Exclusive: Steer Developments bring construction inhouse as Sunbuilt revive Cote Palm Beach apartments
The development industry on the Gold Coast seems to be coming out of the other side of the construction that plagued the industry for the last several years.
Many developers have had to react in a way they had never been able to predict four years ago. The likes of Iris Capital, Siera Property Group and Andrews Projects have brought construction inhouse, mitigating the risk of appointing an external builder.
One developer caught up in the problematic build environment was Steer Developments, who had been full throttle on Côte Palm Beach, a luxury development of 17 apartments a short walk from the sand, before the collapse of GCB Constructions.
Following a difficult period of 12 months trying to secure a builder and manage the expectations of those who had already purchased in the luxury building, Steer Developments Director Rob Steer decided to take matters into his own hands becoming the head contractor.
He teamed up with several building industry experts to create SunBuilt, a new construction company that will deliver the $55 million luxury development. SunBuilt will act as Steer Developments inhouse construction arm, eliminating the tedious search for a reliable builder.
SunBuilt founding partner Damien Todd told Urban that SunBuilt was founded out of a pressing need for transparency and reliability in the construction industry on the Gold Coast.
"In a market where managing the construction process can be challenging, SunBuilt emphasises its experience throughout the whole development lifecycle. Professionalism, collaboration, quality and transparency is at our core," Todd said.
“Our approach provides greater certainty that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards."
Rob Steer said it is a huge bonus to have an inhouse builder to guarantee the purchasers the quality of finishes that are expected in a high-end, boutique development such as Côte Palm Beach.
"With only 17 apartments, each residence is designed with the utmost attention to detail, creating an intimate living environment that larger developments simply cannot match," Steer said.
"Each home features exquisite interiors with high-end finishes, bespoke cabinetry, and state-of-the-art appliances. The open-plan living areas are designed to maximise space and light, creating a seamless flow from indoor to outdoor living.
"Expansive balconies provide superb alfresco settings for everyday living or entertaining, offering breathtaking views and a perfect spot to enjoy the coastal breeze."
Steer had sold half of the apartments in Côte, on an 810 sqm site located at 3 Thirteenth Avenue, before construction paused.
The buyers, most from the start of 2023, have stuck with Steer and the team, resembling the demand for a sure product.
"The buyers understood the build environment and knew the quality of what we were putting forward. While it's taken a little longer to realise given the collapse of the previous builder we're now excited to announce basement works are well underway and delivering on our promise for our buyer."
Demolition of the old 1960s ‘Surfside Motel’ on the prime site is complete, and now SunBuilt is starting to work on the basement levels of the nine-level building that features with a striking sculpted facade by designed by DKO as well as luxury modern interiors by Plus Architecture.
Each apartment at Côte has three bedrooms, a multi-purpose room, three-and-a-half bathrooms, and two secure underground car spaces.
