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

Sydney off the plan apartments

First home buyers are back in the market across Sydney.

Having left in droves following the RBA's quickfire burst of interest rate hikes, first home buyers are starting to emerge in the off the plan apartment space.

Data from Apartments.com.au's data product MatterFact shows a 30 per cent spike in enquiry from first home buyers in the first three months of 2024 compared to the last three months of 2023.

Compared to 12 months ago, first home buyer enquiry is up 35%.

The spike in enquiry is part due to more confidence in the interest rate having more than likely reached its ceiling, and part due to an increase in stock levels in more affordable projects. It's now been three consecutive months where the RBA has kept interest rates on hold, and the expectation is, despite higher than expected inflation figures in Q1, that rates will start to come down a few times in 2025, if not earlier.

Data from the ABS suggests first home buyers are too. Nationally first home buyers rose by 4.3 per cent to 9,377 of new loans written after a 5.6 per cent fall in January. In New South Wales first home buyer activity rose 6.4 per cent, double the rate of Queensland. First home buyer loans rose just 1.3 per cent in Victoria.

Dave Milton, CBRE Managing Director of Residential Projects, says they've seen first home buyer numbers increase by 11 per cent in the first four months of 2024 compared to 2023.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112233 project_image_fid=221620]

Milton says the majority of those first home buyers (56 per cent), are seeking two-bedroom apartments rather than one-bedrooms.

"First home buyers are arguably the savviest cohort in the market at the moment," Milton says.

"They're calculating how much they can spend and they're moving quickly before there are price increases, which are happening across the whole market. They don't want to wait and find their budget, which could have got them a two-bedroom apartment a few months ago, now only gets them a one-bed."

The value of off the plan apartments is too rising quickly.&nbsp;The average sale price for first home buyers across CBRE's projects has jumped over 10 per cent year on year, from $748,000 to $827,000.

Most first home buyers are couples who are buying the more expensive two-beds, CBRE's data shows, happier to pay more for what they want rather than drop their requirements to fall under the government's stamp duty benefits.

The biggest increase in first home buyer activity has been in the Hills District, in particular in Castle Hill's Showground Precinct where CBRE is selling Deicorp's Hills Showground Village and The Ashford.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=133881 project_image_fid=209805]

"First home buyers are recognising the lifestyle Castle Hill offers, with the important driver the new Sydney Metro which will open in mid-2024 and connect Castle Hill to Barangaroo in 33 minutes," Milton says.

Then there's the evolution of the northwest growth corridor as a whole. Castle Hill has seen significant investment over the last five years, while its location on the fringe of Chatswood adds further connectivity and&nbsp;another retail precinct.

"It's now a convenient choice for young first home buyers, with access to both the city and an increasing amount of local amenity," Milton says, adding that demand from first home buyers is only likely to increase over the course of 2024.

Dave Milton, CBRE Managing Director of Residential Projects, says they've seen first home buyer numbers increase by 11 per cent in the first four months of 2024 compared to 2023

First home buyer activity lifts across Sydney's off the plan apartment market as interest rates steady

Billbergia has topped out Peake Tower, part of the second stage of its $2.5 billion Rhodes Central masterplan.

The 48-level Peake Tower is the tallest building in <a href="/new-apartments/rhodes-nsw-2138">Rhodes</a>, one of five in <a href="/new-apartments/rhodes-central-oasis-39-marquet-street-rhodes">Rhodes Central</a> that will deliver 3,500 new homes to Sydney's critically undersupplied housing market.

Stage two comprises a combined total of 674 apartments across two high-rise buildings, Peake Tower and Oasis. It will also see the delivery of $70 million in new community infrastructure - including a 9,100 sqm multipurpose community recreation and childcare centre - built in the precinct’s three-level podium through a planning agreement with City of Canada Bay.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112691 project_image_fid=196872]

“We are delighted to have reached this exciting milestone on Peake Tower, a critical step towards the completion of this new waterfront precinct at Rhodes," Rick Graf, <a href="/developers/billbergia">Billbergia</a> Development Director, said

"Our vision of creating a highly-connected new community is fast becoming a reality,” said Rick Graf, Development Director at Billbergia."

Located at 34 Walker Street, Peake Tower and Oasis were designed by high-profile architects <a href="/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>.&nbsp;

Rhodes Central’s Stage One comprises a total of 568 apartments across two buildings of 25 and 39 storeys. The towers sit above the award-winning, 13,000 sqm Rhodes Central super neighbourhood shopping centre, delivered by Billbergia in 2021.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A significant employment generator, some 10,000 direct and indirect jobs have been created to date by the construction of Rhodes Central, with at least a further 450 permanent jobs within the completed precinct.&nbsp;

Progressive completion of Peake Tower is due in Q3 2024.&nbsp;&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112691]

Billbergia top out Rhodes tallest tower as Rhodes Central approaches completion

Fresh off the back of breaking the Coogee record for the most expensive piece of real estate in the beachside suburb, Sydney property developer Central Element (CE) has acquired its next development site.

They're heading to the Lower North Shore where they've paid $17 million for a site for a mixed-use seniors living project in&nbsp;<a href="/developments/greenwich-nsw-2065">Greenwich</a>.

The design will revolve around the concept of community, pushing the boundaries of form to facilitate shared living experiences and the coming together of those who share a passion for embracing life to the fullest in their later years.

The 1,232 sqm site at 126 Pacific Highway, sits in an elevated position with uninterrupted views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and CBD skyline. With three street frontages, the site presents an opportunity for a ground-floor retail offering.

<img alt="Central Element acquire $17m Greenwich site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="10f4b57f-711d-467b-8a19-1650b1bd497b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/image001.jpg?VersionId=_f4HCv7CsFQiU91187r5TgFZeflRorG4" />

<a href="/developers/central-element">Central Element</a> is planning an eight-level building with car parking, two and three-bedroom apartments, extensive communal space including internal amenity and a rooftop bar with expansive harbour views.

CE will work very closely with the Lane Cove Council having collaborated with them previously on its Aston and Battique developments in the local area.

<img alt="Central Element acquire $17m Greenwich site - view" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2d262201-9ea3-4ede-87ed-3e2d52414aa6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/image003_0.jpg?VersionId=WVekYv8JuMYK_gt0fnpdBXPd.Kn4jYge" />

Nathan Chivas, Managing Director of Central Element, said they&nbsp;recognised the opportunity the Greenwich site presented for a world-class mixed-use seniors living development.

"Our intention is to create an environment for those over 60, that is hyper-focused on ageing well and enjoying their third phase of life," Chivas said.

"It’s conveniently located within a five-minute drive or a short walk of St Leonards Railway Station, Crows Nest Metro Station and Royal North Shore Hospital."

CE has previously delivered in the senior living sector. They've developed The Balmoral Collection in Mosman and Malton in Beecroft.

"We look forward to further redefining the seniors living category by catering to the ever-changing wants and needs of older Australians. With Greenwich, we will take a holistic approach to wellbeing, with a design and amenity that will promote daily movement, a shared community and purpose for its residents.”

CE will lodge the application in July, with construction commencing mid-2026.

Staff Writer

Central Element snap up $17 million Greenwich apartment site

Harry Seidler's McMahons Point apartment development, Blues Point Tower, is one of the revered architects' most iconic projects.&nbsp;

It's in one of the best spots in the harbourside suburb, just off Blues Point Reserve on Blues Point Road.&nbsp;

They've got the advantage of extensive Harbour views, and residents have convenient access to the city via the McMahons Point ferry. But the tower also stands as a sign of the times in McMahons Point. Most of the apartment developments are decades old.&nbsp;It's been years since a new apartment project was developed.

Cue a new boutique project on a near 1,000 sqm site at 1 Warung Street, under 200 metres from Seidler's landmark.

Vince Squillace's&nbsp;Squillace Architects has put the plans together for seven owner-occupier apartments for a company tied to developer Theo Paradisis from Highbury Group.

<img alt="McMahons" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="81b631bf-fd88-4c39-9e38-9954603cd967" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-04-19%20at%203.07.55%20pm.png?VersionId=blVzhQ6BvkzWLL.sWxp.XSc2OSVCac3t" />The proposed building at 1 Warung Street, McMahons Point

Squillace's Design Report said given the given the locality and context of the site, the unit mix, of six three-bedroom apartments and a four-bedroom penthouse, is appropriate for the local market. One and two-bedroom units are less appropriate for the site, they said.

"The proposed seven units responds to the planning controls imposed on the site, appropriately considers the local market demands and reduces what was previously an overdeveloped site which provided a higher number of units but poor amenity and an inferior product."

The current 1960s building homes 12 units, and there had been approval previously for a nine-unit development on the site.

<img alt="Squillace" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9f4ef4a8-1561-4096-9f93-38e67ffc5b21" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-04-19%20at%203.08.13%20pm.png?VersionId=ZhRk2Ay5PpCdWi8erqaQTCtKX5aKIYTh" />The current building at 1 Warung Street, McMahons Point

Squillace said given the&nbsp;existing building is a 1960's residential flat building, it has been identified as an uncharacteristic item within the McMahons Point South Heritage Conservation Area, which is primarily a&nbsp;mix of Victorian and Federation 1920’s and 1930’s housing mixed with some Interwar residential flat buildings.

They said the aim is to "create a high-quality contemporary apartment building that makes a positive contribution to this unique and world-class harbour foreshore site whilst maximising views, sunlight, the natural beauty of this environment and enhancing the lives of its occupants."

First look exclusive: McMahons Point to get rare new apartment development

Luxury developer&nbsp;Central Element has broken all of Coogee's real estate records with the sale of the penthouse at their heritage restoration project, Ballamac House.

The three-bedroom penthouse sold for $20 million, the highest price paid for anything in Coogee.

The 241 sqm penthouse sold for just under $83,000 per sqm internally, and close to $90,000 per sqm when incorporating the 77 sqm of external space.

&nbsp;

The sale trumps the previous suburb record which was $13.1m for a four-bedroom house located on Wolseley Road, just a short distance from Wylie’s Baths ocean pool with views across Coogee beach to Wedding Cake Island.

The record for an apartment was previously held by the recent sale of $8.8m for a 286 sqm four-bedroom penthouse on Carr Street, with panoramic north-facing views across Coogee Beach to <a href="/new-apartments/clovelly-nsw-2031">Clovelly</a>, by former NSW premier Bob Carr.

It also beats the record in neighbouring South Coogee, which is $18.5m for the three-level five-bedroom clifftop residence at 1A Seaside Parade that was achieved earlier this year. Before that, the $16.85m for the Bunya Parade ‘Coogee Castle’ held the record, which was purchased by Fred Schebesta, the co-founder and CEO of the comparison website, Finder, in 2021.

CE’s <a href="/new-apartments/ballamac-house-39-arcadia-street-coogee">Ballamac House</a> has a long and colourful history – established by Charles Moore in 1860, the coveted estate has lived many lives over the years, as a private residence, hotel and infirmary, with many prominent figures passing through its doors.

CE will transform the site into eight prestigious three-bedroom oceanfront residences across two buildings.

The heritage Victorian house itself will undergo a meticulous restoration to reinstate it to its original grandeur as it is converted into two exquisite residences, with the further six dwellings sitting in a new building to the east with awe-inspiring ocean views. The project will launch to market later in the year.

The $20 million sale was to a local owner-occupier who fell in love with the history of the site and the uninterrupted views out to Wedding Cake Island that will be enjoyed from the building's elevated position on Coogee’s north headland.

Cameron Porter, Head of Sales at <a href="/developers/central-element">Central Element</a>, says Coogee is growing as a sought-after destination.

“We’re seeing a lot more buyers in that ultra-luxury downsizer market who would have traditionally been looking in Bondi and Bronte now turn to Coogee, with the suburbs elevated lifestyle offering," Porter says.

"The flurry of hot new restaurants Coogee’s seen appear in recent years, such as Yana and Louie, and of course Coogee Pavillion’s mimi’s, means locals have world-class dining as well as everything else the idyllic coastal suburb has to offer right on their doorstep."

Porter says they knew there was demand for premium apartments in the area following their success of their&nbsp;award-winning Anden Coogee project around the corner.

"With Ballamac House’s enviable location on Coogee’s north headland just up the road from mimi’s, combined with the quality of product that buyers know Central Element can deliver, we’re expecting this project to be snapped up as it launches to market later this year.”

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=141700]

Cameron Porter, Head of Sales at Central Element, says Coogee is growing as a sought-after destination

Central Element smash Coogee apartment record with $20 million Ballamac House penthouse sale

Wollongong is set for a new apartment tower.

Plans have been lodged by RM Developments for a $24 million project across a 2,700 sqm site at 41-47 Denison Street, right next to Wollongong Station and the <a href="/developments/wollongong-nsw-2500">Wollongong</a>&nbsp;town centre.&nbsp;

<a href="/architects/design-workshop-australia">Design Workshop Australia</a> (DWA) put together the plans for the 17-level, mixed-use commercial and residential building that will comprise 75 apartments above office tenancies and medical suites.

<img alt=" 41-47 Denison Street podium" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cad14906-2cb3-4b4d-b0d8-0f1220d632b1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/41-47%20Denison%20Street.png?VersionId=aZyLqTBVu3wIMWmllD8B817nujiu92Ph" />

The proposal involves partial demolition of an Art Deco-styled brick building and at-grade car parking to make way for the mixed-use development. The podium design integrates the retained façade of the Art Deco building to connect neighbouring buildings and harmonises with Denison Street's streetscape.

DWA's proposal emphasises the importance of the preservation of the existing building fabric to maintain the area's character and inform the curvilinear visual language of the tower levels.

The tower's curved geometry provides a distinct building character, offers residents unique views, and prioritises solar access for residential units and communal open spaces while minimising the overshadowing of neighbouring sites. Balcony elements and glazed vertical elements add visual interest and depth to the tower.

<img alt="Wollongong" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f30f9ebc-a75a-42ea-91ea-d790a84d69a7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-04-18%20at%2012.04.29%20pm.png?VersionId=H.NT1RhPGlDrZgO_ilBBZivAoiGJJJuT" />

The Design Excellence Report by GYDE Consulting suggested the&nbsp;proposed mixed-use development will provide high-quality commercial uses on the ground floor, enhancing the site’s public interface suitable to the streetscape and character of the locality, as well as a diverse range of apartment types.

There will be just six&nbsp;one-bedroom apartments, 67 two-beds and two three-bedroom units, as well as&nbsp;gardens on level one, seating areas, barbecue facilities, fitness areas on level nine, and a pool deck with lounging areas and an infinity edge pool on level 17. 151 parking spaces have been proposed for residential, commercial and visitor usage.

<img alt=" 41-47 Denison Street rooftop" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f4aa75dc-5a9a-4d4a-97a4-210d08ddbaa5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/41-47%20Denison%20Street%20Rooftop.png?VersionId=ZV4igerSoNhscwx2jDmrA6sZJsCX0cPX" />

In line with best practices for Environmental Sustainable Design (ESD), the project also aims to incorporate various sustainable initiatives such as rainwater collection, deep soil planting, use of water-efficient fixtures, LED lighting, sustainable concrete components, and the potential for solar panels.&nbsp;

The development also plans to include electric car charge points and spaces to promote eco-friendly transportation.

The site's strategic location is within walking distance of key amenities such as Wollongong Train Station, Lowden Square bus interchange, Wollongong Hospital, and Wollongong Central Shopping Centre.

Plans have been lodged for a $24 million project across a 2,700 sqm site at 41-47 Denison Street, right next to Wollongong Station and the Wollongong town centre

First look: Wollongong's latest new apartment tower revealed

In the first four months of 2024, Lower North Shore developer WINIM has launched three new residential projects across their favoured Sydney region.

Following launches of apartments in <a href="/developments/mosman-nsw-2088">Mosman</a> and <a href="/developments/cremorne-nsw-2090">Cremorne</a>, <a href="/developers/winim">WINIM</a> has launched <a href="/new-townhouses/lume-gordon-43-47-dumaresq-street-gordon">Lume Gordon</a>, 14 townhouses ideally located just off Gordon's main retail strip and near&nbsp;<a href="/developments/gordon-nsw-2072">Gordon</a>&nbsp;Station.

They had their go-to architect <a href="/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> create the house-sized townhomes that offer three, four or five-bedroom configurations.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7354 project_image_fid=269522]

Lume's architecture is characterised by traditional brick and timber expression. Integral to the design is a smooth, effortless transition from the interiors to the alfresco spaces.

&nbsp;

"Our vision was to create elegant, uplifting homes that draw on and positively contribute to the local character through meticulously considered design and an interaction with the surroundings," Gary Tsui of Rothelowman said.

The townhomes feature fireplaces, bespoke cabinetry, wine storage, and expansive alfresco entertaining terraces with a custom-created outdoor kitchen featuring an in-built barbeque and bench seating.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7354 project_image_fid=269527]

Homeowners at Lume have the option to choose from two interior colour schemes. Amaroo reflects hues of the bushland, dappled light and pale gum trees, while Gully is inspired by stronger and deeper tones of the forest.

&nbsp;

In addition to the individual home amenities, residents of Lume also have access to a landscaped communal outdoor BBQ area, creating opportunities for social gatherings and community interactions.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7354 project_image_fid=269521]

The development is designed to integrate with its natural surroundings, with a pathway connecting the residences to a natural creek bed and a raised boardwalk with seating areas.

"The private reserve adjoining Lume’s homes provided us with the rare opportunity to create a very special place for residents. Just as waterways carve their way through Kur-Ring-Gai’s landscape, a raised boardwalk weaves through the reserve, connecting the homes to this tranquil oasis," Ben Newell &amp; Kate Phillips of <a href="/landscape-architect/arcadia-landscape-architecture">Arcadia</a> Said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7354 project_image_fid=269529]

For those who prefer working outdoors, charging stations in the communal area enable a change of scenery while staying connected. This feature aligns with modern lifestyle preferences, offering flexibility and convenience to homeowners.

Lume's proximity to Gordon Village, train station, and shopping precinct, only 300 metres away, provides residents with convenient access to local amenities and services.

Residents can also explore the nearby St Johns Avenue multicultural culinary eat street, adding a diverse range of dining options to their lifestyle.

WINIM kicked off 2024 by launching <a href="/news/nsw/winim-reveal-huntington-residences-cremorne-luxury-apartment-development">Huntington Residences in Cremorne</a> in late January, before <a href="/news/nsw/winim-launch-second-apartment-development-in-2024-as-kl-o-mosman-hits-the-market">then revealing Kleo Mosman</a>.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=7354]

WINIM kicked off 2024 by launching Huntington Residences in Cremorne in late January, before then revealing Kleo Mosman.

Launch Alert: Lume Gordon townhouses mark WINIM's third residential launch in 2024

Eastern Suburbs property seekers have been given one of the best opportunities to buy into the priciest region in Australia at prices not seen in years, with the release of the final apartments in Crown Group's award-winning development, The Grand Residences, Eastlakes.

Due to a shareholder dispute, Crown Group was placed into provisional liquidation in August 2023. The apartments are now being released to the market in an ordinary wind-down of the Group. &nbsp;

The first stage of the project was developed over a five-year period. Beneath the apartments there is a vibrant retail precinct with 15 retailers. Anchored by a large-format Aldi Supermarket, there is also a Woolworths Metro, Australia Post and a variety of speciality stores and services.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7652 project_image_fid=262582]

Completed to much fanfare at the beginning of 2022, the first stage won the Urban Taskforce Australia Development Excellence Awards in the Mixed-Use Development category, one of the most prestigious awards a development can get in Australia.

Chair of the Urban Taskforce Judging Panel, Chris Johnson, said The Grand Residences by Crown Group represented an exemplary project in mixed-use developments and urban renewal.

“It will significantly revitalise this previously overlooked area of Sydney and create immeasurable benefits for the local community, allowing it to better meet the needs of the future forecast population growth,” Johnson said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7652 project_image_fid=262587]

Everything Crown Group has done well over the past decade is on show at The Grand Residences. Their commitment to producing larger apartments than the norm is apparent immediately, even with the one-bedroom units which span nearly 60 sqm and have a balcony off the open-plan kitchen, living and dining area. Every apartment within the complex has at least one car space.

Crown Group’s signature high-end amenity is also a key feature at The Grand Residences. On offer for residents is a 25-metre heated pool, gym, landscaped gardens, BBQ facilities, and rooftop deck with panoramic views.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7652 project_image_fid=262600]

The Grand Residences offers a gateway into the Eastern Suburbs in terms of both affordability and location. The Evans Avenue address puts residents beside the growing inner-east suburbs of Alexandria and Rosebery. Rosebery has become a hotbed for creative business and coffee culture due to the popular retail and hospitality hub, the Cannery. As well as the thriving cafe scene, residents are also just a 10-minute drive to some of Sydney’s best beaches, the closest being Coogee.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7652 project_image_fid=262585]

The provisional liquidators have appointed McGrath Projects and Crown Property Agency to assist with the sell-down of the development.&nbsp;

McGrath Projects and Crown Property Agency have already held a highly successful weekend launch of the apartments, which was attended by a mix of first home buyers, “rightsizers”, investors and owner-occupiers who see the value this Eastern Suburbs address provides.

McGrath Projects Director, Adam Sparkes, says the building offers incredible value for every cohort of buyers looking at the Eastern Suburbs.

“The building is achieving strong rental yields for the area, and since completion two years ago properties have been tightly held. The opportunity to buy at this price point and in this location isn’t likely to come around again.”

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=7652]

Final opportunity to buy in The Grand Residences, Eastlakes

National townhouse developer Metro Property Group is well advanced with its latest luxury Sydney townhouse development, Canopy in Crows Nest.

<a href="/buildings/canopy-crows-nest-23-27-wheatleigh-street-crows-nest">Canopy</a> brings just 10 contemporary townhouses to <a href="/developments/crows-nest-nsw-2065">Crows Nest</a>, set on a quiet residential street between St Leonards and Naremburn. Only three remain after being snapped up by locals during the build.

There are three and four-bedroom configurations on offer designed by <a href="/architects/corben-architects">Corben Architects</a>, each&nbsp;with landscaped gardens by <a href="/landscape-architect/arcadia-landscape-architecture">Arcadia</a>, designed for minimal maintenance.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112885 project_image_fid=269237]

The architectural highlight of the project is the generously proportioned glass doors that offer uninterrupted views of the landscaped gardens and foster a connection between indoor and outdoor areas.

Native plants soften the modern building, while sculptural plants highlight the sunny yards.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112885 project_image_fid=269239]

Each townhome at Canopy comes with internal access from its lock-up garage and is serviced by a private internal lift for added convenience.&nbsp;

The residences feature chef's kitchens equipped with high-end European appliances and fixtures, including wine fridges and integrated refrigerators, with the option to upgrade to state-of-the-art Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances.

The contemporary bathrooms showcase a pared-back styling with muted shades and porcelain tiles, contributing to the overall modern aesthetic of the homes.

The townhomes are artfully composed with a calming colour palette, tactile finishes, and a considered lighting plan.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112885 project_image_fid=269241]

<a href="/developers/metro-property-group">Metro Property Group</a> also offers purchasers a unique opportunity to be part of the design process, allowing them to tailor spaces and interiors to suit their lifestyle preferences. Additional upgrades such as stone-clad Jetmaster fireplaces are available as centrepieces within the homes.

Canopy is strategically located close to North Shore's vibrant café culture, specialty stores, parklands, and the new Metro Line train service.

The development is on track for completion in mid-2024.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112885]

The townhomes are artfully composed with a calming colour palette, tactile finishes, and a considered lighting plan

Canopy Crows Nest luxury townhouses approach completion

Deicorp&nbsp;has revealed its plans for the largest stage in Castle Hill's $3 billion Showground Precinct.

They've filed a state significant development for a seven-building masterplan which will bring a further 873 apartments to the burgeoning district.

<a href="/developers/deicorp">Deicorp</a> is leading the charge in the Hills District, with <a href="/new-apartments/the-ashford-castle-hill-25-ashford-avenue-castle-hill">The Ashford</a> and <a href="/new-apartments/hills-showground-village-castle-hill-2-mandala-parade-castle-hill">Hills Showground Village</a> well underway in <a href="/new-apartments/castle-hill-nsw-2154">Castle Hill</a> and <a href="/new-apartments/tallawong-village-rouse-hill-shop-30-12-conferta-avenue-tallawong">Tallawong Village</a> in the neighbouring Rouse Hill.

Deicorp picked up the 2.73-hectare site at 3 Andalusian Way, Castle Hill, next to the Hills Showground Station, in late 2023 and have had Turner Studio design the seven buildings which will include a 3,200 sqm public park.&nbsp;

<img alt="Deicorp Turner" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7ea7fd2e-d09c-4704-be45-8c64d3328356" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-04-16%20at%205.15.25%20pm_0.png?VersionId=Js9Zzb9Un0tAwt8mHRV1DcBgAz17R.WN" />

The plans by Turner said the design focuses on harmonizing the area’s natural and built environments to advocate community engagement.

Five per cent of the apartments will be reserved for affordable housing.

Deicorp's involvement in the Hills Showground Precinct is part of a larger urban renewal initiative in collaboration with Landcom and Sydney Metro.&nbsp;

<img alt="Metro Deicorp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="16f41ba0-5834-40c4-b000-150c2ab78c75" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-04-16%20at%205.02.39%20pm_0.png?VersionId=ywPy0AZeArNeEvRTFMbXAcyqxF13Swv9" />

&nbsp;

The Showground Station Priority Precinct conceptualised nearly a decade ago, reflects ongoing efforts by both the NSW Government and Sydney Metro to promote transit-oriented development around key transport nodes, deliver much-needed housing, provide closer job opportunities, and support sustainable transportation practices.

The 2017 Showground Station Plan is forecast to deliver around 5,000 new homes and 2,300 jobs over the next 20 years.

The 2017 Showground Station Plan is forecast to deliver around 5,000 new homes and 2,300 jobs over the next 20 years

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