Repeat buyers are one of the strongest measures of confidence in any apartment development.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/era-newcastle-west-124-126-bull-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">ERA</a> in Newcastle West, some purchasers are returning to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> after living at the developer's One Apartments. Their decision to purchase again was driven by the quality of life they found after moving into their first GWH home.

Keith Wilton had spent years living in a house in East Maitland before deciding it was time for a change. Apartment living had always been on his radar, but he was selective about what he wanted.

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"I had some boxes I wanted to tick," he says.

Keith points to the open-plan design, generous outdoor areas and considered inclusions as key reasons One Apartments worked for him.

“One of those things was a nice indoor open plan area, but also I wanted a nice outdoor open area that I could entertain on in summer or Christmases or birthdays,” he says.

He also found value in the smaller details, from integrated appliances to shared resident spaces including the pool, cinema and rooftop areas.

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After comparing several developments, he chose One Apartments because of GWH's longstanding local reputation and his own experience working with the developer on a commercial project more than a decade earlier.

"I knew that they were local, that the quality of the build was going to be up there. I'd looked at other apartment complexes around and close by, and I just knew that here was a better decision location wise."

Today, Keith says the move has completely changed how he experiences Newcastle.

"I enjoy living in this location because it's more of a lifestyle change. That Newcastle city living where you can walk to restaurants and bars and even beaches and parks and even shopping across the road."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356828]

Beyond the location, he says it's the sense of community that has surprised him most.

"Everyone loves living here because they chose to live here, but everyone looks out for each other. It's a real great community feel here."

For Aimee and Lyle Goodman, the journey started almost by chance.

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The couple happened to be having coffee in Newcastle when they noticed the site where One Apartments was about to begin construction.

"We were aware GWH was planning a development," Aimee says. "We made one phone call and things moved pretty quickly after that."

As busy business owners, they initially thought apartment living would simply reduce the maintenance that came with larger homes. Instead, it fundamentally changed how they spent time together.

"We actually catch up more as a family now," Aimee says.

"We've had homes with big yards and lots of space, but everyone ended up in different rooms. Here we'll have dinner together, the kids can play, and we spend far more quality time together."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356829]

Lyle says their confidence came from GWH's reputation within Newcastle's building industry.

"I know people who've worked across different apartment projects, and whenever GWH came up the feedback was always the same. They're rock solid. They're quality."

That confidence only grew throughout the buying process.

"One of the things that really impressed us with GWH was the whole process, was the communication," Lyle says. "It was consistent, it was regular, there was no problem if we had some weird questions, there was no problems in getting answers."

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Aimee says one moment stood out.

"The project actually finished on time. We realised we needed to hurry up and sell our house because everything was happening exactly when they said it would."

The positive experience at One Apartments ultimately gave all three buyers the confidence to purchase again with GWH, this time at ERA.

Their confidence reflects what many buyers are seeking in today's apartment market. Location remains important, but so too does certainty around delivery, quality and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356822]

ERA builds on those foundations with 280 one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two landmark towers in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Newcastle West</a>.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a>, the project will include more than 2,000 square metres of resident amenities, including a resort-style pool, gym, sauna, private cinema and rooftop entertaining spaces overlooking the harbour and coastline.&nbsp;

The development is also within walking distance of the Newcastle Interchange, Honeysuckle, Darby Street, the harbour foreshore, restaurants, retail and the city’s beaches, continuing the walkable lifestyle that existing GWH buyers say has transformed how they live.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356826]

For Keith, the appeal remains straightforward.

"You feel at home even before you've moved into your home."

For Aimee, the change is measured in time.

“I just felt like I had more time,” she says.

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Construction at ERA is now underway, with more than half of the residences already sold and limited two and three-bedroom apartments remaining in the East Tower release. Priced from $980,000 for two-bedroom residences and $1.46 million for three-bedroom residences, buyers can secure an apartment with a 10 per cent deposit, with premium homes offering ocean views from Level 8 and harbour views from Level 10.

ERA is also backed by Resilience Insurance's 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing protection against structural or waterproofing defects for 10 years after completion. The project is anticipated to be completed in early 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135096]

Joel Robinson

From ONE to ERA: Why buyers are choosing GWH again in Newcastle West

Virgate Property Group is preparing to commence construction of Verdé, its new apartment development in Melbourne's Arts Precinct at Southbank, following a strong run of sales that has seen more than half of the project's 173 apartments secured.

Verdé has attracted a broad mix of first home buyers, owner-occupiers upgrading from nearby inner-city suburbs and investors, with younger owner-occupier couples aged between 28 and 45 accounting for the strongest enquiry. Many are already living in Southbank, South Melbourne, Albert Park, Port Melbourne, South Yarra and the CBD.

"Verdé is located in one of the most desirable pockets of southern Melbourne," Blair Property Group Director Darren Blair, who is managing sales at Verdé, said.

"It's within walking distance of the Arts Centre, Royal Botanic Gardens, Albert Park Lake, and Southbank's restaurants and retail. It's a great lifestyle location with strong amenity and liveability, which made it a very attractive choice for the project."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372549]

Virgate was already familiar with the precinct, having previously delivered the successful Domain House development in neighbouring South Melbourne. That experience gave the developer confidence to acquire the Coventry Street site and continue expanding its presence in Melbourne's inner south.

"We had been keeping an eye on the site and the broader precinct for a few months before deciding to move forward with the acquisition," Virgate said.

The project was ultimately secured in 2020 following feasibility studies, planning assessments and due diligence, with the brief centred on delivering "a high-quality, considered design that feels both refined and fit for purpose."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=314259]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bruce-henderson-architects">Bruce Henderson Architects</a>, Verdé comprises 173 one, two and three-bedroom apartments priced from $599,000. The architecture is distinguished by a faceted glass façade that responds to both the site's outlook and Melbourne's changing light conditions.

According to Bruce Henderson Architects, the coloured glazing gives the building a distinctive identity while also providing privacy and solar shading, with residences oriented to capture views across the bay, city skyline and surrounding parklands.

Inside, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/designoffice">DesignOffice</a> has created interiors focused on natural light, efficient planning and enduring materials. Apartments feature engineered oak flooring, natural stone benchtops, floor-to-ceiling glazing and SMEG appliances, while a restrained material palette aims to complement the expansive outlooks rather than compete with them.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372550]

Resident amenity has also been designed around everyday functionality rather than occasional use. Facilities include a concierge-serviced lobby, residents' lounge with fireplace, library and co-working space, gym, terrace garden with barbecue facilities, ground-floor café, and package delivery management.

The project's location continues to be one of its strongest drawcards. Positioned on Coventry Street, Verdé sits within walking distance of the National Gallery of Victoria, Arts Centre Melbourne, Royal Botanic Gardens and Albert Park Lake, while Southbank's dining precinct, Sturt Street trams and the new ANZAC Station are all nearby. The surrounding education catchment also includes Melbourne Grammar, Melbourne Girls Grammar, Mac.Robertson Girls' High School and several major university campuses.

The sales team says buyers have responded particularly well to the combination of location, design quality and long-term liveability.

"They're responding really positively to the quality of the design, premium resident amenities and the uninterrupted views. Many also appreciate the location and how connected it is to everything they need."

The ability to secure stamp duty savings before completion has also been a key factor for purchasers, alongside the opportunity to personalise finishes ahead of settlement.

With construction set to commence soon and more than half the apartments already sold, Verdé enters its next phase as one of the Arts Precinct's more established apartment developments, offering remaining buyers an opportunity to secure a residence before construction advances further. Expected completion is scheduled for late 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=4661]

Virgate's Verdé Southbank moves toward construction as sales fly past halfway stage

Downsizer-focused apartment development Kooyongkoot in Hawthorn has been recognised at the 2026 Better Future Melbourne Design Awards, taking home Gold and Silver awards in two categories.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kooyongkoot-hawthorn-1-kooyongkoot-road-hawthorn-vic-3122">Kooyongkoot</a>, currently being delivered by developer PQD and designed by Cera Stribley, received Gold in the Interior Design – Proposed category and Silver in the Architecture – Proposed category.

The dual recognition reflects the design approach behind the boutique development on prestigious Kooyongkoot Road, where the focus has been on creating homes for downsizers seeking the space, quality and functionality of a detached house within a low-rise apartment building.

Rather than maximising apartment numbers, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pqd">PQD</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a> limited the development to just 18 residences, allowing for larger floorplans, greater privacy, generous landscaping and expansive communal spaces.&nbsp;The majority of the apartments also benefit from corner aspects, allowing for dual sources of natural light.

Now around 70 per cent complete and on track for completion in November 2026, Kooyongkoot will comprise a mix of garden residences, ter​race apartments, sub-penthouses, and is crowned by two half-floor penthouses with direct lift access and private rooftop terraces.

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The Silver Award for Architecture recognised the way the building responds to its prominent corner position at the ent​rance to Hawthorn's Scotch Hill precinct, one of Melbourne's most established residential neighbourhoods.

Rather than competing with the grand homes that line Kooyongkoot Road, the architectural approach focused on restraint and longevity, using curved brickwork, generous landscaping and carefully considered proportions to integrate with the existing streetscape.

"The form feels fluid and timeless, as though shaped by the landscape itself – architecture that belongs, rather than competes," said Chris Stribley, Co-Founder and Managing Principal of Cera Stribley.

The judging submission also highlighted practical innovations throughout the building, including lift cores servicing only nine homes each, a central landscaped lightcourt designed to bring daylight and ventilation into the building, and fully enclosed private storage rooms with lighting, power and shelving to better accommodate residents transitioning from larger family homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355293]

The Gold Award for Interior Design recognised the project's focus on long-term liveability rather than display-home aesthetics.

According to the awards submission, the interiors were designed from the inside out, prioritising how homes would function over decades of daily use through generous proportions, practical storage, durable natural materials and flexible layouts.

The specification includes natural stone throughout, upgraded acoustic glazing, V-ZUG appliances and fully enclosed storage rooms, alongside an amenity offering focused on wellness, entertainment and everyday convenience.&nbsp;

Residents will have access to a gym and yoga studio, a wellness centre featuring traditional and infrared saunas, a cold therapy shower and treatment room, as well as a residents' lounge and golf simulator/cinema room for entertainment.&nbsp;Kooyongkoot has also considered the everyday convenience of its residents by offering a private carwash and pet wash facilities on site as well as dedicated parcel lockers and oversized fully enclosed storage rooms.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355303]

The project's attention to detail has already resonated with buyers. Earlier this year, Kooyongkoot recorded one of Boroondara's highest apartment sales when an $8 million penthouse was purchased by a Melbourne CEO downsizing from a nearby family home.

"Every detail feels deliberate, from the overall design down to the smallest touches," the purchaser said.

"The level of quality and refinement is exceptional, but what really sold it was how liveable it felt... It felt like a place where everything had been considered, not just a luxury building."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355304]

Sustainability also formed a key part of both award submissions. Kooyongkoot is targeting a minimum 7.5-star NatHERS rating across all residences, supported by passive design principles, high-performance glazing, EV charging infrastructure, water reuse systems and a wellness model focused on lower-energy dry facilities rather than pools and large wet areas.

Located within walking distance of Scotch College, Methodist Ladies' College, Koo​yong Lawn Tennis Club, Aubur​n Village and Camberwell Junction, Kooyongkoot continues to target owner-occupiers looking to remain in Melbourne's inner east without compromising on space or quality. A limited selection of two, three and four-bedroom residences remains available, with prices starting from $1.9 million.

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Kooyongkoot wins Gold and Silver at Better Future Melbourne Design Awards

New apartment supply has become increasingly constrained across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parramatta-nsw-2150">Parramatta</a> in recent years, with fewer projects progressing through to completion as development conditions have become more challenging.

It makes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/novm">NOVM</a>'s 2021-completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/the-lennox-parramatta-12-phillip-street-parramatta-nsw-2150">The Lennox</a> one of the most recently completed residential towers on the Parramatta River, and among the newest apartment developments in Sydney's second CBD.

With the project largely completed before the sharp escalation in construction costs and inflation following the pandemic, The Lennox is now offering pricing that would be difficult to replicate in a comparable new development in Parramatta today, or across much of Western Sydney.

The majority of the 413 apartments at The Lennox sold before and shortly after completion. A limited release of the remaining apartments has recently been brought to market by capital partner <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a>, with entry-level pricing from $700,000 and two-bedroom apartments available from under $1 million.

Rising above the Parramatta River at 12 Phillip Street, The Lennox comprises one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, appealing to first home buyers, young professionals, families, downsizers and interstate investors seeking a completed apartment in one of Australia's fastest-growing economic centres.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=372394]

Rather than positioning Parramatta as an alternative to Sydney's CBD, Equitifund believes the city has reached a point where it stands on its own merits.

"Parramatta is no longer simply an alternative to Sydney CBD, it's becoming a destination in its own right," Equitifund Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said.

"The Lennox captures that evolution with a level of quality and amenity that's difficult to match at its price point."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=953]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/marchese-partners">Marchese Partners</a>, the tower responds directly to its riverfront setting through expansive glazing and open-plan layouts that maximise views across the Parramatta River and city skyline. Interiors feature engineered timber flooring, stone benchtops, stainless steel appliances and floor-to-ceiling glazing, while generous balconies extend the living spaces outdoors.

Marchese Partners says the project was conceived to balance high-quality apartment living with practical, long-term functionality, pairing larger, efficient floorplans with amenities more commonly associated with five-star hotels.

That emphasis continues through the resident facilities, which include a 20-metre rooftop swimming pool, fully equipped gym and wellness spaces, full-time concierge, a residents' lounge, function room, private lifts, secure basement parking and rooftop communal areas overlooking the Parramatta River. Ground-floor boardwalk retail and dining further activate the riverfront and integrate the building into the surrounding public realm.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=925]

Australian housing and finance group Equitifund has secured the remaining apartments, believing there are few completed apartment opportunities in Parramatta that offer the same combination of location, amenity and pricing.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett says buyers are increasingly recognising that premium apartment living no longer needs to come with Sydney CBD pricing.

"The Lennox is where aspirational living becomes attainable," Hamblett said.

"Wake to river and mountain views, step into Sydney's Second CBD, and arrive home to resort-calibre amenities, all without the harbour price tag."

Hamblett says owner-occupiers are also attracted by the convenience of having Westfield Parramatta, Church Street's dining precinct, Parramatta Park, Riverside Theatres, Western Sydney University and major transport connections all within walking distance.

"At The Lennox, lifestyle is not an afterthought, it is the foundation."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=5374]

The Lennox places residents within walking distance of Parramatta Square, Westfield Parramatta, Church Street Eat Street, Parramatta Station, the ferry wharf, Light Rail, the future Sydney Metro West, Parramatta Park and CommBank Stadium, reinforcing Parramatta's position as one of Australia's most connected metropolitan centres outside Sydney's CBD.

Equitifund says buyers visiting the display suite consistently comment on the quality of the finishes, generous floorplans, river and skyline views, and the walkability of the location. The project has attracted a broad mix of local professionals, upsizers, downsizers, buyers relocating from Sydney's inner suburbs and interstate investors seeking long-term growth opportunities.

That demand aligns with Parramatta's continued evolution as an economic powerhouse. Equitifund Research and Market Insights specialist John Bekiaris says sustained population growth, infrastructure investment and expanding employment opportunities continue to support long-term housing demand across the city.

"Parramatta has evolved from a satellite city into one of Australia's most important economic centres. Population growth, infrastructure investment and employment are all supporting sustained long-term housing demand."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=5743]

The apartment price gap drawing Sydney buyers west

A luxury beachfront apartment at Rainbow Bay has more than doubled in value since it sold off the plan six years ago, setting a new local apartment record in the process.

The three-bedroom apartment in the Flow development on Petrie Street, the first of four new projects locally by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects, has sold for $7.4 million, after originally selling for $3.27 million when the project launched in 2020.

The seventh-floor apartment, comprising 187 sqm of internal living space and a 54 sqm balcony overlooking Froggies Beach and Snapper Rocks, was purchased by a local family.

The transaction was negotiated by Pezet Matheson director Kerry Pezet and equates to more than $30,000 per sqm.

Pezet said the sale reflected the limited opportunities to buy into the boutique beachfront development.

"The sale highlights the rarity of opportunities within the boutique beachfront development, where residences seldom become available," Pezet said.

"Flow is one of the Gold Coast's most tightly held buildings. Buyers from our database move quickly when residences become available, and achieving an off-market sale at $7.4 million demonstrates the depth of demand for property of this calibre."

<img alt="Flow" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c585b206-2130-4eee-a50c-3f27c51a7c70" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-06%20at%208.33.25%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=m3pHRDV62Y3fvN.XQuQHq.52ilTWpRLf" />

Flow was the first of four luxury apartment developments delivered by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects at Rainbow Bay and was completed in 2023.

Positioned on the beachfront overlooking Snapper Rocks, the residence includes three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a powder room and views stretching north along the coastline towards Surfers Paradise.

Pezet Matheson Residential principal Mitchell Lambert said buyers continued to prioritise quality beachfront apartments in tightly held locations.

"Flow Residences offers a rare combination of elevated beachfront positioning, architectural excellence, comprehensive resident amenity and premium finishes, which is exactly what discerning purchasers are seeking," Lambert said.

"The transaction further reinforces Rainbow Bay's reputation as one of Australia's premier coastal lifestyle destinations, where limited supply and growing demand continue to support strong market performance."

Pezet Matheson originally marketed and sold out Flow off the plan, making the latest transaction a return to one of the project's original buyers.

Paul Gedoun is selling his third project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/radia-rainbow-bay-271-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Radia Rainbow Bay</a>, after recently completing, and selling out, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/esprit-217-227-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Esprit</a>. He has plans for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-s-s-projects-proposes-88-apartment-wellness-tower-at-coolangattas-boundary-street">fourth building</a>, 88 apartments on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/209-213-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Boundary Street</a>.

Rainbow Bay apartment doubles in price since off the plan sale during pandemic

Residential Development

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Melbourne property developer Goldfields has unveiled its newest boutique luxury apartment project, 525 High Street in Prahran East.
Containing 46 residences, it was designed by JCB Architects and interior designers, Hecker Guthrie.
Situated between Toorak and Armadale, the 7-storey building comprises 44 spacious one, two and three-bedroom apartments and two Townhouses, highlighted by marble and timber accents, aged iron tapware, designer hardware and Miele appliances.
<img src="/images/2016/10/04/image003.png" alt="">
There are city views.
Its ground floor retail space is earmarked for a stylish brasserie and independent organic grocer.
Goldfields’ Lachlan Thompson, says 525 High Street features luxuries generally found in traditional homes, including an entry hall, butler’s pantry, traditional fireplace and even a designated bar.
They are listed through Marshall White Projects’ director, Leonard Teplin.
<img src="/images/2016/10/04/VIEW_03_LR.JPG" alt="">
All residences have a car park space - some have two or more spaces - with many also including a study area, laundry room, bar, and additional storage.
525 High Street offers two bedroom apartments priced from $689,500 and townhouses from $740,000.
The penthouse occupying the entire top floor and featuring direct lift access and three secure basement car spaces is priced at $3,200,000.
Construction is scheduled to commence early 2017 and completed towards the end of the second quarter of 2018.
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Goldfields unveils apartment project, 525 High Street

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Chinese firm Bridge Capital has partnered with Australian-based firm iProsperity Group to buy a property block in Sydney's CBD for $88,888,888.
The property, 333 Kent St, is expected to be developed into a high-end hotel with residential apartments. 
According to media reports Colliers International’s Vince Kernahan said there were nine offers ahead of the owner accepting the Bridge Capital offer. He said the offer exceeded their expectations. 
“Interested parties were predominantly residential and hotel developers with two groups looking to “landbank” the building,” he said.
 
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Chinese investors to buy Sydney office building for $88,888,888

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GUEST OBSERVER
The benefits of creating low to mid-rise apartment dwellings in established inner and middle-ring suburbs are well documented, in terms of both urban planning and supporting the cultural health of citizens.
These developments meet the demands of buyers, mainly downsizers and first homebuyers, who have lived in established suburbs most of their lives and wish to remain in these areas for years to come.
In addition to this, the subdivision of middle-ring blue chip sites for multi-residential use has created a greater diversity of housing stock among tightly held areas, allowing more residents the opportunity to afford housing closer to the CBD
Despite the known benefits, councils and residents alike are wary of supporting new multi-residential developments, with concerns these buildings detract from the character and overall appeal of prestigious suburbs.
Design that emphasises local context is the solution here. The need to respect and respond to the context of the existing built environment may be one of the most important rules towards sensitively developing apartments in established suburbs.
At Rothelowman, we are currently developing a number of projects that both explore and honour their social, architectural and historical surroundings. In doing so, we are creating dwellings that gel with and attract the local people.
When designing an apartment building a strong focus is needed on the contextual, specific and unique elements of the site to connect it with the area, a generic formula is no longer enough.
Graceview (above), a five-storey apartment development located in the established middle-ring Sydney suburb of Turramurra, exemplifies this design philosophy.
This building takes its design cues from its neighbouring sites – the heritage-listed brick-built church, St Margaret’s, and Cameron Park. Architecturally, Graceview responds not only to St Margaret Church but also to the many large brick houses that characterise Turramurra.
Careful to preserve these much admired community spaces, our contextual design response was to build this 54- dwelling project around six beautiful, volumetric brick forms. These low, integrated brick towers respect the height of the church and sit back from the park, amid the foliage, in a manner that is unassuming yet sculptural.
Graceview gave us the opportunity to tell a tale in brick. Working with this local heritage material, as architects we were able to listen to the local story and incorporate this narrative into the design. As a result, people who have lived in Turramurra their entire lives have responded to the project in a very positive manner.
In projects such as Graceview, we are exploring new ways to provide neighbourhood connection. We are seeing higher levels of owner-occupancy from downsizers and first homebuyers looking to stay in the suburbs they already know and love. This in turn drives higher quality architecture.
For our recent development Canopy in Melbourne’s beach side suburb Elwood, we wanted to provide the experience of living in a beach road mansion, in keeping with the suburb’s ocean lifestyle.
Located in a largely single residential area, we designed Canopy as a four-storey development across two modern, geometrically inspired buildings to offer an aesthetically pleasing and proportionate response to suit the eclectic, existing architectural environment.
Graceview and Canopy are just two examples of Rothelowman projects that pay homage to their location and site history. Other examples include The Glass Factory in West End (once home to the Decorative Glass Company), Light + Co in West End (formerly The South Brisbane Gas &amp; Light Company), Tip Top in Brunswick (previously home to Northern Bakeries and later Tip Top Bakeries), and Corde in East Brisbane (which pays tribute to the Forsyth Rope Works site located adjacent – formerly the only rope manufacturer in Queensland).
It is our belief that by providing these strong links to site history and in our design, we cannot only preserve the history of established suburbs, but support population growth and future generations in a sustainable manner. 
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David Thompson and Jonothan Cowle are senior asssociates, Rothelowman and can be contacted <a href="https://www.rothelowman.com.au" target="_blank">here</a>. 
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Designing density for blue chip suburbs

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If you are looking for luxurious living away from the din and bustle of the city, Shawood homes in Gledswood Hills in Sydney’s southwest Macarthur region could be just the thing for you.
Set within the Donohue's View precinct at The Hermitage estate, Shawood homes by leading Japanese developer Sekisui House are set over one or two levels, offer four-bedrooms, multiple living areas, study and ample storage.
Other features include open plan interiors, plenty of natural light and reverse cycle, ducted air conditioning for year-round comfort. The rear and front yards are landscaped. 
In addition, access to more than 35 hectares of parklands, cycle and pathways and a golf course. The development is expected to be complete in 2017.
For more information, <a href="https://www.shawoodaustralia.com.au" target="_blank">click here</a>. 
<img src="/images/2016/09/23/Shawood1.jpg" alt="">
 
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Shawood homes in Sydney's Gledswood Hills promise luxury and comfort

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Four development projects have made the shortlist for the NSW Government's Green Globe Awards built environment category.
The projects include 5 Martin Place, Sydney from DEXUS Property Group, Fairwater from Frasers Property Australia, 275 Kent Street, Sydney by Mirvac and Westpac: St. George, Barangaroo Branch
The winners will be  announced 28 October
DEXUS Property Group: 5 Martin Place, Sydney
5 Martin Place was developed by Cbus Property and DEXUS Property Group. The development sets a new benchmark for office buildings in Sydney with its clever architectural design, high-end materials and finishes, and good access to natural light and ventilation.
Frasers Property Australia: Fairwater (pictured above)
Fairwater, Frasers Property Australia's 38 hectare residential development in Blacktown, is built on an old golf course surrounded by communal outdoor areas and ecological precincts. It is the first 6-star Green Star - Communities rating to be awarded in NSW. This project represents initiatives in large-scale residential precinct development which locks in real outcomes in sustainable living for residents.
Mirvac: 275 Kent Street, Sydney
Westpac Place at 275 Kent Street is one of Australia's largest office buildings. As Westpac's head office it contains extensive office space plus a food court, child care centre and urban park. Built by Mirvac in 2015, the building was one of the first properties in Australia to achieve a 6-Star Green Star Performance rating. The rating represents World Leadership in operational management and complements the property's 5-Star NABERS energy rating.
Westpac: St. George, Barangaroo Branch
Westpac's focus on environmental solutions has resulted in the large urban renewal development at Barangaroo, Sydney. The development is the first retail fit-out in Australia to be awarded a 6-Star Green Star - Interiors rating by the Green Building Council of Australia. The fit-out design ensures water and energy consumption is minimised. All furniture and building materials in the fit-out demonstrate a reduced environmental impact over their entire lifecycle compared to standard products. Social innovations include the provision for community organisations to use the branch premises outside office hours.
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For more information, <a href="https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/greenglobes/" target="_blank">click here</a>.
 
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Finalists for the 2016 Green Globe Awards announced

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Beyond, a new apartment project in Sydney’s southern suburb of Hurstville aims to be a sleek design, elegant and modern.
The mixed-use project by developer Fridcorp will feature sculpted towers around a central plaza.
The unit mix will be a combination of one, two or three bedroom apartments sitting above retail and dining spaces.
<img src="/images/2016/09/23/Beyond2.jpg" alt="">
Beyond will be launched on Saturday, October 1 with fanfare at 99 Forest Road, Hurstville. The event will feature a performance by Australian singer and Eurovision runner-up Dami Im, while well-known patissier Adriano Zumbo will also make an appearance.
<img src="/images/2016/09/26/image003.jpg" alt="">
As for the project, each apartment promises wide frontage, light-filled interiors, elegant bathrooms with taps and basins designed specifically Beyond.
In Friedcorp founder-director Paul Friedman’s words: “We draw inspiration from around the world to create buildings that inspire our buyers beyond imagination.”
<img src="/images/2016/09/23/Beyond3.jpg" alt="" style="font-size: 12.16px;">
The project is a joint effort by developer Fridcorp, international architecture firm Woods Bagot and DKO Architecture. 
The retail spaces will have a Woolworths, cafes, restaurants and other speciality stores.
<img src="/images/2016/09/26/image004.jpg" alt="">
Earlier this year, Fridcorp completed construction on its first Sydney-based residential project Eve in Erskineville. The project is worth $160 million and has a mix of 197 one, two and three bedroom apartments across four buildings that vary from four to six levels.
<img src="/images/2016/09/26/image005.jpg" alt="">
Prices start from $450,000 up to $1.5 million.
More than 140 of its 197 apartments were sold within two hours of launching in May 2014, all off-the-plan. 
Beyond is expected to generate strong interest. 
For more information, <a href="https://beyondbyfridcorp.com.au/" target="_blank">click here</a>.
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Fridcorp's designer apartments, Beyond at Hurstville set for launch  

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The traditional Victorian terrace home is seeing big change, as smaller lot sizes and buyers who have family elders staying with them redefine the family home.
Developer Mirvac is adapting to this shift with its 240 terrace-style homes at its Tullamore masterplanned community in Melbourne’s Doncaster, with the 134 released to date selling out. 
The emerging shift towards multi-generational living coupled with the unique needs of empty nesters has led to a reinvention of the traditional family home, according to Mirvac. 
Multi-storey designs on smaller blocks of land that feature private downstairs quarters are increasingly becoming the norm, over traditionally expansive single-level family homes. Many buyers are requesting studies and home office areas on the ground floor to be changed into self-contained master suites for older generations of families to live in.
In addition, attached tri-level homes that share common walls are providing a new take on the traditional Victorian terrace in new-build communities. 
Mirvac’s head of Residential, John Carfi, said in recent months the company’s architects had redesigned a swathe of homes in Melbourne to cater to the changing needs of buyers. 
“The traditional family home is undergoing a major makeover as our largest demographic – the baby boomers – ages and their housing needs change,” he said. 
“Our ageing population, coupled with record migration, is resulting in a new style of family home that costs less to maintain and is more flexible in its layout.” 
Tullamore has seen strong interest from international families, among whom multi-generational living is the norm, according to Mirvac.
At Tullamore, Mirvac has also introduced some feng shui elements to cater to the market.
“This is a new era in housing that will change the look and feel of parts of our suburbs, just as duplexes and townhouses did in the 1990s,” he said.
Mirvac has a pipeline of 14,000 new dwellings across Australia, which are expected to add to the market over the next four years, 
Mirvac architect Andrew La, behind the home designs at Tullamore, said a key factor in the evolution of housing was the increasing demand for smaller lot sizes by purchasers who don’t want a large backyard to take care of. 
Over the past five years, average lot sizes across Australia have shrunk. However, at Tullamore, Mirvac has increased lot sizes for its premium homes that offer city views and access to an adjacent reserve. 
“The lock and leave lifestyle whereby a resident can enjoy less maintenance on a property is a key factor in new home design today,” La said. 
“It is resulting in a reinvention of the traditional Victorian terrace home. With shared walls and height across three levels, the modern Victorian home offers purchasers much less maintenance, without compromising on space or style.”
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Mirvac sees shift in traditional family homes with generational living  

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The last stage of the apartment project in Sydney’s Summer Hill, known as The Flour Mill, which innovates on the concept of the original flour mill there, will be launched officially on September 24.
The original flour mill was built by Mungo Scott in the 1920s. It was redesigned by HASSELL and developed by EG and Daiwa House. 
Construction on The Flour Mill began in early 2015 and the final stage will unveil 135 studios, one, two and three-bedroom apartments located across the remaining buildings which comprise the Durum Silos, The Wheatstore and The Granary. 
The residential development comprises 360 apartments and terraces surrounded by landscaped communal gardens, retail spaces and easy access to the light rail and train station. 
Since its launch in 2014, Stage 1 and Stage 2 have sold completely. 
The four circular towers of the original wheat silos, dubbed the Durum Silos now form 56 apartments across 14 storeys, at the peak of which sit two penthouse apartments with roof terraces enjoying 360 degree views. 
The Granary has been converted to one and two bedroom apartments that mimic the scale of the original buildings on this site. 
The Wheatstore’s triangular structure stands out as the only design within the Flour Mill that started from scratch. It houses 27 two and three-bedroom apartments. 
EG’s development manager Raja Jamal said the focus was community and connectivity. 
“Summer Hill hosts a strong, connected community and we are excited to bring together the new and the old residents,” says Jamal. 
“The new retail precinct and integrated communal public park will complement the vibrant high street and existing village atmosphere.” 
Collier’s International is marketing the project and has started taking enquiries for the last stage. 
Colliers’ residential director Ian Bennett said, “The majority of buyers in Stage 1 and 2 were locals looking to buy a piece of the area’s history, with investors and first home buyers looking at the one and two-bedroom apartments due to the connectivity with the light rail, train station and bus services all flanking the development,” said Bennett.
The Flour Mill’s completion scheduled for the end of 2018. 
For more information, <a href="https://summerhillflourmill.com.au/" target="_blank">click here</a>.
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Last chance to buy a piece of history in Sydney’s Summer Hill 

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A Hong Kong based developer has paid $8.8 million for a Southbank development site.
It comes with plans for a $80 million Fender Katsalidis designed, 38 level residential tower.
Savills agent Nick Peden brokered the <a href="https://commercialpropertysearch.savills.com.au/256601/Sale/Southbank/18-Moray-Street" target="_blank">18 Moray Street deal</a> with Clinton Baxter and Jesse Radisich at $20,000 a square metre of land and $70,000 per apartment.
"The sale set a strong new benchmark for Southbank land," Peden said. 
“The transaction clearly demonstrates the ongoing appeal of the Melbourne market to Asia-based developers wishing to undertake projects to meet the needs of our rapidly growing population, and the price reflected that."
The 446 square metre corner site had a permit for a 124 apartments.
The sale was finalised promptly on unconditional cash terms and subject to two short term leases returning $120,000 per annum net.
He said the site was one of the last major permit-approved development opportunities within the prized Crown Casino precinct.
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Savills sells Southbank Fender Katsalidis tower site for $8.8 million

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A mixed-use apartment project in the Brisbane suburb of Upper Mount Gravatt was launched to the market this month and is being exclusively marketed by Savills Residential Projects.
The $96 million development, Avion Residences (<a href="https://www.avionresidences.com.au" target="_blank">www.avionresidences.com.au</a>), will have twin 15-level towers linked by a sky bridge.
The development’s 174 apartments come as either two- or three-bedroom units priced from $449,000. Apartments range in size from 81sqm to 160sqm.
There are two sub penthouses as well. Shared spaces include a swimming pool, outdoor cinema, private dining room, relaxation zones and a barbecue area.
The retail area will include a shared two-level commercial podium and shops. 
It is the first Brisbane venture for Raykong Property, which gained development approval for Avion Residences in July. 
Project manager Michael Sutherland of PDS Group said the public launch of Avion Residences was timed to meet the growing need for quality residential apartments in Upper Mount Gravatt.
“Avion Residences will play its part in the gentrification of Upper Mount Gravatt which, as a suburb, figures strongly in the Queensland Government’s CBD decentralisation strategy.”
The project is located on Cremin Street, close to Griffith University’s Mount Gravatt and Nathan campuses, the M1 and South East Busway.
“Avion Residences is tapping into the strong demand for apartments in the area,” he said.
Savills Residential Projects state director Peter Neale said the early buyer interest in Avion Residences had surpassed expectations.
“People are drawn to the project’s proximity to amenities, universities and public transport options,” he said, adding that expected buyers would be a mix of owner-occupiers and investors looking for strong growth and yields.
“Because of the location and style of the building, investors are seeing capital growth potential and strong rental yields from young executives living in the area,” he said.
“We anticipate however, that owner occupiers will account for 60 per cent of our apartment buyers because the sheer size of these residences means they don’t have to compromise on space when downsizing.”
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