Melbourne developer Spacious Group has completed Voyage Altona, one of the closest new apartment developments to Altona Beach.

Off the plan purchasers have started moving into the 49-apartment project on Pier Street, with the remaining move-in-ready one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments starting from just over $500,000.

Display apartments have now been fitted out, allowing prospective buyers to inspect the completed residences by appointment.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112195 project_image_fid=372638]

The completed apartments feature open-plan living and dining areas which extend onto private balconies and terraces, while full-height glazing maximises natural light throughout the interiors.&nbsp;

Hybrid timber-look flooring, stone benchtops, Miele appliances, porcelain-tiled bathrooms and generous storage feature throughout the building which also features landscaped communal areas, expansive shared terraces, lift access and secure on-grade parking.

Drawing inspiration from its bayside setting, Voyage adopts a restrained palette of warm neutral tones and textured finishes. Many of the apartments take advantage of views across Port Phillip Bay, while the indoor-outdoor living spaces have been designed to make the most of the coastal outlook.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112195 project_image_fid=3286]

Voyage was developed to address what Spacious Group identified as an undersupply of higher-quality apartment product in Altona, with a focus on owner-occupiers looking to remain within the bayside community.

"Voyage responds to very strong local buyer demand for quality, owner-occupier-focused product," says Barry Plant Projects Director Jarrod Farey, who has handled sales since the project's launch.

"The project delivers an elevated lifestyle proposition, with its design and quality of finish far exceeding anything previously produced in the area, as well as its proximity to Pier Street Village and the beach."

The majority of purchasers have been local downsizers and owner-occupiers looking to stay within the Altona community but who previously had limited opportunities to buy a brand-new apartment.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112195]

Joel Robinson

Spacious Group completes Voyage Altona in Altona's beachside precinct

Homecorp has secured approval for a $360 million apartment development at Budds Beach, paving the way for one of the Gold Coast's most amenity-rich residential projects to launch later this year.

Gold Coast City Council has approved Lýon Residences, a 32-level tower that will deliver 178 two and three-bedroom apartments across a prominent corner site at 8-10 Acacia Avenue and 25-27 Oak Avenue.

The approval comes as developers continue to invest in premium lifestyle-driven apartment projects on the Gold Coast, where owner occupiers are increasingly prioritising amenity as much as apartment size and location.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/l-on-residences-25-27-oak-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Lýon Residences</a> has been designed around a resort-style wellness offering, headlined by a Moroccan-inspired spa precinct featuring treatment rooms, a Nordic sauna and steam room, hot and cold plunge pools, a soaking pool and a residents-only juice bar.

The rooftop will include a heated infinity pool and spa, residents' lounge with private kitchen and bar, gymnasium, yoga and Pilates studio, outdoor entertaining areas and barbecue facilities overlooking the Surfers Paradise skyline.

<img alt="Lyon" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2d3e29af-8793-486e-a684-52cef862241f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-15%20at%204.32.26%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=ayG2zpLf3SS6Zy8XmKDcQods4kVWb0gm" />

Homecorp Founder and CEO Ron Bakir said Budds Beach provided the ideal location for the company's latest luxury apartment project.

"Budds Beach represents one of the most unique and sought-after pockets of the Gold Coast, and Lýon Residences has been designed to reflect that sense of rarity and refinement," Bakir said.

The project arrives as wellness continues to become a defining feature of new residential developments both in Australia and internationally.

The latest Global Wellness Institute figures show wellness real estate remains the fastest-growing segment of the global wellness economy and is forecast to exceed $1.8 trillion by 2030. Australia continues to rank among the world's 15 largest wellness real estate markets, with developers increasingly integrating health, recreation and community facilities into apartment projects.

Queensland is also experiencing strong population growth, with the Gold Coast continuing to outperform many other Australian cities as demand for new housing remains elevated ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Bakir said the project had been designed to respond to that shift in buyer expectations.

"Strong population growth and sustained demand across the Gold Coast continue to highlight the need for well-designed new housing supply. Lýon Residences responds directly to this demand while setting a new benchmark for residential living," he said.

Each apartment has been designed to maximise views across the coastline, the Nerang River and the Gold Coast hinterland.

Located just minutes from Surfers Paradise beach and the Broadwater, the development also offers easy access to the light rail network, Broadbeach and Burleigh Heads.

Early site works are underway, with construction expected to commence later this year.

Homecorp approved for Budds Beach apartment tower, Lýon Residences

New apartment developments with uninterrupted, north-facing views over Perth's Swan River are exceptionally rare.

Recognising just how limited those opportunities are, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/edge-visionary-living">Edge Visionary Living</a>, one of Perth's most respected builder-developers, targeted <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/applecross-wa-6153">Applecross</a>, assembling an unrepeatable 6,342 sqm riverfront site on the corner of Moreau Mews and Canning Beach Road to create one of Perth's only new north-facing apartment developments directly overlooking the Swan River.

Today, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/riviere-residences-applecross-59-canning-beach-road-applecross-wa-6153">Rivière Residences</a> offers buyers a unique opportunity to choose between completed residences ready to move into now and off-the-plan homes in the final stage, Rivière West.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=28384 project_image_fid=3823]

Across the completed East and Central buildings, residents are already enjoying the development's luxury amenity, while two of the precinct's hospitality venues are now open.

The completed component of the development gives buyers the advantage of experiencing the finished product firsthand, including its uninterrupted river views, while still having the opportunity to secure a residence in the final stage.

"People are wowed by the view and the quality of the apartments,"&nbsp;Edge Visionary Living Sales Executive, Holly McSweeney, says.

"They're looking for the convenience of lock-and-leave living, but they're not looking to downsize on quality."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=28384 project_image_fid=3826]

The rarity of the development hasn't been lost on prospective buyers, McSweeney says.

For McSweeney, it all comes back to a location that is becoming increasingly difficult to replicate.

"Location, location, location," she says. "We are nestled right on the front of the Swan River. You can never get built out, so wherever you are in Rivière Residences, you've got views of the river forever."

The unique waterfront position has resonated particularly strongly with local downsizers. McSweeney says many buyers are long-time Applecross residents looking to transition from large family homes into a luxury apartment without sacrificing space, quality or the lifestyle they've enjoyed for decades.

<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/N_FowNW0wu8?si=vb25XFq1wZ-iufAW" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

A major focus for Edge in recent years has been resident amenity. Across its apartment portfolio, from beachfront developments in Scarborough to luxury towers in South Perth, the developer has increasingly invested in the spaces beyond the apartment itself.

The strategy has largely been shaped by downsizer demand. Many buyers are moving from large family homes with swimming pools and established gardens. While they're looking to leave the maintenance behind, they don't want to compromise on lifestyle.

At Rivière, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hillam-architects">Hillam Architects</a> designed the resident facilities as an extension of each apartment. A 25-metre heated swimming pool takes advantage of the north-facing river outlook, complemented by a large gym, sauna and steam rooms, private dining spaces, residents' lounges, a cinema, games room, and dedicated wine and whisky rooms.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=28384 project_image_fid=372542]

The waterfront location has also proved to be a major drawcard. Residents are within walking distance of the Raffles Hotel, South of Perth Yacht Club, the Heathcote Cultural Precinct and the cafés, restaurants and boutiques along Ardross Street.

Beyond the location and amenity, McSweeney says many buyers take confidence from Edge's fully integrated development model.

Having delivered apartments across Perth for decades, Edge now designs, develops and constructs its projects in-house, giving the company greater control over quality, delivery and the finished product.

"What I love is when people walk through their apartment for the first time and say, 'This is better than what we imagined,'" McSweeney says. "We hear that all the time."

Completed apartments in the East and Central buildings are now available to inspect by appointment, while Rivière West, the final stage of the precinct, is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=28384]

North-facing Swan River views drive demand at Rivière Residences in Applecross

Nearly 60 per cent of apartments at McNab Group's $220 million The Tannery development in Brisbane's West End have sold ahead of the project's public launch, including a suburb-record $2.57 million sale for a two-bedroom apartment.

The early sales campaign has secured buyers for 50 of the project's 87 apartments, highlighting continued demand for larger owner-occupier apartments that combine generous floorplans with premium lifestyle amenities in one of Brisbane's most tightly held inner-city suburbs.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=143337 project_image_fid=374768]

McNab Group Executive Chairman Michael McNab said selling more than half the project before launch reflected changing buyer expectations.

"Selling more than half the project before public sales open tells us buyers are actively seeking apartments that offer something genuinely different," McNab said.

"Today's buyers are looking beyond four walls. They want homes that genuinely enhance the way they live, with spaces that support health, connection and everyday wellbeing."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=143337 project_image_fid=374767]

A key point of difference for the project is the adaptive reuse of the heritage-listed Dixon's Tannery building, which will become The Retreat, a residents-only wellness precinct rather than being redeveloped into additional apartments.

The Retreat will feature a sauna and steam room, hot and cold plunge pools, a commercial-grade gym, Pilates studio, cinema, library, co-working spaces and private dining room. Rooftop amenities will include a swimming pool, landscaped gardens, outdoor entertaining areas and dog-friendly spaces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=143337 project_image_fid=374760]

Designed by Cottee Parker Architects with interiors by Tom Mark Henry and landscape architecture by Aspect Studios, The Tannery comprises 87 two, three and four-bedroom apartments across 11 levels overlooking the Brisbane River.

Cottee Parker principal Dee Passenger said preserving the original tannery building had been central to the project's design.

"The easy option would have been to maximise the site's development potential with additional apartments. Instead, McNab has chosen to preserve the original tannery as a shared wellness retreat, ensuring this important piece of Brisbane's history remains at the heart of the community."

Passenger said sustainability also played a key role in the design, with materials from the original industrial site salvaged and repurposed throughout the development.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=143337 project_image_fid=374761]

Motiv CEO Carly Cottam said buyers had responded strongly to the combination of larger apartments, wellness facilities and the West End lifestyle.

"We are seeing more buyers looking for homes in the sky that provide the space and functionality of a traditional home, while benefiting from the convenience and lifestyle that apartment living brings," Cottam said.

She said purchasers included both owner occupiers and investors, with demand coming from local buyers as well as interstate purchasers.

Coinciding with the public launch, McNab also announced a partnership with Queensland Ballet, whose neighbouring Thomas Dixon Centre shares historical ties with the original Dixon family.

Located on a 4,465 sqm site at 439 Montague Road, The Tannery overlooks the Brisbane River and is around 10 minutes from the CBD.

Construction is underway, with completion expected in the second half of 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=143337]

More than half of residences sold before public sales as McNab announces significant partnership with Queensland Ballet

McNab's The Tannery nears 60 per cent sold before public release, sets two-bedroom West End record

Iwan Sunito's vision for a landmark mixed-use precinct in Sydney's Inner West has taken a major step forward, with approval granted for the $1.9 billion Five Dock development first unveiled earlier this year.

The approved scheme by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/one-global-capital">One Global Capital</a> will deliver an 80,500 sqm mixed-use precinct comprising 840 apartments, integrated hotel accommodation, commercial and retail space, alongside publicly accessible open space designed to create a new destination for the growing suburb.

"This is a significant milestone for One Global Capital and for the future of housing delivery in Sydney," Sunito said.

"The Housing Delivery Authority was established to identify major housing projects capable of delivering meaningful supply more efficiently, and we are delighted that Spencer Street has been recognised as one of those projects.”

He said the declaration reflected the rapid progress achieved since acquiring control of the site.

"In less than seven months we have progressed from taking control of the site to securing entry into one of the NSW Government's most important planning pathways. It reflects the experience of our team, the strength of our consultant group led by Urbis, and our long-term commitment to delivering transformational projects that contribute to Sydney's future."

When the project was revealed earlier this year, Sunito described the opportunity as one of the strongest development sites he had worked on.

"I probably hadn't appreciated the uniqueness of the site until more recently when putting together the concept plans," Sunito said.

"The proximity to the water, and the golf course opposite, is unlike any other part of Parramatta Road. We have a unique position and view corridors over the water that makes this one of the best sites I've worked on."

The development has evolved since its initial announcement, with the approved plans increasing the residential component from the originally proposed 750 apartments to 840 homes while retaining the project's focus on creating an integrated neighbourhood rather than a standalone residential development.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/a-city-within-a-city-iwan-sunito-flags-1-5-billion-mixed-use-precinct-in-five-dock">"A city within a city": Iwan Sunito flags $1.5 billion mixed-use precinct in Five Dock</a>

The precinct will combine apartments with hotel accommodation, commercial workplaces, retail offerings and public spaces, creating a mixed-use environment intended to serve both residents and the broader Five Dock community. The proposal also continues the collaboration between One Global Capital and internationally recognised architect <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/koichi-takada-architects">Koichi Takada</a>, whose previous work with Sunito includes Infinity, Arc and Skye North Sydney.

Takada previously said the design was driven by a philosophy of integrating nature into the built environment.

"The concept for this development is born from our design approach to naturalising architecture," Takada said.

"The public realm benefits from biophilic design that integrates generous landscaping, and the development is optimised for natural daylight, airflow and water views to foster wellbeing, sustainability and spaces that foster community interaction."

Sunito has consistently described the project as a "city within a city", with a strong emphasis on creating a destination that extends beyond housing.

"We want to create a development that's not only to be seen, but to be experienced by the whole local community," he said.

The approval comes as Five Dock continues its transformation ahead of the opening of the Sydney Metro West line, with the new Five Dock station set to significantly improve connections between the Inner West, Parramatta and the Sydney CBD.&nbsp;

The precinct will also benefit from its proximity to the Parramatta Road corridor, nearby waterfront parklands and established retail and dining offerings that have made Five Dock one of Sydney's most tightly held Inner West suburbs.

Iwan Sunito secures approval for $1.9 billion Five Dock mixed-use precinct

House Rules

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The newly renovated home of Townsville couple Maddi and Lloyd will be revealed tonight on Channel 7’s House Rules.
The former swimwear model and aviation firefighter <a href="/expert-insights/building/swimwear-model-maddis-shoe-room-overhaul-as-house-rules-hits-tropical-pallarenda-townsville">purchased their tilted Queenslander for $372,000 in 2013</a>. Contestants have been fighting the heat and humidity this week to give the couple a home according to their request: “Give us a laid back coastal paradise, add a splash of the Bahamas, furnish our kitchen with a dream island, layer in texture instead of colour, keep it organic.”
For those watching at home who are itching for a raised reno project of their own, Property Observer has found five Queenslanders on the market that could do with a touch up.
<ol>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-oonoonba-116899003" target="_blank">61 Mcalister Street, Oonoonba <img src="/images/2014/06/02/1.jpg" alt=""></a> Not so much ‘raised’ as ‘wobbling’, this two bedroom house in suburban Townsville has selling agent Paul Bow of Virgo Patterson advising that buyers “renovate or develop”. The lowset Queenslander is set on a 1,265 square metre block and features a falling apart oven and what looks to be lino flooring in the kitchen. It’s on the market for $250,000 plus.<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-oonoonba-116899003" target="_blank"> </a><a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-oonoonba-116899003" target="_blank"> </a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-giru-116830959" target="_blank">510 Hodel Road, Giru</a> <img src="/images/2014/06/02/3.jpg" alt=""> Going for $268,000, a four to five bedroom house set on 15.56 acres of hobby farmland could do with a fix up. According to its listing, the owners are undertaking some renovations now, but “if not completed, you can complete this at your own leisure”. The house is a short drive away from Morrissey’s Creek, for any renovators keen to do some fishing. 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-babinda-116950399" target="_blank">36 Angus Street, Babinda <img src="/images/2014/06/02/4.jpg" alt=""></a> “Cheapest House In Queensland? Be Quick For This Crazy Bargain!!” reads the listing for this 1930’s era Queenslander. The home is on the market for $155,000 through Debbie Aldred of Re/Max Real Estate Cairns. About 45 minutes south of Cairns, the roof has been recently fixed up but a few other parts of the house could use a do-over, including the bluestone tiles in the bathroom. 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-babinda-114886927" target="_blank">54 Eastwood Street, Babinda</a> <img src="/images/2014/06/02/6.jpg" alt=""> If this two bedroom raised home doesn’t fetch its $160,000 asking price, it may be contending with its fellow Babinda home on Angus Street for Queensland’s cheapest house. While it features a newly renovated kitchen and newly laid vinyl flooring in the living room and carpet in the bedrooms, the house could no doubt provide lots of opportunities for an enthusiastic renovator. It currently brings in $170 per week in rent. 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-lifestyle-qld-hay+point-7486451" target="_blank">45 Windsor Drive Hay Point </a><img src="/images/2014/06/02/7.jpg" alt="">
This house on stilts is about five hours’ drive south of Maddi and Lloyd’s place, but they have more than a few similarities. Jody Paul of Real Estate &amp; Property Solutions Mackay writes that “you will need a tool kit for this home, and the reward will be worth the work.” 
The property’s “slightly undulating” plot is another thing this home has in common with Maddi and Lloyd’s Townsville house on stilts. Located in Mackay, this home has three bedrooms and one bathroom, and is selling with $280,000 expectations.
</li>
</ol>
</body></html>

jrichardson-uRX5hFdKfN

Raise your renovation game: Stilted Queensland offerings for Maddi and Lloyd fans

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The House Rules contestants Adam and Lisa wanted wallpaper.
But they got more than they bargained for, especially with the controversial choice of bottle top wallpaper in the dining room which seriously clashed the rest of the house.
Today, our property contrarians Jonathan Chancellor and Margie Blok discuss wallpaper - and while they don’t mind the odd layer, they certainly don’t favour wallpapering the whole house. 
HE SAID:<img src="/images/2014/03/28/jc-silhouette-7.jpg" style="float: right;">
I’m okay with wallpaper making a statement, but only if used sparingly or as a feature on one wall.  
Generally, wallpaper works best in rooms needing a lift, perhaps a poky second bedroom or a plain bathroom - such as the delightful Vivienne Westwood wallpaper in a bathroom of the Castlecrag mid-century home (pictured below). The property was sold by interior designer Tina De Salis and her husband Edward for $3.01 million in 2012<a href="https://www.randw.com.au/506596/" target="_blank"> through Mark O'Brien of Richardson &amp; Wrench Castlecrag &amp; Northbridge</a>. 
 <img src="/images/2014/05/30/castlecrag-may-30-one.jpg" alt="">
Wallpaper took off in a big way during the 1920s. In this 'Golden Age of Wallpaper', more than 400 million rolls were sold as an affordable and mass-produced alternative to expensive silk and tapestry wall coverings.  
These days, snazzy wallpapers can be an inexpensive solution for jazzing up an original Art Deco bathroom – my preference is the Florence Broadhurst Cockatoos design in black and white (pictured below).
<img src="/images/2014/05/30/Florence-Broadhurst-Wallpaper-Black-Cockatoo-design-wall-may-30-one.jpg" alt="">
The Sydney designer Greg Natale is a strong advocate for Florence Broadhurst wallpapers which initially shot to prominence during the 1960s and 1970s when used by leading decorators of the day, including the late design doyen, Leslie Walford.  
Featuring rich colours, metallic finishes and vigorous designs, the hand screen-printed wallpaper collection was revived during 1990s by David and Helen Lennie, owners of Signature Prints, who drove the business exponentially while establishing the Florence Broadhurst name internationally. 
<img src="/images/2014/05/30/Florence-Broadhurst-in-Art-Deco-Bathroom-may-30-one.jpg" alt="">
While Natale’s Hollywood-style interiors have been splashed across the pages of interiors magazines including Belle, his distinctive decorating style also featured in Inner West Courier real estate pages during late 2012 when <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-five+dock-111968655" target="_blank">Laing + Simmons Drummoyne agent Frank Colacicco was marketing</a> a Five Dock house that subsequently sold for $1.34 million. Love the art deco tiles (above) in the bathroom, but the wallpaper is a little over the top. Ditto the wallpapered bedroom (below) doesn't appeal to me, cushions, bedhead and side tables included.
<img src="/images/2014/05/30/Florence-Broadhurst-wallpaper-in-Five-Dock-house-may-30-one.jpg" alt="">
For Margie Blok's opinion click through to the next page below.
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
<img src="/images/2014/03/28/mb-silhouette-6.jpg" style="float: left;">SHE SAID:
In my book, the old adage of “less is more” should be heeded when using wallpaper – and in one or two rooms only.
If House Rules contestants, Lisa and Adam, had mentioned “subtle and calm” instead of “wow statement in every room”, then the renovation of their home could have ended up without that nightmare reveal of clashing wallpapers in the open-plan living and dining areas. 
 <img src="/images/2014/05/30/HOUSE%20RULES%20BOTTLETOP%20WALLPAPER.jpg" alt="">
Photo courtesy of Channel 7.
When it comes to choosing wallpaper, DIY renovators should exercise restraint and err on the side of caution, rather than express gaudy evidence of their personal taste in every room. 
Wallpaper should be used as part of a fundamental framework of an overall decorative scheme. It should form the background of a room, not the foreground. For subtle sophistication and a visually rich effect, opt for classic wallpapers with a strié or grasscloth finish.
Given the extraordinary range of wallpapers on the market, it can be confusing to pick the right style and shade for a particular room. While you might lust after a Florence Broadhurst wallpaper spotted in a magazine or admire the wallpaper in a Kit Kemp-designed Firmdale hotel in London, or, it doesn’t mean these will work well in your home. 
<img src="/images/2014/05/30/Kit%20Kemp%20desinged%20room%20at%20The%20Dorset%20Hotel%20London.jpg" alt="">
If you’re uncertain about the type of wallpaper to use, peruse the <a href="https://www.houzz.com" target="_blank">Houzz website</a> - it’s a terrific visual springboard for decorative and architectural ideas. 
Or engage an interior designer to sort it out for you – especially if you don’t have the time and energy to do the choosing, measuring and ordering associated with wallpapering and redecorating.
OTHER HE SAID/SHE SAID COLUMNS YOU MAY BE INTERESTED IN:
<a href="/expert-insights/building/designer-chicken-coops-for-the-fussiest-of-fowls-he-said-she-said">Designer chicken coops for the fussiest of fowls: He Said/She Said</a>
<a href="/expert-insights/investing/a-frame-houses-do-they-work-he-said-she-said">A-Frame houses, do they work? He Said/She Said</a>
<a href="/expert-insights/investing/do-australian-homes-need-the-formal-dining-room-he-said-she-said">Do Australian homes need the formal dining room? He Said/She Said</a>
</body></html>

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

The wallpaper house rules in home decorating: He Said/She Said

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Families with seven children don't typically have Johanna Grigg from House Rules to call on to enlarge their tiny shoebox abodes.
The Tasmanian renovation reveal and judging attracted a 1.68 million five city metropolitan ratings audience according to OZtam last night, beating The Voice on Channel 9.
The location of the Brady Bunch-styled family was in the Huon Valley.
"Tassie is so hard to cast," House Rules <a href="https://www.mediaweekpodcasts.com/maxine-gray-%E2%80%93-house-rules/" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">co-executive producer, Maxine Gray</a> told James Manning's Mediaweek shortly after the after filming the series was wrapped up earlier this year.
"But what Tassie brings is a different landscape," she said, saying the series needed it for diversity and state rivalry outcomes.
"Its refreshing for the viewer," she said.
So Property Observer went looking for other Tasmanian homes that suit big families on low cost budgets.
All in separate bedrooms under the same roof proved very rare.
Plenty of five bedroom homes. Lots of six bedders.
And seven bedrooms were available too.
At Brighton there's a brick home offering seven bedrooms (pictured below). There are two bathrooms, two spa baths and three toilets within the 270 square metre home. <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-tas-brighton-114867611" target="_blank">There's $439,000 plus being sought through Belle Parker at Roberts Glenorchy</a>. There are views of Mount Wellington and Mt Dromedary from the grounds of the 2.75 acres there are fruit trees, veggie patch and the chook pen.
<img src="/images/phocagallery/2014/05/tasmania-may-27/tasmania_0010_3%20melinda%20court%20brighton%20tas%20may%2027.jpg.jpg">
At Davenport a property for the extended family, or for its current use as tourists accommodation, has been listed. Two levels featuring seven bedrooms, four living areas, three bathrooms , three toilets, four showers and a huge kitchen. Changing views of the river, city and sea. The property (pictured below) on 1,353 square metres is listed through John Ackroyd at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-tas-devonport-113491615" style="line-height: 1.3em;">$875,000</a>.
<img src="/images/phocagallery/2014/05/tasmania-may-27/tasmania_0009_27%20hiller%20street%20devonport%20tas%20may%2027.jpg.jpg">
Article continues on next page. Please click below.
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
There is a grand old home at Bushy Park (pictured below)- an 1859's home with 55 squares of comfort and space, sits on 22 acres. "With seven bedrooms there will no longer be any arguments with siblings sharing rooms," <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-tas-bushy+park-115849471" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">listing agent Karen Storey at Sorell says</a>. It has three bathrooms.
<img src="/images/phocagallery/2014/05/tasmania-may-27/tasmania_0008_233%20a%20uxbridge%20rd%20bushy%20park%20tas%20may%2027.jpg.jpg">
There's seven self contained apartments in a <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-tas-longford-115918931" target="_blank">$699,000 Longford offering</a> (pictured below), which doesn't quite fit the bill.
<img src="/images/phocagallery/2014/05/tasmania-may-27/tasmania_0007_longford%20tas%20may%2027.jpg.jpg">
Perhaps the most imposing with seven bedrooms is a heritage listed residence in the hills of Risdon (pictured below). <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-tas-risdon-115666843" target="_blank">It's for sale at $695,000 plus </a>through Sandra McKenzie at Harcourts Bellerive. The sizeable residence is set across three storeys and offers multiple reception rooms, two fully-equipped kitchens, seven bedrooms and four bathrooms.
<img src="/images/phocagallery/2014/05/tasmania-may-27/tasmania_0006_727%20east%20derwent%20highway%20risdon%20tas%20may%2027.jpg.jpg">
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But Property Observer found an eight bedder.
It's <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-tas-west+launceston-113842699" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">Edenholme Grange</a> (pictured below), a grand Victorian mansion steeped in history. Originally built in 1881 by a sea captain, its current owners have restored and brought the property back to life to offer eight bedrooms in the main house as well as three separate fully self contained cottages. It is currently utilised as a bed and breakfast.
<img src="/images/phocagallery/2014/05/tasmania-may-27/tasmania_0005_14%20st%20andrews%20street%20west%20launceston%20tas%20may%2027.jpg.jpg">
And at<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-tas-trevallyn-115158267" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;"> Trevallyn there's a quite a quaint $819,000 nine bedroom house with terrific views</a> (pictured below). Trevallyn House is at 10 North Bank.
<img src="/images/phocagallery/2014/05/tasmania-may-27/tasmania_0004_10%20north%20bank%20trevallyn%20tas%20may%2027.jpg.jpg">
A modern home at Boat Harbour Beach is advertised as seven bedrooms, but he speil says nine is possible for the $829,000 asking price. All within meters to the main beach. <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-tas-boat+harbour+beach-115819011" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">The 233 square metre home is set on 2600 square metre block</a>. The home (pictured below) was built in 2002. 
Designed on three levels the bottom consists of garage with internal access, two bedrooms, gym room, storage room, study, 3rd bathroom and a huge rumpus room. Second storey features large open plan living, three bedrooms and main bathroom. Upstairs to two more bedrooms, master has full en-suite with corner spa, plus a sun or sewing room.
"This huge home of seven bedrooms (nine if needed) would be your ideal property besides the sea and would be ideal for holiday rentals (STCA)," the marketing says.
<img src="/images/phocagallery/2014/05/tasmania-may-27/tasmania_0003_8%20cummings%20street%20boat%20harbour%20beach%20tas%20may%2027.jpg.jpg">
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When it comes to 10 bedders try Launceston! Though both are current commercially utilised at the moment.
Kilmarnock House was built in 1905 as a townhouse for John Ingles, a well-known Launceston merchant. The completed cost, as charged by J &amp; T Gunn, was a moderate 1588 pounds, 15 shillings and threepence.<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-tas-launceston-115639983" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;"> Last offered for sale over 33 years ago</a>, Kilmarnock House (pictured below) is currently operating as studio style apartments offering 10 bedrooms each with their own ensuite and kitchenette, the property also has a separate one bedroom unit. 
<img src="/images/phocagallery/2014/05/tasmania-may-27/tasmania_0002_66%20elphin%20road%20launceston%20tas%20may%2027.jpg.jpg">
The other <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-tas-launceston-109008516" target="_blank">10 bedroom</a> offering is a Launceston bed and breakfast, Hillview House (pictured below) through Edward Bugg. Built around the 1840's, it was extensively enlarged by Rev. W Law in the 1860's. It has now been restored to provide a charming stay for guests on their Tasmanian holiday. Hillview House comprises 10 en-suited bedrooms. The owners accommodation consists of a separate two bedroom unit.
<img src="/images/phocagallery/2014/05/tasmania-may-27/tasmania_0001_193%20george%20street%20launceston%20tas%20may%2027.jpg.jpg">
Property Observer did come across <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-tas-huonville-110263825" target="_blank">a 12 bedroom home in Huonville</a> (pictured below). Paul Noble at Roberts Huonville describes the home as like the “tardis” stepping through the door of the 892 square metre home currently configured as nine bedrooms, but with three studies. There's four bathrooms, three living areas, a games room and a self contained flat all on 1.05 hectare with winter creek set 30 minutes drive to Hobart.
<img src="/images/phocagallery/2014/05/tasmania-may-27/tasmania_0000_huonville%20tas%20may%2027.jpg.jpg">
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Tasmania's biggest bedroomed home listings for House Rules Brady Bunch-style families

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Cowboys community relations executive Maddison (Maddi) Carter and her aviation firefighting fiancé, Lloyd Wright, are having their House Rules renovation aired this week on Channel 7. There will be a 10 out of 10 perfect room reveal.
The Queenslanders Maddi and Lloyd are relatively laid-back, so their House Rules application almost never made it in.
It follows the Tasmanian renovation reveal and judging attracted a 1.68 million five city metropolitan ratings audience according to OZtam last night, beating The Voice on Channel 9.
Property Observer notes the far north Queensland couple had paid $372,000 for their somewhat leaning, <a href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/houses/lloyd_and_maddison/#page1" target="_blank">four bedroom 1950s house</a> (pictured above) which was marketed through Ross Real Estate Aitkenvale as "beachside paradise" given it is three streets back from the beach.
It had been passed in at March 2013 auction when $400,000 was being sought for the property which had been last sold at $348,000 in 2004.
It is the first regional, non-capital city location, filmed in the series.
"I walked in and didn’t even need to see the whole house... we just went ‘Yep’ and made an offer on the spot," says Maddi, a marketing manager and former reporter. Their large, high-set timber home with a wrap-around deck and pool is minutes to the beach and backs onto a reserve frequented by wildlife. The house has been ravaged by the region’s tropical weather over its 25 years with rot and mould a problem, along with leaky taps, uneven floors, an almost unusable kitchen and a "grotty" bathroom with pink floor tiles.
One of the rooms has been <a href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/clips/23668656/worst-rooms-maddi-and-lloyd-qld-/#page1" target="_blank">used just for Maddi's shoes</a>.
<img src="/images/2014/05/27/house-rules-may-27-one.jpg" alt="">
Source: Channel 7. Before joining the aviation firefighters, Lloyd worked in the building industry as a plasterer and labourer for close to a decade, while Maddi has grown up on building sites. "I’ve lived in, like, 30 houses. Dad would renovate them and then we would move on to the next. I enjoy the smell of sawdust. It feels like home." Both in their mid-20s, home for Lloyd was originally Papua New Guinea before his family moved to Cairns when he was six. Maddi hails from Victoria, but grew up in Brisbane.
The <a href="https://www.swimsuitcalendar.com.au/main/index.php?option=com_content&amp;task=view&amp;id=12&amp;Itemid=26" target="_blank">2007 Australian Swimsuit Calendar June model </a>Maddison Carter was also in the May '09 issue of Ralph.
The six new teams from around Australia put their homes on the line as they battle it out to become mortgage free against their competition rivals to transform every room in their house. They must have a strong emotional attachment to their newly purchased homes to be selected for the series, now in its second season. It was a Channel 7 reality television concept.
Host Johanna Griggs sends in designer Carolyn Burns-McCrave and build supervisor Chester Drife to oversee the teams, who have only one week to completely transform each home.
Two expert judges – architect Joe Snell and Home Beautiful editor Wendy Moore – score each teams’ renovation.
James Manning's Mediaweek speculated Maddi's colourful past "could be attracting a lot of media coverage this year".
Manning and media commentator Brenden Wood were<a href="https://www.mediaweekpodcasts.com/maxine-gray-%E2%80%93-house-rules/" target="_blank"> interviewing co-executive producer, Maxine Gray</a> after filming the series over the prior six months. 
"I've been friends for 10 years or more….She tried to get into radio in Brisbane….as a news reader. She may have been a swimwear model for various magazines….she's pleasing on the eye," Brenden Wood chipped in, adding she was briefly at GWS in its foundation days.
Gray said the couple had an engaging personality with a big rambling Queenslander house that they thought had great potential.
"It was a tricky one for us…..is it going to be as good as a home in Brisbane in terms of rating?"
"All in all we thought it was worth going outside the capital city," she said. The series was filmed between October and Easter this year.
Photo courtesy of Channel 7. 
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Swimwear model Maddi's shoe room overhaul as House Rules hits tropical Pallarenda, Townsville

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Western Australian couple Russell and Carole - contestants on House Rules 2014 - purchased their home off Gumtree.
It was advertised under the heading "renovate or detonate".
"Russell was being ridiculous looking at places that were too expensive so I plugged into Gumtree, ‘Houses for Sale’ and put in an amount that we could afford," said Carole.
Despite the extensive work needed, Carole could see potential, falling in love with the valley views, then buying without any building inspection report. 
They now have a $290,000 mortgage, <a href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/clips/23221878/worst-rooms-carole-and-russell-wa-/" target="_blank">with the renovation by rival contestants airing this week on Channel 7</a>.
Their home on stilts was sitting unstable on an overgrown block in the Perth Hills.
"I wasn’t happy because there was so much work to do," the administration manager, Russell recollects.
After he met Carole, who works for the local council, at a party in 2001, they renovated and sold their first Perth house at a profit.
But the pair lost money when prices dropped after the global financial crisis in 2008.
 Reminscent of the 2013 couple Steve and Michelle at Collaroy Plateau in some ways as the Sydney couple had previously hit tough times too after putting money into a property development venture that went bankrupt. Even after Steve and Michelle sold their prior house they still had debt to pay off.
There are currently anywhere <a href="https://www.gumtree.com.au/s-property-for-sale/c18367?sort=price_desc" target="_blank">between 2,000 and 4000 properties</a> for sale on Gumtree from over $1 million to desired swap arrangements.
Many of them are offering the house for relocation with the land being kept by the owner.
{module Would you buy a home off Gumtree without a building inspection report?}
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House Rules: Would you buy a home off Gumtree without a building inspection report?

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The second season of Channel 7’s renovation show House Rules made a strong debut earlier this week, attracting <a href="/expert-insights/building/johanna-griggs-house-rules-triumphant-second-series-debut">1.87 viewers on Wednesday night</a>. 
Six couples will compete to make over each other’s houses, with the winning team’s mortgage completely repaid.
Reality television blog Reality Ravings has revealed each team’s mortgage size.
Victorian couple Adam and Lisa will bring home the biggest net sum if they win the competition, with a mortgage of $520,000 on their 1960s weatherboard home according to the website. The couple bought the three bedder two years ago.
<img src="/images/2014/05/02/adam%20and%20lisa.JPG" width="4200" height="2800">
Brooke and Grant took on the smallest mortgage of any of the contestants. They have $258,000 of debt attached to their home in Tasmania’s Huon Valley. The two bedroom farmhouse Grant purchased six years ago is home for the couple and their seven children. According to the couple, prior to the competition they considered moving Brooke out of the home to make more room for the family.
<img src="/images/2014/05/02/brooke%20and%20grant.JPG" width="5472" height="3649">
Western Australian couple Russell and Carole have the second smallest mortgage. The 28 year old home they purchased off Gumtree has landed them with a $290,000 mortgage.
<img src="/images/2014/05/02/carole%20and%20russell.JPG" width="4824" height="3208">
Candy and Ryan, the first couple to have their home renovated, have the second highest mortgage. The youngest team competing this season, Candy and Ryan have $400,000 of debt attached to the red brick home they purchased mid last year.
<img src="/images/2014/05/02/candy%20and%20ryan.JPG" width="4929" height="3280">
Queenslanders Maddi and Lloyd reportedly have a $369,000 mortgage on their Townsville home. The tilting home house backs onto a nature reserve and is a few streets back from the coast.
<img src="/images/2014/05/02/maddi%20and%20lloyd.JPG" width="5627" height="3751">
 Mel and Bomber have $380,000 of debt attached to their period home. The couple live in the house with their four children. The 110 year old weather board was purchased at a mortgagee sale.
 <img src="/images/2014/05/02/bomber%20and%20mel.JPG" width="3966" height="2818">
 
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Channel 7’s House Rules: The contestants and their mortgages

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The Johanna Griggs hosted House Rules second series debut was triumphant last night with 1.18 million metropolitian viewers.
There were 1.87 million viewers including the regions, with a younger audience tuned in this year, according to the OzTam ratings.
The ratings for the Channel 7 renovation home show was 47% up on its 2013 launch night.
But more significantly it was up 9% on the 2014 debut ratings of The Block earlier this year.
The first rundown home for renovation is from Candy and Ryan in western Sydney with a $437,000 mortgage.
It was a slow start last year for the House Rules series with its host Johanna Griggs telling Property Observer last season that its slow but sure success came from "people power."
"This show has people power to thank as more &amp; more people spread the word, &amp; to 7 for sticking by us!" the host Johanna Griggs tweeted last season to Property Observer.
<a href="https://twitter.com/JohGriggs7" target="_blank"><img src="/images/stories/2013/06/houserulesjune13one.jpg" alt="houserulesjune13one" width="470" height="141"></a>
This year she expressed relief in her tweet to Property Observer.
<img src="/images/2014/05/01/tweet-may-1-one.jpg" alt="">
The show pits teams of two from all over Australia to compete in the series where the winner's have their mortgage completely wiped.
The state-versus-state renovations, in the series from the makers of My Kitchen Rules, get judged by Wendy Moore the editor of Home Beautiful and Joe Snell who is an architect. There are renovation mentors also back from last year, Carolyn Burns-McCrave and build supervisor Chester Drife.
The teams have to work independently on their own zone within each house but they also have to work as a team to ensure each room complements the other when it's completed.
The six homes are aimed to come from a bunch of likeable Australians with interesting back stories.
Candy and Ryan’s house (NSW)
<img src="/images/2014/04/24/candy%20and%20ryan.jpg" width="460" height="258">
Candy and Ryan’s red brick veneer three bedroom home was purchased in July 2013. Formerly owned by the Catholic church, their property in Sydney’s western suburbs includes a detached granny flat, a shed and a sizeable backyard.
Lisa and Adam (Vic)
<img src="/images/2014/04/24/lisa%20and%20adam.jpg" width="460" height="258">
Lisa and Adam own a 1960s three bedroom weatherboard house in Victoria. They purchased the property in April 2012.
Lloyd and Madison’s house (QLD)
<img src="/images/2014/04/24/lloyd%20and%20madison.jpg" width="460" height="258">
The timber Queenslander owned by young couple Lloyd and Madison is set three streets back from the beach and borders on a nature reserve. It has four bedrooms, but also significant structural problems, including a pretty severe tilt.
Carole and Russell’s house (WA)
<img src="/images/2014/04/24/carolle%20and%20russell.jpg" width="460" height="258">
Carole and Russell’s house in the Perth hills was advertised on gumtree with the tagline “renovate or detonate”. The two storey home is 28 years old. Russell noted that when the house was first purchased, he kicked the balcony and the whole thing collapsed onto his car below.
Brooke and Grant’s house (TAS)
<img src="/images/2014/04/24/brooke%20and%20grant.jpg" width="460" height="258">
Brooke and Grant are raising seven children in their two and a half bedroom 19th century farmhouse in the Huon Valley. The home has one bathroom, with another outhouse in the back and an outdoor laundry. The house is set on three acres.
Bomber and Mel (SA)
<img src="/images/2014/04/24/bomber%20and%20mel.jpg" width="460" height="258">
Bomber and Mel live in a 110 year old weatherboard home in Adelaide, set a kilometre off the beach. Holes in the floor let in the weather, as well as the local cats. The home was purchased in a mortgagee sale.
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Johanna Griggs' House Rules triumphant second series debut

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Renovation reality television has returned with Channel 7’s second season of House Rules. 
Each of the six teams will compete to renovate another team’s home, with the team producing the best results winning the full some of their mortgage. 
The home with the biggest mortgage will have the most to gain out of the renovation exercise. 
So far, Channel 7 is keeping the purchase price and mortgage of each home under lock and key. Assuming each team took on the same proportion of debt, which do you think has the biggest mortgage?
Candy and Ryan’s house (NSW)
<img src="/images/2014/04/24/candy%20and%20ryan.jpg" width="460" height="258">
Candy and Ryan’s red brick veneer three bedroom home was purchased in July 2013. Formerly owned by the Catholic church, their property in Sydney’s western suburbs includes a detached granny flat, a shed and a sizeable backyard.
Lisa and Adam (Vic)
<img src="/images/2014/04/24/lisa%20and%20adam.jpg" width="460" height="258">
Lisa and Adam own a 1960s three bedroom weatherboard house in Victoria. They purchased the property in April 2012.
Lloyd and Madison’s house (QLD)
<img src="/images/2014/04/24/lloyd%20and%20madison.jpg" width="460" height="258">
The timber Queenslander owned by young couple Lloyd and Madison is set three streets back from the beach and borders on a nature reserve. It has four bedrooms, but also significant structural problems, including a pretty severe tilt. 
Carole and Russell’s house (WA)
<img src="/images/2014/04/24/carolle%20and%20russell.jpg" width="460" height="258">
Carole and Russell’s house in the Perth hills was advertised on gumtree with the tagline “renovate or detonate”. The two storey home is 28 years old. Russell noted that when the house was first purchased, he kicked the balcony and the whole thing collapsed onto his car below.
Brooke and Grant’s house (TAS)
<img src="/images/2014/04/24/brooke%20and%20grant.jpg" width="460" height="258">
Brooke and Grant are raising seven children in their two and a half bedroom 19th century farmhouse in the Huon Valley. The home has one bathroom, with another outhouse in the back and an outdoor laundry. The house is set on three acres.
Bomber and Mel (SA)
<img src="/images/2014/04/24/bomber%20and%20mel.jpg" width="460" height="258">
Bomber and Mel live in a 110 year old weatherboard home in Adelaide, set a kilometre off the beach. Holes in the floor let in the weather, as well as the local cats. The home was purchased in a mortgagee sale.
Property Observer will follow the full details as they emerge on the series so that we know just how much the prize could be. 
{module Which home do you think has the greatest mortgage based on initial impression and locality?}
 
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