Less than two years after breaking ground, Gardner Vaughan Group is celebrating the topping out of Bask, its second development in the exclusive coastal enclave of Bokarina on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast.&nbsp;

Located only minutes from the beachfront, the two seven-storey luxury apartment towers, known individually as Mydas and Caretta, offer a selection of one-to-four-bedroom residences with views of Lake Kawana, the Glasshouse Mountains, and Bokarina Beach.&nbsp;

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Gardner Vaughan Group Commercial Director Sam Gardner said the milestone marks the home stretch for construction, with first residents expected to be able to move in from Spring 2026.&nbsp;

“This is a significant milestone in bringing this development to life and represents our confidence in this region’s long-term growth and appeal,” Gardner said.&nbsp;

“With 85 per cent of apartments already sold, buyers are joining an established, coastal village that offers the very best of the Sunshine Coast – seasonally patrolled surf beaches, renowned restaurants, and links to established health and retail.&nbsp;

“The final collection of three- and four- bedroom apartments range in size from 127sqm to 300sqm, each with two or three secure car parks and storage, and with construction fast approaching completion we don’t expect the last few apartments to remain on the market for long.”&nbsp;

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Local restaurateur Luke Stringer, who co-owns and manages the award-winning Bocca Italian and Playa Mexican restaurants in Bokarina, has lived in the beachside suburb for 18 months and worked there for more than three years, and said the beachside suburb was thriving.&nbsp;

“It’s fair to say Bokarina is finally stepping into the sun and there’s a lot to love about the place,"&nbsp;Stringer said.

"It’s such a great community, where you see the same smiling faces every morning and everything’s within easy reach – it’s the perfect hub in the middle of the Sunshine Coast.

“When we first opened Bocca Italian, we were the lone restaurant, but it’s been amazing to see how the area has grown. The more venues that open, the busier it gets for everyone. When Playa Mexican opened its first Saturday night, Bocca had a record night and Playa was packed too, which blew us away how everyone is thriving.&nbsp;

“There’s a great energy around the place now, and people are really embracing Bokarina as a food and lifestyle destination.”&nbsp;

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Stringer joined other buyers at Bask Bokarina and the Gardner Vaughan Group team to celebrate the topping out at a special event in February.&nbsp;

Located in Kawana Waters, midway between Caloundra and Maroochydore, Bokarina locals enjoy scenic walking paths around Lake Kawana, playgrounds, beachfront boardwalk and parklands, alongside all the convenience of a masterplanned beachside community.&nbsp;

“You see people jogging or swimming in the morning, then grabbing coffee at the cafes, people are really embracing the area and all this growth is bringing more people to Bokarina,” Stringer added.&nbsp;

To take advantage of the vistas, each of the 135 apartments at Bask is designed with full size windows and high ceilings that provide an abundance of natural light.&nbsp;

Prices for the remaining three-bedroom apartments start at $1,599,000 and four-bedroom apartments start at $3,149,000.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=141609 project_image_fid=363369]

The mixed-use development also features ground-level retail space for cafés, dining options and boutiques, including the soon-to-be-opened ‘Corner Shop’, by the team behind Noosa’s well known ‘Organika’.

Sam Gardner said Gardner Vaughan Group’s 37-year history building and developing across South East Queensland has contributed to the success of its second development in Bokarina, which follows the recently completed Zinc Apartments.&nbsp;

“We care how people live and this is reflected in the way we approach the design and delivery of every development,” he said. “Furthermore, as a builder-developer we have full control over the construction program and our 100 per cent completion rate is something people can draw confidence from.”&nbsp;

Founded by civil engineers Guy Gardner and Darryl Vaughan in 1989, the family-owned business has evolved from a consultancy firm to an award-winning builder-developer, with projects across the Sunshine Coast, Moreton Bay, Brisbane and the Gold Coast.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=141609]

Joel Robinson

Gardner Vaughan Group tops out Bask Bokarina apartments

Prolific Melbourne developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/hirsch-faigen">Hirsch &amp; Faigen</a> has launched its fourth new Gold Coast development in as many years.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/hirsch-faigen">Hirsch &amp; Faigen</a>, led by Daniel Faigen and backed by Eddie Hirsch, co-founder of United Petroleum, has unveiled The Eveleigh, on a prime 1,100 sqm site at 7-9 Surf Parade in the heart of Broadbeach.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-eveleigh-broadbeach-7-9-surf-parade-broadbeach-qld-4218">The Eveleigh</a> will deliver 100 apartments across 31 levels, making it the company’s largest Gold Coast project to date. It builds on the success of its three earlier developments, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/hemingway-1267-1273-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach">The Hemingway in Palm Beach</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/emerson-kirra-100-musgrave-street-coolangatta">The Emerson at Kirra</a>, both completed, and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/yves-mermaid-beach-7-9-mermaid-avenue-mermaid-beach">Yves Mermaid Beach</a>, which is nearing completion.

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The announcement of The Eveleigh affirms the company’s sustained confidence in the Gold Coast market which continues to remain undersupplied. It also increases the value of Hirsch &amp; Fa​igen’s Gold Coast development portfolio to more than $700 million since the company first entered the market in 2021 with Hemingway.

The company has enlisted its preferred architecture firm Rothelowman to design The Eveleigh, which will offer a thoughtfully curated lifestyle, including a substantial wellness precinct, communal recreation areas, children’s play spaces, work-from-home facilities, and shared lounge and dining areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360965]

Designed for the prime market demographic of downsizers and interstate lifestyle investors in mind, The Eveleigh has been crafted to offer an increasingly rare blend of affordable luxury in a tightly held market. Uniquely positioned in the heart of the Gold Coast’s most sought-after lifestyle suburb of Broadbeach, the project will also boast uninterrupted beach and hinterland views.

The Surf Parade site is just a short walk to the bustling Broadbeach dining and retail precinct, Pacific Fair, The Star Gold Coast and convention centre, and an easy stroll to Kurrawa Beach and the recreational amenity of Pratten Park on the Broadbeach foreshore.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360975]

“We’re excited to be proceeding with our fourth project on the Gold Coast in what is certain to become the new luxury precinct in Broadbeach,” says Anthony Bueti, the CFO of Hirsch &amp;a​mp; Faigen and a shareholder of the group.

“With the likes of Mosa​ic and Abedian &amp;a​mp; Co also launching quality projects in the area, the transformation will cement Broadbeach as the premier lifestyle and amenity suburb on the Gold Coast.

"After four years in the Gold Coast market, and with three successful projects completed, The Eveleigh is the product of everything we have learned to love about the Gold Coast and it will be an incredible addition to our growing portfolio in one of the most vibrant property markets in the country. We continue to remain very confident in the high-end Gold Coast property market.”

Urban Activation Director Matt George is handling sales for The Eveleigh, having sold out The Emerson, The Hemingway, and Yves, all before construction was completed.

Melbourne builder MAXCON has already commenced construction on The Eveleigh. They are forecasting a mid-2028 completion.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=149670]

Hirsch & Faigen unveils The Eveleigh in Broadbeach

Two years after securing development approval for the final stage of its award-winning Thornton Precinct on the doorstep of Penrith Station, Urban Property Group is set to launch <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/mayfair-on-penrith-172-lord-sheffield-circuit-penrith-nsw-2750">Mayfair on Penrith</a>, around 400 apartments designed to reflect two of Sydney’s most iconic structures.

The builder-developer has continued refining the design plans for the two-building development on a significant 8,280 sqm site on Sheffield Circuit, recognising the importance of the prime parcel as one of the closest developable sites to the station.

UPG enlisted architecture firm SJB to design the project. The team said they drew inspiration from both the General Post Office in Martin Place and East Circular Quay to help shape the design. The two-level colonnade, in particular, reflects the famous GPO building, which dates back to the 1860s.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136726 project_image_fid=362014]

There will be one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments on offer, with interiors by Cox Architecture. Residences will sit above a retail podium featuring hospitality and lifestyle operators such as One Playground and Volcano’s Steakhouse, contributing to an activated ground plane within the broader Thornton precinct.

A communal rooftop with a pool and views towards the Blue Mountains will provide shared open space for residents. The development is positioned between Ron Mulock Oval and Westfield Penrith, with the Nepean River and Great River Walk also nearby, placing daily amenity and green space within walking distance.

&nbsp;

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Mayfair is being delivered by Urban Property Group, a family-owned developer and builder with nearly 40 years’ experience across Sydney. The project will be the first in Penrith to be offered with Resilience Insurance’s 10-year Latent Defects Insurance (LDI) policy, which Urban Property Group has adopted across a number of its recent developments. The developer also has a 4.5-star iCIRT rating, one of the best ratings in market providing further confidence to buyers.

Urban Property Group CEO Patrick Elias said providing additional assurance to off-the-plan buyers has become increasingly important.

“Anything we can do to give confidence in our product is a plus,” Elias told Apartments.com.au.

“Consumers are a lot more weary and a lot more concerned in buying off the plan than they ever have been. They’re making their single large investment, which is their home, and providing confidence is something that we feel is paramount.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136726 project_image_fid=362020]

The LDI policy provides a 10-year warranty covering structural defects, with independent inspections carried out during construction and protection for owners if defects arise post-completion.

Mayfair represents Urban Property Group’s sixth and final development within Thornton, consolidating the masterplanned precinct immediately east of the station.

The developer, which builds its own projects, has already commenced construction. SRM Residential is handling the sales campaign.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=136726]

Urban Property Group to close the curtain on award-winning Thornton precinct with Mayfair on Penrith release

Investor appetite for Queenstown apartments is strengthening as supply constraints and four-season tourism continue to underpin demand across the alpine region.

In Frankton’s masterplanned Remarkables Park precinct,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/safari-group">Safari Group</a>’s 141-apartment Mountain Oak development is attracting repeat and yield-focused buyers seeking exposure to that market dynamic.

Brandon, who specifically targeted Queenstown as an investment location, said the combination of price point and limited new supply made Mountain Oak stand out.

“It is a quality product in a location that struggles to densify,” he said, referencing Queenstown’s land-locked geography and development limitations.

<img alt="From slopes to markets: Mountain Oak connects residents to the best of Queenstown" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_auto/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/658d4f_48c3ec1ae5df4a2cab7d23c07c7f51b3~mv2.jpg?VersionId=27K8oQ4ExDN8Yu70VHDa9Olq59XU36m3" />

Having spent significant time in the region, Brandon pointed to its global reputation and consistent visitation as key fundamentals.

“Queenstown is a known destination from people all over the world. The place is land locked and there are issues building there. It’s also busy all year round.”

That four-season economy, driven by skiing and snowboarding in winter and hiking, cycling and water-based tourism in summer, was also central to Sherry’s decision to invest.

“I believe the four-season tourism has major appeal as it would ensure that the property will not remain empty, unlike other areas in NZ,” she said.

<img alt="From slopes to markets: Mountain Oak connects residents to the best of Queenstown" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_auto/https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/313_Living_WEB.jpg?VersionId=3LglY20Jp_MAzQYdvwODRWvtjL.cZcqI" />

Mountain Oak has been structured to respond to that sustained demand, with 365-day visitor accommodation consent underpinning a mix of one-bedroom, flexi, two-bedroom and dual-key configurations that can operate as either short-term visitor accommodation or long-term rental housing. Dual-key apartments comprise two self-contained residences on one title, allowing owners to generate dual income streams or occupy one side while leasing the other.&nbsp;

Under Safari Group’s optional visitor accommodation management model, owners receive 60 per cent of the annual income generated by their apartment, with 24/7 on-site management, guest services and listing exposure included. Independent appraisal modelling suggests gross yields of up to 15 per cent for certain two-bedroom configurations, based on estimated nightly rates and occupancy assumptions.

For Brandon, that flexibility aligned with his broader investment strategy.

“It helps to know that I can have it managed either way,” he said. “My focus is on purchasing high yield cashflow properties.”

<img alt="Investors back Safari Group’s Mountain Oak Apartments as Queenstown’s four-season economy drives demand" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c786ba7f-f974-4ce3-9833-1bcd9f2938d6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/658d4f_ae3c049f388f4c13bf801649d91cbb4a~mv2%20%281%29.jpg?VersionId=J25uvzGdvtFaXGzuwz28ewJ9wWzbtvur" />

He selected a one-bedroom flexi configuration, citing both yield and adaptability.

“I work remotely and can travel to most places and work. I enjoy making spaces that work for the lifestyle that I live and it seems that others also enjoy it.”

Ranging from 54 to 57 square metres, the one-bedroom flexi incorporates a separate multipurpose room suited to a home office, additional storage, or accommodation for ski gear and seasonal equipment, an increasingly relevant inclusion for buyers balancing remote work and alpine travel.

Interiors feature underfloor heating in bathrooms and a heat pump in the main living area, supporting year-round comfort. Upper-level apartments are positioned to maximise natural light, with sliding windows and balustrades in select residences enhancing outlook and ventilation. Units are available in both light and dark interior schemes.

<img alt="Investors back Safari Group’s Mountain Oak Apartments as Queenstown’s four-season economy drives demand" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8f9492e9-8ee0-4aae-856c-8996ed9d9a06" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/658d4f_7d066f5200024c1aa472d01e2dc776ed~mv2.jpg?VersionId=MLR5xn6fLqPdBi7vxyRT.1zhQX3Ln0Ev" />

Sherry, a repeat Safari Group buyer, said her previous experience with the developer provided confidence to secure another apartment.

“Their developments have always finished on time, the quality has been high, and I didn't feel that my investment may be at risk,” she said. “Knowledge of the developer and our two existing Safari apartments gave us the confidence to proceed with this one.”

Safari Group has delivered more than 2,000 hotel units and residential apartments nationally and is now undertaking its fifth Queenstown development, reinforcing buyer confidence in delivery capability.

Although Sherry was not initially targeting Queenstown due to its price profile, prior visits reshaped her view of the market.

“I absolutely love this region and believe it is a major tourist attraction, which led me to the decision to invest.”

<img alt="How Mountain Oak Apartments draws holiday home buyers to Queenstown" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_auto/https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_auto/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Ext_Cam15_Sunny.jpg?VersionId=SJAROUM_1s.Tr5ciMk4EEj5oAt_Vewmv" />

Construction commenced in June 2025, with completion anticipated by mid-2027. Apartments are priced from NZ$639,000, and the development carries Overseas Investment Office exemption approval, allowing non-residents to purchase.

For both investors, the purchase represents a balance of income generation and long-term portfolio positioning in a tightly held alpine market.

“I firmly believe my investments in Safari developments are a combination of all these elements,” Sherry said. “The location of this project enabled me to diversify.”

As Queenstown continues to attract year-round visitation alongside constrained housing supply, Mountain Oak’s dual-key flexibility, optional on-site management structure and established developer track record are resonating with investors seeking exposure to the region’s resilient tourism economy.

Investors back Safari Group’s Mountain Oak Apartments as Queenstown’s four-season economy drives demand

The Minns Labor Government is today unveiling a game-changing new precinct at Bays West – delivering up to 8,500 well-located homes, including a minimum of 10 per cent affordable and essential worker homes - directly above the new Bays West Metro Station currently under construction.

The landmark transformation will convert underutilised government-owned port land on the Harbour into Sydney’s newest suburb, while retaining important deep-water port facilities to support Sydney’s working harbour.

Located just minutes from the Sydney CBD and connected to a world-class metro, ferry, walking and cycling links, the Bays West precinct will rebalance housing growth towards well-serviced inner-city locations and help tackle the state’s housing crisis.

<img alt="Bays West" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c5f01d10-0b6b-49de-8033-d3ef2728cb6d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-03-04%20at%204.06.12%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=UA6_r._1jYROJ5tFNXMHqjNYLKYWIN.Y" />

Affordable housing will be embedded from the outset, including dedicated homes for essential workers such as nurses, teachers, paramedics, firefighters and police so they can live closer to the communities they serve.

The precinct will combine new housing with public open space, opening public access to the waterfront for the first time in more than 100 years.

Night-time entertainment and creative industries will be anchored by the revitalisation of the historic White Bay Power Station as a cultural and community destination, connected to the harbour across a new expansive public forecourt.

Planning of the area will prioritise connectivity, including active transport links to neighbouring communities such as Rozelle, Balmain and Glebe, improved pedestrian access to the waterfront, and connections to the CBD, including an active transport link across the Glebe Island Bridge.

The Government will lead a master planning process that will include an international design competition to guide development across the precinct, ensuring homes, essential infrastructure, jobs, public spaces and transport links are delivered together.

It will be led by a new delivery agency to be established over the coming weeks, which will report to Minister Kamper who already has oversight of major precinct renewal projects including at Blackwattle Bay and Barangaroo. Once established, the publicly owned land in the precinct will be transferred to the new agency.

This is the first new suburb that has been built in inner Sydney in decades, it will see homes built alongside the Bays West Metro Station ensuring young people, families and downsizers are only minutes away from the CBD. As part of the transformation of the Bays West precinct, bulk port operations – including cement, gypsum and sugar handling – will cease on Glebe Island by no later than 2030.

<img alt="Glebe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="46ef3c23-2ce1-4912-b8ba-5247de19d7b9" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-03-04%20at%204.02.15%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=I5xKa7hLNlsueMsltA2dsYrRYtZCKvZz" />

The Government will work closely with industry to minimise impacts and ensure the continuity of supply. This includes a commitment of $270 million to improve road connections around the port at Port Kembla and to investigate increased rail freight capacity.

Working harbour operations across the precinct will be consolidated, mostly into White Bay, ensuring the precinct will continue to provide critical services for the harbour, including boat maintenance and marine construction and as a base for tug boats and for emergency services.

A new staging area will be established in White Bay, securing the future of the New Year’s Eve fireworks, Vivid and other major events for decades to come.

<img alt="Glebe island" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0554b153-b225-445b-a633-75aecea7dec9" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-03-04%20at%204.06.17%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=P45ABy8KLuwjzVf04APWfeC4aOMA1Ngx" />

The cruise terminal will be retained in its current location, meaning tourists arriving in Sydney will be welcomed by the new precinct, with new shore-power facilities currently being installed that will reduce noise and emissions. The Sydney Heritage Fleet will also be offered new premises in White Bay.

Deep-water berths will be retained to preserve Sydney Harbour’s strategic operational capability, and the removal of the existing 1970s industrial silos, currently used as a billboard, as well as to store cement and sugar, will unlock new opportunities for public space and future housing.

“Right above a new metro station and minutes from the CBD, we’re delivering thousands of homes where people actually need them - close to work, close to services and close to transport,"&nbsp;Premier of New South Wales Chris Minns said.

“Importantly, this precinct will include affordable and essential worker housing from day one, so nurses, teachers, paramedics and police can live closer to the communities they serve.

“We understand that not everyone will welcome change, but cities don’t stand still. If Sydney is going to remain a place young people and families can afford to live in, we have to use well-located land better and plan for the future.”

Glebe Island to accomodate 8,500 new homes near new Bays Metro Station

Pyrmont

Prominent Sydney and Melbourne proprety developer Landream are well and truly ready to take advantage of the $750 million of the Sydney Fish Markets at Blackwattle Bay.

They're pushing on with their $330 million Wattle Street project, across the road from Wentworth Park and a stone's throw away from the popular Fish Markets, which following the redevelopment which will create a major food and dining precinct for the area.

Landream secured the 12,381 sqm site at 14-26 Wattle Street in 2021 from the Sydney City Council, pending approval of a Stage 1 Concept DA, which was approved in May 2021.

<img alt="Landream Pyrmont" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bfd00297-19d8-4040-91bd-ed15efcc34b9" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-02-28%20at%202.24.13%20pm.png?VersionId=..UJ3giwAYTVZfhUtYRSxhsz.HobgN_C" />

The Sydney City Council acquired the site in 1906 as a road works depot. Facilities to support the depot were constructed on site between 1912- 1921. They're the only buildings that stand on the large site which straddles Wattle, Fig and Jones Streets.&nbsp;The site was previously used as a sandstone quarry, formally known as Hell Hole Quarry.

Prior to the submission of the recent development application, the Sydney-based architecture&nbsp;firm BVN won the project's&nbsp;Architectural Design Competition, beating design submissions from&nbsp;likes of&nbsp;Carter Williamson, Tzannes, SJB and Bates Smart in the Architectural Design Competition.

The jury said BVN's scheme was "considered, engaging, pragmatic and rooted in concept, materiality, and place making."

<img alt="Landream Pyrmont" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1bd3f65b-4941-4c38-8778-6ac9c33349e7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-02-28%20at%202.26.45%20pm.png?VersionId=wn8DWQNpu20tSZ9IezS81YU0JeeKG7yS" />

"The design is underpinned by the current and future site context and character, seeking to contribute to and unlock the natural advantages of the environment and the approved concept scheme," the jury continued.

"The jury appreciated the design development of the approved concept scheme, benefiting the public realm and enhancing the residential amenity. The modified massing allows the development to be read as a ‘family of buildings’, rather than as a single complex.

"Each building is unique in design approach and they work together to establish a cohesive and comfortable environment within the site."

The jury also noted the clever design of the ‘Garaban’, the central residential building, one of five buildings proposed, which will deliver high amenity residential living.

"It is appreciated that this structure presents 100 per cent north facing apartments and 100 per cent cross ventilated apartments to deliver positive sustainability goals."

<img alt="Wattle" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="381da9ce-aad8-4cab-9d5b-661eef5403f5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-02-28%20at%202.26.07%20pm.png?VersionId=TxNl0LJ_zHURbO9rf_RHRkMqphrGIGZs" />

Four of the five buildings will home 237 apartments. There will be 50 one-bed units (21 per cent), 101 two-beds (42 per cent), and 82 three-bedroom apartments (35 per cent), as well as a handful of studios and large four-bed apartments.

The fifth building will solely home commercial and office space, while one of the residential buildings will also feature a recreation centre with two multi-purpose indoor courts, and a childcare centre.

BVN's Design Statement, part of the extensive submission to the City of Sydney Council, said&nbsp;14-26 Wattle Street is located in the Innovation Corridor of the Sydney Harbour CBD, a unique precinct in the city that is undergoing rapid transformation.

"Previously an underutilised area of the city, it is developing into a prime mixed-use precinct to help strengthen the Harbour.

"Capitalising on its easy access to Pyrmont, Blackwattle Bay, the Fishmarket, Darling Harbour and the central CBD Precinct, it is set to become a sought-after destination with a strong focus in connecting Pyrmont to the Sydney CBD.&nbsp;The work/live industrial history of Pyrmont and Ultimo is still evident in the urban fabric."

<img alt="Landream Pyrmont" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4bbd7983-3fd0-4cd7-b519-a7013785916d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-02-28%20at%202.27.00%20pm.png?VersionId=jQ3TKnthbLutaPKPAMk67M2UoLe1NgEd" />

The report, signed off by BVN Principal Phillip Rossington, noted a number of sustainability initiatives in the project.

There will be rainwater storage, landscaping on the open rooftop with climate and location suitable plant selection, natural light and ventilation to the majority of apartments, as well as efficient services throughout the building like extensive bicycle parking, energy efficient light, and composting facilities.&nbsp;

BVN said the key to the proposed development was understanding the extremely different contexts on the three addresses (Jones, Fig and Wattle), and providing appropriate responses to each.

"This approach allows the development to be read as a family of buildings rather than one large complex," BVN said.

<img alt="Landream Pyrmont" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="983a790d-d847-4760-9ec5-9027b8d69599" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-02-28%20at%202.25.48%20pm.png?VersionId=7moQOTibeYcHQFTN0CiaduJtMt4x04Pv" />

"The Jones building is set back and articulated to complement the existing Jones Street Terraces. The Wattle Street aesthetic draws on neighbouring buildings’ arches and strong lines. The Courtyard building is a smaller more boutique building with a focus on it’s true north facing aspect and enhanced sustainability features, and the Fig Street commercial building reflects the rhythm of the Winchcombe Carson building."

The Winchcombe Carson building, bordering the site on Fig and Wattle Street, is a landmark building and former woolstore, which opened in 1894.

<h2>Fig &amp; Wattle Fast Facts</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Address: 14-26 Wattle Street</li>
	<li>Site size: 12,381 sqm</li>
	<li>Adaptable apartments - 36 units</li>
	<li>Liveable Housing Units - 48 units</li>
	<li>Internal Communal Residential Space - 228 sqm</li>
	<li>External Private Communal Open Space - 2,795 sqm</li>
	<li>External Public Accessible Open Space - 2,457 sqm</li>
	<li>Apartments - 237</li>
	<li>Studio&nbsp;- 2 (1%)</li>
	<li>1 bed - 50 (21%)</li>
	<li>2 bed - 101 (42%)</li>
	<li>3 bed - 82 (35%)</li>
	<li>4 bed - 2 (1%)</li>
	<li>Residential GFA - 27,434 sqm</li>
	<li>Commercial GFA&nbsp;- 16,215 sqm</li>
	<li>Retail GFA&nbsp;- 428 sqm</li>
	<li>Childcare Centre GFA - 1810 sqm</li>
	<li>Recreation Centre GFA - 2684 sqm</li>
</ul>

Landream secured the 12,381 sqm site at 14-26 Wattle Street in 2021 from the Sydney City Council, pending approval of a Stage 1 Concept DA, which was approved in May 2021

First look exclusive: Landream's $330 million mixed-use Pyrmont plans revealed

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The Pyrmont apartment record has been reset with the sale of the penthouse in the award-winning Sydney Wharf, listed for the first time since its construction.
The Pirrama Road penthouse was bought off the plan for $6,986,000 in 2008, a year before the PTW Architects-designed, Charter Hall-developed and Brookfield Multiplex-built development was completed.
McGrath Pyrmont agent Robert Alfeldi had expectations of a sale around $20 million given its view of the western side of the city, across Darling Harbour towards the Barangaroo precinct.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/12/Pyrmont%203.jpg" alt="">
The three bedroom apartment has 350 sqm of internal space, and a further 80 sqm of terraces. There's also a rooftop terrace with a plunge pool and garaging for three cars.
There's a mezzanine-level home office overlooking the living space.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/12/Pyrmont%202.jpg" alt="">
The priciest apartment sale in Pyrmont comes from Sydney Wharf, when the former Ferrari boss Herbert Appleroth sold his spread for $13.3 million. 
He amalgamated two apartments after paying $6.9 million for both back in 2008.
Sydney Wharf held the record before that, set when Dr Ian Campbell sold his double apartment for $12 million in 2015.
 
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Pyrmont record smashed as penthouse asking $20 million sells

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EXPERT OBSERVER 
Urban Taskforce has welcomed the announcement by the NSW Minister for Planning, Hon Rob Stokes, of plans to progress the renewal and redevelopment of the Pyrmont Peninsula.
This is a welcome move forward after a poison combination of politics and bureaucratic in-fighting stymied development of this critical location last year with the IPC determining that the Star Casio / Ritz Carlton Hotel development was not supported by Strategic plans for the precinct late last year.
It is fantastic to see that the NSW Government has acknowledged the critical role that Pyrmont plays in the future of Sydney as a global city.
The release of ‘Directions for the Pyrmont Peninsula Place Strategy’ by the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment is a good start as it promotes the renewal and redevelopment of Pyrmont and its surrounds. 
The new “strategy” establishes the strategic framework for high rise development in Pyrmont and the logical extension of the CBD along the Pyrmont peninsular.
This change has come about following a comprehensive review of the Independent Planning Commission, the public intervention by the Treasurer and a review of the precinct by the GSC. 
The Department of Planning’s submission on the Star proposal as sent to the Independent Planning Commission last year was anti-jobs and anti-growth. This is exactly the opposite to what is needed given the recession we now face.
Urban Taskforce is pleased to see that the Minister for Planning has taken hold of this matter and established a plan for the development of this important precinct.
A change of mind-set is needed across the planning system.
All those involved in the planning system need to stop and re-set. We must continue to deliver improved amenity for residents, improved environmental outcomes and improved architectural built form. But the interests of local NIMBY groups must now to be considered against the greater need for economic growth, increased housing supply, jobs and employment. 
Now is the time to shift the focus away from Strategic Planning and for Minister Stokes to use the powers he has a the Minister for Planning to drive through a COVID Recovery State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP) which suspends the need to conform with Local Strategic Plans and facilitates approvals as a matter of priority. Jobs and investment are what is needed. This is in the hands of the NSW Government.
The GSC, having completed its Strategic Planning mandate, should now focus all its efforts on supporting the Department in calling in projects and fast-tracking them for approvals.
With all the legislative powers at his hands, Minister can make a new SEPP any time (based on a location, a precinct, power to suspend the need for concurrences or the need for lengthy exhibition processes. Minister, this is the time to use those powers. 
While most Councils are flat-out setting up working from home arrangements and managing public health, rubbish collection and general order, this is the time for the NSW Government to step in and drive our economy forward so we are ready to go as soon as the current health crisis abates.
Tom Forrest is the CEO of Urban Taskforce. 
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Urban Taskforce welcomes release of Pyrmont plan: Tom Forrest 

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A new 20-year vision for Pyrmont will shape the waterfront peninsula as an innovative, connected and creative around-the-clock destination, providing much-needed jobs, investment and economic growth, part of the NSW Government’s COVID Recovery Plan.
Up to 23,000 new jobs and 800,000 sqm of new commercial and office space are forecast in a new draft plan released on July 31, 2020, supported by better transport connectivity to grow a mix of hi-tech, tourism, media and information industries.
Launching the plan, Treasurer Dominic Perrottet and Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Rob Stokes said the NSW Government’s draft Pyrmont Peninsula Place Strategy and Economic Development Strategy would help map the area’s future.
The strategy considers big moves for transformation such as a potential metro station at Pyrmont as part of the Sydney Metro West project, a new indoor sports and entertainment venue like our own Madison Square Garden, more and better public spaces (including the return of Wentworth Park as local parkland) and the revitalisation of key sites to attract commercial investment.
Mr Stokes added that Pyrmont has always been an extension of the CBD as a bustling hub for a variety of industries, and the draft strategy outlines the latest incarnation in the peninsula’s renewal.
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Mr Stokes said the revitalisation will focus on key sites for renewal, including the existing Sydney Fish Market site at Blackwattle Bay, The Star site at Darling Island, development of Harbourside Shopping Centre, and the UTS Haymarket campus.
“These sites have been identified for revitalisation over the next 20 years and we are keen to ensure that parks, public spaces and the unique character of Pyrmont is protected,” he said.
The Pyrmont Peninsula Place Strategy and Economic Development Strategy are on public exhibition for community feedback until September 13, 2020.
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Pyrmont's 20-year vision released for NSW Government's COVID Recovery Plan

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EXPERT OBSERVATION
The Independent Planning Commission’s rejection of the Ritz Carlton hotel development in Pyrmont represents a comprehensive failure to deliver planning decisions which serve the broad public interest of the people of NSW.
“After the State Government actively encouraged this development for over four years, the IPC decision to reject this hotel development is a blow to tourism, a blow to jobs and a blow to the sensible development of our city”, Mr Forrest said.
“The IPC rejected submissions that this proposal was a logical extension of Darling Harbour down the peninsular. The IPC has clearly not read any of the GSC’s planning documents. The ICC precinct is suffering from the sparsity of hotel availability and this proposal was part of the solution.
The IPC decision rejects the proposal because (in part), it says, it is not consistent with the Strategic Planning in the area.
“This is simply wrong. The GSC’s district Plan for Eastern Sydney published in its final form in March 2018 sets the strategic framework. It states on page 46:
‘The District’s many great places also include local neighbourhoods in leafy suburbs like Bellevue Hill and Strathfield, inner-city, mixed-use places around Potts Point and Surry Hills, and the city high-rise areas of Pyrmont and the Sydney CBD. Each offers its own identity and sense of place where social cohesion and belonging is fostered.’
“The District Plan establishes the Strategic merit for high rise development in this location. The IPC seems to be rejecting the Greater Sydney Commission’s vision for an extension of the city’s CBD into Pyrmont. This calls into question the very future of the IPC.
“Hundreds of millions of dollars of development investment and tourism revenue will be lost to the city of Sydney as a result of this decision. Worse, the future of our city is being held to ransom, and the IPC has simply given up and folded to a handful of local activists.
“The decision represents a complete lack of balance. The decision over emphasises local community concerns. Those concerns were driven by selfish NIMBY activists. The failure of the IPC to reject these concerns and to find a pathway forward after years of State Government encouragement for the development of this project is a disgrace.
“The Planning Department’s Report was also very disappointing, and this must be fed into to the Productivity Commission’s review of both the role of the IPC as well as their review into Planning in NSW.
“Confidence in the NSW economy is slipping, and the planning system is the bottleneck. This decision must be a catalyst for serious review and change.
“By putting the interests of NIMBYs before the financial future of our State the IPC has behaved like Hunters Hill Council. The IPC has failed the test of leadership as has let the community of Sydney down. The decision and its reasoning are simply not worthy of the leading non-judicial planning authority in the State”, Mr Forrest said.
TOM FORREST is the Chief Executive Officer of Urban Taskforce Australia
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IPC rejection of the Ritz Carlton hotel for Pyrmont sells Sydney short: Tom Forrest

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The pioneering radio presenter Janadele Stewart has sold her Pyrmont penthouse, after years of being on and off the market.
The property was recently placed on the market via a soiree involving champagne and canapes with an asking price of $5.3 million to $5.5 million.
Situated at 731/8 Point Street, the apartment featuring three bedrooms and two bathrooms last traded for $2,485,000 in 2003, one year after it was built.
Ayre Estate Agents Adrian Wilson, Craig Donohue and Kirsty Gardner were the successful marketers of the Mirvac-developed penthouse in the Promontory.
Featuring two separate living areas and a large entertainers’ terrace, it holds views to the Sydney Harbour.
Set on 363 square metres, the abode transacted at auction for $5.57 million, a building-record by $770,000.
Four bidders competed for the home.
It is also the current highest registered sale price for the 2009 postcode in 2019.
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Janadele Stewart finally sells Pyrmont Penthouse after 6.5 years

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The NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian today announced the Greater Sydney Commission had been directed to immediately review Pyrmont’s planning rules to ensure they are consistent with the Government’s vision for its future.
“I am sending a strong message that Pyrmont is open for business and ready to be taken to the next level,” Ms Berejiklian said.
It comes after the recent rejection of the proposed Ritz Carlton tower (above, picture source FJMT).
The NSW Government seeks a strategic vision for Pyrmont and the Western Harbour precinct as a vibrant residential, entertainment and innovation hub on the fringe of Sydney’s CBD.
“Sydney is Australia’s only true global city and we have a unique opportunity before us to transform Pyrmont and the Western Harbour precint into an iconic destination," the premier said.
“With a growing population, we know there will be more development in Pyrmont in the future. With that will come opportunities to build more transport links including a potential Metro station.
“While individual applications will continue to be determined on their merits, this review sends a clear signal that our government believes the Pyrmont area has a bright and exciting future as a key part of the NSW visitor economy.”
Planning and Public Spaces Minister Rob Stokes said the GSC’s review would also include recommendations to the Government on how to support a greater diversity of development in the precinct.
“We need to ensure planning rules for the area are still relevant, particularly with major projects planned including the new Sydney Fishmarket, the Ultimo Creative Arts Precinct and Bays Precinct,” Mr Stokes said.
“We must ensure that our planning system is clear and effective in supporting the type and scale of development needed in a top quality, vibrant, mixed-use precinct.
“We must also ensure that any major plans to transform the area are supported with the right infrastructure to create a vibrant destination for locals, visitors and businesses alike.”
The Greater Sydney Commission commenced its review last week, with their report due to be completed by the end of next month.
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Ritz Carlton Pyrmont rejection triggers State Government planning review

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The Star Sydney complex has unveiled the design for its Grand Foyer, part of the group’s $65 million update to its Pyrmont entrance.
The group bills the Grand Foyer as “the world’s first permanent indoor light and interactive digital art foyer in an integrated resort”.
The $22 million installation is “part light, part water and part digital art gallery”.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/5/7/The%20Grand%20Foyer%20The%20Star%20Sydney%20-%208.jpg" alt="">
Other inclusions to the property in the transformation project include a brand-new bar, luxury retailers and a new arrival experience.
The Star Sydney Chief Operating Officer, Dino Mezzatesta, said the work was part of the group’s plans to impress guests.
“Architecture, contemporary art and technology have converged to form an iconic showpiece that delivers a unique, unexpected and dynamic arrival experience for our guests,” said Mezzatesta.
“The new Grand Foyer includes a 25-metre-long, 8K resolution crescent shaped screen which will showcase the works of emerging and established Australian artists, university students, cinematographers and animators. 
“The screen content reacts dynamically to the real-world environment and human movement, encouraging guest interaction.               
“Inspiration behind the artworks was drawn from The Star’s proximity to the busy Sydney Harbour shoreline – and the constant ebb and flow of human activity within the Pyrmont area. 
“Alongside the digital canvas, is the first sculptural water installation of its design in the Southern Hemisphere – the ‘Aquatique’ artwork of falling water.
“The integration of Aquatique, LED screens, lasers, lighting and live performances is a world first for an entertainment precinct.” 
The work is being done in collaboration with lighting specialists Ramus Illumination, who was responsible for the permanent outdoor projection system at The Star Gold Coast.
Headed by Bruce Ramus, the firm has also created designs for artists including U2 and David Bowie, as well as events such as The Academy Awards, The Grammys and the Super Bowl Halftime Shows. 
“With The Star Sydney Grand Foyer arrival experience, we wanted to design an experience full of compelling encounters that enrich the journey. We envisioned a beautiful, unifying space that embraces and welcomes all people, and we believe we’ve achieved this,” said Ramus.
“We’ve turned light into an expressive platform in the form of the digital canvas. Through this, light animates to tell the story of the local environment, it is the light, movement and artistic expression of the community that shares the wider story of The Star and Sydney.”
The Grand Foyer work has been timed with the rebrand of Astral Towers and Residences to The Star Grand Hotel and Residences, following a $100 million investment to its hotel rooms and suites.
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Star Sydney unveils $22 million Grand Foyer interactive light installation design

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An A-grade Pyrmont office building has sold for $143 million to AEW.
JLL and Colliers International managed the deal for 19 Harris Street on behalf of a private client of UBS Asset Management, AEW who purchased the property on behalf of its Value Investors Asia fund series.
An international expressions of interest campaign was launched in July 2018 for the seven story building, which garnered interest from local and offshore investors.
“Properties such as 19 Harris will benefit from significant rental growth in this sub-market as leases reach their expiry,”  JLL's James Aroney said.
“The high calibre of tenants, the quality of the asset and the vibrant city fringe location made it an attractive investment opportunity.”
 The building is set to benefit from the redevelopment of the Bays Market District, less than 1km away in Blackwattle Bay, which will add to the area’s retail and social amenity.
Thomson Reuters is the anchor tenant of 19 Harris Street, and L’Oreal Australia is also among the 12 occupants of the fully leased asset.
The building has a net lettable area of 12,568 sqm and campus-style flexible floor plates of around 2000 sqm.
 The deal represents a sale rate per square metre of $11,378 and a passing yield of 4.87 per cent. The weighted average lease expiry (WALE) is five years.
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Pyrmont Office building sold for $143 million

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EXPERT OBSERVER
With the Sydney CBD filling up fast with new development the Urban Taskforce believes that a long term plan is needed to continue Sydney as the leading global city in Australia by developing the Pyrmont Peninsula.
There are a number of early pointers to the rethinking of Pyrmont as a high rise spine to match Sydney’s CBD.
The regeneration of Darling Harbour with its high rise hotel has begun the change.
The proposed 61 storey tower for the Star Casino begins a rethink of heights on the peninsula along with the proposed tower at Harbourside.
The announcement of the design for the new fish markets in Blackwattle Bay means the existing site will be redeveloped presumably with high rise apartments and the move of the Power House Museum to Parramatta could open up new development on that site.
The Urban Taskforce asked Sydney architectural firm LAVA to develop a vision for how the Pyrmont Peninsula could look over the next 20 to 40 years as Sydney continues to grow (pictured in title).
The new development would establish a mixed-use precinct with an entertainment flavour.
We see the peninsula next to the Sydney CBD as being a genuine mixed use precinct with entertainment and hospitality uses as well as being a focus for IT and creative industries.
The peninsula would support the long term proposals for the Bays Precinct.
Clearly public transport will be essential for the new uses so we support the location of a station on the Metro West line as it connects to Parramatta via the Bays Precinct and Sydney Olympic Park.
The metro station should be located so that it serves the Star Casino and the new Fish Markets development.
There is also an opportunity for more ferry connections that are turn-up-and-go between the CBD and the Pyrmont peninsula.
The vision developed for Pyrmont is the work of the internationally renowned architects LAVA who were the European Architects of the Year in 2017.
Sydney director Chris Bosse and his team have developed the long term vision to generate discussion about how Sydney may look as the city reaches 8 million people over the next 40 years.
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