Brisbane-based builder-developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/bpg-developments">BPG Developments</a> has secured approval for its $250 million Newstead apartment tower.

The building, at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/16-22-maud-street-newstead-qld-4006">16-22 Maud Street</a>, will have 103 apartments across the 15-level building which will be crowned with a rooftop wellness facilities.

Residents will range from expansive two-bedroom residences, through to several penthouses on level 15. There will be 1,380 sqm&nbsp;dedicated to wellness-inspired amenities including shaded outdoor dining nooks, a fire pit, barbecue area, sunset lounge, gym, yoga deck, magnesium lap pool, sun deck, a sauna, steam room, and cold plunge pool.

BPG put together the 2,430 sqm super-site combines three separate titles – a vacant warehouse, an electrical &nbsp;wholesaler and an industrial shed, which were acquired in two separate transactions over a 12 month period. &nbsp;

<img alt="BPG Developments secures development approval for $250 million Newstead project" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d007d4fb-9c44-4e54-b79e-50b68711ebbd" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Final%2012_Podium%20Plaza%20View_r.jpg?VersionId=w6zql5hPjAp3j1..ZTCaYLzN65Ora8Z2" />

BPG was founded by industry veterans Nick Parr and Glen Williams. Parr said the project feels like a "coming home of sorts" for the pair, as they've both spent&nbsp;both spent the majority of their lives living in Brisbane's inner north. &nbsp;

“I lived just up the road in Teneriffe for most of my childhood," Parr said.

"We saw this site as an opportunity to deliver a timeless project in arguably Brisbane’s most popular suburb, where &nbsp;the standard for luxury design and amenities is incredibly high."

Parr believes Brisbane is in a bit of a "sweet spot" currently, in that&nbsp;construction prices have stabilised and demand has continued to climb which means the market is tightening up.&nbsp;

“The Brisbane market is unique in that there is no shortage of sites with existing development approvals, the issue is around the availability of builders who can deliver such projects. We are one of the few builder-developers who can build our own projects at scale &nbsp;so we are able to move quickly into delivery mode which gives confidence to our purchasers.” &nbsp;

Williams said they are proud of the project both&nbsp;in the sense of the significance of the site, but also in the quality and timelessness of the design. &nbsp;

“At BPG Projects we are conscious to prioritise quality over volume, so we tend to &nbsp;approach one project at a time," Williams said.

“For us we are motivated by creating a lasting legacy in our projects, so working with Plus &nbsp;Architecture to realise this vision has been a rewarding journey.” &nbsp;

BPG has appointed MOTIV to handle the sales and marketing of the new tower, which is expected to launch early next year. MOTIV Founder Carly Cottam said the project epitomises everything Newstead is about.

"Newstead is a huge success story in the revitalisation of Brisbane, and as a result it’s now one of the most popular inner suburbs, characterised by its exceptional urban design and wellness-driven lifestyle," Cottam said.

“We know this market values flexibility in floorplates, abundant storage and really liveable &nbsp;kitchens and interiors. That’s why designing an entire building around the owner occupier market with 100 &nbsp;percent of the floorplates representing two or three-bedroom residences mean this project is primed to appeal to the right audience.” &nbsp;

BPG completed Sable Palm Beach on the Gold Coast in 2019, and has plans for more developments in the suburb, as part of their $500 million development pipeline.

Joel Robinson

BPG Developments secures development approval for $250 million Newstead project

With three projects currently in market in Elizabeth Bay and Mosman, two of which are under construction and completing next year, apartment developer Toohey Miller is expanding its new development pipeline across Sydney.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/toohey-miller">Toohey Miller</a>, led by Nick Couloumbis, has filed plans for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/oxford160-160-oxford-street-paddington-nsw-2021">Oxford160</a>, 44 new apartments across a nine-storey building on Oxford Street in Paddington. It will have 12 apartment designated as affordable housing as per the Housing SEPP 2021 mid-rise reforms which trigger increased height limits, and street-level retail spaces.

The vision for the project is to create a "welcoming and family-friendly place to live with a mix of quality and affordable homes to support the Paddington community at different life stages."

Designs prepared by Smart Design Studio outline a contemporary, articulated streetwall along Oxford Street, stepping back at the upper levels to mitigate bulk and improve visual integration with the local character. A new laneway will improve pedestrian connectivity to Shadforth Street, while communal open spaces are integrated at both ground and rooftop levels.

<img alt="Oxford160" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0d6e77ed-8c25-4c52-a82d-dd076c66c777" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-01%20at%209.52.46%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=hjYcxIWIDOn7JWeom6RzIz7MWc1VG6HF" />

According to the Urban Design Supporting Letter prepared by architect and urban designer Matthew Pullinger, the new scheme “represents a contextually sensitive, responsive and high quality renewal of the site and the broader urban landscape”.

Pullinger said there are a range of benefits to the project, namely its contribution to the renewal of "this part of Oxford Street as a distinctive higher density urban high street and a defining element of greater Sydney’s urban character, thereby enhancing the vitality and liveability of this important street."

The new building will replace&nbsp;a dated 1960s-era apartment block which has 27 studio apartments.&nbsp;Design documents note that the current structure detracts from the character of Oxford Street, with the proposal seeking to restore and enhance the continuity of active shopfronts along the northern edge of the street.

The last project to launch on Oxford Street sold out immediately. It was fashion legend Robby Ingham's The Cambrian, which sold all of its 15 apartments in the first five hours of its weekend launch in 2023 through Ben Stewart.

Toohey Miller plans rare new apartment development on Oxford Street, Paddington 

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/geocon-group">Geocon</a>&nbsp;is advancing its plans for its new&nbsp;mixed-use precinct in Braddon, updated the designs for the prominent site at the intersection of Northbourne and Wakefield Avenues.

The Canberra-based developer is proposing 558 apartments and seven commercial tenancies across four buildings under a staged application first lodged in 2023. The project also includes four levels of basement parking, communal spaces, pedestrian links, and landscaping enhancements.

While the development’s scale remains consistent, the current amendment introduces extensive changes to apartment layouts, building envelopes, façade articulation, and basement design.

According to the Design Statement by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">Cox Architecture</a>, these adjustments were driven by two core objectives: “enhancing apartment and common area amenity” and “ensuring acknowledgement of the housing design guidelines, entity advice, and planning expectations, while retaining the integrity of the original architectural concept”.

<img alt="Northbourne and Wakefield Avenues" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="066194ad-d73f-49b7-8e39-09e20690a7ac" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/pers%202.png?VersionId=I7eLnim8erdwd2Yu1N5sIcLSndeOK_TC" />

The revised apartment mix has been rebalanced to increase diversity and affordability, including a broader range of unit sizes and a higher proportion of three-bedroom dwellings. The updated design also removes problematic layouts, such as “snorkel” bedrooms and internalised studies, to improve liveability and natural light access.

Cox Architecture noted that “studios and smaller one-beds provide entry-level housing and broaden affordability,” while the number of family-sized three-bed apartments has been increased “in direct response to market demand and policy objectives”.

The circulation spaces within the towers have been redesigned to improve wayfinding and daylight penetration, while the ground floor layout has been reworked to create clearer and more visible entry points, particularly from Northbourne Avenue.

Refinements to the building’s massing and façades have also been introduced in response to planning feedback, with additional breaks and articulation to reduce perceived bulk. “Rooftop plant and lift overruns have been integrated and screened, resolving visibility concerns,” COX stated.

Basement levels have been consolidated and made more efficient, with improvements to bike and storage facilities.

<img alt="Northbourne and Wakefield Avenues" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a1ab9357-707d-46fd-95d7-d6e09c70f20b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/pers%203.png?VersionId=crDXvrmDsGqFGcb_p6NSUlsr0vYsRacq" />

The precinct’s pedestrian connections have been clarified, and the public realm has been restructured to improve permeability and align with the broader Northbourne corridor urban design framework. Landscaping updates include increased deep soil zones and rooftop communal areas, with tree management to be addressed separately.

Geocon acquired the 10,633 sqm site earlier in 2023 following approval of a prior build-to-rent scheme by Evri Group. The existing nine-storey commercial building was demolished in 2022.

The current proposal, designed by Cox Architecture, is positioned as a key contributor to the ACT Government’s urban renewal vision for Northbourne Avenue, an established transport and development spine served by light rail and major arterial roads.

First look: Geocon refines plans for four-tower precinct on Braddon's Northbourne Avenue

The booming Bilinga beachfront is set for another luxury apartment development, with plans filed for KYRR, an 11-level block on the dress circle Pacific Parade.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kyrr-70-pacific-parade-bilinga-qld-4225">KYRR</a>, on the corner of Pacific Parade and Archer Street, will comprise 24 apartment on its prime 1,009 sqm site. There had previously been plans for a much more boutique seven-storey, five-unit scheme.

Plans have been pitched by CHM Living, an entity associated with James Quinert, the founder of Norwood Constructions which is based in Melbourne.

<img alt="70 Pacific Parade and 1 Archer Street" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2f6159ee-3511-4b16-b9fa-ae8c008b8faf" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/site_5.png?VersionId=4n2YaBQdjXcshUAkxX8ei9X5N0v2AWqB" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/byculprit">ByCulprit Architects</a>, the project includes a sculptural façade with soft curves and natural finishes, inspired by the rhythm and calm of the nearby Pacific Ocean.

According to the Town Planning Report by Town Planning Alliance, the project aspires to reflect the intent of the Medium Density Residential zone, aiming to "contribute to the city’s iconic skyline along the coastal spine" with a high degree of architectural modulation and landscaping that softens the built form.

There will be 22 large-scale three-bedroom apartments and two five-bedroom penthouses. The wellness amenities, including a gym, steam room, sauna, pool, golf simulator, and cold plunge, will sit on level one.

Kyrr will follow in the footsteps of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/pipis-bilinga-303-golden-four-drive-bilinga-qld-4225">PIPIS</a> in Bilinga by SIERA, which is all but sold out with just one of its luxury 19 apartments left to sell. The building set suburb records, with the penthouses both selling for over $8 million. Down the road is Bilinga House, which has a wider mix of configurations and price points starting from just over $1.2 million.

First look: Bilinga beachfront set for new luxury apartment development, KYRR

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/coronation-property">Coronation Property</a> has received development approval for Archer &amp; Albert, a 32-storey, mixed-use residential development in the heart of Chatswood.

Located at 57–61 Archer Street and 34 Albert Avenue, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/archer-albert-chatswood-57-61-archer-street-chatswood-nsw-2067">Archer &amp; Albert</a> will deliver 150 new homes, including affordable housing, alongside ground-floor and podium retail, commercial space, a heritage house activated as a café, additional ground-level activation, and a landscaped publicly accessible park designed for community use.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/archer-albert-chatswood-57-61-archer-street-chatswood-nsw-2067">Archer &amp; Albert</a> is one of the few large-scale residential developments in the heart of Chatswood City to progress through a council-led architectural design competition and secure development approval, positioning it at the forefront of design led housing.&nbsp;

<img alt="Archer" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="33cb754a-1493-4203-bd16-096d320597f6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/A%2BA_C03_EXT_StreetScape_ID1.jpg?VersionId=oLUPFVAMxuRUTH1Bwki16R48cEo.vLeB" />

Designed by global architecture practice <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a>, long-term collaborators of the Coronation team, the project draws inspiration from the Sydney Blue Gum High Forest and the leafy character of the South Chatswood Heritage Conservation Area. The design integrates a restored heritage-listed home and establishes a landscaped connection between Chatswood’s urban centre and its surrounding residential neighbourhoods.&nbsp;

“This is an important project for us and our first entry into the North Shore,” said Joe Nahas, Managing Director of &nbsp;Coronation Property.&nbsp;

“We are deliberate about where we invest and build, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/chatswood-nsw-2067">Chatswood</a> stands out because the fundamentals are already strong. Transport, employment, education, retail and health are all in place. Archer &amp; Albert is about adding new housing into a centre that already works and building on what exists.”&nbsp;

<img alt="Chatswood" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="620fcd78-00be-489b-823a-ca353387b91b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/A%2BA_C04_EXT_PARK_HA_ID2.jpg?VersionId=NxSl04Zl1rzt94xlXNA6CNzSR9XMyLgP" />

Aras Labutis, Head of Urban Transformation at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/coronation-property">Coronation Property</a>, said the project reflects a disciplined, collaborative approach to city shaping.&nbsp;

“Chatswood sits at an important junction between high-density commercial activity and established residential &nbsp;neighbourhoods," Labutis said.

"Our focus for Archer &amp; Albert was to manage that transition carefully, respecting what’s already there &nbsp;while contributing something new that feels deliberate and enduring."

The approved scheme delivers:&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>A 32-storey mixed-use tower comprising 150 homes, including 41 affordable housing dwellings • 530sqm of ground-floor retail, dining and commercial offerings&nbsp;</li>
	<li>A 760sqm wellness tenancy integrated within the podium&nbsp;</li>
	<li>A restored heritage building, thoughtfully reimagined as a café overlooking the park&nbsp;</li>
	<li>A landscaped public park, designed as a calm green retreat in the heart of Chatswood&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Resident amenities include a premium gym, golf simulator, mahjong room, dedicated wellness areas, private &nbsp;dining facilities and a curated wine room&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Deep private balconies designed to capture outlooks and northern light&nbsp;</li>
	<li>A refined material palette of natural stone, timber and terracotta&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=29796]

Coronation receives green light for Archer & Albert apartments in Chatswood

Architect

Established in Brisbane in 1989 by Geoff Parker and Rob Cottee, Cottee Parker has evolved into a national practice with studios operating in Brisbane, Gold Coast, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney.

The firm, which combines “intellect and creativity with a skilful, sensitive approach to design”, has garnered recognition for their design outcomes.

“We design considering culture, environment and the human condition to produce responsive and sustainable solutions. We use our experience, skills and knowledge to create designs that work for clients and the community”, the multi-disciplinary practice said.

Past projects include Queens Wh​arf in Brisbane, one of Australia's most ambitious cons​truction projects, and West Si​de Place in Melbourne.

“I wanted to create a strong legacy to leave behind, and I am extremely confident that I have done exactly that,” Cottee said.

Over 50 projects designed by the firm are currently listed on Urban. Below are four of our favourites that homebuyers can secure via Urban today.

1. Mirador, Chevron Island 
Developer: Citimark Properties

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107520 project_image_fid=183047]

A unique blend of built form and nature, Mirador has been designed by Cottee Parker as part of the coastal identity of Chevron Island.

The 71 luxury residences respond to ocean views while reinforcing a coastal through a refined material palette including its white façade, bronze metal features and natural stone elements.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107520 project_image_fid=183048]

Two, three and four-bedroom apartments are generously sized with butlers’ pantries, island benches, wrap-around balconies and walk-in robes.

Extensive landscaping is also a key design feature, with cascading greenery softening the built form whilst providing a lush subtropical backdrop to the residential recreational spaces including the pool, gym, wellness and barbeque areas.

2. Seasons, Birtinya 
Developer: Cube Developments

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106957 project_image_fid=184863]

Cottee Parker has been engaged on a new residential project by Cube Developments that is certain to attract young property buyers.

Situated in the growing coastal suburb, Birtinya, Seasons is a trendy $102 million apartment development with almost 150 units in two, three and four-bedroom configurations.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106957 project_image_fid=184873]

Architect Sandra Brown said an emphasis on aesthetics, generously sized apartments and a number of amenities was expected to impress young buyers.

“We have focused on a range of materials to achieve a sleek, urban feel [with] timber, aluminium, plenty of greenery, as well as getting a lot of the off-form concrete into the design,” she said.

3. Nature by Cube, Cotton Tree 
Developer: Cube Developments

[smartcode_project:default project_id=89721 project_image_fid=172109]

Nature, located in the small waterfront suburb of Cotton Tree, will deliver 12 luxury residences.

Designed by&nbsp;<a href="/architects/cottee-parker-architects">Cottee Parker</a>, the development sits high above the Maroochy River, surrounded by green parkland and ever-shifting tidal sand bars.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=89721 project_image_fid=172111]

“The brief that Cube gave us [was] we want the best the Sunshine Coast has ever seen”, Sandra Browne said.

The sculptural project features a glass façade and hosts a number of amenities, including a 25-metre lap pool, gym, steam room and spa, yoga lawn and sun lounging areas.

4. Lowanna Beach Resort, Buddina 
Developer: WOW Group

[smartcode_project:default project_id=101206 project_image_fid=162030]

Lowanna, an Aboriginal word that is often used to describe exquisite beauty, is the namesake of the newest development to hit Buddina.

Three buildings make up the new Lowanna Beach Resort offering, each presenting a different perspective of the surrounds, and connected by centralised resort facilities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=101206 project_image_fid=162024]

All residents can enjoy the luxurious landscaped gardens, light-filled, tropical open communal areas and pool and barbeque facilities.

Residences boast generous floorplans, large balconies, plenty of storage and high-quality finishes.

“I wanted to create a strong legacy to leave behind, and I am extremely confident that I have done exactly that,” Cottee said. 

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Cottee Parker Architects' four best Queensland projects currently selling on Urban

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Founded in Adelaide, Woods Bagot is now a global architectural studio with studios spanning across six regions.

The firm, which prioritises “human experience and delivers engaging, future-oriented projects for its clients”, has become synonymous with deeply-considered and innovative design, engaging clients and communities in their design process.

“Prioritisation of experience and liveability shift the definition of residential value from traditional area calculations to quality and flexible functionality”, said Woods Bagot principal Simon Saint.   

Past projects by the firm include the Ivy in Sydney, the Wynyard Walk, which connects Wynyard Station to the Barangaroo waterfront, and the 184-residence mixed-use Collins Arch project in Melbourne.

The architectural firm now has over 60 projects it has designed listed on Urban. Here are six of our favourites that homebuyers can secure via Urban today. 
 

1. Miles Residences, Kirra Point 
Address: Corner Miles Street and Marine Paradise, Kirra QLD 4225 
Two-bedroom apartments from $795,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27575]

This Woods Bagot-designed apartment features timber flooring, a flexible open-plan layout and floor-to-ceiling windows.

Delivered by the KTQ Group, the development offers a collection of one, two and three-bedroom apartments on one of Australia’s rare north-facing beaches.

“Considered architecture and thoughtful design capture the north-facing aspect, inviting you to stop, sit back, and soak it all up”, the project marketing reads.

Amenities include multi-purpose rooms, bike and surfboard storage, mezzanine level pool and beachside deck. 
 

2. The Precinct, Mount Pleasant 
Address: 893 Canning Highway, Mount Pleasant WA 6153 
Two-bedroom apartments from $615,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8514]

The 22-storey smart building is evidence of the architects considered approach, offering electric car charging points, centralised home automation and E-keys for a modern living experience.

Views in the residences span from Kings Park and the CBD in the north to the converging Swan and Canning Rivers. 
Maximising the Melville Council's $235 million redevelopment vision for this Canning Bridge area, Norup + Wilson deliver Feng Shui infused designs, plenty of off-street parking and low-carbon living. 
 

3. Crest, Burswood 
Address: 120 Goodwood Parade, Burswood WA 6100 
Two-bedroom apartments from $635,0003

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8515]

Another development created in partnership between Norup + Wilson and Woods Bagot is Burswood’s Crest Apartments.

The 21-storey building features spacious living, extensive joinery and views of the surrounding city.

The Crest boasts stylish, bespoke wooden cabinetry and island benches, as well as amenities including a rooftop garden area, outdoor cinema and heated pool. 
 

4. 180 George, Parramatta 
Address: 180 George Street, Parramatta NSW 2150 
Two-bedroom apartments from $715,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8590]

Meriton’s world-class 180 George development brings together beautifully designed residences with the ideal lifestyle amenities to suit everyone.

The 767-apartment development features communal open space, including rooftop gardens, a sundrenched podium terrace and a barbeque area.

The 1,200 sqm podium gardens complement the adjoining 58-level hotel suites tower. 
 

5. Penny Place, Adelaide 
Address: 17 Penny Place, Adelaide SA 5000 
Two-bedroom apartments from $607,500

[smartcode_project:default project_id=9286]

Situated in the heart of Adelaide, Penny Place deliver intuitive floorplans and spacious one and two-bedroom apartments.

The collection of 152 apartments extends 23-storeys and offers full-width balconies, internal laundry and panoramic views across the South Australian capital.

In the kitchens, flawless quality persists with Caesarstone kitchen bench top's, Bosch cooktop and oven, Fisher &amp; Paykel dishwasher and feature LED strip lighting in the kitchen. 
 

6. The Standard, South Brisbane 
Address: 13-17 Manning Street, South Brisbane QLD 4101 
Two-bedroom apartments from $699,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7500]

The Standard is the newest luxury high-rise in the vibrant South Brisbane, soaring 32 floors above the waterfront suburb by ARIA Developers.

Comprising 260 spacious one, two and three-bedroom apartments, the development offers exclusive amenities, including garden terraces, residents’ bar, sunken lounges, cinema spaces, lap pool and sun-lounges.
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Woods Bagot has become synonymous with deeply-considered and innovative design, engaging clients and communities in their design process

Six properties designed by acclaimed architects Woods Bagot currently selling on Urban

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EXPERT OBSERVER
The appointment of Abbie Galvin as the NSW Government Architect is a positive signal about the design of the state’s urban environment.
It is a good move forward to have the first woman as NSW Government Architect in Abbie Galvin.
The role of the Government Architect has evolved over 200 years from one of designing all of the state’s public buildings to now having an overview of the whole built environment.
The Urban Taskforce has had a long relationship with the Government Architect particularly as the chair of our Development Excellence Awards jury over almost 20 years. The development industry is keen to contribute to a quality built environment and we look forward to working with Abbie Galvin in this regard.
The NSW Government has recently stressed the importance of public spaces and the quality of the public realm, which will require a balance between the role of the state government, of councils and of the private sector that developed most of the buildings in the state.
It will be important to balance the quality of buildings with affordability, particularly as NSW housing is one of the most expensive in the world. It will also be important for the Government Architect to bring a commercial understanding of building and construction when reforming or developing broader planning rules and requirements that applicants for new projects must comply with.
Already, the NSW planning system is very complex, and slow - and the pursuit of design excellence should lead to faster rather than slower approvals.
The new Government Architect should become an advocate for a more urban way of living, with greater density than the traditional suburbs and champion these more urban ways of living.
The Urban Taskforce is keen to work with Abbie Galvin in her new role as the NSW Government Architect, in shaping the future urban form of our cities.
CHRIS JOHNSON is the Urban Taskforce CEO
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cjohnson-8xfqfuuCSq

NSW government architect can help shape the urban environment: Chris Johnson

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Abbie Galvin has been appointed as the 24th NSW Government Architect. 
She replaces Peter Poulet who left the role after being appointed as the new Central City District Commissioner for the Greater Sydney Commission.
The Government Architect’s role has evolved over time and Ms Galvin will have responsibility for championing design excellence across the State, as well as shaping quality places and public spaces and collaborating with agencies, councils, industry and community. 
Ms Galvin brings to the role international and Australian experience, a focus on design excellence and public spaces.  
“I am passionate about taking on this role at a time when NSW is going through such dynamic and far reaching change,” Ms Galvin said.
“It is an honour to have a position at the table to help shape the future of our State and I look forward to working with the Minister and our communities to achieve significant outcomes.” 
Ms Galvin has worked on a range of high profile projects both in Australia and in Hong Kong as a Principal and Director of BVN, one of Australia’s largest and most highly acclaimed architectural practices. 
The Planning and Public Spaces Minister Rob Stokes made the appointment. 
“I’m delighted Ms Galvin will be our new Government Architect and the first woman to hold the position since it was created more than 200 years ago,” Mr Stokes said. 
“The Government Architect has been one of the State’s most prestigious roles since it was established in 1816 to shape cities, towns and communities right across the State. 
“From the Hyde Park Barracks designed by Francis Greenway, to the Sydney Observatory by Alexander Dawson, our Government Architects have been behind some of our most iconic buildings.” 
 
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Abbie Galvin appointed the 24th NSW Government Architect

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Architects from New York, Chicago and Singapore have been shortlisted to take part in a competition for the design of Cbus Property’s second commercial office project in Brisbane’s CBD, 205 North Quay.
It plans to develop the project in conjunction with partner Nielson Properties.
HASSELL, REX (New York) and Richards &amp; Spence; Cox Architecture, SOM (Chicago) and Rapt Studio; BVN and SHoP Architects (New York); and Architectus and WOHA (Singapore) will compete for the opportunity to produce a concept design for the circa $600 million sustainable A-grade commercial tower that capitalises on its unique waterfront location and transforms the CBD precinct.
“The calibre of expression-of-interest submissions received from architects were of the highest quality, attracting both local and international interest and making the partnership’s analysis and decision-making process difficult,” Adrian Pozzo, CEO of Cbus Property, said.
“Brisbane is a new world city and we plan to partner with the world’s best architects. The strong interest from the architects both locally and internationally has been driven by Cbus Property’s track record, the site’s significant riverfront location, and Brisbane as an emerging global city.
“The site provides an unrivalled opportunity to establish the innovative workplace of the future and create a new commercial building of inspiring architecture that will represent the new world of work.”
The commercial building is intended to add 50,000 square metres of net lettable area to Brisbane’s CBD office market.
It will form part of an exciting new precinct, the North Quarter, which is undergoing a comprehensive transformation with the delivery of new commercial and residential developments, as well as the new Roma Street Station.
The successful team of architects is expected to be appointed in September, with building construction slated for completion in 2023.
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International architects shortlisted for 205 North Quay design competition

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The Australian Institute of Architects has announced the appointment of Julia Cambage to the position of chief executive officer for the architecture profession’s peak body.
Cambage (pictured below) joins the Institute, which represents more than 11,000 members in Australia and overseas, with over 20 years of CEO experience.
She was most recently CEO for TRY Australia – a youth charity and mentoring organisation employing over 400 staff and 200 volunteers across Australia with a $30 million turnover.
National President, Clare Cousins said the Institute is firmly in an "era of transformation".
"Ms Cambage’s entrepreneurial nature coupled with extensive experience and commercial acumen provide the perfect fit for the organisation and the profession as we continue on this exciting trajectory," said Cousins.
<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/2019/1/1/Strip%20ad%20keep%20up%20in%202019.jpg" alt=""></a>
Cambage has previously held top level positions at national not-for-profits Procurement Australia and Family Business Australia, developing and implementing sustainable programs to achieve strategic growth.
During her six-year tenure as CEO at TRY Australia, Cambage was instrumental in the development and implementation of a range of sustainable enterprises including TRY Uncontained, a progressive social business converting shipping containers into affordable, small footprint housing.
The program was supported by property maintenance, furniture production and labour hire, providing training and employment.
That initiative specifically was recently recognised at the Social Enterprise World Forum in Edinburgh as a true game changer.
Cambage commences on next Monday.
She will be based at the Institute’s Melbourne offices at 41 Exhibition Street.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/1/17/Cambage.JPG" alt="">
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Australian Institute of Architects welcomes new CEO, Julia Cambage

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Bridgford House, a Black Rock property designed by the late architect Robin Boyd, has been sold to another Melbourne architect by fellow architect Maggie Edmond, widow of the late architect Peter Corrigan.
The landmark home was bought by Melbourne University architecture lecturer Catherine Duggan and her hospitality industry partner Maz Salt, who owns popular restaurants including Belleville and Ferdyduke.
It was the home built in the mid 1950s for Charles and Phyllis Bridgford at a cost of £9,500. It ranked as Boyd's largest commission at the time.
The single-level classic home has been kept in its original state its longtime second owners although the keen sailor's dry dock boat room was converted into living space the mid-1960s by a then slightly daunted Maggie Edmond for her parents who'd bought it in 1958.
The home which has four bedrooms and a secluded paved garden with fish pond was sold by Jellis Craig agent Belinda Anderson who had a $2.7 million to $2.9 million guide. 
It was Anderson's 18th Boyd sale. There were concerns, that without heritage protection, the property designed by the Melbourne mid-century modernist architect Robin Boyd, faced demolition due to its prize 655 square metre Beach Road location facing Half Moon Bay Beach.
Built to a linear plan with all rooms facing north, modernist devotees marvelled the sheer cleverness of Boyd's craft still on view; the inbuilt cabinetry, dividing kitchen shelving, an indoor to outdoor dining table and groundbreaking walls of glazing.
This article first appeared in The Weekend Australian.
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Robin Boyd-designed Black Rock snapped up by architect 

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EXPERT OBSERVER
The NSW Government must appoint a new Government Architect to replace Peter Poulet (Pictured above).
The recent move of the current NSW Government Architect, Peter Poulet, to a reduced role in the Greater Sydney Commission leaves a vacant leadership role for design in the NSW Government.
For 200 years NSW has led Australia in having a champion for the design of the built environment with a state architect.
The current Government Architect has successfully managed the transition of the role from one of designing buildings to one of setting the framework for the quality of buildings and their urban setting.
Peter Poulet has set policies and produced guides and systems that champion design quality at a time when the community has raised concerns about increasing density in urban areas.
He has also chaired the Urban Taskforce Development Excellence Awards jury and demonstrated a willingness to work with the industry.
We thank Peter for his contribution the New South Wales.
The Urban Taskforce is concerned that there seem to be a number of senior executives leaving the Department of Planning and Environment at a crucial time in the growth of the state’s cities.
The development industry needs stability and strong leadership in planning particularly with the current down turn in home prices and in housing approval numbers.
The recent government back downs on key policies related to town houses, planning policies in Ryde and on the planned precincts on the Sydenham to Bankstown line also indicate a softening in support for development.
There are clearly important roles in the Central District of Greater Sydney but there are also opportunities for someone of Peter Poulet’s experience to develop design quality across Greater Sydney generally and the Urban Taskforce would support this.
The Urban Taskforce encourages the NSW Government to ensure that the tradition of the NSW Government Architect continues particularly as an advocate for the quality design of greater urban density as populations increase.
Chris Johnson is the CEO of the Urban Taskforce
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NSW Government Architect role important for the state’s urbanisation: Chris Johnson

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Architect Charles Bruce Dellit's own home, Aleuria at Wahroonga on Sydney's upper north shore, has been listed for sale.
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-wahroonga-128729870" title="www.realestate.com.au">Wahroonga</a> home is on the market for the first time in 25 years.
It was built in 1928.
Aleuria is most known for having the winning 1929 design of the Hyde Park Anzac Memorial, which is currently undergoing major works.
Aleuria was built during the inter-war Mediterranean movement, with classic Italian renaissance elements.
It has been listed by Chadwicks Real Estate agent Penelope Prior who is quoting a $3.5 million price guide.
Locals suggests Dame Nellie Melba approached the owner to buy his house. Courtesy: State Library of NSW.
Prior said the famous opera singer Dame Nellie Melba tried to buy the four-bedroom estate that sits on 1838 square metres.
It has been owned by Sheelagh and Timothy O’Brien for the past 25 years.
There have only been three owners of the property at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property/38-fox-valley-rd-wahroonga-nsw-2076" target="_blank">38 Fox Valley Road</a>.
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Architect Charles Bruce Dellit's home Aleuria, Wahroonga listed

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One of the apartments in the boutique low-rise Surry Hills project On Bourke has sold for $2.9 million.
The William Smart-designed complex, made up of just four whole floor apartments, are set to launch to the market in the next two weeks through BradfieldCleary agent Mark Daley.
The prices for the three remaining apartments range from $2.25 million to $2.6 million.
The proposed top storey of the building appears like a continuation of the neighbouring terrace house chimneys.
The facade has also continuity with its surroundings, with a dark bronze fence and balustrades referencing the metal fretwork of the nearby terraces.
Smart knows the area well. His office is just up the road from the Bourke Street project, and after the 2004 conversion, lives in the penthouse apartment above.
Caplis bought <a href="https://maps.google.com/?q=471b+Bourke+Street+Surry+hills&amp;entry=gmail&amp;source=g" target="_blank">471b Bourke Street</a> in 2016. 
Off form concrete ceilings bring practical and visual benefits to the project.
The high end finish performs well thermally and allows maximum ceiling heights to be achieved while keeping the overall building height down.  
It will have minimal and elegant interiors, curved living spaces, oak timber floorboards, wool carpets and traditional hard set plaster finishes.
<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/2018/7/12/smart2.jpg" alt="">
The bathrooms evoke a luxury hotel feel, with stone mosaic curved walls, recessed pelmet lighting and metallic highlights.
Developer Luke Caplis at Freehold Capital has witnessed the drift in buyer desire to smaller, boutique developments with a recent project.
"After buying and developing an old mechanic workshop on the corner of Liverpool and Riley street in Darlinghurst, I discovered the market was strong for high end apartments that stuck out from the everyday norm," Calpis said.
That project, called The Riley, was a conversion of the warehouse designed by SJB Architects, where prices hit $2.43 million.
Each had three levels and a rooftop pavilion with the master bedroom and terrace.
Caplis engaged the William Smart for the project after he spotted his award winning work on Indigo Slam, the Chippendale warehouse residence of Judith Neilson, the art dealing founder of the White Rabbit Collection.
The $8 million warehouse space was formerly the Simona fashion HQ before its conversion by Smart, whose intention was to provide the emerging urban precinct with a piece of interesting architecture.
Caplis's boutique Bourke Street project will have four whole floor apartments, with the overall height of the building not disturbing the historic streetscape.
"I enlisted William Smart to create something that simply does not exist in Surry Hills," Caplis said.
Smart has been involved in inner-city low-rise boutique apartment projects, which are quickly becoming the preferred apartment choice for many buyers, for almost two decades.
Essentially built to resemble living in a house more than an apartment, these low-rise development embrace a sense of neighbourhood community, rather than the hotel-like feel of residential skyscrapers.
<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/2018/7/12/smart3.jpg" alt="">
Born in New Zealand, and raised in rural Western Australia, Sydneysiders have got to know of William Smart's works since the late 1990s when he worked on the award-winning Olympic Park Rail station.
For the prior five years, he had been working for Gersau Architecture, a small architectural firm in the south of France, and with Foster and Partners in London. Smart turns 50 later this month.
The avowed Modernist has received critical acclaim with awards including the AIA Robin Boyd Award and AIA Wilkinson Awards for Residential Architecture, the World Architecture Festival INSIDE Award for World’s Best Residential Interior and numerous national interior design awards.
In 2017, at the Asia Pacific INDE Awards, founder William Smart was named winner of The Luminary, recognising the “ongoing contribution of an industry icon, whether casting a long shadow across many disciplines or excelling ahead of the pack in one”.
He founded Smart Design Studio in 1997 and has over 35 staff. He currently lives above his sandstone offices, with plans to relocate his home and practice to more industrial premises at Alexandria.
Smart had previously lived at one of his earliest projects, a 40 square metre Springfield Avenue apartment in Kings Cross.
As a first home buyer he paid $223,000 in 2002, selling for $478,000 in 2012. It featured in the 2004 book, 50 of the world's best apartments.
Dubbed Smart Apartment, it was a low-budget renovation of a one bedder in the Sandringham building which incorporated a sliding "art wall" by Tim Richardson. 
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