Longstanding Gold Coast and Canberra developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/morris-property-group">Morris Property Group</a> is continuing to roll on with its Glitter Strip apartment pipeline, seeking to return to Mermaid Beach with a new 68-apartment development.

Morris, founded by Barry Morris in 1978 and one of the Gold Coast’s most prolific apartment developers over the past two decades, has filed plans for a 12-storey mixed-use building at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/36-seabeach-avenue-mermaid-beach-qld-4218">34-36 Seabeach Avenue</a>, on the prized eastern side of the Gold Coast Highway.

The 1,227 sqm site occupies a prominent corner position at Seabeach Avenue and the Gold Coast Highway, opposite the Mermaid Plaza retail and office precinct and around 140 metres walking distance from the future Mermaid Beach South light rail station.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fraser-partners-0">Fraser &amp; Partners</a> has designed the project, which will comprise 68 apartments across a mix of 48 two-bedroom and 20 three-bedroom residences.

The building will rise 12 storeys, reaching a maximum height of 36 metres, with the apartments accounting for a total of 156 bedrooms. The development application also seeks approval for short-term accommodation across the 68 apartments, while two office tenancies are proposed at ground level.

The plans show 108 car spaces across the development, with parking accommodated at ground level and within a three-level basement accessed from Seabeach Avenue.

<img alt="Seabeach Avenue and the Gold Coast Highway" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c2175c99-12fd-4a3c-9be1-89bbf258a90d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-20%20at%202.59.41%E2%80%AFPM_0.png?VersionId=iNLzWcE6gaAE76rafhEXfHve.4g4Se0p" />

Resident amenity will be concentrated on level two, where Fraser &amp; Partners has designed a recreation deck with a swimming pool, 90 sqm pool terrace, outdoor barbecue area and gym.

The broader communal offering will also incorporate landscaped spaces, with the planning documents noting the amenity has been designed to provide areas for recreation, social interaction and outdoor living.

The proposal would continue the transformation of the Gold Coast Highway corridor through Mermaid Beach ahead of the arrival of the light rail.

The site is zoned Neighbourhood Centre and sits within the Mermaid Beach/Broadbeach Light Rail Corridor neighbourhood plan. While the prescribed building height is 24 metres, the site is identified within an Urban Neighbourhood context providing for a 50 per cent height uplift to 36 metres.

Planning documents describe the stretch of the Gold Coast Highway between Broadbeach and Nobby Beach as increasingly characterised by medium and high-rise development, with the proposed Morris tower joining projects including Ventura, The Alfred, Oceans and Otto.

<img alt="Seabeach Avenue and the Gold Coast Highway" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="911f193f-e381-4a55-be08-58be87fcf978" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-20%20at%202.59.48%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=oxVvLJaY.SOXEdXrIcogfyEXDfvCmmpM" />

The development would mark Morris Property Group's latest investment in Mermaid Beach, where it has already delivered two apartment projects.

Otto, at 1 Bondi Avenue on the western side of the Gold Coast Highway, comprises 70 apartments across nine storeys. The project was completed in 2019 and includes a residents' gym, recreation deck and swimming pool.

Morris also developed Oceans at 46 Ocean Street, a nine-storey, 70-apartment build-to-rent development completed in 2019. Oceans was the group's first build-to-rent project and incorporates commercial space at ground level.

The two existing Morris projects sit further north along the same Gold Coast Highway corridor as the proposed Seabeach Avenue development. Fraser &amp; Partners' planning analysis specifically identifies both Otto and Oceans among the established built-form precedents surrounding the site.

<img alt="Seabeach Avenue and the Gold Coast Highway" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="14925119-7b71-4812-8149-340317512c7c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-20%20at%203.00.15%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=aEJqYuw_nTCjcin17BSD0piB1EFotTlj" />

Mermaid Beach represents only part of Morris' considerable Gold Coast footprint.

The family-owned developer has been particularly active in neighbouring Broadbeach, delivering projects including Sierra Grand, Eclipse, Synergy, Qube, Koko, Opus and Malo, while its current pipeline includes Maison and the two-tower Crest development.

Further south, Morris has also developed a string of projects in Burleigh Heads, including Element, Boardwalk and Sandbar, while Essentia expanded its footprint north into Surfers Paradise.

The Seabeach Avenue application has been lodged by PMM Broadbeach Pty Ltd and seeks a development permit for a Material Change of Use for multiple dwellings, short-term accommodation and office uses. Zone Planning Group prepared the planning application, with Fraser &amp; Partners commissioned as architect.

The project comes as the developer continues to expand its Gold Coast pipeline while retaining a significant presence in Canberra. Morris now has more than $2.5 billion of development in its national pipeline and has delivered more than 7,000 homes during its near five-decade history

Joel Robinson

First look: Morris Property Group returns to Mermaid Beach with new Seabeach Avenue apartment development

<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/fortis&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1787272340808000&amp;usg=AOvVaw3hvFB2uWTRfEyEcpTSnnK9" href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/fortis" target="_blank">Fortis</a>&nbsp;is continuing its stronghold on Sydn​ey’s eastern suburbs apartment market, launching&nbsp;in September&nbsp;its latest boutique&nbsp;<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/double-bay-nsw-2028&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1787272340808000&amp;usg=AOvVaw0GI5S9-wNeiLUnM-d1uYkw" href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/double-bay-nsw-2028" target="_blank">Double Bay</a>&nbsp;development,&nbsp;<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/55-william-double-bay-55-william-street-double-bay-nsw-2028&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1787272340808000&amp;usg=AOvVaw2YNouJQcFjiTTgVHbgDLA-" href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/55-william-double-bay-55-william-street-double-bay-nsw-2028" target="_blank">55 William</a>.

55 William presents&nbsp;just eight north-facing&nbsp;two-bedroom, three-bedroom and full-floor&nbsp;residences to the market, priced from $4.5 million.

The upcoming launch comes just weeks after Fortis secured approval for the $80 million development, its third eastern suburbs approval in two months. Construction is already underway, with completion targeted for 2028.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152579 project_image_fid=376250]

55 William adds to a growing concentration of Fortis projects in and around Double Bay, a market the developer has become increasingly active in over recent years.

Fortis previously completed the nine-residence Marmont on New South Head Road, while it is currently developing a mixed-use residential and retail project at 12 Cross Street. Its wider Double Bay footprint also extends into commercial and retail development.

The developer's broader Sydney residential pipeline is particularly concentrated across the eastern suburbs, with projects spanning Doub​le Bay, Ro​se Bay, Wo​ollahra, Dar​ling Point, Poi​nt Piper and Eli​zabeth Bay.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152579 project_image_fid=376253]

At 55 William, Fortis has again turned to MHN Design Union, the architecture practice behind several of its eastern suburbs projects, while London-based 1508 London has been appointed to handle the interiors and Wyer &amp; Co the landscaping.

The six-level building will comprise a combination of two and three-bedroom apartments, including a garden residence, full-floor apartments, a sub-penthouse and penthouse. Each residence will have secure basement parking and private outdoor space.

A rooftop terrace for all residents, along with select apartments, enjoys views across Double Bay Harbour and toward the Sydney skyline.

Ceiling heights will reach up to three metres&nbsp;in select residences, while the kitchens will feature natural stone and integrated Gaggenau appliances.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The boutique nature of the project reflects the type of stock Fortis has increasingly targeted across Sydney's eastern suburbs, where larger apartments and smaller buildings are being pitched primarily toward local owner-occupiers and downsizers.

Fortis Group General Manager Ed Eve said the developer continues to see demand from buyers wanting to remain in the eastern suburbs but move into newer, lower-maintenance housing.

“We're seeing continued demand from local owner-occupiers and downsizers looking for high-quality homes that allow them to remain in the eastern suburbs, close to the lifestyle and community they know,” Eve said.

55 William is also one of the early projects to respond directly to the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing reforms. Fortis had previously secured approval for just two townhouses on the 599 sqm site before revising the scheme to eight apartments following the planning changes.

Situated one street back from Double Bay's water's edge, the project enjoys an enviable harbourside setting within walking distance of Double Bay Village and the ferry wharf.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152579 project_image_fid=376252]

Fortis has increasingly made the eastern suburbs a major focus of its Sydney pipeline. Beyond Double Bay, it recently completed the 14-residence Piper in Point Piper and has projects underway or planned across Rose Bay, Woollahra and Darling Point.

The developer recently secured approval for Verano in Rose Bay, a six-level development comprising 21 two, three and four-bedroom apartments, also designed by MHNDU.

55 William&nbsp;is soon to be release to the market with VIP appointments commencing early September,&nbsp;with residences priced from $4.5 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152579]

Fortis continues eastern suburbs push with 55 William launch

UAE-based developer Arada has unveiled plans for a $2 billion twin-tower apartment development in Broadbeach, marking its first move into Queensland as it continues its rapid expansion across Australia.

Arada will develop 952 apartments across two towers on a prominent site opposite the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, with the project targeted for completion ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The project represents Arada's largest commitment to the Australian market since arriving in the country in 2024 and significantly expands a local pipeline that has now grown to eight projects and more than 5,000 homes.

It will also be the first major Queensland project delivered by Roberts Co since the tier-one contractor was acquired by Arada Group in 2025.

Plus Studio has designed the Broadbeach development, which will comprise one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two towers connected by a landscaped podium.

A significant resident amenity offering will include lagoon and lap pools, a gym, sauna and steam room, alongside a mist room, infrared room and salt scrub facilities. Communal terraces, private dining areas, a library, residents' lounge and work-from-home spaces are also planned. Around 1,200 sqm of retail and hospitality space will occupy the ground floor.

The site puts Arada in one of the Gold Coast's most active apartment markets, directly opposite the convention centre and within walking distance of Pacific Fair, The Star Gold Coast and Broadbeach's dining and retail precinct.

It also has immediate access to the Gold Coast light rail network and sits just a few blocks from the beach.

Arada Group Chief Executive Ahmed Alkhoshaibi said Broadbeach represented an opportunity for the developer to expand beyond its initial NSW pipeline.

“Broadbeach is a world-class address that gives us the canvas to create a community of exceptional design and lifestyle quality that genuinely enriches the daily lives of the people who call it home,” Alkhoshaibi said.

“This is our first development outside New South Wales, and it reflects our growing ambition to grow in key urban markets around the country.”

Alkhoshaibi said bringing Roberts Co into the project would give Arada greater control over the development and construction process.

“Delivering this project through Roberts Co, our own tier-one construction business, means we can bring the quality, pace and accountability that our buyers expect.”

The move into Broadbeach comes as Arada accelerates its Australian expansion following its entry into the market two years ago. The developer has assembled a pipeline of eight projects comprising more than 5,000 homes, while the acquisition of Roberts Co last year gave the group its own Australian construction capability.

Globally, Arada has a development portfolio valued at $50 billion comprising more than 55,000 homes across the UAE, United Kingdom and Australia.

The Gold Coast is emerging as the next major market for the developer, with strong population growth and infrastructure spending ahead of the 2032 Games continuing to underpin significant apartment development across the coastal strip.

Arada plots $2 billion Broadbeach towers in major Queensland move

Sydney’s downsizer market is changing, with a growing cohort of buyers prioritising the right home over simply finding a smaller one.

Coronation Property Head of Sales Cam Porter says the traditional idea of downsizing does not necessarily reflect what many buyers are now looking for, particularly those moving from established family homes across Sydney.

Instead, he says they are increasingly becoming “right-sizers”, seeking lower-maintenance homes without sacrificing the space, amenity or quality they have become accustomed to.

“We are increasingly seeing buyers who are not motivated by the idea of simply moving into a smaller property,” Porter says.

“They are right-sizers. They want a home that is easier to manage and better connected, but they still expect generosity, quality and a floorplan that supports the way they live.”

It is a subtle but important distinction in a market where apartment developers are increasingly targeting established owner-occupiers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135149 project_image_fid=377495]

For many of these buyers, moving from a house to an apartment is not driven by a desire to dramatically reduce their living space. Instead, the appeal is in removing some of the maintenance associated with a larger home while retaining generous living areas, storage and enough flexibility to accommodate family and friends.

Coronation’s sales team is seeing buyers place particular importance on natural light, practical storage and additional rooms that can be used as guest bedrooms, home offices or secondary living spaces.

Kitchens and dining areas are also playing an increasingly important role, particularly for buyers who regularly entertain or have children and grandchildren visit.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135149 project_image_fid=377494]

“These buyers still want their home to feel generous,” Porter says.

“They may want less maintenance, but they are not looking for less life.”

The challenge for the broader housing market is providing enough of the right stock to encourage that move.

While much of the discussion around Sydney’s housing shortage has centred on the number of homes being delivered, Porter says the diversity of those homes is equally important.

Older homeowners can remain in large family houses for longer when they cannot find an appropriate alternative in the neighbourhoods where they have built their lives.

“The decision is rarely as simple as wanting fewer bedrooms,” Porter says.

“People are weighing up their connection to a neighbourhood, the space they need for family, the quality of the home and whether it will continue to work for them over the long term.”

It also has implications beyond the downsizer market. Providing suitable apartments for smaller households can free up established houses for families who need the additional bedrooms and land, creating greater movement through the housing market.

<h2>Lillian targets the next stage of apartment buyer</h2>

It is a buyer Coronation is targeting at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/lillian-erskineville-9-metters-street-erskineville-nsw-2043">Lillian</a>, its new collection of apartments, terraces and penthouses at Erskineville Village.

Designed by Silvester Fuller, Lillian has been shaped around larger living spaces, natural light and flexible floorplans, alongside landscaped areas, wellness amenity and communal spaces for residents.

The development will form part of Coronation’s broader Erskineville Village precinct, which will combine new homes with green space, retail, hospitality and new pedestrian connections.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135149 project_image_fid=377688]

McPherson Park will sit at the centre of the precinct, creating a significant new green space alongside the project’s retail and hospitality offering.

For Porter, the opportunity is to give buyers another housing option without forcing them to leave the part of Sydney they already know.

“People should be able to change the type of home they live in without having to change their entire life,” he says.

“For many buyers, Lillian offers the opportunity to remain connected to the Inner West and the city, while gaining access to a more convenient, walkable and considered way of living.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135149 project_image_fid=377687]

Coronation will explore the changing <a href="https://lillianresidences.com.au/news/lillian-x-space-x-downsizers-event-27-august/">right-sizer market at an event on August 27</a>, bringing together experts across property, design and lifestyle.

Held in partnership with SPACE, Poliform and Downsizer.com.au, the event will include a property market outlook from economist Michael Blythe alongside discussion around the considerations facing buyers planning their next move.

Attendees will also be able to learn more about the residences and amenity planned at Lillian Erskineville.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135149]

From downsizing to right-sizing: What Sydney buyers want from their next home

Family-owned builder and developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/omaya">Omaya</a> is bringing its 27-storey The Maybelle development to market, with the 229-apartment tower rising alongside Ismay Reserve near North Strathfield.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-maybelle-21-parramatta-road-homebush-nsw-2140">The Maybelle</a> will comprise one, two and three-bedroom apartments, with its height providing elevated outlooks towards the Sydney skyline and Harbour Bridge, while other residences will look across neighbouring Ismay Reserve.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/squillace-architects">Squillace Architects</a>, the tower combines its parkside setting with proximity to the established retail, dining and transport amenity around North Strathfield.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134873 project_image_fid=376196]

Residences will feature open-plan living spaces and a choice of two interior schemes, while communal amenity is spread across two elevated levels of the building.

Level 8 will be home to the Garden Pavilion, a full-floor resident space incorporating communal entertaining and breakout areas, seating and recreation spaces. Further up the tower, a landscaped Sky Terrace on Level 14 will provide another communal area with panoramic views towards the Harbour Bridge and Sydney skyline.

At ground level, the development sits directly alongside Ismay Reserve, where lawns, walking paths, children's play areas, picnic spaces and recreational facilities extend the green space available immediately around the project.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134873 project_image_fid=376194]

The Maybelle is also within walking distance of North Strathfield and the Bakehouse Quarter, which provides a mix of cafés, restaurants, shops and everyday services.

Existing rail and bus services provide connections across Sydney, while the future North Strathfield Metro and access to the M4 will add to the transport options available around the precinct. Walking and cycling routes also extend via Powells Creek towards Sydney Olympic Park and its sporting, entertainment and parkland precincts.

Families are also well positioned for access to a broad selection of established schools and education options across Strathfield and the surrounding Inner West.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134873 project_image_fid=376181]

Omaya has operated in Sydney for more than 35 years, managing projects from acquisition and design through to construction and delivery. The family-owned company is both developer and builder of The Maybelle.

Apartments start from $560,000, with the development protected by 10-year Latent Defects Insurance.

Construction is well underway, with completion expected by the end of 2026 and move-in anticipated from Q1 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134873]

The Maybelle brings 27-storey parkside tower to market near North Strathfield

New Developments

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Pure Kirra, a $70 million residential tower for the Gold Coast from Pikos Group, has reached its halfway point with a July completion date expected. It’s also just one of two highrise apartment projects currently underway on the southern Gold Coast.
Launching their furnished display suite for <a href="https://www.facebook.com/PureKirra" target="_blank">Pure Kirra</a> over the Easter weekend, they were looking to capitalise on the number of holidaymakers to the city for their 33 beachfront apartments in Coolangatta.
CBRE Gold Coast project marketing agent, Chris Litfin, said that the July completion date is on track.
“The opening of the furnished display suite was well-timed to take advantage of the long weekend, which is traditionally an active period for the local market,” Litfin said.
“The project offers increasingly rare premium-grade apartment product in a blue-chip beachfront position and the market has responded well to this,” he said.
The tower is 12 storeys with two-bedroom apartments with a multi-purpose room, being advertised as convertible into a third bedroom, each with north-east aspects and ocean views. There are just three of these apartments per floor.
The apartments remaining are from 131 to 304 square metres from $829,000. A 134 square metre apartment on level seven is being advertised at $945,000. Some include balconies and decks.
Previous marketing suggested that the cheapest apartment was snapped up for $769,000.
Apartments all include underground carparking, but there is also a ground-floor retail precinct, as well as a swimming pool, barbecue and entertainment space solely for residents.
The display suite is located at 30 Musgrave Street, Coolangatta.
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July completion date for Pure Kirra tower on southern Gold Coast

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A development application for 150-162 Flinders Street and 17-25 Russell Street in Melbourne has been slammed by Melbourne Heritage Action (MHA) who say that while they’re not against development on the site, they believe that the Forum Hotel tower is inappropriate due to height and heritage concerns.
According to the permit application form, the site owner is looking to develop a multistorey building to the rear of the forum, including a residential hotel, dwellings, retail, office and business identification signs, as well as the refurbishment of the Forum Theatre and building and works to make alterations to adjacent roads. The permit was applied for late last year.
The 2,038 square metre 150-162 Flinders Street property was purchased for $6,000,000 in June 2011, according to RP Data.
Arguing on the basis of five points, the MHA said that the application should not be approved in a letter made to the Minister for Planning.
Their points of contention:
<ol>
<li>The development ignores a height limit designed to maintain the heritage character of the area and keep other iconic landmarks in the skyline. </li>
<li>It will be detrimental to Hosier Lane – an important cultural and tourist location. </li>
<li>It has not been proven to be essential for the funding of restoration works (which MHA does welcome for the development). </li>
<li>It may be detrimental to the Forum itself and Cavendish House. </li>
<li>It does not conform to some aspects of the planning scheme.</li>
</ol>
“We are worried that the issue of restoration is being used to sugar-coat what is essentially an inappropriate development intended solely at maximising economic return in a sensitive area,” writes MHA president Tristan Davies in his objection.
He further notes that any development on the site should conform to the 40 metre height limit and “not something three times the limit, dominating over some of our most important heritage landmarks in flagrant violation of the Melbourne Planning scheme.”
Urban Melbourne notes that the tower would sit up to 107 metres high under the proposal.
According to the Department of Planning and Community Development website, the applicant for the development is Bill Kusznirczuk, renowned urban planning expert and managing director of Clement Stone Town Planners who is no stranger to arguments for and against proposals.
Picture courtesy of wikipedia/creative commons. 
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Objections to Forum Theatre hotel tower as Melburnians seek to save skyline

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Omega, a Glebe development at 39 Greek Street, is marketing it apartments with the advertised benefit of low strata fees.
Boasting strata levies half those of highrise apartment buildings, due to the lack of pools, gyms and concierges, instead offering a rooftop garden, they have been advertising the 10 under $650,000 to first home buyers.
The building is four-storeys and is designed by Environa Studio, and developed by LIVstyle Group.
In total, Omega has 16 one-bedroom apartments of 50 to 52 square metres internally, plus from 10 to 44 square metres externally. Without parking, they cost $545,000 upwards. For those with parking the price is from $640,000.
There are also a couple of two-bedroom terraces, from 88 to 91 square meters internally and with 31 square metres externally, from $905,000, both with parking. The two three-bedroom apartments span 102 square metres internally, plus nine square metres externally, from $965,000 with parking.
It is the second to its mirror-image, Alpha, which sold before marketing material was produced.
Peter Shield, project director at Ray White Real Estate Erskineville, said that they’re well priced.
“Because this is a boutique-size building without expensive communal facilities, levies will be low so on-going costs will be extremely moderate,” said Shield.
“Somehow people heard about the [Alpha] development well before we were ready to launch. They didn’t need to see glossy images or read purple prose, and were not put off by the fact we only had basic floorplans, a price list and some architectural sketches,” he said.
Property Observer imagines it wasn’t an accident that buyers heard about the development, particularly as they note that a friend of the developer was provided a preview and bought an apartment, however concedes to Shield’s point that “Opportunities in Glebe are rare”.
Omega is set for late-2015 completion, with forecasted weekly rents of $600 to $650 for one-bedroom units, and $800 to $850 for two-bedroom units.
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Boutique Glebe apartment complex with low strata fees coming to market

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Brookfield Multiplex has recently reached a contractual agreement with Singapore-based Ho Bee Land to create a $120 million, 41-storey highrise residential offering to be constructed over the next two years.
This is the first residential highrise to be constructed in the past two years, and will be on the former Red Rooster site – on the corner of Surfers Paradise Boulevard and Main Beach Parade.
Project marketing agent for the development, Deborah Provost, said that this is a new era for the area.
“This project signals a new era of high-rise development on the Gold Coast so we are delighted to have one of Australasia’s leading construction companies take the reins,” said Provost.
While it’s currently unnamed, it will include 223 units, a rooftop garden, gym and retail space, with 500 jobs to be generated during construction.
Regional managing director for Queensland at Brookfield Multiplex, Rod McDonald, said that it’s an effort to meet the demand being seen on the Gold Coast.
“Queensland’s residential market is gaining pace and it’s fantastic to be back on the Gold Coast and delivering this project which will see cranes returned to the Surfers Paradise skyline for the first time in two years,” McDonald said.
“Ho Bee Land’s unique building will revitalise the Gold Coast’s residential property market by providing new, high quality apartments that meet the highest standards of sustainability and design.”
The project architect will be DBI Design.
Early works commenced in late-2013, and it appears construction will be completed in late-2015.
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New era of highrise development signaled for Gold Coast

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More than 100 of the 120 apartments offered in the second stage release at Sydney’s tallest residential development sold this weekend following the Saturday morning launch.
As of Sunday, 101 studio, one, two and three bedroom apartments had sold, with the Financial Review reporting that nearly 90 had sold by 10am on Saturday. Prices for studios began at $595,000, with a three bedroom apartment selling for $4.38 million.
Developed by Chinese state-owned developer Greenland Holding Group Co, the $680 million development will be 66 storeys and 235 metres tall upon completion, making it <a href="/expert-insights/buying/opportunity-to-buy-the-highest-penthouse-in-sydney">Sydney’s tallest residential tower</a>.
<a href="/expert-insights/buying/greenland-centre-launches-second-sales-stage">Greenland Centre’s entire first stage release has sold out</a>. Greenland Holding Group has reportedly reserved 40 to 50 units to market in Singapore and Hong Kong later this month.
Penthouses in the complex, which will offer buyers the highest view in Sydney, have not yet been released. 
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jrichardson-uRX5hFdKfN

Greenland Centre sells almost entire second release in two days

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Looking to revitalise North Sydney, an area normally known for its businesses rather than its residential opportunities, Skye by Crown’s construction has officially commenced at 211-223 Pacific Highway.
Crown Group, who are developing Skye by Crown, are looking to make the development one of the most iconic apartment buildings in North Sydney, with design by renowned architect Koichi Takada.
The 20-storey building, with 242 apartments, will also include a top-floor gym, an infinity edge rooftop pool and views over the area.
To date, more than $200 million of apartments have been sold, including two penthouses – sold for $3.38 million and $3.465 million.
Earlier this month, CEO of Crown Group, Iwan Sunito, and North Sydney Mayor, Jilly Gibson, attended the turning of the first sod, marking the beginning of construction. This was after the first stage of demolishing a pre-existing office building, symbolic of the change they want to see.
<img src="/images/2014/04/16/2014_04_11_Skye_Ground_Breaking.jpg" alt="">
“Skye by Crown has been an exceptional project from the start – from the first stages of development and design selection through to one of the most successful sales launches in Crown Group’s history,” said Sunito.
They are now selling the last 13 apartments in the building, that will be completed within two years.
Gibson said that there is an effort to renew the area.
“Developments such as this cement North Sydney’s status as a growing commercial and residential district,” said Gibson.
“Skye by Crown will be home to hundreds of new North Sydney residents and will provide new eateries and retail outlets when completed in 2016,” she said.
The $236 million development launched in June. The final apartments selling include a one-bedroom apartment with study for $990,000. Two-bedrooms from $1.09 million are also available, as well as a final penthouse – a three-bedroom offering at $2.755 million.
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Skye by Crown construction commences

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The private investment firm MGC Wealth Pty Ltd has purchased a vacant land block in Wolli Creek from a private vendor that has the potential for a residential development.
The $3.16 million sale, at 15-17 Gertrude Street, is an 840 square metre block of vacant land that could house a boutique block of 20 apartments.
<a href="/news">Wolli Creek</a>, located in South Sydney, is in the City of Rockdale.
Knight Frank senior executive, industrial - South Sydney, Adam Bodon, said that the block, near Wolli Creek train station, Woolworths and opposite Cahill Park, is a rare opportunity.
“This property represented an extremely rare opportunity to create a boutique development in this rapidly evolving precinct. The end product will have a clear point of difference against most other developments in Wolli Creek due to this site’s incredible amenity, location and aspect," he said.
It was negotiated by Knight Frank's Adam Bodon.
The site is also close to Sydney International Airport. Currently, Getrude Street sits on the list of those affected to some degree by noise.
Council plans from 2010 suggested that around six storeys may be able to be built on the site, to ensure that there won't be too many buildings in the development's shadow.
Wolli Creek has been suggested as <a href="/expert-insights/investing/sydney-s-wolli-creek-and-melbourne-s-parkville-among-strong-performers-as-australand-forecasts-improved-residential-performance-in-second-half-of-2013">a strong area for off the plan sales</a> for some time. Buyer demand has previously brought forward other releases, such as <a href="/news/buyer-demand-brings-forward-southbanks-second-stage-in-wolli-creek">Southbank development, which expects to be completed in 2016</a>.
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Potential residential development for Wolli Creek after $3.16 million sale

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The majority of one bedroom apartment and penthouse stock at the 37 storey Opus Tower has been sold or is under reservation, presumably going to offshore buyers prior to the tower's Australian launch on May 29. Only 31 two bedroom apartments and 40 premium residences remain, with prices starting at $665,000.
The property, which was heavily marketed in Hong Kong and mainland China, comprises 246 residences, including one and two bedroom apartments and penthouses. Marketing efforts include a cross promotional deal with Qantas, where registrants were entered into a draw to win 1 million Qantas Points, and the opportunity to earn 1 point per $1 spent on property purchases in the tower. Opus Tower is not the first off-the-plan property to be promoted through Qantas points by LK Properties, who <a href="/news/melbourne-off-the-plan-units-sell-with-bonus-qantas-frequent-flyer-points">launched the Qantas deal mid last year</a>.
Construction has been approved after four years of delays. 
Plans for the residential tower first emerged in 2010 after Tapil Pty Ltd obtained a planning permit for redevelopment at 57-61 City Road, Southbank for 246 apartments, two retail premises, three offices and parking for associated cars (see below).
<img src="/images/2014/04/11/planning%20details.png" width="460" height="264">
Planning details from the City of Melbourne, 2010
However, after submitting plans for the building, Tapil ran into a series of roadblocks over minimum boundary setbacks on the building's east and west borders. Amended plans were submitted to the City of Melbourne, who were ordered to approve the amended plans by the Victorian Civil and Administrative Council in April 2011.
Tapil then listed the 912 square metre site with planning permits through Lemon Baxter in May 2011.
<img src="/images/2014/04/11/jr-arpil-11-tear-out.jpg" alt="">
57-61 City Road's listing through Lemon Baxter. Source: The Age
It was then listed again in <a href="https://www.colliers.com.au/News/News-details.aspx?NewsId=%7b030DCF51-D335-40A5-BDC7-ED719E20B588%7d" target="_blank">September 2011</a> through Colliers International. Reportedly, the site sold for $11.9 million last year with final plans greenlit in late February 2014.
Opus Tower will be located at 57-61 City Road, Southbank, near the Eureka Tower, fronting onto Fawkner Street and City Road. Designed by Artisan Architects, the tower will have a white, black and gold façade with textured concrete and metal components. There will be a ground floor retail precinct, and internal features will include curved, gold chained walls in the building’s lobby.
Larry Kestelman’s LK Property Group is currently accepting registrations from Australian for pre-release access to the project’s two bedroom residences. The apartments, marketed by Amity Real Estate, will offer floor to ceiling windows, timber flooring and Essastone benchtops in the kitchens. In May developers will launch the remaining stock to local buyers, including a premium selection of 40 residences in the tower. 
<img src="/images/2014/04/11/600_floorplanT06.png" alt="">
Floor plan for penthouse option A at Opus Tower, Melbourne.
<img src="/images/2014/04/11/2.jpg" alt="">
Floor plan for two bedroom apartment Opus Tower, Melbourne.
 
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Majority of stock sold prior to local launch of Southbank's Opus Tower development

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Shanghai-based Greenland Group are behind <a href="https://www.greenlandcentre.com.au" target="_blank">Greenland Centre</a>, the tallest residential tower in Sydney and their first foray into the heart of the CBD, and they are set to launch their second stage tomorrow with expected significant Chinese interest.
It seems Chinese buyers are, unsurprisingly, being actively marketed to - with the entire site, at a click of a button, translatable to Chinese, and a similar tower, Wuhan Greenland Centre, under construction in Wuhan, China, from the same developer. Marketing efforts are expected to be rolled out in Shanghai, Singapore and Hong Kong. In fact, Wuhan's building has also been reported overseas as likely to be the third tallest building in China, and the fourth tallest in the world at around 600 metres, making them no stranger to heading skyward.
<img src="/images/2014/04/11/greenland-april-11-one.jpg" alt="">
Above: Screenshot of the Greenland Centre Sydney website, translated into Chinese
The $680 million development’s Stage 2 will see 200 apartments and penthouses released to the market, adding to the <a href="/expert-insights/buying/greenland-centre-launches-second-sales-stage">300 released and sold in Stage 1 in a sellout</a>.
Greenland Centre, at 115 Bathurst Street, looks to include new technology to re-use the existing structure and rejuvenate the building, with a design from BVN Donovan Hill and Woods Bagot.
It includes views to the ocean, mountains, across the Harbour and Hyde Park.
There will also be commercial and retail spaces at the site, as well as a boutique hotel with a swimming pool, roof terrace and concierge. The tower residents will also be able to use the roof terrace.
The public launch of Stage 2 is today, 12 April, with the entire development set for completion in late-2017.
Half of the apartments will have parking spaces.
In Stage 2 it’s yet to be confirmed how many of each type of property will be available, but the range will include one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments, studios and penthouses.
Studios range from $595,000 upwards, with an unconfirmed internal size. One-bedroom apartments, from 38 to 66 square metres, also range from $595,000 upwards. Two-bedroom apartments, from 70 to 91 square metres, the prices are set to be from $1.1 million, and three-bedroom apartments, at 105 to 144 square metres, will be from $2.175 million.
An opportunity to buy the highest penthouse in the area, with the entire building estimated to be 235 metres tall, may just be on the tickets tomorrow in what will prove to be a coveted position. However, you'll need to pay dearly for the property. Penthouse prices, despite the Saturday launch date, are still to be confirmed, estimated at up to $10 million each. In the Stage 1 release, Bloomberg reported that the most expensive sale was a three-bedroom unit on the 55th floor for $3.7 million, that sold to a Chinese buyer living in Australia. Whether they have citizenship was not mentioned. Sub-penthouses are also available.
Next to the site, 339 Pitt Street, the former Sydney Water head office site, is also slated to be turned into a hotel, according to<a href="https://development.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/Datasource/DANotifications/1128322_049.pdf" target="_blank"> the Preliminary Construction Management Plan</a>. It is on the state heritage council register of NSW, and the plans suggest "adaptive reuse" of the building and remedial work to the facade. Building works are suggested to maintain hours from 7am to 7pm Monday to Friday and 7am to 5pm on Saturdays.
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Opportunity to buy the highest penthouse in Sydney

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Quest Abbotsford serviced apartments is set to open this month, one of eight new Quest properties to launch this year.
Part of Salta Properties’ $1.5 billion Victoria Gardens Precinct, Quest Abbotsford is a joint venture between Quest Serviced Apartments and the privately owned Salta Properties.
Situated next to the Terminus Hotel at 611 Victoria Street, Quest Abbotsford will comprise 93 new studio, one, two and three bedroom serviced apartments. Prices begin at $169 per night for a studio apartment.
According to Quest chairman Paul Constantinou, the upcoming opening of Quest Abbotsford marks the beginning of a growth period for the company.
<blockquote>
The upcoming opening of Quest Abbotsford apparently marks the beginning of a growth period for the company
</blockquote>
“Demand for extended stay accommodation is exceeding supply in Australia, which is why we are opening seven new properties across a range of CBD, suburban and regional locations in 2014. Quest Abbotsford will kick off this period of major growth for Quest as we continue to respond to the needs of business travellers,” said Constantinou.
The franchise has been accepting bookings and is set to open on April 28. Quest Abbotsford is one of eight new Quest properties set to open this year, along with projects at King William South in Adelaide’s CBD, Berrimah in the Northern Territory, Woolloongabba in Queensland, Wellington and Whangarei in New Zealand, Newcastle West in New South Wales and Melbourne Airport.
Despite the suggestion that it marks the beginning of a period of growth, it appears this may have already started.
Quest looked to <a href="/expert-insights/investing/quest-lists-sydney-olympic-park-serviced-apartments-as-appetite-for-australian-hotels-rises">sell their Sydney Olympic Park offering, after listing it in May last year</a>, seeking $39 million, to beef up funds for more than a dozen new projects. In June last year they <a href="/expert-insights/investing/surging-quest-leads-strongly-growing-australian-serviced-apartment-market">recorded 28% growth over two years</a>, leading the strongly growing serviced apartment market.
In September, they also opened a <a href="/news/quest-opens-second-serviced-apartment-hotel-in-mackay-following-positive-business-conditions">serviced apartment offering in Mackay</a>, their second in the area. There have also been <a href="/expert-insights/investing/quest-to-build-tullamarine-melbourne-airport-serviced-apartments">reports of plans to build in Melbourne's Tullamarine</a>.
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