Fresh off completing Pienza Neutral Bay, developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/central-element">Central Element</a> is preparing its next move in the coveted Lower North Shore suburb.&nbsp;

Central Element (CE) has lodged plans for an eight-storey apartment building at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/54-64-barry-street-neutral-bay-nsw-2089">54–64 Barry Street</a>, a 1,659 sqm site just south of Military Road and the Neutral Bay town centre.

The $52 million development will involve the demolition of four detached homes across four lots to deliver 45 apartments, including eight affordable housing units to be managed by Bridge Housing. The mix will comprise six one-bedroom apartments, 24 two-beds, and 15 three-beds. The apartments will sit above three basement levels with 62 car parking spaces and 50 bicycle spaces.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/mhn-design-union">MHN Design Union</a> (MHNDU) has returned as architect following its work on Pienza, again shaping a mid-rise form with a clear street presence. The design features a lower four-storey podium element that responds to surrounding context, with upper levels recessed to reduce perceived bulk. Communal open space is proposed both at ground level and on the rooftop, the latter including an outdoor kitchen and swimming pool.

“The building has been designed with a lower four-storey element and with building materials commensurate with the character of the area,” Beam Planning noted in its submission to the North Sydney Council.

<img alt="Barry Street, Neutral Bay Nsw 2089" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3a28ab3a-b8ba-4476-81cd-e4a8bb84f3a7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Barry-Street-Neutral-Bay-1327x742.png?VersionId=hlgvxszAWXIHgHtdR5HiwIKiSli2lLZV" />

Bridge Housing will manage the affordable units for a period of 15 years, as required under the Housing SEPP’s incentive provisions.

MHNDU’s design report further highlights the site's strategic location just 250 metres from key bus stops and 1.3 kilometres from North Sydney CBD, positioning it for transit-accessible housing supply. In their planning justification, the design team emphasised the site’s compatibility with emerging local character and scale.

Central Element has a solid apartment pipeline spread all over Sydney. They recently completed&nbsp;Pienza, 37 apartments just 500 metres away from the new project, and are currently building Ethos Chatswood, Ballamac House in Coogee, and Bianca on the harbour in Drummoyne.

They have plans for future projects in Mosman, Bondi Beach, Greenwich, Lavender Bay, along with a tower on the edge of Hyde Park.

Joel Robinson

First look: Central Element unveils second Neutral Bay apartment project

Real estate investment fund Wentworth Wentworth Equities is soon to launch a "Los Angeles-inspired" residential, leisure and lifestyle precinct in Brisbane’s Hamilton riverside ahead of the predicted Olympic-led population explosion for the city.

Drawing its style inspiration and name from Los Angeles’ renowned The Grove, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/hamilton-grove-19-hercules-street-hamilton-qld-4007">Hamilton Grove</a> will feature three residential towers and a vibrant street-level public precinct with curated luxury lifestyle, retail and dining offerings.

The first of the three towers, to launch in March 2026, will comprise 61 apartments, in the same building as a premium hotel.<img alt="Hamilton Grove" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d227fe61-8392-45b7-b386-9133f29a249f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-01-19%20at%209.10.56%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=HTCV35HZ4h84jQCmHwhsdIPN0ctO5d7Z" />

Wentworth Equities Executive Chairman Sameh Ibrahim said the precinct will be unique in its appeal to both residents and the wider community.

“Hamilton is already one of Brisbane’s most sought-after riverside suburbs and for good reason,” Ibrahim said.

“Where else in the world can you walk out of your front door and have everything you could possibly need at your fingertips? The city is just around the corner, the airport is only ten minutes away, you have the river and green spaces right there and premium retail and dining on your doorstep."

Wentworth Equities acquired the 7637 sqm Hercules St site in 2014, when Ibrahim said he had a "very clear vision" for the precinct, but ultimately it wasn't the right time to develop. He said Hamilton was still very much an "emerging precinct."

“Since then, Hamilton and surrounding suburbs like Ascot and Albion have significantly grown and matured into a precinct that aligns with our vision for Hamilton Grove. Brisbane as a whole has so much to offer in the way of lifestyle appeal, but as it stands it is so widespread – you go to Howard Smith Wharves for fine dining, you go to James Street for shopping, you go to West End to walk along the river – but what if you could go to Hamilton Grove for everything?

“Our vision is a precinct that brings together the best of Brisbane into one central space abundant with culture, class and culinary experience – a place that a lucky few will get to call home, but the rest of Brisbane still get to explore and experience at their leisure.”

<img alt="Hamilton Grove" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="46550990-8aeb-44d4-bb47-150cdca96529" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-01-19%20at%209.10.50%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=bmCkApPKY_Bj3z02Q8vI7Kyo_caJXOnv" />

Experienced civil engineering contractor Mainland Civil has been appointed to commence early works for the project, adding Hamilton Grove to their extensive portfolio where it will join other iconic Brisbane developments including Queens Wharf, 300 George Street, Infinity Tower and 1 William Street.

Construction on Tower One is scheduled to commence in early 2026 with completion expected in late 2028.

Fast Facts 
 
• Three residential towers and a vibrant street-level public precinct with curated luxury lifestyle, retail and dining offerings. 
• Construction on Tower One is expected to commence in Quarter One 2026, with completion expected in late 2028. 
• 7,637 square metre site at 19 Hercules St, Hamilton (part of Economic Development Queensland’s 304 hectare Northshore Hamilton Priority Development Area). 
• 61 waterfront residences and skyhomes in the first tower, ranging from two to five bedrooms. 
• Hamiton Grove will be officially launched in March 2026.

"LA-inspired" Hamilton Grove to launch on Brisbane riverside

There’s a quiet patch of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/hawthorn-vic-3122">Hawthorn</a>, between the bustle of Glenferrie Road and the curve of the Yarra, that rarely sees change, and even more rarely, new apartments. But that’s exactly where <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pomeroy-pacific-quattro-corp">PQD</a> is planting Kooyongkoot: a deliberate, 18-residence answer to the question of what downsizers actually want.

“This is something this pocket of Hawthorn has never seen before,” says Fil Gacesa, head of sales at PQD. “<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kooyongkoot-hawthorn-1-kooyongkoot-road-hawthorn-vic-3122">Kooyongkoot</a> will deliver just 18 large-scale apartments in the heart of Hawthorn. It is the true definition of resort-style living.”

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/59D7VxzltmM?si=1iCzRD7FRneKryfv" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

That scale is central to the story. It’s what allows for two dedicated lift cores, short corridors, and a generous lightcourt that draws natural ventilation and sunlight into every residence. It’s also what makes room for the sort of amenity usually confined to high-density towers: a fully equipped wellness centre with infrared and traditional saunas, yoga and pilates studio, cold therapy shower, and treatment room. There’s a golf simulator, car and dog wash stations, and extensive storage too, not bolted on, but baked in from the start.

But more than the checklist, it’s the design intent that carries weight. “This project has been many years in the making,” says Mark Pomeroy, Director of PQD. “Not just in planning, but in listening, to what our buyers and the local community are looking for”.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355289]

That listening shows up in the materials, oak floors, natural stone, V-ZUG appliances, and in how space is handled. Penthouses feature private rooftop terraces with pools. Terraces and garden residences embrace outdoor connection. Inside, the layouts skew large and open, geared for hosting, not just housing.

Architecturally, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a>’s approach is grounded. There’s no reaching for spectacle here. Instead, the building offers a sculptural calm, anchored by landscaping from Eckersley Garden Architecture.&nbsp;

“We wanted to create spaces that feel expansive, serene, and meaningfully connected to daily life,” said founding partner Chris Stribley elsewhere.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355304]

That sentiment, calm, connection, echoes in the location itself. Kooyongkoot sits just a short stroll from Central Gardens, Fairview Park, and the Rivoli Cinema. Tram lines and schools are close, but the street is tucked, quiet, and leaf-lined.&nbsp;

“Residents of Kooyongkoot will be a short stroll from Fairview Park, Central Gardens, and the Glenferrie Road retail strip," Gacesa notes, "but you're also cocooned in this peaceful pocket behind extensive landscaping by Eckersley Garden Architecture.”

Kooyongkoot is set for completion in late 2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=102717]

Staff Writer

The project that said no to compromise: Inside Kooyongkoot, Hawthorn

When long-time Ivanhoe locals Graeme and Catherine, decided it was time to downsize, they weren’t necessarily in a rush.&nbsp;

Like many in their stage of life, they had started thinking about apartment living, but anticipated making the shift in two to three years.

That timeline changed when they visited <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/candela-ivanhoe-40-upper-heidelberg-road-ivanhoe">Candela</a>, a new boutique development by <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/salter-brothers">Salter Brothers</a>. The project ticked all the boxes they were looking for: location, quality design, and long-term lifestyle benefits, which prompted them to bring their decision forward.

“It was the right place at the right time,” they said. “We knew immediately it ticked all the boxes, and we didn’t want to wait.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=342 project_image_fid=358855]

Their decision to downsize was driven by a combination of practical needs and lifestyle considerations. Their existing home, while much loved, had become increasingly difficult to maintain. It spanned multiple levels, included extensive front and back gardens, and was starting to show the wear that comes with age.&nbsp;

They were looking for a more manageable lifestyle, one with less upkeep and more freedom. A brand-new apartment with no maintenance requirements and the ability to simply “lock up and leave” gave them peace of mind and a greater sense of control over their future.

Financially, the purchase made sense as well. The available stamp duty savings, strong price-to-value offering, and timing of the settlement suited their plans, making the transition smoother and more cost-effective. The apartment's design and inclusions further supported their choice.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=342 project_image_fid=357493]

The layout was both functional and flexible: three bedrooms, a butler’s pantry, a separate laundry, and a large open-plan living area. It gave them the freedom to host a family, accommodate guests, or set up a home office. The expansive balcony and elevated views added to the appeal, providing a sense of openness and connection to the outdoors.

“It just had a really good flow,” Catherine noted, something they found lacking in many other apartments they’d considered, particularly in the established market.

Candela’s boutique scale was another deciding factor. With a smaller number of residences and a top-floor penthouse position, the couple felt the development offered the privacy and space they were looking for, without feeling isolated.

“We liked that it wasn’t a huge development. It felt well-balanced, modern but still with a sense of community, not overwhelming,” they said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=342 project_image_fid=357508]

Equally important was the ability to remain in Ivanhoe, a suburb they know well and have deep roots in. After 46 years in the area, proximity to local parks, shops, and familiar faces mattered just as much as the apartment itself.

“We didn’t want to give up the community we’ve known for decades. Candela allowed us to upgrade our lifestyle while staying in the place we call home.”

With a Walk Score of 90, the village location supports a convenient, connected lifestyle. <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/ivanhoe-vic-3079">Ivanhoe</a> Station is just a eight-minute walk away, and the neighbourhood offers access to parks, cafes, restaurants, and schools along Upper Heidelberg Road, all within easy reach.

Beyond the apartment, the couple also saw value in the broader vision for Candela, one that integrates residential living with public spaces and local amenities.&nbsp;

The development introduces 58 new apartments as well as a mix of commercial and social spaces that integrate contemporary architecture with the suburb’s existing character.&nbsp;

At ground level, residents will find a charming café and a lifestyle wellness centre, perfect for unwinding and rejuvenating. Meanwhile, the rooftop garden offers a stunning vantage point for residents to enjoy breathtaking sunsets, host gatherings, or enjoy barbecues with family and friends. It's not just a place to live; it's a vibrant community where every moment is an opportunity to connect and create lasting memories.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=342]

Why Ivanhoe locals are choosing to downsize to Candela

Mark and Roy Makari are expanding their presence in Sydney’s South West with a second major proposal for Leppington, this time envisioning a 900-dwelling mixed-use development just 850 metres from their previously lodged tower trio on Fifth Avenue.

Project management and construction management firm Creative Vision filed the plans for the&nbsp;multi-building project at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/230-rickard-road-leppington-nsw-2179">230 Rickard Road, Leppington</a>. The proposal seeks to establish a new focal point for the precinct through a high-density, transit-oriented development supported by diverse land uses.

According to the Scoping Report prepared for the Department of Planning, the scheme includes around 900 apartments across multiple towers, including 135 dwellings designated for affordable housing. A mix of market and subsidised apartments will be supported by ground-level activation through retail and office space, a childcare centre, and a hotel, forming a comprehensive urban precinct.

<img alt="Mixed Use Development 230 Rickard Rd Leppington" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="34797362-f3dc-4d84-8235-2657fc5f3bde" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Plan.png?VersionId=Uzckrz9tUpDQl5lX1_WMhjnv16bsr8wG" />

The Design Report by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/studiosc-0">Studio SC</a> notes that the project “intends to deliver a high-quality, high-density built form that supports the vision for the Leppington Town Centre, integrating mixed-use outcomes and public domain upgrades.” The development is expected to be delivered in stages, although a precise timeline is yet to be confirmed.

The project will be assessed through a future State Significant Development Application, with the Scoping Report indicating the team will seek design excellence via a competitive process or through an expert design review panel. Early massing diagrams suggest a series of mid- to high-rise buildings framing a central landscaped spine, with emphasis on pedestrian permeability and public space.

The planning documentation flags a strong sustainability agenda, stating that the development will “respond to the urban heat island effect, incorporate water sensitive urban design, and prioritise active transport”.

<img alt="Mixed Use Development 230 Rickard Rd Leppington" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="369d7b54-1279-4cde-88ec-dcb215594414" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Podium_1.png?VersionId=QArL7B2kkLt63vl5xvL0FNV_ardAlez4" />

The proposal follows in the footsteps of the Makaris’ nearby Fifth Avenue site, where they’ve submitted plans for three towers comprising nearly 500 apartments, with 10 per cent dedicated to affordable housing. That project features commercial podiums, a childcare centre, and a new public park that would occupy more than a third of the site.

Both developments are situated within walking distance of Leppington Train Station and fall under strategic precinct plans promoting higher density housing. The town centre is undergoing substantial transformation, driven by state government planning reforms aimed at fast-tracking housing delivery.

Together, the two projects represent a combined ambition of nearly 1,400 new homes across just under two kilometres of central Leppington.

First look: 900-home mixed-use precinct planned for Leppington

Agent Profile

<html><body>
Nic Krasnostein, one of the leading agents in Sydney’s east and inner-city precincts, has been recruited by Ray White Double Bay.
He had been at BresicWhitney since January 2007, so just short of 12 years.
His celebrity clients through the year have included the MasterChef semi-finalist Karlie Verkerk, the Rivkin family, marketing consultant Bruce Pollack, and the hairdresser Stefan Ackerie at the Finger Wharf in Woolloomooloo.
Ray White has also signed on <a href="/news/ray-white-signs-on-matthew-carvalho-for-inner-west-expansion">Matthew Carvalho</a> as part of their inner west expansion.
It was last September when Elliott Placks took over the Double Bay agency from the founding directors, Craig Pontey and Michael Finger.
The property veterans stayed on at the estate agency as sales agents and mentors to the 30-strong sales force.
The Ray White Double Bay office sold more than $930 million in property last year, being the number one office in Ray White’s Australian network for the last seven years.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/subscribe" target="_blank"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/1/Subscriber%20strip%20ad.jpg" alt=""></a>
Pontey said this was a very natural succession plan which the trio had all been working towards for some time.
Placks had been at Ray White Double Bay for 15 years and as a director for the prior seven years.
Rival Double Bay agencies also appear to be on a expansionary recruitment drive cherry picking select agents from other agencies.
Jane Schumann, who has worked in real estate since 1990, quit Di Jones for Raine &amp; Horne Double Bay late last year.
<div>
Schumann was part of the team at Di Jones Real Estate Eastern Suburbs for the previous 13 years.
She was credited as the firm’s number one agent in the east. 
</div>
<div>
The other big name joining Raine and Horne Double Bay is Peter Starr, an agent for more than 27 years, who moved from McGrath Edgecliff.
The recruitment coup was led by the company’s head of sales, Luke Hogan, who was McGrath eastern suburbs sales manager until earlier last year.
Both Schumann and Starr were reputedly offered sign on fees.
Directed by Ric Serrao and Martin Maskin, the Raine &amp; Horne office has been recognised for the past 14 consecutive years as Raine &amp; Horne’s best performing office in both number of sales and dollar value.
Raine &amp; Horne Double Bay has been the flagship office of the Raine &amp; Horne brand since it opened in 1968, the network’s first suburban office.
In 2012, Raine &amp; Horne Double Bay acquired Raine &amp; Horne Bondi Beach, which was established in 1979.
</div>
 
 
 
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Nic Krasnostein recruited by Ray White Double Bay from BresicWhitney

<html><body>
High-profile real estate agent John McGrath has reportedly scrapped plans to step up as executive chairman of his agency. 
Peter Lewis seems set to be announced instead as the new chairman of the agency John McGrath founded in 1988. 
Lewis is Kerry Stoke's former chief financial officer, Peter Lewis.
He left the Seven Network in 2013, then joined Southern Cross Media, but left the radio and metropolitan radio broadcaster.
McGrath is to remain as an executive director, but not its chief executive.
<div class="_1665V undefined" data-reactid="372">
Privatising the company ''is off the agenda,'' spokesman Tim Allerton said on the weekend.
McGrath Estate Agents currently has 95 offices located throughout the east coast of Australia.
McGrath listed on the ASX in December 2015 at $2.10 and closed last week at 41¢.
</div>
 
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

McGrath looks to Peter Lewis to lead agency board

<html><body>
Ray White Double Bay director Elliot Placks has claimed John McGrath wouldn't see his then junior staffer so he left for Ray White.
Placks said McGrath believed he was too young as Placks sought to move into sales.
He had created a business plan for McGrath to look at.
“I was getting 10 appraisals each week and I was only 20. I was good at it,” Placks said.
“I knew my target area and my commission based on the leads and appraisals I had created over the last two years," Placks recently said in a self promotional press release.
"But (then McGrath CEO) John McGrath wouldn’t see me.
"I was too young - told to stay as an assistant for a few more years."
After McGrath's snub, Placks joined Ray White Double Bay in 2003 and was made a director in 2011.
“I knew in my heart that I was ready and if he didn’t see the vision, I told him I’m going out to see who else sees it.
“I just wanted to become a sales agent, so I marched down to Ray White Double Bay and spoke to (former director) Trevor Leach, Craig Pontey and Mike Finger.
“Within the first half hour Mike told me I had a job, and that he’s never done that with anyone before.”
In his first year of selling real estate in 2003, Placks was named the number three top selling agent for Ray White in NSW and since then he’s consistently been a top 10 sales performer within the group.
Placks began his real estate career at McGrath while also working a boutique restaurant at Rose Bay and in fact he was "working in real estate to save enough money to buy the restaurant”.
Faced with the decision between buying the restaurant, he shifted to real estate full-time.
“The great thing about the restaurant in Rose Bay was I talked to a lot of people about their property and I got a lot of leads,” he said.
“That’s the unique part of real estate, sometimes you can sit at a coffee shop and chat to people and get leads.”
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

John McGrath's snub of a young Elliot Placks was a 'sliding doors' moment

<html><body>
NAME: Shaun Hendy<img src="/images/2015/04/01/Shaun-Hendy.jpg" alt="" style="float: right;">
POSITION: Director - valuation, rural &amp; agribusiness
COMPANY: Colliers International
OFFICE LOCATION: Toowoomba/Brisbane
<ul>
<li>How long have you been in the industry?  </li>
</ul>
I have been in the valuation industry for over 25 years starting as an assistant valuer in Toowoomba with Stanton Hillier Parker.  I cover an area from the Northern Territory to the Riverina in NSW specialising in broad hectare irrigated and dry land cropping and grazing properties.  I grew up with my family breeding stud cattle in Central Queensland and this love of the bush directed my career path.
<ul>
<li>What’s happening in the area you specialise in?</li>
</ul>
I specialise in agribusiness and presently we are seeing a lot of interest in Australia as a place to invest in agribusiness and we consider that this is likely to increase over the next few years as a result of recent Free Trade Agreements and the growing demand for soft commodities.
<ul>
<li>Describe the most interesting commercial property you have worked on.</li>
</ul>
I do not get involved with commercial property in CBD areas, however the most interesting property I have valued would be Cubbie Station at Dirranbandi.  It is the largest irrigation property in Australia and during its history received a lot of bad press due to water reform process during the 1990s and 2000s.  I believe a lot of the opinion was misguided with a lack of understanding of how the property operated and the rules of operation that dictate how it accesses water.  It has over 20,000 hectares of developed irrigation land, over 440,000 megalitres of on farm storage and a total of approximately 80,000 hectares of land.  It is developed to a very high standard and the size, efficiency and scale of the development can only be appreciated by being on site and seeing it for oneself.  There are other properties that in terms of quality are as good or better, however it size is what makes it the most interesting property I have been involved with.
<ul>
<li>What are the ingredients to being successful in your job?  </li>
</ul>
Being focused on understanding client needs/requirements.  Being able to communicate and speak to them about the process of valuation as it affects them.  Being honest, accessible and willing to answer the hard questions.  Looking for opportunities to add value to our service.  I have found that this has helped me build a loyal client base even when the client and I do not always see eye to eye.
<ul>
<li>What aspects of your role do you enjoy the most? </li>
</ul>
 Doing property inspections and meeting people in their own environment.  Some of the places I have seen are icons of the Australian bush that tourists would pay to go and see while I get paid to inspect them.  I also enjoy the riding in helicopters to do many of the larger inspections as some of the larger properties are larger than some European countries.
<ul>
<li>Where would you invest a spare $750,000?  </li>
</ul>
Buying and trading young cattle.
<ul>
<li>Which football team do you support?</li>
</ul>
Queensland Reds
<ul>
<li>What’s your favourite app or techno gadget?</li>
</ul>
Solitaire and maps
<ul>
<li>How do you use social media?  </li>
</ul>
Facebook to stalk my children (two girls 17 and 14 years) and Linkedin to connect with professionals with similar interests.
</body></html>

jrichardson-uRX5hFdKfN

In profile: Colliers International's director - valuation, rural & agribusiness, Shaun Hendry

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NAME:  Rod Chadwick<img src="/images/2015/02/18/chadwick-feb-18-one.jpg" alt="" style="float: right;"> 
POSITION:  State general manager, Queensland
COMPANY:  AVJennings
OFFICE LOCATION: Milton, Brisbane
<ul>
<li>How long have you been in the industry?</li>
</ul>
15 years. I joined AVJennings in 2004 as NSW business development manager before relocating to Auckland, New Zealand in April 2008 to take up the role of project director with AVJennings’ Hobsonville Point Development. In July 2014, I relocated to Brisbane to join the Queensland team as AVJennings Queensland general manager.
<ul>
<li>What’s happening in the area you specialise in?</li>
</ul>
Affordability continues to be a significant factor that consumers consider when purchasing a new or existing property. Interest rates are at a record low and as such we are seeing increased activity in the first home buyer market across our Queensland portfolio.
To ensure our products represent good value, AVJennings is continuously looking to innovate, whether this is in the urban design of new communities, the architectural design of new homes or in the materials and construction techniques we use when building new homes.
Our ability to provide innovative and consumer focussed products ensure that our products appeal to a broad range of customers from first and second home buyers and young families through to empty nesters looking to settle into a low maintenance home in established communities.
<ul>
<li>Describe the most interesting property you have worked on? </li>
</ul>
Creekwood at Meridan Plains on the Sunshine Coast because of the diverse range of properties offered to the community. The entire Creekwood community spans 50 hectares and on completion will feature a total of 370 townhomes, terrace and loft homes and 470 homesites.
There is so much activity in the area, with the new Sunshine Coast Public University Hospital  at the Kawana Health Precinct set to employ 3,500 people - it's an exciting project in a beautiful part of Queensland.
<ul>
<li>What are the ingredients to being successful in your job? </li>
</ul>
Being consumer orientated is key.  Strong communication skills, unwavering commitment and patience are just as important as being inquisitive, numerate and strategic.
<ul>
<li>What aspects of your role do you enjoy the most? </li>
</ul>
Creating communities and homes that people love to live in. At AVJennings, we are committed to our philosophy of creating fresh residential addresses that meet the individual needs of local communities and modern lifestyles.
Choosing a place to live is part of the great Australian dream. Our investment in innovative design, excellent land management practices, delivering outstanding community facilities and great living environments are our way of staying true to our goal of creating high-quality communities. It is great to be part of a dedicated team with values that align with the AVJennings brand.
<ul>
<li>Where would you invest a spare $750,000?</li>
</ul>
AVJennings’ Elysium Noosa community at Noosa Heads, Queensland.  The Noosa Heads property market is in the recovery cycle with sales prices and volume increasing. There are opportunities to purchase land and new homes in the Noosa Market for a fraction of the prices of being paid prior to the GFC. This represents the opportunity for capital gain as the market continues to improve and more buyers return to enjoy the lifestyle benefits of the Noosa region.
Elysium Noosa is one of the limited addresses where you can buy new land and homes with a Noosa Heads address. Elysium appeals to owner occupiers and investors alike as residents have access to their very own Rec Club with pool, tennis courts and residents lounge, plus its only 10mins to the restaurants of Hastings Street and Noosaville.
<ul>
<li>Which football team do you support?</li>
</ul>
Wallabies.  Queensland Reds, Socceroos, Central Coast Mariners.
<ul>
<li>What’s your favourite app or techno gadget? </li>
</ul>
iPhone.  Now extension of the arm. Nearmap software allows me to access aerial images changing over time.
<ul>
<li>How do you use social media? </li>
</ul>
Limited to be honest. I am on LinkedIn but I rely on my social media savvy team in the social media arena.
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In profile: AVJennings' state general manager, Queensland, Rod Chadwick

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NAME: Matthew Barr<img src="/images/2015/02/11/barr-feb-11-profiel.png" alt="" style="float: right;">
POSITION: General manager - Queensland
COMPANY: Oliver Hume
OFFICE LOCATION: Brisbane
<ul>
<li>How long have you been in the industry?</li>
</ul>
Coming up to 20 years in Victoria and Queensland.
<ul>
<li>What's happening in the area you specialise in?</li>
</ul>
We're currently seeing an increase in the supply of land that's resulting in stronger enquiries and sales rates. We're also seeing some price growth as a result of that.
<ul>
<li>Describe the most interesting property you have worked on?</li>
</ul>
I've worked across a number of large masterplanned communities in Queensland and Victoria. Probably the most interesting is Providence, South Ripley, which I'm working on now. Once it's complete, it'll be about 7,000 homes for a population of about 20,000 residents.
It's a true masterplanned community. Open park space for sports and recreation, health and wellbeing; barbecues, al fresco dining and community; education, with two planned primary schools and two secondary centre. It'll have a main street with supermarkets, commercial spaces, retailers and the like. A lot of projects call themselves master-planned, but this is a true masterplanned community.
<ul>
<li>What are the ingredients to being successful in your job?</li>
</ul>
I think developing long-term relationships in both good and bad markets is the key. Obviously, honesty and integrity go a long way.
<ul>
<li>What aspects of your role do you enjoy the most?</li>
</ul>
I enjoy the variety of projects and obviously the challenges that come from that. Of course, the diversified group of clients we work with makes it a very enjoyable job.
<ul>
<li>Where would you invest a spare $750,000?</li>
</ul>
I think I'd be looking at a residential property within a 5 kilometre radius of Brisbane CBD, with access to plenty of amenities and infrastructure. I think that's a pretty good bet at the moment.
<ul>
<li>Which football team do you support?</li>
</ul>
Given the fact I'm ex-Victorian, Collingwood.
<ul>
<li>What's your favourite app or techno gadget?</li>
</ul>
It'd be Card Munch, which allows me to enter business cards straight into my contacts by taking a picture.
<ul>
<li>How do you use social media?</li>
</ul>
I guess LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook are the main ones I use, mostly to keep on top of what's going on and maintain a professional profile.
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In profile: Oliver Hume Queensland's general manager, Matthew Barr

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NAME: Tim Holtsbaum <img src="/images/2015/02/02/Tim-Holtsbaum-profiel.jpg" alt="" style="float: right;">
POSITION: Director - residential site sales, NSW
COMPANY: Knight Frank Australia
OFFICE LOCATION: Sydney, NSW
<ul>
<li>How long have you been in the industry?</li>
</ul>
Over 10 years now.
<ul>
<li>What’s happening in the area you specialise in?</li>
</ul>
Big things!  It's no secret that the residential markets across Australia and especially in Sydney have enjoyed substantial growth in both supply and demand economics.  Sydney experienced a relative under supply for several years’ post the GFC which when combined with a low interest rate environment has now led to aggressive price growth in the medium to high density residential market. 
This growth has been amplified by the influx of off-shore investors and developers, especially from within the Asian markets such as China and Malaysia.  Additional planning reforms along major infrastructure corridors with the aim of densifying key areas across metropolitan Sydney provide additional opportunities for both domestic and off-shore developers. 
With Sydney having experienced an approximate 35-40% growth in the median value on an apartment in the past five years, further growth is forecast for the coming 2-3 years as supply attempts to match ongoing demand for residential housing in Sydney.
<ul>
<li>Describe the most interesting commercial property you have worked on?</li>
</ul>
Perhaps due to their locations, it would be a tie between a 14 acre land acquisition for a new baby diaper manufacturing facility in Lagos, Nigeria and a commercial office acquisition in Islamabad, Pakistan.  Both presented unique challenges such as negotiating with local tribes in Nigeria through our Portuguese lawyers and having to discuss Ricky Ponting and the Australian cricket team for an hour before every meeting with a Pakistani Landlord.
<ul>
<li>What are the ingredients to being successful in your job?</li>
</ul>
First and foremost, an infatuation with all things real estate.  If you find yourself sending your friends and family off to sleep with details of housing price movements in your suburb, growth in achievable gross realisations for high rise residential apartments and tightening cap rates due to an increased weight of capital in the market, you have found your niche.
In addition to general interest, I would also attribute my broad skill set having worked in multiple business lines across Asia Pacific and Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA).  Based on my experiences, I am a strong advocate for working cross-border in markets with contrasting cultures and individuals.  Globalisation may be the norm but understanding how various cultures conduct business can be pivotal in executing a successful transaction.
<ul>
<li>What aspects of your role do you enjoy the most?</li>
</ul>
Two things:
<ol>
<li>Working with first class clients and focusing 100% of my energy on the residential development market and</li>
<li>The transaction. </li>
</ol>
My recent move to Knight Frank as the Director of Residential Site Sales, NSW helps me combine to two and build a team that will contribute to the growth of our Residential business as a whole.
<ul>
<li>Where would you invest a spare $750,000?</li>
</ul>
Invest in promising young businesses with substantial growth potential.  I think Australian business will enjoy massive growth potential as our population increases year-on-year.
<ul>
<li>Which football team do you support?</li>
</ul>
For my sins I am a Dragons fan in the NRL and a diehard Liverpool FC supporter in the EPL.  I grew up playing rugby here in Sydney at school and Eastern Suburbs RC so supporting the Beasties and Tahs goes without saying.
<ul>
<li>What’s your favourite app or techno gadget?</li>
</ul>
I would have to say my new phone.  I am not a mobile phone wizard by any stretch of the imagination but I have recently switched to the Sony Xperia Z3 and haven't looked back.  Of course, I have been given major amounts of grief for getting a Sony which just make me enjoy it more.
<ul>
<li>How do you use social media?</li>
</ul>
Sparingly. I have the usual Facebook and Instagram accounts but my user levels are definitely on the low end of the scale. Can't say I am a huge fan of endless microblogging, hence no Twitter account for me.
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In profile: Knight Frank's director - residential site sales, NSW, Tim Holtsbaum

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NAME: Dean Landy<img src="/images/2015/01/21/dean-landy-jan-21-profile.jpg" alt="" style="float: right;">
POSITION: Partner in Melbourne architecture firm <a href="https://www.chc.com.au" target="_blank">ClarkeHopkinsClarke </a>(CHC) and founder and director of the <a href="https://www.oneheartchallenge.org" target="_blank">One Heart Foundation</a>, a not for profit organisation working to alleviate poverty in Africa.
COMPANY: Melbourne firm CHC has more than 50 plus years’ experience in creating vibrant communities across the design of entire urban communities as well as education, multi-residential, mixed-use, commercial, health and aged care projects.
OFFICE LOCATION: 115 Sackville Street, Collingwood.
One Heart Challenge operates out of an office in Melbourne’s western suburbs.
<ul>
<li>How long have you been in the industry?</li>
</ul>
I have been a registered architect for 13 years. I’m predominantly involved in the planning and design of retail and mixed use projects, multi-residential, commercial and community infrastructure projects.
My work stitches good architectural outcomes such as a strong design aesthetic, good buildabilty, integrated environmentally sustainable design principles and human-centred design solutions together with a strategic approach that creates a strong local social and economic environment as well as excellent developer returns. In other words, I aim to create vibrant communities.
I began work at CHC in 1998, when it was a practice of only 12 people. Today there are 65 people and the practice has been established for nearly 55 years.
In 2009 I received the ARBV Award for Architectural Services, a client nominated Award based on excellence in the design process. As a result, in 2011 I became an examiner for the ARBV Registration Board, assessing prospective architect’s registration applications for practice in Victoria.
<ul>
<li>What’s happening in the area you specialise in?</li>
</ul>
'<a href="https://%20www.creatingvibrantcommunities.com" target="_blank">Creating vibrant communities</a>' is how we describe CHC’s overarching approach to urban design. It’s a guiding philosophy that motivates us to carefully consider how the process of creating new places and communities should work to ensure new greenfield, brownfield and urban consolidation projects become more financially, environmentally and socially sustainable places to live.
CHC is currently undertaking research to rethink the way new places evolve. We are designing new processes that can be replicated to ensure a more creative and holistic view is taken when designing new places. From the initial idea, or the visualisation stage, through to the realisation of built infrastructure and beyond to activation by new residents and business and retail tenants. We call this the ‘place evolution process’.
This idea has gone beyond just research. We are currently developing a strong resource base and are looking to broaden the discussion in the design community to help contribute to our overall understanding for different stakeholders needs.
<ul>
<li>Describe the most interesting commercial property you have worked on?</li>
</ul>
St Germain is a new greenfield community by visionary developer Gordon Gill. It is being developed within the City of Casey, a fast developing growth area of the south eastern urban corridor of Melbourne. The development has recently been approved by the former Planning Minister Matthew Guy, and is also a demonstration project for the Metropolitan Planning Authority. We are well into the overall planning but it is still in the visualisation phase.
St Germain has been masterplanned with a strong focus on providing a vibrant and sustainable mixed use community – including a strong commercial aspect. The project features a unique planning initiative that is driven by the early delivery of key infrastructure projects around a village square such as a large medical centre and shopping centre to start contributing to the overall target of 3,500 jobs, and enabling more people to live and work in the same community. Community facilities, retirement living and diverse housing options will soon follow once construction starts in 2015.
The new village square and park will create a distinct sense of place, quality urban infrastructure and amenities, and start to build on the desired sense of community.
<ul>
<li>What are the ingredients to being successful in your job?</li>
</ul>
The key ingredient is to form strong relationships with the broad range stakeholders we work with on our projects. This can often go beyond an architect’s traditional role.
By connecting with stakeholders who are most knowledgeable regarding the planning opportunities during visualisation as well as with potential residents and business groups who will be affected during activation, we can much better understand the potential of a site and can act as a type of community advocate earlier on.
By behaving as a catalyst and facilitator of relationships between commercial, government and community stakeholders, greater value can be created for all parties throughout these stages, with the end result being a better place for people to live.
<ul>
<li>What aspects of your role do you enjoy the most?</li>
</ul>
Combining my expertise as an urban planner and architect, with the community infrastructure projects we run at One Heart, means I can enjoy making a positive difference in the world in the profession I love to work in.
<ul>
<li>Where would you invest a spare $750,000?</li>
</ul>
I would encourage any individual or company to invest in their people by supporting them to take part in the life changing leadership event that Run From Poverty will provide.
Since founding a charity to help abandoned and orphaned children I strongly advocate for wealthy western professionals to support those in poverty – so I would “invest” in making a future for some of the 22,000 children who die each day due to poverty. That's over 8 million children needlessly dying each year.
For me, rather than be overwhelmed by the enormity of the problem, I am inspired by the fact that I can help change the world for hundreds of children through the work that One Heart Foundation is doing in Kenya. And I believe this is just the beginning.
As part of our Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program, CHC are sponsoring two staff members to take part in <a href="https://www.oneheartchallenge.org/run-from-poverty/" target="_blank">Run from Poverty</a>, as we know it will be an invaluable leadership development experience for them.
As a practice with a strong focus on the design of education facilities in Australia, it was an obvious connection for us to fundraise to construct more classrooms in Kenya through One Heart Foundation, as we know that education is the key to breaking the poverty cycle.
I would encourage other companies to consider supporting One Heart Foundation and Run from Poverty in the same way.
<ul>
<li>Which football team do you support?</li>
</ul>
St Kilda.
<ul>
<li>What’s your favourite app or techno gadget?</li>
</ul>
Evernote on my tablet.
<ul>
<li>How do you use social media?</li>
</ul>
I have to admit to being a bit of a social media novice!
At this stage the use of social media has been very useful for updating sponsors on the work of One Heart in Kenya and to connect with potential sponsors for Run from Poverty. However, I’m keen to learn how I can use it more to connect with others involved in urban development and to share and exchange ideas. 
CHC is a supporter of Dean’s charity, which is holding its inaugural fundraising event, <a href="https://www.oneheartchallenge.org/run-from-poverty/" target="_blank">Run from Poverty</a>, in Kenya between 19 and 28 July, 2015.
</body></html>

In profile: ClarkeHopkinsClarke's partner, Dean Landy

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NAME: Tom Jordan<img src="/images/2014/12/10/jordan-dec-10-porfile.jpg" alt="" style="float: right;">
POSITION: Managing director
COMPANY: Hayball (architecture, interior design, urban design)
 OFFICE LOCATION: Melbourne, Sydney
<ul>
<li>How long have you been in the industry?</li>
</ul>
30 years.
<ul>
<li>What’s happening in the area you specialise in?</li>
</ul>
As a design director I’m involved in the multi-residential sector, with projects in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane. There’s a significant re-emergence here of owner/occupier demand for larger apartments, primarily local buyers but also offshore.
<ul>
<li>Describe the most interesting commercial property you have worked on?</li>
</ul>
Trillium Residents Club, which is more than just a building. With leisure facilities for residents in a new suburb north of Melbourne, the club is contributing to a new community as it takes shape. The design program was diverse, and as a project it has a very strong yet elegant architectural response that we held a strong vision for, and we survived a demanding process to see it get through.
<ul>
<li>What are the ingredients to being successful in your job?</li>
</ul>
Having the best people possible you can get around you.
<ul>
<li>What aspects of your role do you enjoy the most?</li>
</ul>
The combination of projects being realised, and seeing the practice flourish.
<ul>
<li>Where would you invest a spare $750,000?</li>
</ul>
I’d be looking at commercial and residential property.
<ul>
<li>Which football team do you support?</li>
</ul>
Geelong
<ul>
<li>What’s your favourite app or techno gadget?</li>
</ul>
At work, I’m never far from Nearmap [geospatial map technology]. Away from the practice, it’s Navionics, for electronic nautical charting.
<ul>
<li>How do you use social media?</li>
</ul>
I am increasingly using LinkedIn to stay in touch with business associates. As a company, Hayball maintains a presence on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/hayball" target="_blank">LinkedIn </a>and <a href="https://twitter.com/HayballArch" target="_blank">Twitter</a>. We’re also gaining a strong following on <a href="https://instagram.com/hayball_arch" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, which is a platform I’m really enjoying. 
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In profile: Hayball's managing director, Tom Jordan

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NAME: Robert da Silva<img src="/images/2014/12/03/Robert-da-Silva-profile.png" alt="" style="float: right;">
POSITION: Head of research, fixed income and alternatives
COMPANY: SQM Research
OFFICE LOCATION: Level 1, 9 Castlereagh Street Sydney
<ul>
<li>How long have you been in the industry?</li>
</ul>
I have been in the funds management industry since 1984, so 30 years.
<ul>
<li>What's happening in the area you specialise in?</li>
</ul>
Fixed income is my current focus - the challenge in that area for funds is how to protect the downside from interest rate rises (when they eventually come) and maintaining income distributions at reasonable levels in a low interest rate environment.
<ul>
<li>Describe the most interesting commercial property you have worked on?</li>
</ul>
I haven't had a direct involvement in commercial property.
<ul>
<li>What are the ingredients to being successful in your job?</li>
</ul>
Extensive knowledge of the markets, keeping up to date on economic and market developments, attention to detail, an ability to communicate well and interact with clients/ fund managers.
<ul>
<li>What aspects of your role do you enjoy the most?</li>
</ul>
Meeting and interacting with the best fund managers in the business, across a wide range of markets, asset classes and investment styles.
<ul>
<li>Where would you invest a spare $750,000?</li>
</ul>
Mainly in defensive assets, cash, absolute return fixed income, defensive alternatives that have some downside mitigation and a smattering of the riskier elements small cap stocks and emerging markets equities. Would keep an eye on commodities as well.
<ul>
<li>Which football team do you support?</li>
</ul>
South Sydney Rabbitohs
<ul>
<li>What's your favourite app or techno gadget?</li>
</ul>
The usual suspects from Apple - iPhone, iPad, iPod.
<ul>
<li>How do you use social media?</li>
</ul>
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://au.linkedin.com/pub/rob-da-silva/21/598/149" target="_blank">LinkedIn </a>for professional reasons, outside of that not really much of a user (yet).
</body></html>

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