Brisbane-based developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/red-co">Red &amp; Co</a> has made a striking debut on the Gold Coast, officially unveiling its $250 million COMO development in Varsity Lakes, a lifestyle-driven residential project anchored by an extensive rooftop wellness and activity precinct.

Having recently launched to market, construction has already been fast-tracked by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/5point-projects">5Point Projects</a>, ensuring momentum continues on what is set to become a landmark residential address for the growing Varsity Lakes community.

Located at 22 Lake Street, Varsity Lakes, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/como-varsity-lakes-22-lake-street-varsity-lakes-qld-4227">COMO</a> will comprise 156 apartments across 16 levels, comprising one-, two- and three-bedroom residences designed for modern living. However, it is the project’s rooftop amenity offering that sets COMO apart.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135546 project_image_fid=363510]

Designed as a dedicated wellness and recreation hub, the rooftop will feature a 25-metre lap pool, fully equipped gymnasium, and multiple pickleball and paddleball courts - amenities rarely seen in boutique apartment projects.

Residents will also have access to a sauna and plunge baths, while landscaped gardens and relaxation zones will provide tranquil spaces overlooking sweeping panoramic views across the Gold Coast skyline.

The rooftop precinct has been designed to function as the social and wellness heart of the development, encouraging residents to embrace an active, balanced lifestyle within their own building.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135546 project_image_fid=363512]

Red &amp; Co director David Laverty said the amenity offering was central to the project’s design from the outset.

“Amenities were at the forefront of our decisions,” Laverty said.

“Buyers today are looking for more than just an apartment - they want a lifestyle that promotes health, connection and balance.

“The rooftop at COMO has been designed to be the epicentre of that lifestyle, with a suite of wellness and recreation facilities that are quite unique for a boutique development of this scale.”

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135546 project_image_fid=363514]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bda-architecture">BDA Architecture</a>, the residences prioritise liveability, featuring spacious layouts, 2.7-metre ceilings and high-quality finishes throughout.

The development sits beside Bond University, placing residents within walking distance of education, retail and dining options within the vibrant Varsity Lakes precinct, including Robina Town Centre, Varsity Lakes Train Station and a range of leading schools.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135546 project_image_fid=363511]

Laverty said the location was a key driver behind Red &amp; Co’s decision to bring the project to the Gold Coast.

“<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/varsity-lakes-qld-4227">Varsity Lakes</a> was a clear choice for us to invest in as it’s a lifestyle hub that seamlessly blends lakeside living with urbanity,” he said.&nbsp;

“Como will capitalize on this great location, delivering a project that not only creates premium homes, but a lifestyle defined by community, wellbeing, and connectivity.”

Red &amp; Co has delivered more than 500 apartments and townhouses across 26 projects in Brisbane in recent years, with COMO marking the company’s first major Gold Coast development.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135546]

Joel Robinson

Red & Co unveils amenity-rich Como development in Varsity Lakes

Gold Coast developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/big-projects">Big Projects</a> has secured approval for its second Mermaid Beach project.

The developer, currently selling <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-frederick-mermaid-beach-2265-gold-coast-highway-mermaid-beach-qld-4218">The Frederick in Nobby Beach</a>, has secured approval for its next project just 1.5 kilomnetres up the road.

The new development, dubbed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/glenelg-residences-2462-2472-gold-coast-highway-mermaid-beach-qld-4218">Glenelg Residences</a>, has been designed by BDA Architecture and&nbsp;will have just under 100 apartments across an 11-storey building&nbsp;at 2462–2472 Gold Coast Highway, on the corner of Glenelg Avenue just under 300m from the future Mermaid Beach Light Rail stop.

The apartments, a mix of two- and three-bedrooms, will sit above a retail-focused ground plane and under extensive rooftop resident amenities.

<img alt="Exclusive: Big Projects plot Mermaid Beach apartment development, Glenelg Residences" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_75/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Screen%20Shot%202024-06-11%20at%209.55.04%20am.png?VersionId=z6NV4izeuvhBSSVlY6vK6TPO1LxrFeaG" />

BDA said in its planning submission that the project is intended to support the area’s transition toward higher-density, mixed-use living. “This project offers the opportunity to generate appropriate higher-intensity development within the future Light Rail corridor of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/mermaid-beach-qld-4218">Mermaid Beach</a>,” the submission noted.

At ground level, Glenelg Residences will include eight retail tenancies designed to activate the street frontage, complemented by a basement bar offering an additional hospitality element. Above, residents will have access to a rooftop amenity deck featuring an infinity pool, hot and cold plunge spas, day beds, and barbecue facilities.

The architectural approach adopts a restrained material palette of brick, textured concrete, and integrated landscaping, with cantilevered concrete frames and cascading planting intended to soften the built form. BDA described the design as aiming to create “a memorable sculptural mid-rise mixed-use building” that responds to both its coastal setting and urban context.

<img alt="Exclusive: Big Projects plot Mermaid Beach apartment development, Glenelg Residences" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="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/Screen%20Shot%202024-06-11%20at%209.55.45%20am.png?VersionId=cpjIVBqcT_sujmo2UMWkVyLcQ7WGJHaQ" />

The approval comes as the City of Gold Coast continues to plan for significant population growth, with regional targets requiring more than 100,000 new high-density dwellings by 2046.

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Big Projects, led by Matthew and John Barrett, is part of a growing cohort of developers that deliver construction in-house, providing a high level of confidence to prospective purchasers.
</section>

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150260]

Big Projects secures approval for Glenelg Residences in Mermaid Beach

Sherpa Group is ramping up its investment in the southern Gold Coast by lodging a development application for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-viver-87-griffith-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Flourish Viveré</a>, a new $350 million project in Coolangatta.

The move comes after the group’s $27 million acquisition of the 2,029 sqm site on the corner of Griffith and Warner Street, last year.

They will develop 194 apartments across a 26-storey tower, which will become Sherpa’s largest project to date.

Viveré will be the next chapter in the Flourish story, following closely behind Amargo, Oasis, and the Avenues in Palm Beach, as well as Symphony in Brisbane, all designed to deliver affordable housing in lifestyle-rich locations, giving locals a real chance to secure a residence close to the beachfront.

The HAL Architect-designed project will offer a diverse range of residences, from one-, two, and three- bedroom apartments to the premium Canopy range to luxury penthouses.

<img alt="Vivere" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c85f5a7e-a22f-4745-8def-400adb3c0b35" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-04-15%20at%209.53.43%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=OY.chur3BPExn1exQ2q8clHqWnW_CaBi" />

“The Gold Coast is undergoing a period of immense growth, with more people drawn to the incredible 
lifestyle that’s available, leading to strong growth in property prices,” said Christie Leet, founder of Sherpa 
Group.

“Our goal at Sherpa is to ensure locals are not priced out of the market in prime locations, which is why we 
created the Flourish collection.

“Flourish Vivere will form the next chapter in our portfolio, and we are so excited to be lodging the DA, marking our first project in Coolangatta.”

A signature of the Flourish developments is the communal rooftop. Flourish Vivere will showcase a private resident’s lounge, outdoor dining with barbecues and pizza ovens, heated pool, fully-equipped gym, and a wellness centre with sauna and steam room.

<img alt="Vivere" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c09372cc-aae6-4458-af2e-f291bd19a5e5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-04-15%20at%209.53.49%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Sc_RLXl5jiff.tnadogXjQJ_WIpDjf3p" />

The project is strategically located to offer a walkable lifestyle, with the Strand shopping centre, cafes, restaurants, shops and the beach, all just a short stroll away.

“We have meticulously planned Vivere to build on the Flourish legacy, creating a truly special project,”&nbsp;Leet added.

“Wellness, lifestyle and community are at the forefront of every decision we make, and that has not 
changed for Vivere.”

With the DA now lodged with the Gold Coast City Council, Sherpa has moved quickly to secure LPS Group as the builder, offering buyers a level of certainty that is rarely seen in today’s market.

Sherpa has delivered 16 residential projects over the past seven years with a pipeline of $1 billion, with more under construction.

Sherpa takes Flourish brand to Coolangatta, lays plans for Flourish Vivere 

S&amp;S Projects is boosting its investment at Rainbow Bay to more than $1 billion after the prolific Gold Coast developer acquired a new site for $20.25 million and immediately laid plans for a new luxury apartment project in the sought-after precinct.

The site, which is the company’s fifth acquisition at Rainbow Bay in the past four years, will be home to the company’s largest project to date after delivering 3 sold-out projects and construction progresses on Radia worth a combined $215m. 
S&amp;S Projects is currently finalising plans for its latest strategic acquisition, a 1,518 sqm site located 209-213 Boundary Street in Coolangatta, with a development application expected to be lodged within weeks.

The luxury residential development will build on the company’s highly successful projects at Rainbow Bay, comprising Flow, Awaken, Esprit and Radia, with Radia currently under construction by Hutchinson Builders.

“We have been unflinching in our commitment to Rainbow Bay and the transformation we have helped drive in this incredible part of the Gold Coast, which is among the city’s most desirable residential locations,” said S&amp;S Projects founder and director Paul Gedoun.

“Our fifth project will reflect the best of what we have done so far to create a lifestyle precinct that is second to none.”

The latest development, which has yet to be named, is proposed to accommodate 88 luxury apartments in a design that will immerse residents in a unique wellness lifestyle that expands on the legacy of S&amp;S Project’s earlier developments at Rainbow Bay.

The development will feature an expansive rooftop garden and wellness centre with a resort- style pool, among a host of lifestyle amenities planned for residents.

“Rainbow Bay, with its beautiful, protected beach and alongside one of the world’s best surf breaks at Snapper Rocks, is the natural wellness heartland of the Gold Coast,” said Gedoun.

“We are taking every advantage to create a truly unique rooftop wellness experience with a natural feel for residents, offering stone features throughout and an underlying theme that emulates a botanical garden.”

The latest acquisition comes as S&amp;S Projects is at the completion of Esprit and construction continues on Radia, which are part of their significant portfolio undertaken by the company at Rainbow Bay since 2022.

The $215 million Radia, which comprises 38 apartments, is currently the flagship development by S&amp;S Projects at Rainbow Bay which is expected to be completed in 2027.

Jayde Pezet, of Pezet Matheson, which has managed sales and marketing for S&amp;S Projects across their Gold Coast portfolio, emphasised the developer’s commitment to continuous improvement and excellence.

“S&amp;S Projects continue to elevate the benchmark of luxury with each development," Pezet said.

“We have worked with S&amp;amp;S on their 4 other projects in Rainbow Bay and their approach reflects a team that is constantly learning, refining, and pushing the standard higher.

“Their hyper-local knowledge and deep expertise within the luxury property sector are what truly set them apart, allowing them to deliver projects that feel both globally sophisticated and authentically connected to their coastal environment”

S&amp;S Projects plans to officially launch its latest project at Rainbow Bay in the second half of this year.

“As we embark on our largest project yet, we have pulled out all stops to create another landmark development that truly reflects the relaxed southern Gold Coast lifestyle,” Gedoun added.

S&S buys $20m Rainbow Bay site for fifth beachside apartment project

Japandi, an emerging design trend that combines Scandinavian functionality with Japanese rustic minimalism, remains relatively untested in Australia’s residential development market.

As developers look to differentiate their projects and offer something distinct to buyers, Brisbane-based developer Lantona has embraced the hybrid style for its recently launched Toowong apartment project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/koya-residences-6-josling-street-toowong-qld-4066">Koya Residences</a>, with early response to the design proving positive.

Lantona entrusted Red Door Architecture and interiors practice Luma Design Co with delivering the Japandi brief. The approach blends Japanese minimalism with Scandinavian functionality, emphasising warm, restrained interiors, natural materials and clean lines. Drawing on the Japanese concept of wabi-sabi (beauty in imperfection) and the Scandinavian principle of hygge (comfort and cosiness), it creates serene, uncluttered and sustainable living environments.

These design principles are expressed throughout the Josling Street development, both in its exterior form and across the 40 one-, two- and three-bedroom residences within.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150787 project_image_fid=366229]

Koya reflects a deliberately scaled approach, with the five-storey form designed to align with the surrounding residential streetscape rather than dominate it.

“Koya is conceived as a building that sits comfortably within its surroundings. Every decision, from material selection to spatial planning, has been guided by long-term liveability and enduring relevance,” the developer said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150787 project_image_fid=366243]

Positioned within an established inner-west neighbourhood, the development sits near riverfront parklands and the Bicentennial Bikeway, while remaining within walking distance of Toowong Village and multiple public transport options connecting to the CBD, St Lucia and West End.

Lantona said the location was central to the project’s conception, pointing to Toowong’s balance of green space, transport access and proximity to major education institutions.

“<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/toowong-qld-4066">Toowong</a> combines river access, walkability, immediate CBD connection and a strong educational presence. That balance made it the obvious setting for Koya.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150787 project_image_fid=366230]

Communal amenity is concentrated on the rooftop, where a shared retreat will include a pool, dining areas and outdoor spaces oriented towards neighbourhood and city views. The design allows for both private use and small gatherings, extending the living environment beyond individual apartments.

Koya enters the market at a time when smaller-scale developments are becoming less common in established suburbs, with many recent projects in the suburb shooting for the sky.

In a nod of confidence,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/brisbane-builders">Brisbane Builders</a>&nbsp;has already commenced construction on the building, which is slated for completion in early 2027. Keenan &amp; Byrne is marketing Koya.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150787]

Japandi-inspired Koya Residences launch in Toowong

Rentvestor

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First home buyers in Sydney can look to ‘rent-vest’ as a way to enter the market, while buying conditions are better than ever, says Colliers International. 
‘Rent-vesting’ refers to the concept of buying a property as an investment in an area which is affordable and experiencing significant boom conditions, while choosing to rent in a preferred, more expensive area. 
According to Colliers International, while many Sydney first home buyers choose to buy in expensive, popular areas such as the Eastern suburbs and Lower North Shore, inner west areas such as St George, Canterbury, Bankstown and Gladesville, have seen a significant price drop and are experiencing booming conditions. 
“The St George Canterbury and Bankstown areas currently offer some of the highest rental returns in Sydney and at the moment there is a lot of choice in these areas,” said Peter Kerras, Director, Residential at Colliers International.  
“First home buyers seeking capital growth should be looking in these areas to bag a bargain not compete with other buyers to pay a premium with the prospect of modest growth.
“With rent returns now higher than interest rates in some areas, it has never been a better time to buy an investment property and the strategy of ‘rent-vesting’ – buying in a more affordable area with great returns and stay renting where you know - can be a great way for young people to enter the market.”
Currently, the price difference between a new property and an older property has never been less.
“Traditionally you would be paying 20% more for a new property as opposed to second hand property, however the unsure lending environment has brought down the price of new property in certain areas, which is great news for investors,” Kerras said.
“There is a lot of misconception and fear around buying off the plan; however, many of these are unfounded. New properties have much better noise insulation, sound proofing, fire safety, plumbing and wiring and the latest modcons.”
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Rent-vesting could be key to the market for first home buyers: Colliers International 

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<div class="cq-article-content-paras section">
Westpac is offering discounts of up to 105 basis points for property investment loans.
The latest round of cuts sees Westpac especially targeting first-time home buyers and rentvestors.
Andy Wright, Westpac head of portfolio management for home ownership, said it had reduced fixed rates for first time buyers by 40 basis points for principal and interest repayments.
</div>
<div class="cq-article-content-media section">The bank is also introducing a five-year introductory variable rate for first-time buyers and abolishing establishment and monthly fees.</div>
<div class="cq-article-content-paras section">
<div class="adWrapper"> </div>
<div id="article-inline-ad" class="adWrapper">The five-year investment loan of 4.09 per cent includes a discount of 105 basis points.</div>
</div>
<div class="cq-article-content-paras section">
The "flexi" five-year loan is set at 3.79 per cent, which includes a discount of 80 basis points.
"These changes are designed to help first time buyers at the start of their home ownership journey and a cut in fees means they can put their savings towards purchases for their new home," Mr Wright told Fairfax Media.
"This offer also extends to 'rentvestor' first-home buyers who are looking to purchase their first property to rent out. We're seeing this trend increase, with many first-home buyers purchasing properties to rent in more affordable areas while choosing to live in close proximity to the city."
</div>
<div class="cq-article-content-media section">The major bank lenders are aggressively reducing key fixed and investor interest-only rates because they have undershot the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority's 30 per cent cap on new lending. </div>
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Westpac cuts rates for FHB rentvestors

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SPONSORED POST
As a professional writer, Bianca is no stranger to the occasional plot change.
With a long history in the performing arts; from dancing at the Atlanta Olympic Games Closing Ceremony with the Bangarra Dance Company (at just thirteen years of age); studying at one of Australia’s most prestigious acting schools, The Actors Centre Australia; to penning and producing her own comedic television pilot, Coulda Gone Pro – she didn’t exactly have property investing at the forefront of her mind.
However, after extensive travels pursuing her creative ventures that saw her setting up shop in Dublin, LA and London, Bianca felt it was time to settle down.
Now back in Sydney working as a Senior Copywriter for an international beauty company, while freelancing for Fairfax Media as a health and wellness writer, Bianca contemplated options to set herself up for the future. She was always aware of the traditional ideal of ‘security’: buying a home to live in. However, with a creative spirit and a love of travel, this didn’t seem like the right option. In addition, once Bianca crunched the numbers, they spoke for themselves. 
The dream of owning your own home used to mean living in it too. Not for Bianca, she is one of a new breed of investor, the 'rentvestor'. She has the freedom to live where she likes while her property investment pays a weekly income and continues to appreciate.
Bianca shares, “I didn’t want to commit to paying off a mortgage that left me with no money to enjoy life, when I could rent a great apartment within my budget, and still have my finances working for me. 
I was aware of property investing, and had been contemplating my options for some time. Although I had seen friends and family invest, and was now in a financial position to do so myself, I was still apprehensive. 
Being a first-time investor, there was a fear of the unknown because it was all new to me, so I kept putting it off as I didn’t want to lose all my money.” 
As the plot of Bianca’s story progressed, she took the plunge and consulted with DPN’s David Khalil. “David did the initial consultation. He was extremely thorough and tremendously patient, taking the time to clarify every detail and answer a myriad of questions.
“Ultimately, what spurred me on was that property investment could help me reach financial freedom.”
What finally encouraged Bianca to go ahead and invest, was that she saw David Khalil using the strategy personally – to great financial reward. Bianca points out: “The proof is in the pudding. The fact that Dave actually follows the strategies himself, gave me a lot of confidence. He wasn’t just telling me what to do; he had invested his own money, and followed the exact same strategies with impressive success.” 
Ultimately, what spurred her on was how she could see that property investment could one day help her reach financial freedom.  
DPN presented Bianca with a property investment solution 
David alerted Bianca to a house and land package in Currans Hill South-Western Sydney, a suburb of Manooka Valley, which had just become available. It is an area that DPN had identified as having excellent capital growth. In addition, the home was the DPN Casa Second Dual Income – two houses on the same block. The property not only boasts a family-friendly four-bedroom home, but also a chic two-bedroom house. Bianca says she “jumped on it right away” when it was presented to her. DPN assisted in getting a mortgage and recommended property managers.
A Dual Income property that pays two rents
The dual income property allows Bianca to enjoy the passive income from the second home, as well as the remarkable capital growth. The purchase price was $659,961 in Sept 2014, and is now valued at $840,000 in June 2017. That’s a sizeable increase of $180,039 in three years. On top of that, Bianca receives $890 per week in rental income. That works out at a 7 percent rental yield, significantly higher than the average for the suburb. 
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/06/28/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-28%20at%2012.07.40%20PM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/06/28/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-28%20at%2012.07.40%20PM.png" alt="">
"That's a 7 percent rental yield, significantly higher than the average for the suburb." 
So, she is enjoying a positive rental yield with the extra bite of the cherry in strong capital growth. “I’m very happy with my investment. I purchased before the area skyrocketed, and got a lot of bang for my buck.” 
Both Bianca’s brother and sister have also invested with DPN; with her brother so inspired by her success, that he invested in a Brisbane property.
Today, Bianca is a Senior Creative for a leading advertising agency, while occasionally getting back to her performance roots with presenting appearances on Seven’s ‘The Morning Show’, and Nine’s ‘Today’. Renting by the beach, Bianca enjoys seaside life while watching her investments grow.
You can read the original article <a href="https://www.dpn.com.au/learn/market-updates/writing-her-own-story" target="_blank">here</a>. 
For more information from <a href="https://www.dpn.com.au" target="_blank">DPN</a>.
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