Luxury development named country’s best

The view from the rooftop at ‘Upper House’ in South Brisbane. Picture: Supplied

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A luxury Brisbane apartment tower inspired by the iconic Moreton Bay fig was named the Australian Development of the Year at the Property Council of Australia’s Innovation & Excellence Awards in Sydney last night.

‘Upper House’ by Queensland developer Aria is a 188-unit development in South Brisbane and the state’s first 5-Star Green Star As-Built residential building.

The project won the Rider Levett Bucknall Australian Development of the Year award, the Best Residential Development award and the Best Public Art award for the ‘bloodlines weaving string and water’ piece Judy Watson at the annual event.

Designed by Koichi Takada Architects, ‘Upper House’ features a twisted form, LED ribbon lighting, a curated art collection, Australia’s first double-storey rooftop club and the world’s largest timber pergola.

There is a concierge service, a rooftop infinity pool, a private cinema, a wellness centres and executive workspaces, as well as smart systems, EV-ready infrastructure and solar power.

‘Upper House’ in South Brisbane features luxury and sustainable elements. Picture: Supplied

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Queensland Property Council executive director, Jess Caire said the development set a new standard in Queensland.

“Upper House sets a new benchmark in sustainability, design, and delivery,” she said.

“It’s a masterclass in how elegance and environmental performance can coexist.

“Built on a tight inner-city site during a challenging period for high density development, ‘Upper House’ is a testament to Aria’s commitment to precision, creativity, and resilience.

“Every detail has been considered from the sculptural form inspired by Moreton Bay fig trees to the seamless integration of public art and green space.”

Jess Caire, Queensland Property Council executive director. Picture: Supplied

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Aria founder and managing director, Tim Forrester said the award was the culmination of decades of teamwork.

“We are deeply honoured with this recognition by the Property Council and the property development industry and sincerely thank everyone who has been part of this journey,” he said.

“This achievement highlights the collaborative spirit and dedication of our team, partners and stakeholders who have made ‘Upper House’ a success, and we extend our heartfelt thanks to all who contributed to this iconic project.

“We would like to make a special mention of our visionary architect, Koichi Takada for challenging us to deliver a development with several worlds’ firsts, and a degree of complexity rarely encountered.”

Other Queensland winners at the awards were Gateway@Murarrie, in the Best Business or Industrial Park category, Tulmur Place – Nicholas Street Precinct, in the Best Public Building or Social Infrastructure category and 443 Queen St, in the Best Sustainable Development – Residential category.