First look exclusive: Meriton propose three-tower Surfers paradise apartment development, Cypress

Billionaire Harry Triguboff's Meriton is continuing its rapid expansion across the heart of the Gold Coast.

They're set to add another 1,000 apartments to the Surfers Paradise skyline, lodging plans for their fourth, fifth and six towers in the heart of the tourist district in recent years.

It will be Triguboff's 21st high-rise development on the Gold Coast, having first visited the now thriving tourist mecca six decades ago.

“I have loved the Gold Coast since my first visit in the 1960’s, and after all my travels internationally, I still believe the Surfers Paradise beachfront is one of the best in the world," Triguboff says.

“I have been very passionate about designing and delivering buildings that are in tune with the ocean and the golden beach that is just metres away.”

Following on from Ocean and the two-tower Iconica both on The Esplanade, Meriton will add a further three towers in their new development Cypress, at 3346 Surfers Paradise Boulevarde, on top of the Cypress Ave G-Link light rail.

The nine site, 8083 sqm amalgamation spreads across Surfers Paradise Boulevarde, Palm Avenue, and Cypress Avenue, the latter which inspired the project name.

Cypress will sit one street away from Gurner's DA-approved LA Pelago and two streets from SPG's DA-approved Paradiso Place.

Triguboff says, recalling on some of his earliest developments, that he didn't think he'd ever be able to purchase a site like this one.

“Meriton’s first Gold Coast towers were Florida in Surfers Paradise and the Nelson at Paradise Waters at the start of the 1980’s, almost 40 years ago," Mr. Triguboff says.

"Xanadu in the late 1990’s and Pacific Views in 2002 on the western side of Main Beach Parade that overlooked the Pacific Ocean continued our high-rise love affair with the Gold Coast.

"Little did I know that one day I would have the opportunity to purchase a site that is so dear to me, arguably the most central land in Surfers Paradise and design a trilogy of the country’s tallest towers."

There will be 994 apartments across the 73 and 80-level towers. The smaller 53-level tower will home 327 serviced apartments. Each of the three towers feature a rooftop garden with a pool and a gym space.

Meriton had DBI, who designed their Iconica project nearby, have taken the architectural reigns for Cypress.

They said in their design statement submitted to the Gold Coast City Council that the design of the three towers aims to create a bold and iconic presence as a gateway site to the Gold Coast CBD, while incorporating subtropical principles and street activation.

"The integration of the design elements creates a unique and vibrant addition to the Surfers Paradise skyline, creating a landmark destination for both residents and visitors," the local architecture firm noted.

"The towers are designed to maximize the potential of the site, with careful consideration given to the orientation, views and access to natural light and ventilation."

DBI said one of the key design features of the towers is the slab projection facing the streets, which creates a strong visual connection with the surrounding urban fabric.

"This design element not only provides shading and environmental control to the towers but also creates a sense of scale and texture, breaking down the massing of the towers and providing a human scale to the development."

"A golden spine acts as a unifying element that ties the towers together, providing a strong visual presence on the skyline. The spine is also designed to provide shading and environmental control to the towers, while also serving as a sculptural element that adds to the overall aesthetic and elegance of the development."

The five-level podium engages with the street level and will feature a mix of retail, dining, and entertainment spaces.

There's an elevated pool on level six, designed in a lagoon style to take advantage of the subtropical climate. 

"The sculptural elements of the podium create a cohesive design language throughout the development, adding to its elegance and sophistication," DBI added.

"The towers are deeply rooted in subtropical principles, with careful consideration given to sun and wind orientation, thermal mass, natural ventilation, and shading. The towers are designed to provide a comfortable and sustainable living environment for residents and guests while minimizing their environmental impact."

Meriton have long had a reputation as one of the most prominent developers across New South Wales. Their most recent developments near the Glitter Strip have been Ocean by Meriton at 84 The Esplanade, a soaring 76-level tower with 722 apartments. That's now 85 per cent sold, with just 40 apartments remaining in the completed project.

Down the road they more recently launched ICONICA by Meriton, a further 637 apartments across two 50 and 70-levels at 152 The Esplanade. Works recently began on the prime site opposite the beach.