The residential transformation of St Kilda Road is set to continue into with more new apartment plans for the sought-after boulevard.

Wing Tai Asia has lodged plans for a major residential tower at 464-466 St Kilda Road, replacing the former VACC House with an 18-storey mixed-use development designed around a retained heritage podium and a sculpted contemporary tower.

The proposal, prepared under Victoria’s Significant Residential Development with Affordable Housing pathway, would deliver 325 apartments and ground-floor retail across the prominent 4,653 sqm boulevard site in Melbourne’s St Kilda Road North Precinct.

The project centres on the adaptive reuse of the site’s heritage-listed VACC Building, an eight-storey office designed by Bernard Evans that has occupied the address for decades. Planning documents state the development would involve “carefully dismantling and conserving off-site the original metal fabric of the podium visible from St Kilda Road,” before reinstating it as the defining frontage of the new scheme.

Above the restored podium, Wing Tai is proposing a curvilinear residential tower. The scheme includes 172 one-bedroom apartments, 63 two-bedroom apartments, 66 three-bedroom apartments, and 24 four-bedroom apartments, alongside two ground-floor food and beverage tenancies fronting St Kilda Road.

The tower has been designed with substantial articulation and variable setbacks to minimise perceived bulk and maintain view corridors along the boulevard. Urbis, which prepared the planning report, said the design “has been significantly articulated through a curvilinear design” with “an interplay with materials, façade expression and depth” to create visual separation and visual interest.

The proposal also includes 254 basement car spaces, landscaped pedestrian links connecting St Kilda Road and Queens Lane, and a biophilic landscape strategy featuring canopy trees, raised planters, cascading greenery and a glass oculus pool overlooking the eastern frontage.

Planning documents confirm the $270.1 million development will contribute 3 per cent of project costs to the Social Housing Growth Fund as part of the application process.

Wing Tai acquired the St Kilda Road property in 2018 alongside Abacus Property Group for $95.38 million, before later consolidating ownership of the site. The property previously served as the Victorian Automobile Chamber of Commerce headquarters for around 60 years.

The transformation of the St Kilda Rd boulevard is already beginning to materialise, with a number of high-profile projects recently completed, launched, or approaching launch as developers continue to back the long-term appeal of the precinct.

Among the most notable recent completions is Louise by Samuel Property Group, just off the strip on Queens Lane, the same pocket Hirsch &amp; Faigen recently launched The Queensbury. Mirvac is too on the same street with The Albertine, which is approaching completion.

Dexus recently secured approval for its slice of St Kilda Road, while Gurner also has approved plans for the precinct.

Joel Robinson

Wing Tai unveils 325-apartment St Kilda Road tower on former VACC House site

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

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

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

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

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

Bottega House secures landmark riverfront site in St Lucia 

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

SIERA kicks off construction at Northcliffe tower Exhale

Residential Development

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SPONSORED POST
The Norwest Business Park is on the cusp of a transformation that will bring new life and vitality to the area. A growing workforce and a local population seeking out a new way of living are the driving forces behind the evolution of Norwest.
The milestone of 20,000 workers in Norwest has come and gone with forecasts the area will see more than 35,000 people employed in the business park in the next 15 years.
 “A larger workforce will inevitably mean an increase in demand for housing so there’s no doubt Norwest is already undergoing a revitalisation into an integrated lifestyle destination,” Steve Grant from Capital Corporation says.
“And the plans we have for Esplanade on Norwest Lake are leading the way in that transformation.”
By combining a diverse mix of apartments, a host of resident-only amenities, three levels of boutique workspaces, waterfront dining and retails areas to the backdrop of an upgraded public boardwalk, the Esplanade proposal is the natural next step in an already very successful area to make daily life more enjoyable and convenient.
Norwest will also benefit from Australia’s largest public transport infrastructure project in the Sydney Metro Northwest rail line.
The fast, reliable and high frequency trains will easily transport people from Norwest to the city, Macquarie Park and across the district.
The Norwest metro station is being built within 400 metres of the Esplanade site, with both projects slated for completion in 2019.
This public transport infrastructure will add to the appeal of living in Norwest, with accessibility and connectivity a key consideration for owner-occupiers and investors alike. 
“We’ve been building at Norwest for over 25 years, and we’ve seen that every time there’s a major infrastructure investment there is a corresponding lift in property values,” Mr Grant says.
“That occurred with the opening of the M2, opening of Norwest Marketown, the opening of the M7 and it’s our opinion this will occur again with opening of the Norwest rail station, due to open about the time Esplanade is completed.”
Esplanade responds to the needs of many families who moved to The Hills area 20 or 30 years ago who are now looking for the convenience of a development that brings the life-work-recreation combination together to make daily life more enjoyable.
“Our extensive experience within the northwest market tells us that buyers and investors are looking for projects that contribute to a healthier work-life balance,” Mr Grant says. “That’s why location is just as important as the facilities on offer in an integrated development like the one proposed at Esplanade.”
To learn more about what esplanade offers, please visit <a href="https://esplanadenorwest.com.au" target="_blank">esplanadenorwest.com.au</a>, call 1800 088 800 or visit our unique display suite to see what a full-sized two-bedroom apartment will look like. The display suite is located at 11 Solent Circuit, Baulkham Hills and is open daily from 11am to 2.30pm or by private appointment.
 
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po-LsXgBTHBmX

Norwest set for exciting transition into a thriving urban hub

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<img src="/images/2016/12/07/CWG-logo-270W-trans.png" alt="" width="452" height="122">
SPONSORED POST
CWG Development (formerly Chiwayland) has unveiled its latest boutique project – Stellar Ryde, a stunning $80 million structure designed by award winning architects SJB. 
Located in the heart of Ryde’s central business district on Victoria Road minutes to Top Ryde Shopping Centre, Stella Ryde comprises of 95 stunning apartments spread across two towers reaching nine and five storeys high that wrap around a central landscaped courtyard.
Shayne Harris, director residential at Savills Australia and project director for Stellar Ryde, comments: “Stellar Ryde will set a new standard for luxury and sophistication in Ryde. It represents contemporary living at its best and offers a vibrant and well-connected lifestyle that is within a short drive to major employment and transport hubs including Epping, Eastwood, Macquarie Park, Rhodes and Sydney’s CBD.
“The striking architectural design by SJB will ensure Stella Ryde will become an iconic structure on the suburb’s skyline. Its superbly designed spacious interiors complement the exterior. The expansive views of the Parramatta River across to the city are breathtaking and will command buyer attention. Purchasers who are attracted to quality and style will be drawn to this project.”
Prices start at $599,000 to $675,000 for one bed (52 - 59 square metres internal), two beds are priced from $810,000 to $940,000 (75 - 80 square metres internal) and three beds are priced from $999,000 to $1.16 million (97 square metres internal). All apartments include parking and most enjoy a Northerly aspect. 
For further information visit <a href="https://www.stellarryde.com.au/" target="_blank">www.stellarryde.com.au</a> or the display suite at 819b Victoria Road, Ryde which is open daily from 11am to 4pm.
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Stellar Ryde launches with its striking bold architecture

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<img src="/images/2016/12/07/CWG-logo-270W-trans.png" alt="" width="455" height="123">
SPONSORED POST
SJB architect’s stunning Stellar Ryde is strategically positioned at the gateway to one of Sydney’s fastest growing suburbs. The area is undergoing significant change and benefiting from major infrastructure investment in the region.
The project is situated in a thriving green suburban metropolis. Parks, shopping centres, restaurants and schools are all easily accessible, creating the perfect lifestyle destination.
Jennifer Loh, head of sales and marketing for CWG Development, comments: “Stellar Ryde was a strategic purchase in the expanding North West corridor. Ryde offers a clean and green lifestyle with plenty of open spaces, yet is still accessible to major transport links and employment hubs. It offers the epitome of luxurious living in a thriving suburb. 
“There is a broad range of apartment types to suit every purchaser. Most of the sales have been to local buyers who understand the superior proposition Stellar Ryde offers them. The unique architectural façade and stunning interiors will appeal to any discerning purchaser.”
Prices start at $599,000 to $675,000 for one bed (52-59 square metres internal), two beds are priced from $810,000 to $940,000 (75-80 square metres internal) and three beds are priced from $999,000 to $1.16 million (97 square metres internal). All apartments include parking and most enjoy a Northerly aspect. 
Stellar Ryde is located within 1.5 kilometres to West Ryde and Meadowbank train stations and several bus stops are located along Victoria Road which connect to the city. Top Ryde City Shopping Centre, Ryde Aquatic Leisure Centre, Ryde Park and Meadowbank Memorial Park also easily accessible.
Rhodes is a 3.7 kilometre commute, Eastwood is 4.4 kilometres, Concord Hospital is 4.7 kilometres, Macquarie Park is 5.8 kilometres and the Sydney CBD is 13 kilometres.
There are also several excellent schools in the near vicinity including Ryde Public School, St Charles Catholic Primary School, Northcross Christian School and Gladesville Public School.
For further information visit <a href="https://www.stellarryde.com.au/" target="_blank">www.stellarryde.com.au</a> or the display suite at 819b Victoria Road, Ryde which is open daily from 11am to 4pm. 
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Stellar Ryde – the gateway to Ryde

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The Bourbon, Kings Cross owner is having another go at getting development approval for the extensive site amalgamation, after heritage rules forced them to keep the two Italianate terrace style buildings.
The $65 million proposal comes two years after the City of Sydney released new planning controls for Darlinghurst Road in Kings Cross.
Costs have soared from the initial $47 million proposal.
The draft controls ensured that any development retain the heritage.
The façade of The Bourbon at 22–24 Darlinghurst Road was deemed a site of historical significance that reflected social and architectural change in Potts Point over the decades.
The mansion terrace was originally built for wealthy professionals, then modified for use as a private hospital, later converted to a boarding house, and finally became a popular nightclub.
 <img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2020/9/17/The%20Bourbon%202.jpeg" alt=""> 
The proposal marks the end of an era for the standalone hotel that comes with more folklore than any other in Sydney since being opened in 1967 by Bernie Houghton.
The Bourbon premises, initially the haunt of US servicemen on R&amp;R, then colourful underworld Sydney identities, more recently had a reputation for late night sporting star fistacuffs as it was among Sydney's first seven days 24-hour licenced premises.
<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/2020/9/17/The%20Bourbon%203.jpg" alt="">
Having spent $66 million on his substantial five building site amalgamation, developer Sam Arnaout engaged heritage advisers who pressed ahead with demolition plans.
<div>Residents strongly opposed the demolition of the heritage buildings dating back to 1890s in what was a $47 million proposal.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Arnaout initially viewed the retention of the heritage and its incorporation into the proposed development "as not feasible or necessary."</div>
<div> </div>
<div><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/2020/9/17/Bourbon%20location.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div> </div>
<div>Indeed Urbis and NBRS both initially claimed that the site included "a highly altered building which is not easily distinguishable as a representative example of the late Victorian period in which it was constructed."</div>
<div> </div>
<div>"The site now represents an ad hoc collection of elements with no clear chronology or character and the buildings do not have the level of intactness to warrant retention, except for the principal form of No.30 Darlinghurst Road (Les Girls),' it argued in 2017.  </div>
<div> </div>
<div>"Any historic and aesthetic values are considered to be eroded by successive and substantial modifications.," it added.
"The façade of 22 and 24 (above the awning) makes a limited contribution to the streetscape as a recognisable Victorian styled element, however the contribution is highly degraded."
</div>
<a href="https://online2.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/DA/IndividualApplication?tpklapappl=1492052&amp;fbclid=IwAR1PNwdTFTeB-Hyuc_dPIvvjniiUe36Znfy4JTkMsFnP_gQc44AXmCU6cco" target="_blank">The new plans</a>, which are understood to reduce the number of apartments in order to include a hotel, have not yet been formally posted on the City of Sydney website, but circulated among resident and business groups.
It was 2017 when the infamous Bourbon nightclub in Kings Cross was set for outright demolition following a redevelopment proposal for a $47 million luxury eight storey apartment block.
Arnaout controls the expanded northern entry of the Cross, from the Fountain Cafe at Kingsley Hall on Barncleuth Square through to the Empire Hotel on the Roslyn Street corner, but he has still missed out on securing the Lido building which would have made the site rectangular. His site is 2500 sq m.
<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/2017/12/19/KC.jpg" alt="">
(Source Sydney City Council Archives)
The only nod to the past in the proposed plans was keeping the curved facade of the former 1965 Les Girls hotel.
Arnaout's Iris Capital initially proposed 83 apartments and 101 car parking spaces, plus retail premises and two licensed bars. It is proposed the reincarnated Bourbon will have up to 400 patrons and the Empire some 920, as it the mixed use application seeks to navigate the twin outcomes of liquor outlets and quiet residential living.
Chris Corrode, the Sydney City Council area planning manager, had given Iris Capital pre-application advice on the initial proposal
Arnaout ought to increase the site density.
The current floor area is 5856 sqm. The initial application seeks an extra 1865 sqm, taking the density to 6936 sq m.
The initial proposed design (below) of the façade to Darlinghurst Road had been developed with SJB Planning, Urbis Heritage and Woods Bagot Architects. 
<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/2017/12/19/FAC1.jpg" alt="">
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Arnaout bought the Bourbon for $24 million from publican Christopher Cheung who said the lockout laws had influenced his decision to sell the property.
The proposed apartment block has been a collaborative design by SJB Planning, Urbis Heritage and Woods Bagot Architects. 
Within the subject site, a three-storey retail building and boarding house known as Lowestoft was constructed on 20 Darlinghurst Road; a three-storey residential boarding house, St Louis on 22 Darlinghurst Road; a three-storey private hospital, Chanrlesmont, on 24 Darlinghurst Road and a pair of attached, two-storey houses known as “Lister” and “Lynn” on 26 and 28 Darlinghurst Road; and an eight-storey residential chambers called Commodore Private Hotel was constructed at the junction of Darlinghurst Road and Roslyn Street, designed by architect, Claude Hamilton.
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Stalled Bourbon, Kings Cross redevelopment returns respecting its heritage

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A residential development site in the south eastern suburb of Hampton Park, suited for up to three townhouses, has been sold.
The property, at 104 Robjant Street, has a land area of 1,122 square metres, of which a total of 895 square metres is available for the potential development.
The property was being offered in June for private sale, with vacant possession through Gray Johnson.
The agent Rory White says that the property has been held for many years by the current vendor and regards the holding as surplus to their requirements.
“This is a good level allotment, within minutes of the Hampton Park shopping centre and it is zoned General Residential Schedule 1.
“Some concept plans have been prepared that envisage three larger sized two-storey town houses to be constructed on the site, although the future residential development use by the purchaser will be subject to the normal planning approvals.
The holding was expected to fetch upwards of $425,000.
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Hampton Park development site listed for sale

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Amid the coronavirus lockdown, some luxury apartment developers have an eye on the future.
There has been a conditional $85 million offer made for the purchase of every apartment in The Chimes, a 1960s Potts Point apartment block.
It has been made by the boutique Melbourne-based developer, Time &amp; Place Property, founded by developer Tim Price in 2015, who would end up paying about $1 million per apartment.
The Macleay Street block is best known for its pricey car space prices rather than its 80 studio apartments.
In 2016 an undercover car space fetched $264,000 which was a Sydney record. 
Set at the plane tree-lined Parisian end of the strip, 45 Macleay Street is a 10 storey building that sits on the McDonald Street corner.
Its value is the block sits on a 1268 sqm block of land.
The Chimes strata block was registered in 1964 after demolition of the historic row of Santa Fe 1905 Queen Anne style terraces.
The other end of the row remains with Justin Hemmes recently selling the premises to Tony Benjamin.
Given the COVID-19 slump in tourism, he's now seeking long term tenants, rather than his initial overnight stays offering.
The Chimes body corporate has signed a non-ainding heads of agreement with Time giving them eight weeks to advise if it wishes to proceed to the next stage.
The highest 38 sqm studio apartment sale was $825,000 in 2018 with Harbour Bridge and Opera House views from the eighth floor, plus a car space.
The cheapest recent sale was $520,000.
The original unit allocation is a tad simplistic as every unit no matter whether with a view of harbour view or car park is either seven (fn one floor) or eight in the remaining 10 floors.
The 27 car spaces each have one unit entitlement.
The building sits on less than a third of its 1280 sqm holding.
The strata was the 934th, with the first coming in 1961 at Lindsay Gardens was the world’s first ever strata-titled building at 189 Liverpool Road, Enfield.
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$85 million offer made on Potts Point apartment block The Chimes

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International buyer enquires have more than doubled over recent weeks for apartments in The Pacifica residential tower, in Auckland’s CBD.
With much of the world in lockdown due to COVID-19, buyers are looking into New Zealand as a safe investment choice.
According to CBRE, who are marketing the building, international enquiries have risen by over 200% in recent weeks, with two types of overseas buyers looking at The Pacifica now: buyers looking at New Zealand as a safe haven to invest, and buyers wishing to seek residency.
“We are receiving enquires from expat Kiwis living in London, New York, Australia, Hong Kong and Singapore. Many of these buyers are looking back into New Zealand with a potential view to returning home. We have also seen a significant uplift in enquiry from across Asia and USA, with buyers seeking a safe ‘bolt-hole’ investment,” said CBRE’s National Director of Residential Projects in New Zealand, Gavin Lloyd.
The Pacifica was the first project among a handful of properties to gain an exemption certificate from the Overseas Investment Office to allow overseas buyers to buy apartments.
Lloyd added that since the lockdown $8 million in contracts have been issued for apartments in the building.
Last month the sale of one of the 235 square metre penthouse apartments was concluded, and an Australian buyer amalgamated two adjoining apartments for his New Zealand residence.
The 57-level tower will ultimately have 279 apartments, and will feature a heated lap pool, sauna, steam room, spa, gym, media room, residents’ lounge, library and barbeque terrace.
Construction on the building began in November 2017, and completion is scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2020.
 
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Pacifica tower in New Zealand sees 200% uptick in inquiries 

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A Brisbane riverfront development site, which has been earmarked for a multi-million dollar exclusive luxury apartment project, has been secured by local developer and builder Tom Dooley.
The deal to secure the 2333 square metre block across three blocks on Maxwell St, New Farm, is now unconditional and is expected to settle on December 2.
Dooley is believed to have paid around $23 million for the site which currently homes an original three level Tudor style property which is currently split in to eight units (pictured below).
Dooley said the 1930s building will be retained and its original architecture brought back to life.
"This in itself will be a special project", Dooley said. There had been an application refused in 2012 to demolish the building.
<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/2019/11/25/42%20Maxwell%20Street%20New%20Farm%20Dooley.jpg" alt="">
Dooley, who runs Tom Dooley Developments, said he couldn’t pass up the opportunity to buy the site as it was the "best parcel of land he had ever seen in New Farm". 
“It is the largest privately owned single-line land holding with medium density residential zoning and views to the Story Bridge and city,” Dooley told the local paper.
“I have been on the lookout for something of this calibre in New Farm since we finished our Pietra development in Moray Street in 2012.
Tom Dooley Developments have completed five riverfront developments in this area.
"Compromising on location and views was not something we would consider.”
Dooley said demand for large riverfront apartments was on the rise and this project would meet those needs.
“We are just finalising details but each of the apartments will have three to four bedrooms, plus multi-purpose rooms and studies. The smallest will be 201 square metres while the largest will be a massive 785 square metres.
“For the type of product, we build - large luxury apartments with high end finishes - it is absolutely essential we get the right site and now we have.
“The land is in a prime position with views of the Story Bridge, the reinvigorated Howard Smith Wharves, the city, and Kangaroo Point and south towards Woolloongabba.”
The property has direct riverfront access with its own pontoon and is close to the River Walk, providing easy access to the Brisbane CBD.
“Combine the perfect location with the right design and a quality build, which we achieve by building for ourselves, and you end up with a fantastic result.”
The property, which had more than 20 metres of frontage to the Brisbane River, came with a development approval in place for a total of 18 units, although Dooley says he will seek to make some changes to the approval.
“I’ve engaged Brisbane architect, Shane Plazibat, who has designed all of our previous riverfront developments to carry out the redesign and introduce the design elements our projects are known for.
“What we are proposing is 15 apartments over seven levels stepping up the riverbank with a river house on the lowest level taking full advantage of the riverfront aspect, and at the top, an exquisite penthouse offering the ultimate luxury Queensland lifestyle.
Each of the apartments will have riverfront views.
Pricing has not been finalised yet, but is expected to range between $2.9 million and $12 million.
Completion is expected in 2021.
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Tom Dooley secures New Farm, Brisbane riverfront development site

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No. 1 Grant Avenue, which is owned by the Aniko Group, has taken the top spot in Gold Coast sales over the last quarter, according to the latest Urbis data.
The $140 million development was launched in mid-August.
It has reached 40 per cent sold in the September quarter with over $24 million in sales.
Aniko Group founder George Mastrocostas said the quality and affordability of No. 1 Grant Avenue together with its prime waterfront position had translated to swift sales.
"This has certainly resonated with the market,” said Mr Mastrocostas.
“No. 1 Grant Avenue is all about affordable luxury.”
The development follows the success of Three72 Marine Parade apartment project, also owned by Aniko, in Labrador which reached sell-out prior to construction completion and was the fastest selling project on the Gold Coast in 2018.
“We are thrilled to have followed the success of Three72 Marine with strong sales at our latest project and look forward to continuing to build on the success we’ve experienced so far,” Mr Mastrocostas said.
When complete, No. 1 Grant Avenue will comprise 210 apartments. Buyers will have access to a residents’ lounge, expansive pool with sundecks, a fully equipped gymnasium overlooking a children’s indoor play area, zen garden, private media room, barbecue facilities, a pet wash bay, secure basement parking and bridge free access to the Broadwater and the seaway.
The first stage is expected to be completed by mid-2020 and will comprise 105 apartments, ranging from one-bedroom, plus study to three-bedroom, plus study residences.  Apartments will range in size from 86 square metres to 199 square metres.
Prices start from $369,000.
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Aniko Group's No. 1 Grant Avenue tops Gold Coast sales

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SPONSORED POST
The previous 12-18 months have seen undeniably challenging conditions throughout Melbourne’s residential development market, leading to a significantly reduced level of development site transactions and even the failure of some prominent development companies.
However, a sudden surge of transactions over the past two months has been indicative of an abrupt confidence boost amongst the city’s development sector from early August onward. 
Three recent interest rate cuts, a shortage of projects being delivered across Melbourne, very tight rental markets, 75%-80% weekend auction results, and record ongoing population growth, are all factors putting immense pressure on the housing sector and giving developers the confidence to snap up sites, and ready themselves for a new wave of construction activity.
The ABC reported that, “The biggest winners from low interest rates will be those taking out a mortgage to buy a home,” with Savills Melbourne having already experienced a significant uplift in residential development site sales, coinciding with the return to 80% weekend auction clearance rates.
“Over the past eight weeks or so, the market for development sites right across Melbourne has completely rebounded with developers again scrambling to secure high quality sites with or without planning permits,” said Clinton Baxter, State Director at Savills Melbourne.
“Melbourne’s population is set to continue its remarkable growth of well over 100,000 people per annum, requiring in excess of 40,000 dwellings to be constructed each and every year.  With construction activity falling off a cliff last year, pressure within the housing market has built up incredibly quickly, and the market has roared back to life since the first week of August.” 
Mr Baxter reported that sites suitable for boutique development, catering to owner-occupiers and empty nester buyers, are in highest demand, followed by infill townhouse sites. “We’ve sold 27 development sites during the past eight weeks for a total of $145 million, with many others currently in negotiation.”
“The leafy inner eastern municipalities of Boorondarra and Stonnington remain firmly at the top of the list for developers, followed by bayside areas in and close to Brighton,” he said.  
“Asian developers, especially those from China, are back in the market in a very big way and actively scouting for suitable purchase opportunities,” said Mr Baxter. “Box Hill and Glen Waverley are particularly popular within these groups, and our recent sale in Burwood saw the top 11 bidders all being of Chinese background.”
According to Savills research, approximately 60 percent of Savills Melbourne development site sales in 2019 have been to either local Asian or off-shore Asian developers, with the highest demand being for smaller projects of 10-50 units. 
“Smaller projects are more easily sellable,” said Savills Asian Services Director Benson Zhou. “And there’s more likelihood of construction funding being readily available.” 
Mr Baxter also commented that, “A demand for student housing and accommodation within walking distance of the major universities, particularly in Carlton and the northern CBD, remains at fever pitch with a significant lack of housing to cater to the fast-rising international student population.”   
He reported an acute shortage of sites available to this market sector, resulting in escalating land values.  
“And it’s not just student housing that’s seen growth,” said Mr Baxter. “Aged care developers are increasingly active in their pursuit of large suburban sites suitable to fully integrated aged care facilities. Ryman from New Zealand is the most active player, with multiple recent land purchases in the middle suburbs.”
“On average land values have jumped 10-20% in just 8 weeks in inner and middle ring suburbs as developers again compete to secure high quality sites.” 
“Melbourne’s residential development sector is leaping out of its short slump!” 
Savills is a leading global real estate service provider offering the full spectrum of services from strategic advice to managing assets and projects and transacting deals. Clinton Baxter is a State Director of Savills CBD and Metropolitan Sales. To learn more about Savills, visit <a href="http://www.savills.com.au/" target="_blank">savills.com.au</a>.
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