were designed from the inside out, prioritising how homes would function over decades of daily use through generous proportions, practical storage, durable natural materials and flexible layouts.

The specification includes natural stone throughout, upgraded acoustic glazing, V-ZUG appliances and fully enclosed storage rooms, alongside an amenity offering focused on wellness, entertainment and everyday convenience.&nbsp;

Residents will have access to a gym and yoga studio, a wellness centre featuring traditional and infrared saunas, a cold therapy shower and treatment room, as well as a residents' lounge and golf simulator/cinema room for entertainment.&nbsp;Kooyongkoot has also considered the everyday convenience of its residents by offering a private carwash and pet wash facilities on site as well as dedicated parcel lockers and oversized fully enclosed storage rooms.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355303]

The project's attention to detail has already resonated with buyers. Earlier this year, Kooyongkoot recorded one of Boroondara's highest apartment sales when an $8 million penthouse was purchased by a Melbourne CEO downsizing from a nearby family home.

"Every detail feels deliberate, from the overall design down to the smallest touches," the purchaser said.

"The level of quality and refinement is exceptional, but what really sold it was how liveable it felt... It felt like a place where everything had been considered, not just a luxury building."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355304]

Sustainability also formed a key part of both award submissions. Kooyongkoot is targeting a minimum 7.5-star NatHERS rating across all residences, supported by passive design principles, high-performance glazing, EV charging infrastructure, water reuse systems and a wellness model focused on lower-energy dry facilities rather than pools and large wet areas.

Located within walking distance of Scotch College, Methodist Ladies' College, Koo​yong Lawn Tennis Club, Aubur​n Village and Camberwell Junction, Kooyongkoot continues to target owner-occupiers looking to remain in Melbourne's inner east without compromising on space or quality. A limited selection of two, three and four-bedroom residences remains available, with prices starting from $1.9 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=102717]

Kooyongkoot wins Gold and Silver at Better Future Melbourne Design Awards

New apartment supply has become increasingly constrained across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parramatta-nsw-2150">Parramatta</a> in recent years, with fewer projects progressing through to completion as development conditions have become more challenging.

It makes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/novm">NOVM</a>'s 2021-completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/the-lennox-parramatta-12-phillip-street-parramatta-nsw-2150">The Lennox</a> one of the most recently completed residential towers on the Parramatta River, and among the newest apartment developments in Sydney's second CBD.

With the project largely completed before the sharp escalation in construction costs and inflation following the pandemic, The Lennox is now offering pricing that would be difficult to replicate in a comparable new development in Parramatta today, or across much of Western Sydney.

The majority of the 413 apartments at The Lennox sold before and shortly after completion. A limited release of the remaining apartments has recently been brought to market by capital partner <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a>, with entry-level pricing from $700,000 and two-bedroom apartments available from under $1 million.

Rising above the Parramatta River at 12 Phillip Street, The Lennox comprises one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, appealing to first home buyers, young professionals, families, downsizers and interstate investors seeking a completed apartment in one of Australia's fastest-growing economic centres.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=372394]

Rather than positioning Parramatta as an alternative to Sydney's CBD, Equitifund believes the city has reached a point where it stands on its own merits.

"Parramatta is no longer simply an alternative to Sydney CBD, it's becoming a destination in its own right," Equitifund Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said.

"The Lennox captures that evolution with a level of quality and amenity that's difficult to match at its price point."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=953]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/marchese-partners">Marchese Partners</a>, the tower responds directly to its riverfront setting through expansive glazing and open-plan layouts that maximise views across the Parramatta River and city skyline. Interiors feature engineered timber flooring, stone benchtops, stainless steel appliances and floor-to-ceiling glazing, while generous balconies extend the living spaces outdoors.

Marchese Partners says the project was conceived to balance high-quality apartment living with practical, long-term functionality, pairing larger, efficient floorplans with amenities more commonly associated with five-star hotels.

That emphasis continues through the resident facilities, which include a 20-metre rooftop swimming pool, fully equipped gym and wellness spaces, full-time concierge, a residents' lounge, function room, private lifts, secure basement parking and rooftop communal areas overlooking the Parramatta River. Ground-floor boardwalk retail and dining further activate the riverfront and integrate the building into the surrounding public realm.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=925]

Australian housing and finance group Equitifund has secured the remaining apartments, believing there are few completed apartment opportunities in Parramatta that offer the same combination of location, amenity and pricing.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett says buyers are increasingly recognising that premium apartment living no longer needs to come with Sydney CBD pricing.

"The Lennox is where aspirational living becomes attainable," Hamblett said.

"Wake to river and mountain views, step into Sydney's Second CBD, and arrive home to resort-calibre amenities, all without the harbour price tag."

Hamblett says owner-occupiers are also attracted by the convenience of having Westfield Parramatta, Church Street's dining precinct, Parramatta Park, Riverside Theatres, Western Sydney University and major transport connections all within walking distance.

"At The Lennox, lifestyle is not an afterthought, it is the foundation."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=5374]

The Lennox places residents within walking distance of Parramatta Square, Westfield Parramatta, Church Street Eat Street, Parramatta Station, the ferry wharf, Light Rail, the future Sydney Metro West, Parramatta Park and CommBank Stadium, reinforcing Parramatta's position as one of Australia's most connected metropolitan centres outside Sydney's CBD.

Equitifund says buyers visiting the display suite consistently comment on the quality of the finishes, generous floorplans, river and skyline views, and the walkability of the location. The project has attracted a broad mix of local professionals, upsizers, downsizers, buyers relocating from Sydney's inner suburbs and interstate investors seeking long-term growth opportunities.

That demand aligns with Parramatta's continued evolution as an economic powerhouse. Equitifund Research and Market Insights specialist John Bekiaris says sustained population growth, infrastructure investment and expanding employment opportunities continue to support long-term housing demand across the city.

"Parramatta has evolved from a satellite city into one of Australia's most important economic centres. Population growth, infrastructure investment and employment are all supporting sustained long-term housing demand."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=5743]

The apartment price gap drawing Sydney buyers west

A luxury beachfront apartment at Rainbow Bay has more than doubled in value since it sold off the plan six years ago, setting a new local apartment record in the process.

The three-bedroom apartment in the Flow development on Petrie Street, the first of four new projects locally by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects, has sold for $7.4 million, after originally selling for $3.27 million when the project launched in 2020.

The seventh-floor apartment, comprising 187 sqm of internal living space and a 54 sqm balcony overlooking Froggies Beach and Snapper Rocks, was purchased by a local family.

The transaction was negotiated by Pezet Matheson director Kerry Pezet and equates to more than $30,000 per sqm.

Pezet said the sale reflected the limited opportunities to buy into the boutique beachfront development.

"The sale highlights the rarity of opportunities within the boutique beachfront development, where residences seldom become available," Pezet said.

"Flow is one of the Gold Coast's most tightly held buildings. Buyers from our database move quickly when residences become available, and achieving an off-market sale at $7.4 million demonstrates the depth of demand for property of this calibre."

<img alt="Flow" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c585b206-2130-4eee-a50c-3f27c51a7c70" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-06%20at%208.33.25%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=m3pHRDV62Y3fvN.XQuQHq.52ilTWpRLf" />

Flow was the first of four luxury apartment developments delivered by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects at Rainbow Bay and was completed in 2023.

Positioned on the beachfront overlooking Snapper Rocks, the residence includes three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a powder room and views stretching north along the coastline towards Surfers Paradise.

Pezet Matheson Residential principal Mitchell Lambert said buyers continued to prioritise quality beachfront apartments in tightly held locations.

"Flow Residences offers a rare combination of elevated beachfront positioning, architectural excellence, comprehensive resident amenity and premium finishes, which is exactly what discerning purchasers are seeking," Lambert said.

"The transaction further reinforces Rainbow Bay's reputation as one of Australia's premier coastal lifestyle destinations, where limited supply and growing demand continue to support strong market performance."

Pezet Matheson originally marketed and sold out Flow off the plan, making the latest transaction a return to one of the project's original buyers.

Paul Gedoun is selling his third project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/radia-rainbow-bay-271-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Radia Rainbow Bay</a>, after recently completing, and selling out, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/esprit-217-227-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Esprit</a>. He has plans for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-s-s-projects-proposes-88-apartment-wellness-tower-at-coolangattas-boundary-street">fourth building</a>, 88 apartments on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/209-213-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Boundary Street</a>.

Rainbow Bay apartment doubles in price since off the plan sale during pandemic

Savills

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SPONSORED POST
Designing a workplace that meets the needs of a diverse workforce is a challenge. What appeals to Millennials may not appeal to Baby Boomers when it comes to a functional work environment. In the 80s we saw the rise of the ‘cubicle farm’, which slowly but surely has faded out to the now open plan layouts that we see in offices. However, to accommodate for different working styles, whether they are generational needs or personal preferences, companies need to provide alternative working areas within an office that go beyond the employee’s desk. The overall design of an office has a major impact on employee productivity and wellbeing, so how do we take all of these factors into account when fitting out an office space?
The Layout
Different generations have different needs when it comes to effective working environments, so how can we design work spaces that cater to such a widespread demographic? In recent years we have seen a shift towards open plan offices, with 70 percent of companies opting for this type of layout. However, according to research conducted in 2019 by Savills titled ‘What Workers Want’, 30% of employees find that this type of layout has a negative impact on their productivity.
Buildings, a journal published by MDPI, found that perceived productivity in open-plan offices was impacted by seven factors including: amount of interruption, noise levels, work area aesthetics, furnishing, cleanliness, ability to adapt the work area, and personal control over lighting levels.  
These are factors that Associate Director of Project Management at Savills, Simon Gazeley, takes into consideration when working with a client to fit out an office space. “Starting by surveying your staff to understand what works and what can be improved upon, plus setting up focus groups to steer the design is highly beneficial to the process. By understanding your peak occupancy ratio, you can release space for alternative settings rather than empty workstations,” Mr Gazeley commented.
For different industries, different layouts will benefit the employees and their overall productivity. For those working in offices where employees are constantly taking phone calls, one-person quiet rooms are beneficial to minimise the distraction to others. Whereas for creative industries where staff are frequently collaborating, less formal, flexible spaces are more appropriate for productivity, rather than staff brainstorming around a boardroom table. “Optimise the building’s attributes by creating focus areas in the darker and quieter spaces, with a variety of furniture settings from high tables, booths, lounge chairs, acoustic screens and the like,” Mr Gazeley said. 
For Millennials in particular, restrictive work environments are perceived by many to hinder their ability to work effectively, so common-use spaces are a real asset when it comes to optimising productivity. “Providing a variety of work settings for different tasks, whilst being cognisant of ensuring equitable access where the office is not fully agile is key to limiting disruption to others, whilst boosting productivity,” Mr Gazeley said. 
Key findings from the ‘What Workers Want’ study by Savills indicated that within the workplace, employees place the greatest value on having the option to work in a variety of spaces, and being provided with quality IT infrastructure. The same study revealed that above all other factors, 37% of employees were dissatisfied with the provision of quiet spaces within their workplace. 
The Technology 
New trends and updates to technology occur frequently – what once seemed like a novelty has become an integral part of daily life, and more so a part of working life. With a heavy reliance on technology, it makes sense to incorporate technology into the design of an office space. However Mr Gazeley points out that with all technology implemented, it should be planned for change and upgrade as it quickly becomes superseded and improved. 
The relationship between technology and architecture has been dubbed ‘Techiture’, with technology embedded in inanimate objects. By digitising buildings, we are able to gather data on the trends of the people who inhabit them. An article by the Kinnarps Trend Report points out that this enables architects to see how employees use the different spaces in their offices. “This is a game changer for the design and construction industry when it comes to designing workplaces that are tailored to the staff, and upgrading or reconfiguring spaces that are not well utilised,” Mr Gazeley said. 
The Wellness Factor
With the average person spending one third of their life at work, we are seeing employers placing greater value on overall employee wellness. While most employers offer their staff discounted health or mental health benefits, research shows that the physical working environment has the biggest impact on overall wellness. With many considerations to take into account, the WELL Building Standard has been established to ensure employee wellbeing is met. Seven factors are taken into account including air, water, nourishment, light, fitness, comfort, and mind. 
Studies have shown that simple factors such as adequate lighting positively impacts employee mood and productivity. According to research conducted by global management software company, Ceridian, dimly lit areas have a negative impact on the brain, with employees who work in poorly lit spaces more likely to suffer from poor moods. “In developing buildings and designing fit-outs, access to daylight or views such as atriums are highly desirable. Built zones tend to be located in NLA farthest from the perimeter, whilst circadian rhythm lighting is currently cost prohibitive in many workplaces, good human centred lighting design should always be adhered to,” Mr Gazeley said. 
The Australian HR Institute says poor air quality reduces cognitive ability and leads to employees feeling fatigued and even suffering from headaches. Air quality can be easily improved by having greenery in the workplace, plus plants also help to absorb noise pollution.  We are seeing nature brought indoors with the trend of vertical gardens and greenery walls taking off, with Gazeley agreeing that Landscape Architects are becoming a key consultant in many large workplace design teams. 
An alternative way to bring the outdoors in is by using natural textures and materials, which is also shown to have a positive impact on wellbeing. Using different types of timbers and incorporating natural lighting is said to make the indoor environment have a calming effect on people. Research is indicating that highly productive workplace design predominately embraces organic shapes intended to bring spaces together without visual barriers. 
Working ergonomics seamlessly into the design of an office space is important not just for aesthetic reasons, but because being seated for prolonged periods of time has a negative impact on a person’s health. The comfort factor of the WELL Building Standard considers different working areas, and places value on ergonomics. “While sit-to-stand workstations may not last the test of time, as workspaces become more agile they represent current best practice when combined with other initiatives to ensure an active workforce. As the cost premium is reducing, we are seeing the ratio increase in current fit-outs,” Mr Gazeley said. 2019 Research by Savills indicates that 6% of employees prefer to work at a standing desk. 
Companies are starting to introduce designated recharging or wellness spaces into their offices, with Google and the Huffington Post going as far as providing high tech sleep pods. With employees clocking up an estimated 90,000 hours at work in their lifetime, providing a space where they can recharge for 20 minutes will be a benefit to how employees utilise their time overall. A wellness area should be a separate space to a staff breakout or kitchen area, where employees can de-stress, switch off their phone, or even meditate. “Even small part floor workplaces can assign a small private quiet room for multiple uses, with the contents of these rooms or spaces being quite modest,” Mr Gazeley said. 
In Conclusion 
Having the correct balance of office layout mixed with technology, plus incorporating the factors that contribute to overall employee wellness helps to accommodate for the multi-generational workplace of today. Taking these combined elements into account helps to maximise the potential work spaces within an office, and in turn boosts overall employee productivity. Considering generational needs and differed working styles will lead us to being able to design workplaces of the future with maximum functionality. 
Savills is a leading global real estate service provider offering the full spectrum of services from strategic advice to managing assets and projects and transacting deals. Simon Gazeley is an Associate Director within the Savills Project Management team. To learn more about Savills, visit <a href="http://www.savills.com.au/">savills.com.au</a>.
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

Workplace fit-out fundamentals that accommodate our multi-generational workforce: Savills

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Sydney has ranked sixth on the Savills World Cities Prime Residential Rental Index for H1 2019.
Prime residential rental growth across leading world cities slightly picked up pace during the first half of 2019, rising 0.9% to take average year on year growth to 1.3%.
Continuing a four-year long pattern of low level, but steady increases, resulting in the first uptick in average yields since late 2014 as capital value growth stalled, according to the Savills World Cities Prime Residential Rental Index.
In the year to the end of June 2019, capital values across the Savills index slowed to 0.7% annually, pushing yields up to 3.2%.
"While there are variations at an individual city level, the trend across both prime rents and capital values in leading world cities is broadly stable," says Sophie Chick, head of Savills World Research.
"Very few cities are seeing annual rental growth above 2%, a trend we expect to persist, given prevailing global political and economic headwinds.
"In the sales market, these forces translate into weakened sentiment and delayed decision-making, which has caused price growth to stall.
"But at the same time, although this pushes some demand into the rental markets, squeezed corporate relocation budgets continue to put pressure on rents.
"This means that while rents are outperforming capital values, we expect both markets to stabilise rather than continue to move apart, thus limiting the scope for yields to push out further."
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/8/16/Savills%20Prime%20Residential%20Rental%20Index%20-%20H1%202019.JPG" alt="">
The latest data from the Savills World Cities Prime Residential Rental Index of 21 cities shows that only seven cities – Los Angeles, Barcelona, Berlin, Tokyo, Hong Kong, Beijing and Shanghai - saw annual rental growth above 3%.
"Leading world cities will continue to be magnets for an increasingly global young, affluent workforce and this will support demand for prime rental properties," says Chick. 
Los Angeles was the standout city in the first half of the year, with rental growth of 4%, taking yields to 5.2%, the highest in the index. Similarly, Berlin saw rental growth pick up pace in H1 2019, but strong capital price growth kept yields close to the index average at 3.1%.
Sydney has seen an influx of new stock, but affordability constraints in the sales market has kept rental demand high, allowing rents to tick up 1.4% year on year. Dubai, by contrast, which has also seen high levels of new stock, but a slowdown in global trade and financial markets continued to suppress rents in the first half of 2019, continuing the trend seen since 2014.
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Sydney ranks sixth on Savills' prime residential rental index

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The Ray White Randwick office premises just off Randwick high street have been listed for sale through Savills.
The premises had initially been listed by the Ray White office, however the ground floor space at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-retail-nsw-randwick-503291458" target="_blank">126-128 Avoca Street</a> failed to sell when asking $1.5 million.
Savills agents Tom and Nick Tuxworth, as well as David Hickey, are now marketing the property for a September 12 auction.
Ray White Randwick have a lease in the 145 sqm office space until December 2021 which yields $94,000 per annum gross.
Holding a prominent corner location on Avoca and Alison Road, the floor area is spread across three separate titles which provides future subdivision potential.
It has an 18 metre corner frontage with exposure to high levels of vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
 
 
 
 
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Savills list Ray White Randwick office

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A land parcel at 18 Garfield Terrace, Surfers Paradise has been listed.
The 3,239 square metre holding already has development approval for 486 units over 56 levels.
Across the 486 units, 873 bedrooms may be constructed.
It comprises a total net selling area of 43,489 square metres.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/8/5/Savills%20LUXE.JPG" alt="">
The land package is listed for $25 million.
Christopher Jones and Robert Dunne of Savills are marketing the property.
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Surfers Paradise site with development approval listed for $25 million

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SPONSORED POST
We all know that the Sydney lockout laws were introduced by the Government of NSW in 2014 with the objective to reduce alcohol-fuelled violence.  
The legislation requires 1.30am lockouts and 3am last drinks at bars, pubs and clubs in the Sydney CBD entertainment precinct. 
But did you know that since this time, pedestrian traffic has dropped by 40% in Kings Cross, falling from a Saturday peak of 5,590 per hour between 1am- 2am in 2010, to a Saturday peak of 3,888 between 12am - 1am in 2015. 
According to data from Liquor &amp; Gaming NSW, 418 licensed premises in Kings cross and CBD have closed since 2014, 242 new licenses – net loss of 176 venues and a 19% revenue loss for clubs. 
With reduced foot traffic, mass venue closures, high vacancy rates and challenging head winds, the retail sector is currently experiencing an upheaval as owners are now forced to look for alternative options to generate income. 
The saving grace is yet to come for owners, tenants and consumers with the CBD and city fringe area having five key changes proposed to the late-night trading planning controls:
<ol class="ol1">
<li class="li7">A 24-hour city centre – extend the late night management area along George Street across the city centre and increase maximum trading hours from 5am to up to 24 hours.</li>
<li class="li7">Increase hours for low impact venues in local centres – align the controls with NSW Government rules and allow lower impact venues, including small bars, to trade until 2am.</li>
<li class="li7">New areas for new communities – identify late-night trading areas in suitable urban renewal precincts. These include Barangaroo, Walsh Bay, Green Square town centre, Danks Street, East Village shopping centre and an arts focused industrial heritage warehouse area in Alexandria. </li>
<li class="li7">Extend existing areas – recognise venues in Chippendale, Redfern, Surry Hills and Lankelly Place in Potts Point, which have emerged since the planning controls were reviewed in 2007. </li>
<li class="li7">
Encourage performance, culture and unlicensed businesses – a. Allow unlicensed shops and business, such as bookshops, clothing stores, drycleaners and hairdressers to trade up to 24 hours in city living or late night management areas and up to 2am in local centres. b. Describe dedicated performance venues, such as theatres, concert halls and cinemas with up to 250 patrons, as lower risk premises and allow these venues an additional trading hour at closing time. c. Allow venues that host performances one additional trading hour at closing time on the night of the performance. </li>
</ol>
We all know something has to change to help these areas continue to evolve, so hopefully these proposed changes happen sooner rather than later… 
Savills is a leading global real estate service provider offering the full spectrum of services from strategic advice to managing assets and projects and transacting deals. 
David Hickey is a Senior Executive in the Metropolitan &amp; Regional Sales team. To learn more about Savills, visit <a href="http://www.savills.com.au/">savills.com.au</a>.
 
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Sydney’s lockout laws need a key change: Savills

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Two investment properties in Riverland, South Australia are being offered to market by Savills for sale either together or individually.
Located at <a href="https://www.commercialrealestate.com.au/property/29-kernich-street-renmark-west-sa-5341-2015428286" target="_blank">29 Kernich Street, Renmark West</a> (pictured in title) and <a href="https://www.commercialrealestate.com.au/property/38-kuhlmann-road-old-calperum-sa-5341-2015428287" target="_blank">38 Kuhlmann Road, Old Calperum</a>, the two sites are leased long term to Better Drinks Co Pty Ltd, a subsidiary of Asahi Beverages.
For sale through Peter Isaksson, Steve Bobridge and Andrew Nagy of Savills Australia, each property is integral to the operations of Better Drinks and Asahi in Renmark.
The 29 Kernich Street property offers an office and factory facility comprising 3,474 sqm with a canopy of 630 sqm, totaling 4,104 sqm, together with concrete and gravel hardstand areas.
It sits on a site area of approximately 40,420 sqm with a street frontage of approximately 258 metres.
The guide price is $6.25 million. for the Primary Production – Horticulture Policy Area 4 zoned property.
The current annual rental is $468,856 pa plus GST plus outgoings.
38 Kuhlmann Road (pictured below) offers an office warehouse of approximately 2,400 sqm on a 5,958 sqm site with a street frontage of approximately 66 metres.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/7/29/Renmark%202.JPG" alt="">
 
There is also a modern cool storage facility, which was constructed in 2002 and was extended in 2011 and 2018.
The property is zoned Industry- Calperum Policy Area 2.
The current annual rental is $238,76 7pa plus GST plus outgoings. The guide price is $3.25 million.
According to Peter Isaksson, Director at Savills Australia, “Both properties are located some 5 km from the Renmark township, the largest of the Riverland towns and a major SA Regional Centre."
“The area is highly regarded with the cultivation of fruit, vegetables, wheat and wool. In addition, tourism is also an important component of the township.”
Mr Isaksson went on to say both properties offer a five year plus five year right of renewal to The Better Drinks Co Pty Ltd, with leases expiring in February 2033 and October 2027 for 38 Kuhlmann Road and 29 Kernich Street respectively.
“This supports the long term secure nature of the offerings and there is a likelihood of expanding the Kernich Road site which the 4ha land holding can well accommodate.”
Both properties are being offered for sale by private treaty combined or separately through Savills Australia, with expressions of Interest closing August 7 2019.
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Savills marketing Adelaide home's of Better Drinks Co

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The Sydney CBD home of the BBQ King Restaurant has been listed for sale with price expectations of around $25 million.
The six storey heritage building at 76-78 Liverpool Street at the southern end of the CBD has undergone a full scale renovation since last trading for $6.3 million in 2010.
It followed updates in 1982 and 1999 to the building that dates back to 1906.
Some time in 1911 the building became occupied by the Government Printing Office.
Their occupation of the building was brief and machinery merchants Benson Bros Ltd and steel merchants Sanderson Bros &amp; Newbould Ltd.
It was used as a warehousing facility for businesses associated with nearby Darling Harbour Goods Yard and Wharves.
Now it comprises a basement, ground floor and four upper levels with 1,500 sqm of lettable area on its 350 sqm site.
It is split in to two retail spaces and four office levels.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/7/9/BBQ%20King%20Sydney%202.jpg" alt="">
The ground floor tenancy was designed and refurbished for BBQ King before they took the space three years ago.
BBQ King relocated to the Liverpool Street property in 2016, having first opened in Chinatown in 1983.
Savills Australia agents Jordan Lee and Andy Hu are marketing the property.
Jordan Lee says the southern precinct is a lively sector of the Sydney CBD with its mix or retail, office, residential, entertainment, educational and hotel uses.
“BBQ King is a famous dining destination that all locals know and love and its location at 76-78 Liverpool Street is strategically positioned to benefit from the master planned Barangaroo and Darling Harbour Live projects.
“The beautiful Heritage façade catches your eye and you can even see the chefs cooking in the kitchen” he said.
Hu said they expect interest from a range of buyers, both locally and offshore, looking for a safe haven investment.
He said the a popular tenancy such as BBQ King is "just the icing on the cake for a property such as this.”
 
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Savills list BBQ King Sydney building for around $25 million

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A private investor has purchased a Toowong property in Brisbane’s inner suburbs for $1.46 million.
Exclusive marketing agent Will Carman of Savills negotiated the deal of the Toowong property, located at 104 Sherwood Road.
Set on 809 sqm, the property has an existing Development Approval in place.
The existing DA allows the property to be developed with a total approved floor area of 1,157 sqm over three storeys.
However, Executive of Commercial Sales Will Carman said the buyer has plans to obtain a new Development Approval to build six town homes over three levels.
Mr Carman said, “This move by the buyer shows the strength that we are seeing within the detached dwelling market, rather than units"
The sales campaign attracted a high level of interest, with 154 interested parties identified, and seven formal offers received.
The property is located approximately 4 km from the Brisbane CBD, close to the thriving local commercial and shopping precincts.
“Toowong is a highly sought after suburb within the Inner West, as it provides great access to retail amenity and the nearby university,” Mr Carman added.
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Savills successfully market Toowong property with development approval

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EXPERT OBSERVER
Tuesday, 2 July saw the Reserve Bank of Australia ease rates again by 25bp to 1%, the second such easing in consecutive months and to a record low. 
The RBA argues it is needed to “support employment growth and provide greater confidence that inflation will be consistent with the medium-term target”. The RBA is also uncertain about the “trade and technology disputes…affecting investment and means that the risks to the global economy are tilted to the downside”. The RBA is sending a clear message that it wants the economy to tighten up on spare capacity to weather any storms in the future.
However perhaps the underlying reasoning could be the continuing benign economic growth at 1.8% (below trend), subdued consumption due to protracted low wage and income growth and declining house prices (the RBA with APRA did trigger this one through tighter macro-prudential rules). While the RBA acknowledges employment growth has been strong and the participation rate is at a record level, there is still spare capacity with unemployment at 5.2%. Historically full employment has been seen with 5% unemployment, but this metric appears to have now been contracted…is 4% unemployed now deemed the sweet spot?
Underlying Inflation is also deemed below ideal at 1.4% March 2019 (RBA is targeting between 2-3%), with the target to be circa 2% by 2020 and “a little higher after that”.
This is positive for Australian Property overall, but in particular for Office where, with the RBA’s backing, business is encouraged to invest into its future, resulting in stronger employment growth and as such stronger Office space demand across all sub-sector types.
Savills believes Office supply is becoming tight in the major cities and in particular Sydney and Melbourne. Rental growth, tightening vacancy rates and reducing incentives are beginning to bite into spare capacity in the CBD’s and having a flow-on effect into the major suburban CBD’s of North Sydney, Parramatta, St Kilda and some more decentralised locations. Our latest 2Q analysis highlights CBD net face rents are now at post GFC highs across all grades, while yields are at all-time lows.
Brisbane and Perth are also seeing demand driven tightness emerging, with asset price stabilisation and appreciation, helped by vacancy rates falling.
We expect national Office to continue its capital valuation uplift, supported by rent growth and falling vacancies and incentives, which in time will result in further yield compression as investors rebase their investment returns requirements to an Australian environment of low for longer interest rates. Of course Global money has had this funding advantage for some time, which will add to the competition for assets and the further decentralisation of capital to select suburban CBD’s – North Sydney is an example of uplift by proximity.
Industrial Property will also continue to see capital value growth as the second derivative to lower interest rates boosting economic activity and a more confident consumer. Logistics will be the primary beneficiary here, supported by supply constraints around population densities especially relevant to Sydney and Melbourne markets.
From a Retail perspective, the RBA and the Government is wanting to encourage the consumer to spend. The Federal Governments Tax Cut Policy passed yesterday in the lower house and is now to be presented to the Senate will, if passed, give further impetus to the consumer to spend. In the last 5-7 years, the consumer has changed its spending patterns influenced by online e-tailing; low income growth; employment frequency (casual versus full-time) and what we deem the “Canberra Effect” – Governmental policy indecision and political disruption of the last 10 years and its psychological impact on the electorate. We see the RBA move coupled with Tax Cuts as a positive pivotal moment for retailers and Retail asset values going forward.
But it’s worth noting that RBA Governor Lowe stated that “Given the circumstances, the board is prepared to adjust interest rates again if needed to get us closer to full employment and achieve the inflation target”. 
So the RBA would further adjust rates if required! 
The RBA is clearly pursuing a path to pump prime the economy to boost confidence, employment and spending. It is targeting all time low rates to partner with the Federal Governments Tax Cuts Policy, passed yesterday in the lower house and now in the Senates’ hands, to give the electorate circa $158bil back into their hip pocket over the next 5 years. If passed in the Senate, those earning up to $90,000 would get an extra $1,000 back in tax within weeks, that could be spent at your local Mall or on a domestic holiday (The Aussie dollar may constrain the overseas holiday).
In Summary, the RBA’s easing to record lows and if the Senate passes the proposed Tax Cuts Policy with little amendment, Retail could see a much need boost into Christmas which in turn will boost landlord rental streams and stabilise asset values. Industrial, particularly logistics, will also benefit as retail recovers. 
However, Office Property will be the near term winners, as business investment prompts employment growth and the demand for Office space tightens an already limited supply base. Rental growth will continue and further cap rate compression will eventuate, as investment returns requirements allow for further asset purchases.
Phil Montgomerie is the head of research at Savills.
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RBA rate cut to record lows is good for property: Savills

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An industrial investment in Kunda Park has been offered to market through Savills.
The 10 meter high span building with office space has been offered for sale fully leased.
Featuring a net lettable area of approximately 2,556 sqm, Heka Diprose Pty Ltd currently occupy Unit 1, 49 Enterprise Street, and are secured on a five year lease with a further four x five year options.
Set on a 3,156 sqm site, it is being offered for sale by Scott Gardiner and Jason O’Meara of Savills.
Director of Savills, Scott Gardiner, said the property ticks a lot of boxes for the current tenant, so he is expecting Heka Group will stay on a long term lease.
“This is a superb industrial investment opportunity zoned medium impact industry in the heart of the well-established Kunda Park Enterprise Estate,
“Properties of this size, scale and positioning on a solid lease rarely come to the market,” Mr Gardiner said.
The current net rental is $240,000 per annum, subject to annual rental increases of 3% with adjusted as at 1 August to $247,200 per annum.
The property was built in 2004 with high end industrial warehousing and office space across two levels, plus it has car parking accommodation for 26 vehicles.
Director of Savills, Jason O’Meara, said Kunda Park is a highly sought after location for investors and tenants, given its strategic location just west of the Bruce Highway and ease of access to key road links such as Maroochydore Road.
Improvements to the property include two x ten tonne cranes, large oven, spray booth, and a sand blasting room, plus strengthened mezzanine floor.
Neighbouring tenants include Toll, One Steel, Kelly Green Crane Hire, Stoddart Group, and Country Chef.
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