Local developer Harridan is seeking to turn its Woolloongabba apartment project into the first stage of a broader transformation of Burke Street, using a new 16-storey mixed-use building to establish a greener pedestrian connection toward the rapidly evolving Boggo Road transport and knowledge precinct.

The South East Queensland developer has filed plans for 154 apartments on the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/4-burke-street-woolloongabba-qld-4102">southern side of Burke Street</a>, where its proposal has been designed alongside a wider vision by LatStudios for the street.

That vision positions the southern side of Burke Street for buildings of 15 storeys and above, while envisaging lower-rise development of up to five storeys on the northern side to transition into Woolloongabba's existing character housing. It also proposes wider pedestrian verges, deep planting, new street trees and upgrades to the pedestrian approach to Boggo Road Station.

The Harridan development itself has been designed by Brisbane-based Arqus Design and will comprise 154 apartments across 16 storeys. The mix is weighted heavily toward two-bedroom apartments, with 121 proposed alongside 10 one-bedroom and 23 three-bedroom residences. There will typically be around 14 units per floor.

A lower-ground car park and three podium levels will accommodate 156 resident parking spaces, along with visitor and commercial parking. There will also be 154 resident bicycle spaces and 40 visitor bicycle parks.

&nbsp;

Harridan is a family-owned developer and part of the Holmwood Highgate Group, with more than three decades of development activity across South East Queensland. Its portfolio spans residential, commercial and industrial property, with current residential projects including Riverbank on Byron in Bulimba, Esperance Residences in Carina and The Precinct at Kinross Road in Thornlands.

Wooloongabba has been popular for apartment developers, particularly since the announcement of the 2032 Summer Olympics games in Brisbane.

While there have been a lot of development applications, it has failed to materialize into real supply.&nbsp;

Sarazin has been the major player in the area. They are under construction at Murcia Residences, on the fringe of East Brisbane and Woolloongabba. They have just launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-stanley-residences-woolloongabba-8-trafalgar-street-woolloongabba-qld-4102">The Stanley Residences</a>, in Woolloongabba on Trafalagar Street. They also have Nuage coming soon on the nearby <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/nuage-woolloongabba-14-wellington-road-woolloongabba-qld-4102">Wellington Road</a>.

Joel Robinson

First look: Harridan plans Burke Street transformation beside Boggo Road transport hub

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

GRAYA greenlit for riverfront St Lucia apartment development, Silk

Byron Bay apartments

Byron Bay's Jonson Street is set for a new $100 million mixed-use development.

Local <a href="/new-apartments/byron-bay-nsw-2481">Byron Bay</a> developer, <a href="/developers/jd-property-group">JD Property Group</a>, has been approved for a luxury shoptop development at 119-123 Jonson Street, a 2,725 sqm block just 750 metres from Main Beach and on the corner of Jonson and Kingsley Street.

They'll launch the project, dubbed <a href="/new-apartments/secret-garden-119-123-jonson-street-byron-bay">Secret Garden</a>, this month.

Read more: <a href="/news/nsw/first-look-new-apartments-planned-for-byron-bays-jonson-street">First look: New apartments planned for Byron Bay's Jonson Street</a>

<a href="/news/nsw/first-look-new-apartments-planned-for-byron-bays-jonson-street"><img alt="Secret Garden" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d8a152c7-32be-4813-b414-6b85991175f5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-05-13%20at%209.05.01%20am.png?VersionId=03MVZS.3oyVl41AqHTxhzacPEbGsxbpR" /></a>

&nbsp;

<a href="/new-apartments/secret-garden-119-123-jonson-street-byron-bay">Secret Garden</a> is JD Property Group’s second premier Byron Bay development. Following the success of its flagship precinct, Jonson Lane, it promises to bring the spirit of the Byron Bay Hinterland to the centre of town with premium amenities, green spaces, and a personalised concierge service for residents.

Secret Garden will comprise 22&nbsp;apartments, including luxury penthouse suites, alongside 10 upscale retail and hospitality tenancies on the ground floor. The premium-grade retail space&nbsp;will showcase local talent, including top chefs, designers, and artisans, while bringing some of Australia’s leading brands to the Byron Bay township.

JD Property Group Managing Director and third-generation local, Jason Dunn, said the precinct aims to spotlight what makes Byron Bay uniquely special.

“As a proud local, I am excited to showcase the best of Byron in a world-class, luxury precinct,”&nbsp;Dunn said.

“Every element has been thoughtfully considered and designed. From partners to products, we have aimed to work with our local community at every stage. This includes partnering with a local landscape architect to incorporate natural vegetation in our expansive greenspaces, which account for more than 40% of the precinct’s ground floor area. We have also worked with a local designer to deliver a rustic, coastal, and authentic style emulating the Byron Bay coast and hinterland, not yet seen in residential apartment living.

“Secret Garden is a very different offering to others in the market and has been positively received by our community and stakeholders. We anticipate strong interest from residents and retailers.”

<img alt="Secret Garden" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="693766ea-1cfa-404a-abc6-0d6adaec163d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-05-13%20at%209.05.35%20am.png?VersionId=Ppyt6WNxXgEKByRO.OJBI.bQnnONGouZ" />

From amenities to personalised service, Secret Garden will offer residents a hotel-style service experience. The precinct features premium communal spaces,&nbsp; such as a rooftop wellness centre including magnesium pool, sauna, meditation space, and spa. There's an exclusive terraces for residents, BBQ areas, and a teppanyaki grill. A private concierge will be part of the project.

With an eight-star average NatHERS (Nationwide Housing Energy Rating Scheme) score, Secret Garden is a fossil-fuel free residential development. Its sustainability credentials include high-performing internal features, like glazing, to regulate temperature; water-efficient fixtures and fittings; and a ventilation strategy that maximises fresh, clean indoor air.

<img alt="Pool" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3d23a872-b6fe-445e-91e1-6e72dadaf73a" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-05-13%20at%209.05.08%20am.png?VersionId=fgXoCyEXa6ybwtizp_EHGAIyLSW4QhAk" />

“We are proud to be delivering a sustainable development that offers residents the choice of 100% renewable energy supply,” Dunn added.

“Our market-leading sustainability commitments are a true point of difference for our precinct.

“Sustainable design is a must for us, and we aim to celebrate and nurture our natural environment at every stage of the process. We hope to attract residents and retailers who share these values.”

The three-storey precinct is a collaboration with Australian architect, <a href="/architects/bayley-ward">Bayley Ward</a>, renowned local interior curator Island Luxe, and local landscape architect, LARC. It follows JD Property Group’s award-winning Jonson Lane project, which has around 80 per cent of its retail, restaurant, health, and wellness offerings serviced by local Byron-based brands.

Secret Garden will comprise 22 apartments, including luxury penthouse suites, alongside 10 upscale retail and hospitality tenancies on the ground floor

Byron Bay set for Secret Garden after luxury shoptop development gets approval

Property developer Omira Property Group has carved out a reputation as one of the most architecturally-focused villa developers in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales and the southern areas of the Gold Coast.

Now they're bringing their classic coastal-style to Ballina, following success in the likes of Byron Bay, Currumbin and Kingscliff.

They've brought the same team down from their most recently completed development, Asana, on Byron Bay's dress circle Marvell Street. Asana comprised just three luxury villas which sold with prices ranging from $4.4 million to $4.6 million.

The new <a href="/new-townhouses/ballina-nsw-2478">Ballina</a> project, <a href="/new-townhouses/mana-ballina-86-90-norton-street-ballina">Mana</a>, comprises 14 luxury villas, each with over 220 sqm of internal space. They start from $1.95 million.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144558 project_image_fid=264603]

<a href="/developers/omira-property-group">Omira Property Group</a> Director Alasdair Baker says the villas will represent an opportunity for prospective purchasers to live in something Ballina hasn't seen before.

"Ballina has everything Byron Bay has and more at half the price tag," Baker says, calling the area a "sleeping giant of opportunity that's just about to wake up."

"The focus in this region has always been on Byron Bay, but when people travel north or south, they realise the same lifestyle opportunities, with multiple beachside precincts, exist up and down the coastline."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144558 project_image_fid=264608]

<a href="/architects/c2-architecture">C2 Architecture</a>, whose concept embodies an iconic coastal aesthetic with architecture inspired by Palm Springs, is working with designer Mon Palmer of Bare Cabo design studio who has developed an interior scheme that emanates calm.

Marble features predominantly throughout the three-bedroom villas, with stone cladding, timber-look panels and white render on the exterior to create a cool coastal effect.

Hit-and-miss brickwork serves to protect the home from the heat while welcoming summer breezes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144558 project_image_fid=264613]

Baker says the project will suit the local downsizer market, those who have been on acreages in the region, as well as those from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane who are looking for the Byron Bay-style lifestyle.

Baker says a project of this calibre needs to have a location to match, which is why they settled on a prime site on Norton Street,&nbsp;a literal stone's throw from&nbsp; North Creek and just over a kilometre to Ballina Fair Shopping Centre.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144558 project_image_fid=261478]

Pacifico Property, who sold Omira's Asana <a href="/new-townhouses/byron-bay-nsw-2481">Byron Bay</a>, is marketing Mana, which is slated for completion in 2025.

One of the villas has already been snapped up pre-launch for $2.4 million, bought by a downsizer from Byron Bay.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=144558]

Omira Property Group bring luxe villas to Ballina as Mana launches

The rejuvenation of Byron Bay's main thoroughfare, Jonson Street, is set to continue.

New plans have been lodged by local developer Jason Dunn, whose JD Property Group is proposing a mixed-use development at <a href="/new-apartments/secret-garden-119-123-jonson-street-byron-bay">119-123 Jonson Street</a>. Earlier this month JD Property Group won two major awards at the 2023 NSW Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA) Awards for their mixed-use project Jonson Lane, down the road from the new proposal.

The latest project will be just 22&nbsp;apartments above an activated ground plane.

The 2,727 sqm site, 750 metres from Main Beach and on the corner of Jonson and Kingsley Street, will home six retail spaces and a food and beverage tenancy, set around a central courtyard.

<img alt="Byron Bay" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a829d92c-4234-47e5-b4ef-8c3356212ec1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-08-09%20at%208.39.57%20am.png?VersionId=BEip2.99q9f.pudTQbwYA6HXgqIdCv7q" />

There will be 85 parking spaces created, 44 retail and 41 residential, across the two basement levels.

The two levels above the 1,073 sqm of retail will comprise 22 two, three and four-bedroom apartments. The nine apartments on the top level have their own private rooftop terraces. They share the roof with a communal pool for all of the residents.

Architecture firm BayleyWard refined their designs after working with the <a href="/developments/byron-bay-nsw-2481">Byron Bay</a> Department of Environmental Planning for the most desired outcome.

A pre-lodgement community engagement program was undertaken late last year, with only one property making contact regarding the proposal despite a letterbox drop to every property within a 500m radius of the site, an ad in the Byron Shire Echo, and a site notice. The Community Engagement Report suggested it could be because the comprehensive project website provided sufficient information and answers.

"Whilst there were questions and there was feedback (almost all of it was positive and none of it was negative), there were no requests for changes to the draft proposal," the report noted.

<img alt="Byron" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d7f46ceb-fade-45f1-9645-7203e2b00b0c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Byron.jpg?VersionId=Ue5TJNSc4OAciGaUYhITV2K0vvXn_g8M" />

BayleyWard noted in their Design Statement that the&nbsp;client and design team has developed an architectural response that addresses key issues discussed during the consultation process with the <a href="/developments/byron-bay-nsw-2481">Byron Bay</a> Design Excellence Panel.

"In considering the urban design response to Jonson Street, it was recommended that there is a two-storey expression on Jonson Street with a recessed in alignment with the objectives of the Byron Shire DCP to support the desired street character," the report read.

"This two storey expression has been incorporated into the proposal with an accentuated ground floor retail storey with a masonry balcony element articulating the second storey above. The upper levels are set back and expressed as a darker recessive masonry materiality to minimise visual impact when viewed from the streetscape."

Apartment entry spaces have been designed with generous areas adjacent to front doors to accomodate bike or surfboard storage, planting, or a place to sit and interact with neighbours.

"These spaces extend private amenity into the semi public walkways promoting a sense of ownership, connectivity and community among residents."

<img alt="Jonson" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="722f6081-ac06-408e-a7d7-bf75d8cfba53" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-08-09%20at%208.54.52%20am.png?VersionId=Lam1.Q42bGrDb690YTTKyu0REteLiU.d" />

Larc Landscape Architecture said the vision seeks to aligns with the aspirations of the <a href="/developments/byron-bay-nsw-2481">Byron Bay</a> Town Centre Masterplan to “connect the Centre of Byron Bay with the spirit of its community.”

"The project strives to create new diverse social hub to encourage locals and visitors to come together - centred around a new public courtyard activated with retail, lifestyle and well-being to create a unique and authentic place in Byron Bay."

The half of the site, 119-121 Jonson Street, is currently home to function and event venue Secret Garden, while 123 Jonson is occupied by a holiday accomodation block.

<img alt="Jonson" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="346b8d77-6963-43bb-8b40-7a07c801190e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-08-09%20at%208.34.59%20am.png?VersionId=IMiQ7ZJvEqYOivcZqHzi3B0vPsfF3IFk" />

JD are also planning Jonson Lane, 28 apartments above a commercial precinct at 139 Jonson Street.

Jonson Lane won the Excellence in Boutique Development Category at the UDIA Awards. They also took home Silver in the Retail Development Category, bringing home the Commendation Award. They were the only Northern Rivers development to win an award or be nominated as a finalist in the 2023 Awards.

“Whilst we are proud of the awards, we are learning as we are progressing” Dunn said.

“As well as our collaboration with Architects Bayley Ward, we are working closely with sustainable development consultants HIP V. HYPE on 119-123 Jonson Street. They are responsible for some of the greenest developments in Australia and I really love what they bring to the table.

"Our intention is that this will be one of NSW’s most sustainable developments”.

Elsewhere on Jonson Street, Sydney developer Podia is working with local hotelier on&nbsp;<a href="/new-apartments/the-bonobo-by-raes-byron-bay">The Bonobo by Raes</a>.&nbsp;<a href="/new-apartments/the-bonobo-by-raes-byron-bay">The Bonobo by Raes</a>, at 116-118 Jonson Street, is offering a collection of 44 hotel-managed apartments, pitched as an alternative to Airbnb.

Luxcon have their <a href="/new-apartments/bohemian-90-96-jonson-street-byron-bay">Bohemian project</a> of 44 apartments above a 1,750 sqm retail shopping and international food plaza at 90-96 Jonson Street.

<h2>Fast Facts</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Address:&nbsp;119-123 Jonson Street, Byron Bay</li>
	<li>Developer: JD Property Group</li>
	<li>Site size: 2,727 sqm</li>
	<li>Retail space: 1,073 sqm</li>
	<li>Dwellings: 22 apartments
	<ul>
		<li>6 x two-bedroom apartments</li>
		<li>11 x three-bedroom apartments</li>
		<li>5 x four-bedroom apartments</li>
	</ul>
	</li>
</ul>

Jonson Street has been a hive of activity in the last 12 months, with Luxcon and Podia also developing new apartment projects

First look: New apartments planned for Byron Bay's Jonson Street

A new development in Byron Bay is hoping to create a new blue-print for all future mixed-use developments in the <a href="/developments/byron-bay-nsw-2481">Byron Shire Council</a>.

The new three-level project at 9 Marvell Street, near a number of cafes, restaurants, and the <a href="/developments/byron-bay-nsw-2481">Byron Bay</a> Bowling Club, will have a mix of eight three and four-bedroom apartments above ground floor commercial tenancies, and a resident-only rooftop with swimming pool and barbecue deck.

Australian research lab Finding Infinity prepared a&nbsp;Design Excellence Report - Sustainability, for the project, stating is has the potential to "offer better experience."

"This project is an opportunity for leadership - to create an example that makes it easy for everyone else to follow," the Report read.

The Report said it can be a place that’s easy for residents to have a positive environmental impact, calling it a "finely tuned machine."

"A building that is built cost-effectively and is high performance with a positive impact. It functions simply, and has ultra-low operating costs. It’s easy to maintain and run. Spaces are comfortable and the community thrives. A zero-carbon operational building."

They said the building could reach&nbsp;the environmental-financial threshold, where every profitable initiative is implemented, improving both the environmental and financial performance of the project.

<img alt="Byron" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3a132943-252d-41dc-afda-b6ec0c863882" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-07-07%20at%2011.55.11%20am.png?VersionId=0HWkwOCF5tXlvgdqdp5Bpf69Vdl30y1E" />

The 1,013 sqm site, currently home to the Byron Bay Dive Centre, has been owned by local businessman Perry Bartholomew, who is the Dive Centre's Managing Director, since 2009, when it was bought for $2,275,000.

<a href="/architects/harley-graham-architects">Harley Graham Architects</a>, who also designed <a href="/new-apartments/bohemian-90-96-jonson-street-byron-bay">The Bohemian</a> for <a href="/developers/luxcon-group">Luxcon Group</a>,&nbsp;put the plans together for the $12 million development. The average apartment size is 140 sqm.

There will be EV charging facilities in one car share space in the building, however provisions are proposed for an additional eight charging spaces to meet future demand.

Finding Infinity's Report said that it is predicted that by 2035, 50 per ent of new car sales in Australia will be electric.

Research done for the City of Sydney showed that 81 per cent of residents were in favour of installing EV charging.

<h2>Sustainability initiatives</h2>

<ul>
	<li>High performance facade and considered orientation</li>
	<li>Mixed Mode Ventilation</li>
	<li>Efficient lighting, appliances, equipment, and HVAC systems</li>
	<li>100% electric, no gas connection</li>
	<li>Heat pump DHW</li>
	<li>Rooftop Solar PV</li>
	<li>Imported GreenPower</li>
	<li>EV charging and future-proofing</li>
	<li>Smart controls and apartment kill switches</li>
	<li>Efficient water fittings and fixtures</li>
	<li>Rainwater collection and reuse</li>
	<li>Recycled water connection</li>
	<li>Zero-waste tenancy agreements</li>
	<li>E-water systems</li>
	<li>Organic waste separation</li>
	<li>Non Toxic Construction</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

Australian research lab Finding Infinity prepared a Design Excellence Report - Sustainability, for the project, stating is has the potential to "offer better experience."

Byron Bay apartments

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Byron Bay apartments

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News