Two years after apartment developer <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/polycell-group">Polycell</a> spent nearly $45 million on the 1980s timeshare Voyager Resort in Broadbeach, they have unveiled their redevelopment plans.

Currently delivering <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/the-rochester-broadbeach-143-surf-parade-broadbeach">The Rochester</a> nearby and <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/news/qld/exclusive-the-rochester-developer-polycell-locks-sights-on-next-gold-coast-apartment-project">buying out owners in the apartment building Sandpiper</a>, Polycell is making another development move.

They have submitted plans to build a 59-level tower at 167 Old Burleigh Road, a prime 2,076 sqm site at the corner of Elizabeth Avenue. The site is next to the under-construction Luxe Broadbeach and in front of the twin Oracle towers, which were completed in 2010.

The proposed development includes 130 apartments in two, three, and four-bedroom configurations, along with a ground-floor café and basement and podium parking for 317 vehicles.

<img alt="Polycell" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="abc13c4e-d07e-4007-81b2-ed87cd940540" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/2.png?VersionId=AaX6OP1gQvra7u855hjJQBw1FC32JL0o" />

BDA Architecture, who designed The Rochester for Polycell, has taken the architectural reigns for the new project, dubbed 167.OBR in the documentation submitted to the Gold Coast City Council last week.

BDA said the project&nbsp;presents an exciting opportunity to create a landmark residential tower within the vibrant, high-density Broadbeach precinct.

"[The] development is designed to respond to the existing built form character, landscape, climate and neighbourhood character to reinforce a strong sense of place and local identity," BDA noted.

"The proposed tower architecture embodies a contemporary, yet elegantly restrained, fluid vernacular. The structure is articulated with a glazed façade infused with coastal tactility, featuring fluid, soft edges that echo the gentle contours of the Gold Coast landscape."

<img alt="Polycell" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b9966b92-7b1a-4e1a-ace5-97acdced4f88" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/3.png?VersionId=LypE2LoIU.Bp5kZCqi0BGdK_ME3CVAPI" />

The design preserves most of the existing Norfolk pine streetscape and natural organic edges.

"This approach not only respects the existing landscape but also strengthens the connection between the development and its context."

When referring to the podium, BDA said the architecture is a cohesion of contemporary sub-tropical vernacular infused with a coastal tactility.

"The fluid organic form portrays the organic nature of the Gold Coast landscape layered with a timeless material palette creating a rich and layered coastal effect."

<img alt="Polycell" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fc7e786a-0582-4ce2-b812-23cf52663c26" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202024-11-25%20at%203.01.52%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=ykwjYwX7VjfRfNJ8sSfupAMXRIMOWh7O" />

Crowning the podium will be two swimming pools: one 25 metres long, flanked by daybeds, and the other a smaller pool adjacent to barbecues and alfresco dining areas.

A gym, yoga room, and Peloton room have been proposed for the podium rooftop, along with a hot and cold plunge pool, spa, steam room, sauna, treatment room, and a games room.

Additional amenities will be located on levels 38 and 39. Known as the 'Club Lounge,' the first level will feature a zen lounge with a tea bar and private terrace, several lounge and dining areas, and a meeting room. The upper level will include a library with an art wall, a cinema, a gym for personal training, a games room, more dining and lounge spaces, and two private club rooms, positioned either side of a wine storage room.

<img alt="Polycell" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e16c8a08-dfa2-4149-8bd1-7aaf33206d63" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202024-11-25%20at%203.03.24%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=8W8MVZ5Q2aTiCA7_DLHV2MEmC.3JaxcQ" />

A maximum of three apartments per floor will be spread across the tower. The proposed layout includes 79 three-bedroom apartments, 32 two-bedroom apartments, 15 four-bedroom apartments, and four five-bedroom apartments, along with three sub-penthouses and a two-level penthouse featuring a cinema, gym with hot and cold plunge pools, and a private 14m lap pool.

Currently, the site is home to the Voyager Resort timeshare building, which was launched in the mid-1980s. A large portion of the 2,000 sqm site is occupied by a tennis court and swimming pool. Voyager Resort is made up of 62 one-bedroom apartments across a 16-level building.

Poylcell, an international company specialising in packaging primarily as well as property development and asset management, debuted in the Gold Coast off the plan apartment market in 2023 with The Rochester, 182 apartments on Surf Parade.

Currently, the 167 Old Burleigh Road site is home to the Voyager timeshare building, which was launched in the mid-1980s. 

Joel Robinson

First look exclusive: Polycell set sites on new Broadbeach apartment development

Penthouses and Surry Hills/Redfern don't often go hand in hand.

The predominantly low-rise, inner-city suburbs, starved of new apartment development in the last decade, haven't witnessed true penthouse living like some of its neighbouring suburbs. Until now.

Builder developer TOGA recently drew back the curtain on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/buildings/surry-hills-village-redfern-6-14-baptist-street-redfern-nsw-2016">Surry Hills Village</a>, the redevelopment of the former 'Murder Mall' on the fringe of Redfern and Surry Hills.

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They strategically kept one penthouse until completion, but that's already been snapped.

The buyer has likely paid a price that would top the record books in both Surry Hills and Redfern, given the three-bedroom penthouse was being offered with expressions of interest above $7.5 million.

The highest price paid previously for an apartment in either suburb came earlier this year when a four-bedroom apartment in Surry Hills sold for $6,765,000.

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a> Director Adam Haddow took inspiration from his&nbsp;own award-winning Redfern residence when designing the penthouses at Surry Hills Village.

"The open living and garden courtyards, the framing of the views, privacy without fences… all these features draw on my investigations in creating my own home," Haddow said.

The idea was to create a peaceful retreat, something rarely found in the inner city.

The penthouse features a main terrace area, designed for alfresco dining, a striking kitchen with a scullery, marble island and integrated Sub-Zero Wolf appliances, and a custom bar area concealed behind leather-bound joinery doors, fitted with display shelving and a Sub-Zero wine fridge.

<img alt="TOGA" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="75d33db0-fea8-44a1-aeb6-7ebfcd46da7c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202024-11-25%20at%202.00.12%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=wjeV.xzOtbmNzqfzBtyYCXZyQ3xoXd7v" />

The recent completion of Surry Hills Village marks an eight-year journey for TOGA, who bought the former shopping centre way back in 2016.

Understanding the importance of the development given its prime position between two of Sydney's most popular suburbs, and at the end of Crown Street, Sydneysiders' go-to street for hospitality, TOGA knew they had to create something that befitted its location.

As well as the 122 apartments, Surry Hills Village is also home to Wunderlich Lane,&nbsp;designed as a lifestyle destination with 25 hospitality venues, markets, boutique retail stores, and creative workspaces.&nbsp;

Wunderlich Lane is already thriving, with several operators already having opened their doors.

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Coles, Vintage Cellars, Harris Farm, QMan Barber, Blooms The Chemist and Beyond Eyecare have now opened, and they will soon be joined by Lumi Dining Group, House Made Hospitality and Olympus Dining (by the Apollo Group). The precinct opens in stages until autumn next year.

TOGA is selling the final two and three-bedroom apartments in the building that is already proving to be a landmark for both residents and visitors.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=9302]

SJB Director Adam Haddow took inspiration from his own award-winning Redfern residence when designing the penthouses at Surry Hills Village.

Surry Hills Village penthouse sells for suburb record

The first release of Mirvac’s luxury Harbourside Residences in Sydney’s Darling Harbour has sold out, resulting in a fast track of the second release to the market.

They've secured over $600 million of pre-sales, a record for Mirvac.Over 140 apartments have been conditionally sold to local buyers with sold prices ranging from just over $1.7 million to $25 million.

The sales launch for the 48-level luxury residential tower, a redevelopment of the former Harbourside shopping centre, saw a strong response from a diverse range of buyers including downsizers, families and couples from the local market, including the inner west, north west, eastern suburbs, and north shore of Sydney. There were also some interstate buyers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=141327 project_image_fid=314729]

Stuart Penklis, Mirvac's CEO of Development, said there was unprecedented demand from discerning buyers who recognise the unique opportunity Harbourside presents, driving what he believes is an Australian real estate pre-sales record.

“The exceptional level of amenity we're offering is unparalleled, reflecting our understanding of what luxury buyers desire," Penklis says.

"In creating Harbourside, we're drawing on over 50 years of experience in design excellence, development, and construction to Mirvac’s exacting standards. Our customers know and trust the Mirvac brand and our commitment to delivering the highest quality.

“With the success of the first two sales releases this weekend, we are looking forward to releasing future stages progressively through delivery, with construction completion anticipated in late 2027."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=141327 project_image_fid=314723]

Harbourside Residences will include 263 apartments and feature an entire floor of high-end, resort-style amenity including an outdoor infinity pool with cabanas, a landscaped terrace and yoga/pilates space, indoor lap pool and spa, plus wellness facilities including steam room and sauna. There's also a range of private indoor facilities including a lounge, dining room with kitchen, cinema, and double-storey golf simulator.

Over 40 per cent of new Harbourside owners were repeat Mirvac customers.

“We were delighted to see so many familiar faces at this launch,” Penklis said.

“In the lead up to the VIP sales launch, we offered our valued customers exclusive previews of Harbourside at our state-of-the-art display suite, and their enthusiasm was overwhelming.”

The strong local buyer profile highlights the significant appeal of Harbourside's prime location and its promise of an exceptional lifestyle on Sydney's iconic waterfront, within a fully revitalised Darling Harbour.

“Many customers have shared a strong emotional connection to Harbourside, sharing nostalgic stories whether it be a visit as a child or a fond memory of their experiences at Harbourside with their family,” Penklis added.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=141327 project_image_fid=314732]

Mirvac’s wider $2 billion Harbourside precinct revitalisation will deliver over 10,000 sqm of public open space, including a new waterfront promenade and new 3,500 sqm waterfront park; pedestrian connections to Pyrmont and the waterfront including $50 million in public domain funding; and $7 million in public art and activation.

The precinct will have diverse retail offerings, including restaurants, national and international retailers, integrating and activating the public spaces.

“Bringing a complex, mixed-use project like Harbourside to life requires the expertise of an integrated property group. Our integrated approach enables us to seamlessly manage every aspect of the project, from initial planning and design to construction and delivery."

Harbourside Residences will comprises 263 one, two, three, and four-bedroom apartments across 48 levels, including three penthouses and three sub penthouses.

Harbourside Residences will be fully electric with rooftop solar panels, targeting a 5 star Green Star Buildings rating, 7 star NaTHers minimum average, 40 BASIX for Water and 25 BASIX for energy. The Harbourside precinct will feature 6,000 sqm of green roofs, in addition to the public domain and the planting of over 100,000 plants on a site that previously had no green landscape spaces.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=141327]

Harbourside Residences will include 263 apartments and feature an entire floor of resort-style amenity including an outdoor infinity pool with cabanas, a landscaped terrace and yoga/pilates space, indoor lap pool and spa, plus wellness facilities including steam room and sauna

Mirvac sell out first stage of Harbourside Residences as sales reach $25 million

Mermaid Beach has grown exponentially in recent years to become one of the most sought-after, but also tightly held, suburbs on the Gold Coast.

Beachfront mansions on Hedges Avenue grab the headlines, selling for well in-excess of $20 million on most occasions.

Apartment development in the area has been less than frequent than big-ticket sales, given the scarcity, and cost, of land.

Family-owned developer <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/niecon">Niecon</a> has a long history in the industry, dating back to the 1990s when patriarch Con Nikiforides, who passed away in 2017, developed the former Niecon Plaza in Broadbeach. Today, they are one of the few developers to have successfully undertaken projects in <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/mermaid-beach-qld-4218">Mermaid Beach</a> in recent years.

Earlier this year they completed the 47-apartment <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/buildings/ventura-residences-mermaid-beach-48-ventura-road-mermaid-beach">Ventura Residences</a>, just 250 metres from the beach.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108737 project_image_fid=199484]

Only one apartment remains, and given its unique design, it is likely to be replicated in Mermaid Beach in a hurry.

The two-level apartment has been cleverly positioned not on the top level, where most developers position their more premium, multi-level apartments, but on the ground level, so it can have a full garden.

The apartment combines the privacy and size of a house with the convenience of a communal rooftop pool, low maintenance of an apartment, and a stone's throw from the beach.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108737 project_image_fid=303811]

It has four bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, and two private car spaces. Future-proofed for any generation, the two levels are connected both by stairs and an internal private elevator.

The master suite spans half a floor, featuring a walk-in robe, an ensuite, and large windows that offer views of the adjacent park.&nbsp;

The marble kitchen is equipped with Miele appliances and a butler’s pantry. It adjoins a dining area and a bar, which features a Vintec wine fridge.

The open-plan living area is surrounded by a garden courtyard, with multiple spaces for alfresco dining and lounging.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108737 project_image_fid=303812]

The buyer will have access to Ventura's full suite of amenities including a gym and a rooftop with a suspended waterfall pool, zen garden, yoga lawn, and alfresco dining area.

While the beach is just 300 metres to the east, even closer to the west is the&nbsp;Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, The Star Casino, and Broadbeach’s popular dining precinct.

Ventura Residences is complete and ready to move in.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108737]

The two-level apartment has been cleverly positioned not on the top level, where most developers position their more premium, multi-level apartments, but on the ground level, so it can have a full garden.

Rare two-level apartment on offer in the Gold Coast's premier suburb

Townhouses have emerged as an increasingly popular choice for homebuyers seeking a balance between the convenience of apartment living and the space of a standalone house.

Offering a unique blend of affordability, space, and privacy, townhouses are an ideal solution for those looking to bridge the gap between these two traditionally distinct property types. With their multi-level layouts, townhouses often feature larger living areas than apartments, while still being more affordable and manageable than detached homes, making them a sweet spot for many buyers in today’s competitive real estate market.

For upsizers, townhouses offer the opportunity to expand without stepping into the larger, more expensive realm of detached homes. Buyers with growing families or those who simply need more space often find townhouses an appealing option. With multiple bedrooms, additional living areas, and often private outdoor spaces, townhouses provide room to spread out while remaining in a desirable location. Many townhouses are situated in vibrant urban or suburban neighbourhoods, offering a balance of convenience and space that single-family homes may not always deliver.

At the same time, townhouses are equally attractive to downsizers looking to simplify their lives without sacrificing too much space or comfort. For empty-nesters or retirees who no longer need the upkeep of a large family home, townhouses offer an appealing compromise. They typically require less maintenance than a detached house but still provide ample space for comfortable living. Many townhouses also come with features like low-maintenance yards and modern amenities, making them an easy choice for those wanting to reduce their living footprint without feeling cramped.

Melbourne's inner west&nbsp;has become increasingly popular for townhouse development due to a combination of factors that make these areas highly appealing to both developers and buyers. As Melbourne continues to grow, the inner west offers a strategic location with easy access to the city’s CBD, making it an attractive option for those who want to live close to the action while still enjoying a more relaxed, suburban lifestyle.

One of the key reasons for the popularity of townhouse developments in these suburbs is the relatively affordable land prices compared to other inner-city areas. While the inner city and more established suburbs have seen significant price increases, the inner west still offers more value for money, making it an appealing area for both rightsizers and downsizers, and even first home buyers.

The inner west is also known for its vibrant community, rich culture, and proximity to local amenities, which further adds to the attractiveness of townhouse living. Suburbs like <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/yarraville-vic-3013">Yarraville</a> and <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/south-kingsville-vic-3015">South Kingsville</a> are popular for their charming local shops, cafes, restaurants, and strong sense of community, while <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/altona-north-vic-3025">Altona North</a> has easy access to major shopping centres and transport links. These areas are also close to parks, schools, and recreational spaces, making them ideal for families, professionals, and retirees alike.

The area's ongoing gentrification is another contributing factor to the rise of townhouse developments. As these suburbs evolve, more young professionals and families are moving in, looking for modern, low-maintenance housing options that offer a mix of style, space, and convenience. With good public transport connections, proximity to major road networks, and the overall appeal of the local lifestyle, demand in Melbourne’s inner west isn't likely to abate.

Some of Australia's biggest developers have descended on Melbourne's inner west, further solidifying the view the area will continue to grow.

We've rounded up the top five townhouses currently being developed or recently completed in Melbourne's inner west.

<h2>Project:&nbsp;Bradmill, Yarraville</h2>

<h3>Location:&nbsp;355-359 Francis Street, Yarraville VIC 3013</h3>

<h3>Developer:&nbsp;Frasers Property Australia</h3>

National development giant&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/frasers-property">Frasers</a>&nbsp;is producing one of the best townhouse communities in the inner west of Melbourne, focusing on sustainability and community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134727 project_image_fid=311277]

The <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-townhouses/bradmill-yarraville-355-359-francis-street-yarraville-vic-3013">Bradmill townhouses</a>, designed by renowned architecture firm Rothelowman, offer prospective buyers three or four bedrooms across two or three levels.

The all-electric townhouses, which have been given 6 Star Green Star Communities rating from the Green Building Council of Australia, have been strategically located in the wider masterplan that is becoming the central hub of the inner west.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134727 project_image_fid=311178]

They neighbour the vast grounds of McIvor Reserve, and will be in walking distance of Bradmill Quarter, the proposed retail precinct spanning around 8,000 sqm that will home all the essentials services complemented by speciality shops and culinary delights.

The precinct will include a full-line supermarket, childcare and medical services alongside locally owned stores, eateries and conveniences. Biophilic design for retail spaces means locals and visitors will shop, dine and roam amidst green, healthy spaces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134727 project_image_fid=311275]

Bradmill is currently under construction. The townhouses will be completed toward the end of 2025.

<h2>What:&nbsp;The Fabric</h2>

<h3>Where:&nbsp;188-198 Blackshaws Road, Altona North VIC 3025</h3>

<h3>Who:&nbsp;Mirvac</h3>

Another national developer,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/mirvac">Mirvac</a>, has committed to development in the inner west.

Their masterplanned community,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-townhouses/the-fabric-188-198-blackshaws-road-altona-north">The Fabric</a>, will be home to nearly 600 townhouses once completed, near Newport Station and supported by&nbsp;Patchwork Park &amp; The Cooks Patch resident kitchen garden facility.

There will be over three hectares of community open space in the fully electric community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=22699 project_image_fid=186313]

The townhomes come in different configurations, Angora, Bedford, and Zephyr, catering to a range of lifestyles, with floorplans offering flexible living spaces, private gardens, and energy efficiency with solar panels powering the homes.&nbsp;

Townhouses in the Blackshaws Road developments have already been completed. The rest are slated for completion in mid-2025.

<h2>What:&nbsp;Haven, Altona North</h2>

<h3>Where:&nbsp;278-288 Blackshaws Road, Altona North VIC 3025</h3>

<h3>Who:&nbsp;Stockland</h3>

Yet another development giant,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/stockland">Stockland</a>, is creating a masterplan in the inner west.&nbsp;

Another in Altona North,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/buildings/haven-altona-north-278-288-blackshaws-road-altona-north-vic-3025">Haven</a> comprises 289 townhomes in 13 unique styles.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB Architects</a>&nbsp;has designed the&nbsp;sustainable two, three, and four-bedroom townhomes, some of which are designed with a reverse layout, pushing the living areas to the top of the townhouse so they can capture better views compared to a traditional floorplan.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29947 project_image_fid=225921]

Buyers benefit from industrially-inspired interiors, Fisher &amp; Paykel appliances, and access to a new central park and future planned amenities.

Haven is complete and ready to move in.

<h2>What:&nbsp;Kings Lane, Kingsville</h2>

<h3>Where:&nbsp;50-58 New Street, South Kingsville VIC 3015</h3>

<h3>Who:&nbsp;Blue Run</h3>

Boutique developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/bluerun">Blue Run</a>&nbsp;recently released&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-townhouses/kings-lane-kingsville-56-new-street-south-kingsville-vic-3015">Kings Lane</a>, just&nbsp;25 three and four-bedroom townhouses designed by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>.

Located just eight kilometres from Melbourne’s CBD on New Street, the townhouse offer a rare opportunity to buy three bedrooms under $1 million.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145042 project_image_fid=279554]

With South Kingsville undergoing rapid transformation, the project benefits from proximity to emerging retail and hospitality spaces, including Union Quarter.&nbsp;

The townhomes are particularly aimed at young families and downsizers seeking more space closer to the city.

Currently under construction, townhouses at Kings Lane will complete in 2026.

<h2>What:&nbsp;South Kingsville Place</h2>

<h3>Where:&nbsp;79 Stephenson Street, South Kingsville VIC 3015</h3>

<h3>Who:&nbsp;Metro Property Group</h3>

Near Kings Lane is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-townhouses/south-kingsville-place-79-stephenson-street-south-kingsville">South Kingsville Place</a>&nbsp;by Metro Property Group, uniquely designed by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/architects/clarke-hopkins-clarke-0">ClarkeHopkinsClarke Architects</a>&nbsp;with industrial-inspired rooflines.

The two, three and four-bedroom homes integrate energy-efficient features such as solar panels, double-glazed windows, heat pump hot water systems, and EV chargers.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=142237 project_image_fid=235955]

Flexible layouts include downstairs rooms that can serve as home offices or guest bedrooms and large living areas that connect to outdoor spaces.

The neighbourhood includes pedestrian-friendly streets, tree-lined parks, and a coastal-inspired landscape by <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/landscape-architect/mdg-landscape-architects">MDG Landscape Architects</a>.

The townhouse start from under $900,000 and are expected to complete by the end of 2025.

Suburbs like Yarraville and Kingsville are popular for their charming local shops, cafes, restaurants, and strong sense of community, while Altona North has easy access to major shopping centres and transport links

Melbourne house prices set to fall during 2015?: academic research

Jonathan Chancellor

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