New Era on Gold Coast for the Beachside Block of Flats

After a wave of high-end luxury apartment development, the need for more affordable housing on the Gold Coast is giving rise to a new development era for the more humble but modern beachside block of flats.

Two recently filed proposals at Southport and Miami are among an increasing number of low-to-mid-rise apartment buildings in the city’s planning assessment pipeline.

The taller of of the two planned developments would rise seven storeys and comprise 18 two-bedroom units with balconies on a 708sq m site at 98 Eugaree Street, Southport.

Each of levels two to five would accommodate four apartments and another two units on level six would cap the building along with a communal rooftop terrace.

Ground floor carparking for 25 vehicles is proposed and level one would provide for services, storage room and a private gym room for residents.

Overall, a total of 237sq m of communal open space is planned, most of it on the rooftop—including a pergola, decking and a gym room.

If approved, the proposal by Centro Pacific Development would replace an existing single-storey detached home.

“Eugaree Street provides for varying housing choice,” a planning report supporting the application said. “The proposal provides an apartment building that further increases this choice.”

▲ A render of the proposed block of flats at 98 Eugaree Street, Southport.

At Miami, a four-storey apartment block comprising 22 two-bedroom units is earmarked for a 1214sq m site at 2110-2112 Gold Coast Highway.

The scheme designed by AG Architects and lodged by property owner Lynette Maree Arcuri would replace a house and lawyer’s office.

It features “modern urban living environment with a beachfront lifestyle” with 550sq m of communal open space including a recreational roof terrace with outdoor seating, multi-purpose space, a barbecue, pool and gym. Basement parking would be provided for 28 cars.

“The development contributes positively to the character of the area by replacing the existing tired low-rise single dwelling buildings with a project displaying fresh, modern architectural standards,” the planning documents said.

“Fluid horizontal projections respond directly to place, emulating the undulating nature of the Australian coastline just a short distance away.

“Balconies seamlessly extending off internal living spaces reinforce the indoor/outdoor connection while framing and maximising views.”

As well, planting incorporated at the first two levels “adds greenery, contributing to a softer and more inviting facade design”. Large sliding screens enhance the facade, providing both sun shading and privacy.