RETHINKING THE AUSTRALIAN SUBURB AS BLOCK SIZES SHRINK

Australia’s housing debate is often dominated by affordability and supply, but a new collaboration between Brickworks and acclaimed architecture firm Kennedy Nolan argues the conversation should also focus on the quality and longevity of the homes being built.

The project, titled Our Next Neighbourhood, examines how suburban housing could evolve in response to shrinking block sizes, rising energy costs, increasing density and changing family structures.

Rather than proposing luxury dream homes, the initiative focuses on what its creators describe as achievable suburban housing models that are more flexible, sustainable, and better suited to modern Australian life.

Brickworks commissioned Kennedy Nolan to investigate what suburban housing might look like if “design, long-term liveability and enduring materials were placed at the centre of the conversation”.

The result is two housing concepts, known as the Street Terrace and Canopy Terrace, which explore higher-density living while maintaining access to green space, natural light and privacy.

The designs incorporate adaptable floorplans that can evolve as family needs change, along with passive design principles intended to reduce reliance on mechanical heating and cooling.

Brett Ward, General Manager of Marketing at Brickworks, said the company wanted to broaden the discussion around housing beyond simply increasing supply.

“Much of the housing conversation today is understandably focused on supply and affordability, but there is an equally important discussion to be had about the quality and longevity of the homes we build,” he said.

“We wanted to explore how thoughtful design, combined with durable, resilient materials, could create homes that not only function well today, but continue to support Australian families and communities long into the future.”

Kennedy Nolan said the project was partly inspired by concerns that contemporary housing often struggles to adapt to changing household structures and environmental pressures.

The architects said innovation in suburban housing was “essential” to address changing family groupings, energy use, urban heat island effects and growing disconnection from place.

According to the design team, the concepts draw on lessons from some of Australia’s most influential housing projects while seeking to create neighbourhoods with stronger links to landscape, community and local identity.

Rachel Nolan, founder of Kennedy Nolan, said the practice saw an opportunity to reimagine suburban housing as something “more connected to our climate, our landscape, our communities and our Australian identity”.

The project comes as policymakers, developers and planners continue searching for ways to deliver more housing without sacrificing liveability, neighbourhood character or long-term sustainability.

An ultra-luxury Main Beach penthouse with 360-degree views of the beach, hinterland and city skyline has hit the market with an $18 million price tag, as buyers seeking a rare slice of coastal opulence continue to drive the top-end of the Gold Coast market.

The sprawling 600sqm residence will occupy the upper two floors of the 29-level La Mer tower on Main Beach Parade, and has been released as its construction reaches top-out, ahead of completion later this year.

The lavish penthouse boasts four bedrooms, all with ensuites, including an ocean-facing master retreat with private lounge, a kitchen designed for a private chef, a rooftop pool, huge entertaining zone with outdoor kitchen, a grand staircase, and its own express lift.

Demand for high-end Gold Coast property remains strong, with a Burleigh penthouse sold off-the-plan for $30 million earlier this year, surpassing the $24 million record set in 2023.

“The La Mer penthouse represents exceptional value, considering its quality design, size, privacy and location – not to mention the 360-degree views capturing the beach and Gold Coast Broadwater,” said OTP Group director James Elliott, who is marketing the project.

“We’re anticipating interest from high-net worth individuals and couples seeking a residence or holiday home in the sought-after village enclave of Main Beach, taking advantage of the unprecedented growth underway in the area and neighbouring The Spit.”

The $155 million La Mer is being developed by developer-builder ODUS and Nazero, in partnership with funder Metrics Credit Partners.

ODUS Director Byron Sakha said with construction powering ahead and the 29-level structure now complete, it was the ideal time to launch the penthouse to the market.

“We’ve worked with internationally-recognised studio, Sici Design, on the penthouse interiors, with a focus on ensuring it isn’t luxury for luxury’s sake – every element has been thoughtfully designed to enhance quality of life for those who call it home,” he said.

“The views are the hero of virtually every space, but we’ve given equal attention to the fittings and finishes, so every detail exudes elegance and refinement.

“Now that construction of La Mer has topped out, prospective buyers can experience how the building is taking shape and the exceptional location on offer, just 68 steps from the sand.”

Sici Design founder and director Maria Papadopoulos said the penthouse interiors exemplified effortless luxury living.

“The views weren’t something we designed around, they became part of the design itself, with the true luxury of La Mer in its feeling of peace, calm and wellbeing,” she said.

“Luxury isn’t defined by how something looks, but how it makes you feel, and we believe a luxurious home should be beautiful to live in, not stressful to maintain.”

Refined yet durable materials include premium natural stone Austral Dream Dolomite, with travertine bringing warmth and timelessness, complementing timber flooring, and a coastal colour palette.

The ocean-facing resort-style master retreat occupies half the upper level, with its own private balcony, lounge room, two walk-in wardrobes, and an oversized ensuite with double shower, double vanity, and solid stone freestanding bath overlooking the views.

The kitchen features a 3.6-metre statement island bench and expansive butler’s pantry, complemented by a dedicated wine cellar and integrated bar area.

Designed by architects, Plus Studio, La Mer features 24 full-floor, three-bedroom plus multipurpose room residences, along with the dual-level penthouse. Exclusive resort-style facilities include a pool, spa, fully-equipped gym, sauna, barbeque facilities, private sun lounges, yoga lawn and an outdoor beach shower.

The penthouse is being launched as part of the final release of apartments at La Mer, with prices starting from $4.3 million.

RETHINKING THE AUSTRALIAN SUBURB AS BLOCK SIZES SHRINK

Brickworks has enlisted acclaimed architecture studio Kennedy Nolan to explore how homes could become more adaptable, energy-efficient and connected to community.