<p>Malaysian developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/s-p-setia">SP Setia</a> is the latest to jump into St Leonards booming Transport Oriented Development precinct.</p>

<p>The developer, which has previously delivered Sapphire by the Gardens apartment development in Melbourne, identified the Atchison Street site in 2023. It filed a Scoping Report around 12 months ago, and now has revealed the designs for the new&nbsp;40-storey mixed-use tower.</p>

<p>The State Significant Development Application covers <a href="https://next-portal.urban.com.au/projects/14650/summary">20-22 Atchison Street</a>, a 1,374 sqm site positioned between St Leonards Station and the new Crows Nest Metro station.</p>

<p>Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, the project would deliver 181 apartments, above a four-storey commercial podium, five basement levels, and new public domain works along Mitchell Street. The apartment mix comprises 35 one-bedroom apartments, 39 one-bedroom-plus-study apartments, 85 two-bedroom apartments, and 22 three-bedroom residences.</p>

<p>The proposal has been lodged as a shop-top housing development under the NSW Government’s TOD planning pathway, which allows increased density around key transport infrastructure. The site sits within the recently rezoned Crows Nest Accelerated TOD Precinct.</p>

<p><img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b799673d-48e2-46b0-801a-0e33a9330100" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20site.png?VersionId=dPh0UfwfaHpbFL1R7H1cbZNbIW0CHbCC" /></p>

<p>SP Setia acquired the Atchison Street site as part of its continued expansion into the Australian apartment market. In comments made to City &amp; Country (The Edge Malaysia) in 2023, SP Setia President and CEO Datuk Choong Kai Wai described the acquisition as “a strategic move” aligned with the group’s post-pandemic market recovery strategy.</p>

<p>“Our target for this exceptional development is local and overseas buyers, including first-home buyers, downsizers and investors,” Choong said.</p>

<p>The tower has been designed as a slender vertical form rising from a mixed-use podium, with COX Architecture positioning the development as a response to the evolving St Leonards and Crows Nest skyline.</p>

<p>“The purpose of the project is to facilitate the delivery of high-quality housing at a strategically located site and deliver a built tower outcome that is consistent with the desired future character of St Leonards and aligns with the TOD controls,” the design report stated.</p>

<p><img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b1a85eee-76f7-436c-a6da-73ba827b9b13" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20entry.png?VersionId=dA9jHGPMcm.dDbwk4QfxqWiY5bfh3UVt" /></p>

<p>The podium would incorporate retail uses fronting Atchison Street, commercial tenancies, landscaped communal areas, and pedestrian improvements along Mitchell Street. Vehicle access and loading would be consolidated via Atchison Lane.</p>

<p>Residents would have access to more than 665 sqm of communal indoor and outdoor spaces, while the development proposes 96 parking spaces across five basement levels.</p>

<p>The proposal also includes a commitment for 10 per cent of residential floor space to be allocated toward affordable housing through a monetary contribution.</p>

<p>COX said the tower form responds directly to the emerging high-density character of the precinct while seeking to maximise solar access, cross ventilation, and outlook from apartments.</p>

<p><img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2163f85c-f63b-4be3-aafa-f8763976cec5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29_5.png?VersionId=WiAmtIKJ6.ZQ41EtYEQ1fol7AeorKBlL" /></p>

<p>“The building is orientated towards north,” the Apartment Design Guide compliance report noted, adding that the tower’s slim form was driven by the constrained inner-urban site dimensions.</p>

<p>The design also incorporates landscaped setbacks and communal open space at podium level, intended to soften the interface with surrounding streets and improve pedestrian amenity.</p>

<p>The project adds to a growing wave of redevelopment proposals reshaping St Leonards and Crows Nest following the opening of the Sydney Metro City line and the NSW Government’s push for higher-density housing around major transport nodes.</p>

<p>Last week Stockland filed plans just down the road. They want to build a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/601-pacific-highway-st-leonards-nsw-2065">52-storey tower on Pacific Highway</a>.</p>

<p><em>Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-stockland-plans-52-storey-538-apartment-st-leonards-tower">First look: Stockland plans 52-storey, 538-apartment St Leonards tower&nbsp;</a></em></p>


Joel Robinson

First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower

<p><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> has revealed plans for a new mixed-use tower at 10 Dangar Street, Wickham, advancing a proposal that would reshape the southern gateway to Newcastle’s city centre with one of the city’s tallest residential buildings.</p>

<p>The State Significant Development proposal, now on exhibition, seeks approval for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bowline-10-dangar-street-wickham-nsw-2293">43-storey tower</a> immediately adjacent to the Newcastle Interchange. The project would deliver around 200 apartments, including 42 affordable housing dwellings, alongside 99 co-living units, a 171-room hotel, retail space, and new public domain integrated through the site.</p>

<p>The scheme marks a significant escalation of plans previously approved for the site. Urban Property Group took over the prominent 2,904 sqm parcel, where excavation and demolition had already commenced under an earlier consent for a 14-storey mixed-use development.</p>

<p><img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="58a96dd9-407f-4d20-86b4-94e4bfeef74b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20podium.png?VersionId=LGlf08pdFGAZDzvx_CXC4XakHNZRuEE0" /></p>

<p>Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, the tower has been conceived as a landmark transit-oriented development anchored to the Newcastle Interchange precinct. The proposal includes 245 build-to-sell apartments across a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom residences, as well as two penthouses. Fifteen apartments and one operational unit are earmarked for NDIS housing. The co-living component would add a further 99 units, while the podium would accommodate retail uses and hotel facilities.</p>

<p>SJB said the site presents “a valuable opportunity to anchor the precinct by setting the standard for design, active ground planes and character at the key southern gateway.”</p>

<p>The architecture responds directly to the site’s position beside major transport infrastructure and within one of Newcastle’s fastest-evolving urban renewal precincts. The tower form sits above a sculpted podium designed to frame new public spaces, including a through-site pedestrian link connecting Station Street to Hannell Street, landscaped plazas, and activated retail edges.</p>

<p><img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a7bd6ff0-f7db-4ce8-a6dc-ea56e72c6149" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20lanne.png?VersionId=xzf39VADyhj7zBQY2I9fx9vI62u2tuSb" /></p>

<p>The design report describes the project as part of the broader transition of Wickham into “a vibrant, high-quality mixed-use urban precinct” that leverages proximity to the station, open space, and regional connectivity.</p>

<p>A detailed public art strategy has also been prepared for the development. The strategy positions the project as “a transit-oriented development of state significance at the gateway to Newcastle’s city centre” and outlines a series of integrated artworks responding to Newcastle’s industrial and transport heritage.</p>

<p>Creative Road’s curatorial framework for the project, titled Unveil, draws on “stratified surfaces, carved volumes, and light-filled apertures” while referencing Newcastle’s transformation from an industrial city into a contemporary education and technology hub.</p>

<p><img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="77a882bb-14b1-4d28-99ff-9438e39508c0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20site.png?VersionId=cevgo_vN0eKPK78P8YcEu3mKPLkpFqE7" /></p>

<p>The proposal is being advanced through the NSW Housing Delivery Authority pathway after being declared State Significant Development in June 2025. The accompanying scoping report states the development aims to “maximise the site’s proximity to the Newcastle Interchange by delivering transit-oriented development” while increasing housing supply and affordable housing provision within the Newcastle LGA.</p>

<p>Urban Property Group’s plans align with the long-term strategic vision established under the Wickham Master Plan, which identified the interchange precinct as suitable for substantial uplift in height and density. The current proposal would significantly intensify that vision, positioning the tower among the tallest developments proposed for Newcastle.</p>

<p>The site sits immediately north of the Newcastle Interchange, bounded by Dangar Street, Hannell Street, and Charles Street. It is surrounded by a rapidly growing cluster of residential towers and mixed-use projects that have emerged following the completion of the light rail and transport interchange.</p>


First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s latest tower at Wickham interchange

<p>Bottega House has completed settlement of a landmark riverfront site in Macquarie Street, St Lucia, representing its first major Brisbane development.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Positioned on the banks of the Brisbane River, the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/180-macquarie-street-st-lucia-qld-4067">premium site at 180 Macquarie Street</a> features uninterrupted river frontage in one of Brisbane’s most tightly held residential precincts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The proposed development, currently under assessment with Brisbane City Council, has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-studio">Plus Studio</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/mim-design">Mim Design</a> and will deliver a boutique collection of premium residences positioned specifically for owner occupiers and downsizers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The residences are set to redefine luxury apartment living in the area, with a focus on architectural quality, refined finishes, landscape integration and elevated amenities including curated wellness facilities, resort-style pools and recreation spaces rarely seen in the local market.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Exclusive sales for the project will be led by Keenan &amp; Byrne, ahead of an anticipated launch later this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Bottega House Managing Director Nick Malloch said the project reflects the group’s ambition to deliver a highly curated residential offering within one of Brisbane’s most tightly held precincts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“This is an incredibly rare riverfront opportunity and one we have approached with a long-term perspective,” Malloch said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Our vision from the outset was to create a boutique collection of residences that feel more like private homes than traditional apartments, with generous proportions, refined finishes and exceptional amenity throughout."</p>

<p>Malloch says there is a&nbsp;lack of premium owner-occupier stock of this quality in the market, particularly for downsizers wanting space, privacy and a true lifestyle offering without compromise.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Demand is expected to be strong given the scarcity of premium riverfront opportunities of this nature within Brisbane’s inner-west."&nbsp;</p>


Bottega House secures landmark riverfront site in St Lucia 

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<p data-end="157" data-start="0">The arrival of the first piling rig officially marks the commencement of construction at SIERA’s new beachside apartment development, Exhale, in Northcliffe.</p>

<p data-end="459" data-start="159"><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/exhale-surfers-paradise-8-enderley-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Exhale</a>, a glass-encased tower featuring 54 large-scale apartments at 8 Enderley Avenue, is SIERA’s third Gold Coast development. It follows the recently completed PIPIS Bilinga beachfront project, which achieved suburb-record prices, and the soon-to-be-completed Chevron Island development, Tapestry.</p>

<p data-end="459" data-start="159">[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359603]</p>

<p data-end="651" data-start="461"><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/siera">SIERA</a> Founder and Managing Director Brent Thompson said the arrival of the piling rig represented a significant milestone for the development, which is scheduled for completion in late 2028.</p>

<p data-end="950" data-start="653">Over the next month, around 260 piles are expected to be installed as work progresses on the basement structure. The building is anticipated to rise above ground level early next year, before unveiling its sculptural glass curtain wall, developed in collaboration with specialist façade engineers.</p>

<p data-end="1081" data-start="952">“The façade was designed to maximise panoramic coastal views while creating a distinctive architectural identity,” Thompson said.</p>

<p data-end="1081" data-start="952">[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=355935]</p>

<p data-end="1307" data-start="1083">Designed by BDA Architecture, Exhale will comprise just 54 two- and three-bedroom residences across 26 levels, a level of low-density living rarely delivered in this beachside pocket between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach.</p>

<p data-end="1522" data-start="1309">The project has been conceived as a resident-only building, with no short-stay accommodation permitted. SIERA says the model is intended to appeal to long-term owner-occupiers rather than transient holiday demand.</p>

<p data-end="1522" data-start="1309">[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=361052]</p>

<p data-end="1714" data-start="1524">Residences have been designed with large-format layouts and expansive glazing, with most apartments featuring more than 30 metres of glass frontage to maximise natural light and ocean views.</p>

<p data-end="1945" data-start="1716">The amenity offering spans two levels and centres on wellness and lifestyle, including a heated magnesium pool, sauna, yoga and Pilates studio, gymnasium, private dining facilities, cinema lounge, and dedicated surfcraft storage.</p>

<p data-end="1945" data-start="1716">[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359607]</p>

<p data-end="2220" data-is-last-node="" data-is-only-node="" data-start="1947">More than half of the apartments have already sold. SIERA has also opened a sales gallery for Exhale at its Chevron Island commercial premises, near its Tapestry tower and the site of its second Chevron Island apartment development, which is slated to launch in early 2027.</p>
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</section>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112661]</p>


SIERA kicks off construction at Northcliffe tower Exhale

<p data-end="320" data-start="79">Local Little Bay residents, along with buyers from premium postcodes across Sydney’s affluent Eastern Suburbs, have dominated purchases in developer-builder Urban Property Group’s first Eastern Suburbs apartment development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/este-little-bay-jennifer-street-little-bay-nsw-2036">ESTE Little Bay</a>.</p>

<p data-end="638" data-start="322">The $250 million coastal project, one of the first new developments in the area in several years, has proven particularly popular with downsizers, especially those from Coogee and Bondi. One Double Bay downsizer paid $4.7 million for a four-bedroom penthouse, setting a new local apartment price record in the process.</p>

<p data-end="864" data-start="640">Buyers have been attracted to the combination of coastal tranquillity, premium design and amenity-rich neighbourhood living. The walkable village setting, along with proximity to three of Sydney’s leading golf courses, New South Wales Golf Club, St Michael’s Golf Club and The Coast Golf Club, has also been a key drawcard.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352689]</p>

<p>Built across two low-rise buildings designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hill-thalis-architecture-urban-projects-pty-ltd">Hill Thalis</a> and set along a lush, landscaped green spine, designed by leading landscape architect <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/arcadia-landscape-architecture">Arcadia</a>, ESTE Little Bay offers a collection of one, two, three and four-bedroom residences with interiors by Richards Stanisich.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> Sales Director, Tom McIvor said the response to ESTE has been "nothing short of extraordinary."</p>

<p>“Buyers have been quick to recognise ESTE as a rare opportunity to invest in a coastal sanctuary that offers both seclusion and connectivity to the heart of Sydney,” McIvor said.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352687]</p>

<p><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/srm-residential">SRM Residential</a> Senior Director, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/srm-residential">Clayton Ross</a> said the local market has responded incredibly well, driven by ESTE’s exceptional location and the rarity it offers.</p>

<p>“We’ve seen strong interest from a variety of buyer groups, all of whom are drawn to the exclusivity and quality of the build and construction by the 4.5-star iCIRT-rated builder / developer, Urban Property Group. There’s truly nothing else like it along Sydney’s coastline.”</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352690]</p>

<p>The project also includes robust buyer protections, including Resilience Insurance’s Latent Defects Insurance, providing 10 years of structural cover, and an independent iCIRT-rating of the developer.</p>

<p>“The iCIRT-rating adds another layer of confidence,” Ross added. “Buyers see it as a safeguard for their investment and their lifestyle.” A highlight of ESTE’s offering is its exclusive wellness amenities, including a heated rooftop infinity pool and outdoor heated spa, a state-of-the-art Technogym fitness centre, and a sauna.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/este-little-bay-jennifer-street-little-bay-nsw-2036">ESTE Little Bay</a> is topped out and is on track to complete towards the end of 2026, with residents moving in before Christmas.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112343]</p>


Eastern Suburbs buyers snap up ESTE Little Bay apartments

New Developments

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<p>A $56 million project, across 7,500 square metres, in Pascoe Vale South is the brainchild of Coburg-based Better Living Group.</p>
<p>The creation, <a href="https://www.thepasco.com.au" target="_blank">The Pasco</a>, is 10 kilometres from Melbourne CBD on Cumberland Road and will offer 142 one- and two-bedroom apartments. They all come with a car space, a storage cage and lift access to the basement carpark. Street level apartments have individual street access.</p>
<p>Of the apartments, 76 are two-bedroom, two-bathrooms from $415,000, ranging from 78 to 144 square metres including the balcony or courtyard.</p>
<p>One-bedroom, one-bathroom apartments, of which there are 66, will range from 58 square metres including a balcony, and are priced from $315,000.</p>
<p>Some of the top level apartments have uninterrupted CBD views.</p>
<p>Pascoe Vale has recently been cited by Australian Property Monitors' as <a href="/news/vic/suburb-spotlight-glenroy-undergoing-gentrification">one of a number of Melbourne suburbs undergoing a gentrification process</a>. Despite this, affordable options still exist - in February <a href="/news/vic/where-can-you-still-find-affordable-housing-in-melbourne">Robert Larocca noted that one in 10 sales in this area sells for less than $400,000</a> - in line with the pricing of these apartments.</p>
<p>RP Data currently <a href="/news">puts the median apartment price for Pascoe Vale at $418,500</a>, with median asking rent at a soft $340 per week and time on the market dramatically decreasing over recent months.</p>
<p>The project, set across four buildings and three levels, has been designed by Point Architects and interior designers Colab Design Studio.</p>
<p>Two of the buildings have 36 apartments, while the other two have 35.</p>
<p>Director at Better Living Group, Dino Mazzei, said that they have been looking at the concept of community mindedness when creating The Pasco.</p>
<p>“With this in mind, we envisage The Pasco as a private community that celebrates and builds on the warmth of the suburb’s long-time residents and aims to be a positive addition to the growing neighborhood,” said Mazzei.</p>
<p>Timber floors, open plan living, and carpeted bedrooms are the basics of the design. Buyers have the option of a classic light or a dark colour palette.</p>
<p>With 2.7 metre ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows and balconies opening out onto both personal and communal outdoor areas, they have endeavoured to create the indoor/outdoor feel. They have included private landscaped areas covering almost 2,000 square metres.</p>
<p>At the centre of the development is a communal entertainment area with a gazebo and BBQ area.</p>
<p>The apartments also have passive solar heating, ventilation and a standard 6-star energy rating.</p>
<p>Construction is scheduled for early 2015, with completion for the end of the year.</p>
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Locally developed Melburnian apartments launching in Pascoe Vale

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<p>Brisbane CBD's new tallest tower, 81-level Meriton Serviced Apartments Brisbane, includes the highest apartment in Brisbane.</p>
<p>The development, at 43 Herschel Street, includes a penthouse collection where the apartments are offered with three-bedrooms, each with own bathroom, and bases the design on a previously successful launch in Sydney.</p>
<p>Meriton Serviced Apartments' national manager Matthew Thomas, said that <a href="https://www.meritonapartments.com.au/brisbane/herschel-street" target="_blank">these top-floor penthouses</a> include imported marble, custom-made carpeting and prestige leather sofas and dining chairs.</p>
<p>They include views of the city skyline and the Brisbane River to the mountains.</p>
<p>The complex also includes a heated indoor swimming pool and spa, private gym and a sauna.</p>
<p>There is a daily housekeeping service to all the apartments, and also a bi-weekly full housekeeping service.</p>
<p>It appears if you were to book for tonight, a 122 square metre penthouse will set you back around $895 per night, with a sleeping capacity of six people. Booking further in advance may net you the penthouse for under $600 a night.</p>
<p>Each room comes with either one king zip bed, or two single beds. One of the bathrooms has a shower and a bath, where the others have showers.</p>
<p>A TV with some Foxtel channels and a Blu-ray player is included, as well as iPod/iPhone docks in each bedroom, individually controlled heating/air-conditioning, an espresso machine with coffee pods and an internal laundry.</p>
<p>“The penthouses are the perfect special occasion, once-in-a-lifetime experience,” said Matthew Thomas.</p>
<p>Local restaurants provide meal delivery straight to the apartment.</p>
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A sneak peek inside Brisbane's highest apartment

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<p>Local buyers and foreign buyers appear to be head-to-head in Melbourne’s development market, according to a JLL study, however they believe that locals are at a distinct advantage.</p>
<p>The study looked at buyer profiles of major development sites across Melbourne’s CBD, City Fringe, Docklands and St Kilda Road over the past 12 months. It found that 49% of the 39 properties sold from February 2013 to April 2014 were domestic buyer purchases.</p>
<p>When looking at the dollar value of $1 billion in transactions over the past 12 months, 51% came from domestic buyers, said JLL director, sales and investments, James Kaufman.</p>
<p>“Of the 39 major site sales JLL recorded, CBUS' purchase of 447 Collins Street for $91 million was the only land sale where the developer intended to undertake a commercial development,” he said.</p>
<p>“Generally foreign developers have a strong preference for sites that are offered for sale with the benefit of planning permits. Sites with permits make the assessment process significantly less complicated and remove uncertainty.”</p>
<p>He said that domestic developers have a “much deeper understanding” of the town planning process, providing them the advantage when bidding without a planning permit.</p>
<p>“This is evidenced with the sale of 181 Fitzroy Street, St Kilda (pictured above) and 85 Spring Street, Melbourne. During both campaigns, the marketing attracted interest from foreign buyers, however the planning risk put the local developers in the best position to secure the sites,” he said.</p>
<p>This was purchased by Grocon, with planning approval lodged for a 38-level, $300 million 370-apartment development at 85 Spring Street.</p>
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​Melbourne development sites give locals the advantage

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<p>New 20-level AQUA development is to be the new gateway to Bondi Junction, located on the corner of Oxford Street and Hollywood Avenue, just 500 metres from Bondi Junction train station.<br><br>The 129 apartments in <a href="https://www.aquabondijunction.com.au" target="_blank">AQUA</a> on offer are aiming themselves towards owner occupiers and investors, with Leighton Properties, in a joint venture with Qualitas, bringing the properties to market. The apartments are one-,two- and three-bedrooms, the majority with car spots, and all with access to the 146 bicycle spaces.</p>
<p><em>Property Observer</em> previously noted that <a href="/news/nsw/two-20-storey-apartment-towers-aqua-to-be-launched-in-bondi-junction">the apartments were soon to be launched</a>.</p>
<p>Architect Kannfinch, with DC8 Studio, are behind the design - looking to maximise the apartments' aspect to ensure all are north-westerly or north-easterly. The majority face north-west. There are two towers with a central corridor connecting them.</p>
<p>The development will include two rooftop gardens and lobbies on each level. It also has a podium with a retail and outdoor space mix.</p>
<p><img src="/images/2014/05/08/aqua-may-8-one.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>Kannfinch senior associate, Mark Sheargold, said that the north-west facade of the north tower has city views, while the south tower has ocean views, both taken advantage of from floor-to-ceiling glass windows and balconies.</p>
<p>“In perspective, no entire elevation can be viewed at once which is intriguing to viewers and strengthens the gesture that you are looking at a sculpture form in-the-round,” he said.<br>The interiors have been designed by renowned Koichi Takada Architects.</p>
<p>Koichi Takada said that he incorporates a Japanese sensibility into the architecture.</p>
<p>“Our inspiration comes from the location of AQUA, which is an interchange between a connected, convenient and bustling shopping and transportation hub and some of Sydney’s best beaches – an escape to nature, water and waves,” he said.</p>
<p>“We’ve created two distinct schemes; one called ‘Breeze’ and the other ‘Drift’, and used new materials to experiment with playful shapes. The finishes are a balance of polished modern materials coupled with the warmth of textured, natural timber.”</p>
<p>Peter Chittenden, managing director at Colliers International, said that the development is on the most prominent site at Bondi Junction, and is one of the last high-rise opportunities for the foreseeable future.</p>
<p>“Residents need never use their car to get to work, do the shopping or meet friends for a drink, reducing the stress of urban life and easing pressure on the environment,” Chittenden said.</p>
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Bondi Junction's AQUA launched to be area's new gateway

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<p>Developers are putting little effort into building more sustainable residential properties due to a lack of consumer demand, industry leaders have said.</p>
<p>People buying houses in new residential developments typically planned to live in the property for only up to five years, which limited the payback period for environmentally friendly features, CSR managing director Rob Sindel said.</p>
<p>“They say ‘I’ll worry about the environmental stuff when I can afford it’,” he said at a Green Building Council of Australia breakfast meeting last week.</p>
<p>Consumers were more interested in features such as granite bench tops, high-end appliances and automatic garage doors than in energy or water saving measures. Marketing companies that sold newly developed residences promoted lifestyle benefits rather than sustainability, Sindel said.</p>
<p>Developers of multi-unit residences also faced challenges to building more sustainable dwellings, Leighton Properties managing director Mark Gray said.</p>
<p>Like buyers of freestanding homes, people who bought into multi-unit developments were attracted to the precinct’s amenities and community.</p>
<p>Gray said there were opportunities for precinct-based initiatives, where measures were installed to improve the sustainability of the entire multi-residential development, but these could be hampered by service authorities.</p>
<p>“Service authorities are sources of great frustration for developers as they [the service authorities] don’t like change whatsoever. They don’t like individual precincts, they want control over everything,” he said.</p>
<p>Gray said to overcome the barriers to increased adoption of sustainable principles in residential construction, there was a need for further awareness and education in the community to boost demand.</p>
<p>“Unless we get people a lot younger and educate people at a much earlier age, we won’t get the outcomes that we all desire,” Gray said.</p>
<p>Dexus Property Group executive general manager, property services and chief operating officer Tanya Cox said the frequency of changes to public policy surrounding green building initiatives was a challenge to all sustainable development.</p>
<p>“Property is a long-term investment and long term investment businesses need policy stability,” she said.</p>
<p>She added that the politics of the climate change debate had made it more difficult for green building to gain traction.</p>
<p>“The conversation has changed from reducing excesses and pollution – we know that pollution is bad for the environment. Whether climate change is man-made has made the conversation much more difficult for us,” Cox said.</p>
<p>In addition to their roles as business leaders, Sindel, Gray and Cox are board members of the Green Building Council of Australia. </p>
</body></html>

zfielding-GvX3Uq9KTa

Lack of consumer demand for sustainable residential property

<html><body>
<p>Rayjon Group has been given full council approval for a $200 million apartment project in the Gold Coast suburb of Benowa yesterday, readying themselves to start building.</p>
<p>The 357 apartment, six-building development site is called Vantage Royal Pines, or more familiarly as Vantage, and sits on a 2.4 hectare site, near Ross Street and Ashmore Road junction.</p>
<p>Along with Coles, Rayjon has been contributing 3,500 square metres of land to assist the state government with upgrading this section of the roads. Coles received a DA for a supermarket on the parcel of land adjoining this site. Coles has been a presence previously in Rayjon developments.</p>
<p>According to <em>The Gold Coast Bulletin</em>, the development saw 600 objections, which saw some discussion around traffic and the extra burden.</p>
<p>The apartments will include two- and three-bedroom properties, an extensive central green space and a recreation hub for residents – including pool, gym, media rooms and barbecue facilities.</p>
<p>Vantage Royal Pines will include a range of two and three-bedroom apartments as well as an extensive central green space and recreation hub for residents including pool, gym, community/media rooms and barbecue facilities.</p>
<p>Golf course and hinterland views will be available from some of the apartments.</p>
<p>However, this site is just part of the land parcel that the development company owns, having bought in 2006, explains managing director of Rayjon Group, John Hembrow.</p>
<p> “We are delighted with the approval and as a company we are in a position to push ahead with Vantage immediately,” Hembrow said.</p>
<p>“We intend to undertake site works and commence marketing this year to create what we believe will be a wonderful asset for the area.”</p>
<p>The development will be staged and constructed in relation to market demand, he explained.</p>
<p>The Royal Pines precinct is also seeing RACV transforming the Royal Pines Resort Hotel and Spa, and the Royal Pines Golf Course is undergoing an extensive upgrade, as well as Metricon Stadium.</p>
<p>Much of this is being driven by the 2018 Commonwealth Games.</p>
<p>Currently, <a href="/news">Benowa</a>'s median unit price is $490,000 with a median advertised weekly rent at $470. Days on market have been steadily falling.</p>
</body></html>

Gold Coast Council approves $200 million apartment development

<html><body>
<p>Celebrity chef Matt Moran has spent close to $1 million to buy an off the plan Brisbane apartment in Sunland’s Abian tower.</p>
<p>Matt Moran secured a two-bedroom, two-bathroom low rise apartment in the 40-level tower which overlooks the city’s botanic gardens.</p>
<p>Moran controls two restaurants in the city, hence his decision to buy into the <span>curvilinear, pewter glass tower</span>.</p>
<p>Moran told The Weekend Australian the fourth floor apartment could be an investment property in the future, but he is visiting Brisbane most weeks.</p>
<p>It’s close to the restaurants, Aria Brisbane and Riverbar and Kitchen on Brisbane’s Eagle Street Pier.</p>
<p>It was late 2009 when the 2067 square metre French Quarter development site was bought from Devine for $24.88 million, with an anticipated 2013-2014 construction completion date. It was in 2006 when the l<span style="line-height: 1.3em;">isted property group Devine Limited completed its aggregated site in the Brisbane CBD for $22.7 million.</span></p>
<div class="page" title="Page 1">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>The amalgamation of the 2,067 square metre site on the corner of Alice and Albert Streets involved securing the 23 units in the Carrington apartment complex and contracting to buy an adjoining vacant site at 140 Alice Street. </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<p>Some 110 apartments of the 147 in delayed landmark Abian tower quickly only sold earlier this year at a $1.6 million average with its penthouses and a two-level 1200 square metre sky villa still available for purchase at $16 million.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.sunlandgroup.com.au/property/abian-botanic-gardens/" target="_blank">Construction of Abian</a>, which is adjacent to Quay West on Alice Street, is due to start mid-year, with a reported 2017 completion.</p>
<p>The Sunland apartments will feature hand-applied gold leaf on the ceilings of its public spaces, 24-hour concierge, plunge pools, treatment rooms as well as Turkish baths.</p>
<p>RP Data recently reported the values of Brisbane’s premium unit market had increased 4.5% over the 12 months to the end of February, the strongest growth of any unit market segment in Brisbane</p>
<p>“There’s huge pent-up demand, particularly for luxury apartments," RP Data's Cameron Kusher suggested.</p>
<p>"Brisbane is much like Sydney and Melbourne 10 years ago, where we started to see a lot of  higher-end apartments; that trend is catching on in Brisbane.”</p>
<p>Over the last decade, the Brisbane residential apartment market had been catering for the investor market, according to Sunland managing director Sahba Abedian whose tower was pitched as the owner occupier.</p>
<p>At least 110 apartment blocks are planned for Brisbane, according to research house Urbis.</p>
<p>RP Data's Cameron Kusher noted this week t<span>he rising prominence of unit approvals in Brisbane is a relatively new phenomenon with unit approvals over-taking those of houses in Brisbane from June 2013.</span></p>
<p><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">The Gold Coast-based Sahba Abedian is moving to Brisbane where he will also oversee </span><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">plans for three or four buildings on the former ABC site at Toowong.</span></p>
<p>Investors have emerged with a great presence in recent f<span style="line-height: 1.3em;">igures compiled by AFG for Queensland over April. </span></p>
<p><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">The mortgage broker recorded that loans to investors accounted for almost two out five (38%) of home loan arranged over the month, up from 32% in February.</span></p>
<div class="page" title="Page 2">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>AFG </span><span>MORTGAGES </span><span>SOLD</span><span style="line-height: 1.3em;"> QLD</span></p>
</div>
</div>
<table style="width: 460px;">
<colgroup>
<col>
<col>
<col>
<col>
<col>
<col>
</colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>MONTH </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>TOTAL NUMBER </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>TOTAL AMOUNT </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>AVERAGE SIZE </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>FIRST TIME BUYERS </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>PROPERTY INVESTORS </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>Feb 13 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image144800" alt="page2image144800" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><img src="file:///page2image145280" alt="page2image145280" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>1,697 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image146520" alt="page2image146520" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>605m </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image147920" alt="page2image147920" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><img src="file:///page2image148240" alt="page2image148240" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>$356k </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image149320" alt="page2image149320" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><img src="file:///page2image149640" alt="page2image149640" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>6.4% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image150720" alt="page2image150720" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><img src="file:///page2image151304" alt="page2image151304" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>34.2% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>Mar 13 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image153912" alt="page2image153912" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>1,615 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>564m </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image156200" alt="page2image156200" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>$349k </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image157264" alt="page2image157264" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>5.1% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image158328" alt="page2image158328" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>34.5% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>Apr 13 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image161032" alt="page2image161032" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>1,721 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
<img src="file:///page2image162280" alt="page2image162280" width="0.480000" height="0.480000">
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>587m </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image164152" alt="page2image164152" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>$341k </span></p>
</div>
</div>
<img src="file:///page2image165080" alt="page2image165080" width="0.480000" height="0.480000">
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image165552" alt="page2image165552" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>3.5% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
<img src="file:///page2image166480" alt="page2image166480" width="0.480000" height="0.480000">
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image166952" alt="page2image166952" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>36.2% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
<img src="file:///page2image167880" alt="page2image167880" width="0.480000" height="0.480000">
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>May 13 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>1,803 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>629m </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>$348k </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>5.9% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>32.3% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>June 13 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image174192" alt="page2image174192" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>1,545 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>531m </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image176480" alt="page2image176480" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>$344k </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image177544" alt="page2image177544" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>5.7% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image178608" alt="page2image178608" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>35.0% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>July 13 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image180632" alt="page2image180632" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>1,799 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>614m </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>$341k </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>5.8% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>33.9% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>Aug 13 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image187712" alt="page2image187712" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>1,755 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>618m </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image190000" alt="page2image190000" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>$352k </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image191064" alt="page2image191064" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>6.0% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image192128" alt="page2image192128" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>35.8% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>Sept 13 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image194472" alt="page2image194472" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>1,756 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>627m </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image196760" alt="page2image196760" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>$357k </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image197824" alt="page2image197824" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>6.5% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image198888" alt="page2image198888" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>35.9% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>Oct 13 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image201592" alt="page2image201592" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>1,972 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
<img src="file:///page2image202520" alt="page2image202520" width="0.480000" height="0.480000">
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>701m </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image204712" alt="page2image204712" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>$355k </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image206112" alt="page2image206112" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>6.1% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image207512" alt="page2image207512" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>36.9% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>Nov 13 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>1,906 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>686m </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>$360k </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>6.2% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>33.6% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>Dec 13 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image214752" alt="page2image214752" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>1,555 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>556m </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image217040" alt="page2image217040" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>$358k </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image218104" alt="page2image218104" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>6.2% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image219168" alt="page2image219168" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>34.9% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>Jan 14 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image221192" alt="page2image221192" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>1,349 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>473m </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>$350k </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>6.5% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>33.5% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>Feb 14 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image227952" alt="page2image227952" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>1,710 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>611m </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>$357k </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>6.9% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>32.3% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>Mar 14 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
<img src="file:///page2image234576" alt="page2image234576" width="0.480000" height="0.480000">
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image235072" alt="page2image235072" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>1,891 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>704m </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>$372k </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>5.1% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>37.1% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>Apr 14 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
<img src="file:///page2image243184" alt="page2image243184" width="0.480000" height="0.480000">
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>1,733 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>631m </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>$364k </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>4.7% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>38.2%</span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
<p>But NSW remained the most investor-dominated market with almost one in two home loans arranged by AFG brokers over April for investment purposes.<span style="line-height: 1.3em;"> </span></p>
<p>Investors accounted for a third or more of home loans arranged in Victoria, South Australian and WA over April.</p>
<p><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">"Investor activity does seem to be gathering pace in Queensland,” said AFG general manager Mark Hewitt noted. </span></p>
</body></html>

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Chef Matt Moran buys in owner occupier Abian, Brisbane apartment block

<html><body>
<p>Over the next 40 years, Australians aged over 65 will make up over 25% of the population, according to the Treasury’s 2010 Intergenerational Report.</p>
<p>With baby boomers set to drive demand for retirement housing, specialist property developer Halcyon has launched two new Queensland developments aimed at the over 50s market.</p>
<p>Halcyon engaged Brisbane based design firm DC8Studio to help tailor Halcyon Glades at Caboolture and Vision by Halcyon at Hope Island to the needs of the retirees.</p>
<p><img src="/images/2014/05/06/Riccardo%20Rizzali%20DC8Studio.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>According to DC8Studio director Riccardo Rizzalli (pictured above), Halcyon’s target market are retirees who are looking to maintain an active lifestyle.</p>
<p> “The people who come to live in Halcyon communities are forward thinking in their approach to retirement living,” he said.</p>
<p>“That is to say, they are very active people, who are looking forward to a happy and healthy life post working.</p>
<p>“There is a term that is used often, that these baby boomers aren't retiring they are ‘retreading’.</p>
<p>“This is really a beginning of a new journey for home owners and this was strongly reflected in our design brief.”</p>
<p>A report released in April by housing company Lifestyle Communities showed that although half of those surveyed were reliant on the sale of their family home to sustain their current lifestyle, there was a lack of suitable stock to facilitate post-retirement downsizing.</p>
<p>Halcyon joint managing director Bevan Geissmann said that maintaining a high quality of life post retirement was an important focus for the company.</p>
<p>“The downsizing process involves freeing up capital for retirees to spend on recreational pursuits or general living expenses,” said Geissmann.</p>
<p>“But today’s baby boomers have high expectations of their retirement lifestyle, so location and design of the home are both vitally important.</p>
<p>“As a developer of over 50s communities our focus weighs heavily on these aspects.</p>
<p>“It’s why we invest a lot of time into researching market trends, finding the right sites, developing masterplans and creating homes that respond to the needs of modern seniors.”</p>
<p>Glades at Caboolture (pictured below) is the company’s most affordable development to date. The 178 home community will include a variety of recreational facilities, including a swimming pool and gymnasium, a cinema, library, bowling green, tennis court and recreation centre. Prices range from $335,000 to $467,500.</p>
<p><img src="/images/2014/05/06/Halcyon%20Galdes%20street%20scape.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>At the opposite end of the price spectrum, Vision by Halcyon (pictured below) is being marketed as a luxury development, with 88 homes, a 52 berth marina and a lifestyle and aquatic precinct. Homes at Vision are priced from $559,000 with the most expensive property available at $1.25 million.</p>
<p><img src="/images/2014/05/06/halcyon-may-6-breakout.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p><em>More on Halcyon:<br></em></p>
<p><em><a href="/expert-insights/building/gold-coasts-60-million-vision-by-halcyon-targeting-over-50-downsizers">Gold Coast's $60 million Vision by Halcyon targeting over-50 downsizers</a></em></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
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jrichardson-uRX5hFdKfN

Halcyon launches two new developments for over 50s market

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<p>Charter Hall’s latest Brisbane development is 100 Skyring, a $175 million A-Grade 12-storey office building in Newstead. It’s three months ahead of schedule, with announcements that the first tenants will be moving in from November.</p>
<p>Located in the Gasworks precinct, the building is set to be the national headquarters for the Bank of Queensland, the anchor tenant who is leasing 54% of the building.</p>
<p>The 2,200 square metre campus-style building with floor plates is in the fastest growing office precinct in Brisbane.</p>
<p>It is 1.7 kilometres from the CBD, and contains 23,759 square metres of office and retail space. The area already has companies such as Leighton Contractors, Bechtel, Virgin Airlines, Macquarie Bank, AECOM, Australian Agricultural Company and Energex in residence.</p>
<p>Charter Hall regional asset manager Belinda Kalinin said that it’s now three months ahead of construction schedule due to careful planning.</p>
<p>“This month, Hutchinson Builders has installed the final level of facade, allowing interior work to ramp up,” explained Kalinin.</p>
<p>Interested tenants include companies looking for flexible floor plate office spaces near to Brisbane CBD.   </p>
<p>“100 Skyring<em>,</em> jointly owned by Charter Hall’s Core Plus Office Fund and a global institutional partner, is the latest major Brisbane office property investment by Charter Hall, which already owns Brisbane Square, 175 Eagle Street and 275 George Street,” she said.</p>
<p>BOQ is moving the headquarters to the development to transform the way staff work, creating a more flexible and collaborative environment, according to chief executive Stuart Grimshaw.</p>
<p>“We are also looking forward to being part of the growing Newstead community – it is exciting to see the calibre of companies and retailers choosing to base themselves there and there is a real sense of momentum building about the precinct."</p>
</body></html>

Brisbane’s 100 Skyring, new BOQ headquarters, to see first tenants

<html><body>
<p>Property developer Fridcorp was last night the host of a glitzy party at the launch of their newly completed 16 storey tower, Avenue.</p>
<p>Avenue, situated on the corner of Chapel Street and Alexandra Avenue, South Yarra, is a $120 million section of the <a href="/news/south-yarras-forrest-hill-precinct-the-vision-behind-the-rejuvenating-transformation">Forest Hill rejuvenation</a> plan.</p>
<p>The result is an impressive rippled rose colour glass design by architect Elenberg Fraser, peering over a key stretch of the Yarra River.</p>
<p>“Avenue is about great things coming together. It's where three of the most recognised design teams in attainable luxury collaborate; Fridcorp, the developer, Elenberg Fraser, the architect and Hecker Guthrie, the interior designer,” said Fridcorp director Paul Fridman.</p>
<p>“We are extremely proud of Avenue, with its uninterrupted City and Yarra views across 16 levels with every apartment meticulously designed for modern day living,” said Fridman.</p>
<p>The completion party was a suitably stylish affair, with white-feathered models greeting attendees.</p>
<p>But the centre of attention for this party was <em>My Kitchen </em>Rules judge, celebrity chef Manu Fiedel, who was at hand in the kitchen catering for the event.  Lydia Schiavello of <em>The Real Housewives of Melbourne</em> was also in attendance.</p>
<p>The development of Avenue was often controversial. Initial plans for a 25 storey tower atop the former Lamborghini dealership site were bitterly contested by parents at the nearby Melbourne High School, and billionaire Lindsey Fox.</p>
<p>In 2011, <a href="https://newsstore.fairfax.com.au/apps/viewDocument.ac;jsessionid=7FD264BAB550BD8A90CA3103EC19909F?sy=afr&amp;pb=all_ffx&amp;dt=selectRange&amp;dr=1month&amp;so=relevance&amp;sf=text&amp;sf=headline&amp;rc=10&amp;rm=200&amp;sp=brs&amp;cls=279&amp;clsPage=1&amp;docID=SAG110828204T13BUR9B">Fairfax reported</a> that Fridcorp had doubled the density of the project, rebranding it as Avenue.</p>
<p>Although the party celebrated the completion of Avenue, Fridcorp is still active in South Yarra with construction continuing at the nearby mixed-use development, <a href="https://www.fridcorp.com.au/projects/lilli-apartments" target="_blank">lilli</a>, home to Fiedel’s new restaurant <a href="https://www.legrandcirque.com.au/" target="_blank">Le Grande Cirque</a>.</p>
</body></html>

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