Category: Development

Multi-award-winning construction company Decode Group has been appointed by ThirdAge, the retirement division of Third.i Group, to build The Merewether Residences, the over-55s senior living development at The Merewether Golf Club in Newcastle.

Having successfully collaborated with Third.i on their Dairy Farmers Towers project in Newcastle, Decode Group will now bring its iCIRT-rated expertise to this landmark development.

Developed as a joint venture between ThirdAge and The Merewether Golf Club, The Merewether Residences will feature 178 thoughtfully designed one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, along with 16 exclusive penthouses across four 6-storey buildings. Located at an exclusive address on Newcastle’s scenic coastline, the resort-style retirement living development promises a vibrant, connected community and world-class amenities for over-55 retirees, empty nesters, downsizers, and Sydneysiders seeking a lifestyle change.

Originally designed by renowned architect Eugene Marchese of Marchese Partners, The Merewether Residences will have architectural oversight from EJE Architecture, which is taking lead on this ambitious development.

The design draws inspiration from Newcastle’s coastal charm and contemporary style, with ThirdAge envisioning The Merewether Residences as a stylish sanctuary where architectural elegance meets beachfront relaxation in a modern retreat-like environment.

The palette of textures and materials to be used in the design is inspired by the surrounding landscape to enhance the location’s natural beauty, aligning with ThirdAge’s vision of creating spaces that effortlessly blend into the environment.

Alongside the development, The Merewether Golf Club will be upgraded with a new clubhouse, a health and wellness space, and a brand new sports bar to benefit golf club and community members as well as apartment residents.

On the appointment of Decode Group as the builder, ThirdAge director Luke Berry said, “At ThirdAge, we pride ourselves on delivering innovative, high-quality projects that resonate with today’s buyers. Having previously collaborated with Decode Group, we’ve seen first-hand their exceptional expertise and commitment to excellence. With Decode leading construction, we’re confident The Merewether Residences will set a new benchmark in retirement living, offering unparalleled quality, sustainability, and long-term value.”

“We’re thrilled to be working with Decode Group to bring something truly unique to Newcastle – a resort-style community where over-55s can embrace the best of Newcastle’s lifestyle, with the championship Merewether Golf Course right at their doorstep,” he added.

Sam El Rihani, founder & chairman of Decode Group, commented, “We are honoured to partner with ThirdAge on The Merewether Residences. This project aligns with our vision of delivering landmark developments that enhance the lifestyle and wellbeing of residents. Our team looks forward to bringing our expertise in high-quality, sustainable construction to this unique coastal community.”

Demand for The Merewether Residences is already strong, especially from those considering retirement living and seeking a coastal lifestyle, a like-minded community, and access to world-class amenities.

Future residents can look forward to high-end facilities such as a health club with gym, wellness programs, a luxurious spa with massage and facial treatments, serene pool, on-site cinema, communal kitchen for cooking classes, herb garden, workshop, and art and craft rooms.

While early works began on site in August 2024, construction is estimated to be completed in Q2 2027, with the new clubhouse opening in Q3 2026.

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ThirdAge, the retirement division of Third.i Group, has appointed multi-award-winning construction company Decode Group to lead the build of The Merewether Residences, the over-55s retirement living resort at The Merewether Golf Club. 

Following their successful collaboration on Third.i’s Dairy Farmers Towers project in Newcastle, Decode Group brings its iCIRT-rated expertise to this landmark development. The project paves the way for an exclusive new address on Newcastle’s scenic coastline, appealing to retirees, empty nesters, downsizers, and Sydneysiders seeking a lifestyle change. 

The Merewether Residences, a joint venture between ThirdAge and The Merewether Golf Club, will feature 178 thoughtfully designed one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, along with 16 exclusive penthouses, across four 6-storey buildings. 

Drawing inspiration from Newcastle’s coastal charm and contemporary style, ThirdAge envisions The Merewether Residences as a stylish sanctuary where architectural elegance meets beachfront relaxation, offering a modern retreat for over-55s. 

The project also supports investment in The Merewether Golf Club and the club’s infrastructure. The golf club and community members will benefit from a range of extensive amenities including a health and wellness space, a sports bar as well as a new clubhouse for its members and apartment residents. 

ThirdAge Director Luke Berry shared his enthusiasm for appointing Decode Group as the builder: “At ThirdAge, we pride ourselves on delivering innovative, high-quality projects that resonate with today’s buyers.

Having previously collaborated with Decode Group, we’ve seen firsthand their exceptional expertise and commitment to excellence. With Decode leading construction, we’re confident The Merewether Residences will set a new benchmark in retirement living, offering unparalleled quality, sustainability, and long-term value.” 

Sam El Rihani, Founder & Chairman of Decode Group, also shared his excitement about the project: “We are honoured to partner with ThirdAge on the Merewether Residences.

This project aligns with our vision of delivering landmark developments that enhance the lifestyle and well-being of residents. Our team looks forward to bringing our expertise in high-quality, sustainable construction to this unique coastal community.” 

Demand for The Merewether Residences has already been strong, drawing both local and out-of-town interest. The development appeals to those considering retirement living and seeking a coastal lifestyle, a like-minded community, and access to world-class amenities.

Residents will enjoy high-end facilities that elevate their lifestyle, including a health club with gym, wellness programs, and a luxurious spa with massage and facial treatments. A serene pool, on-site cinema, communal kitchen for cooking classes, herb garden, workshop, and art and craft rooms will promise a vibrant, connected community. 

The Merewether Residences was beautifully designed by renowned architect Eugene Marchese of Marchese Partners. However, architectural oversight has since been transitioned to EJE Architecture, who are now taking lead on this ambitious development. 

The design will incorporate a palette of textures and materials inspired by the surrounding landscape to enhance the location’s natural beauty. This approach aligns with ThirdAge’s vision of creating spaces that effortlessly blend into the environment. 

Early works began on site in August 2024, with the construction of the existing greenkeepers shed marking the start of this iconic project.

The project’s design reflects years of planning and collaboration with local councils to ensure a development that enhances Newcastle’s coastal aesthetic, without disrupting residents. Construction is estimated to be completed in Q2 2027, with the new clubhouse opening in Q3 2026. 

Mr Berry highlighted the significance of this next phase for The Merewether Residences, highlighting its impact for residents and the local community:

“We’re thrilled to be working with Decode Group to bring something truly unique to Newcastle – a resort-style community where over-55s can embrace the best of Newcastle’s lifestyle, with the championship Merewether Golf Course right at their doorstep.” 

The approved breakdown of apartments includes 12 one-bedroom, 121 two-bedroom, and 29 three-bedroom apartments, along with 8 two-bedroom and 8 three-bedroom penthouses. 

Third.i has successfully delivered large-scale residential projects in Sydney and Newcastle. The latter includes Dairy Farmers Towers and WEST Apartments in Newcastle, and Eaton on Union and Stella on Hannell apartments in Wickham. The group currently has a development pipeline worth more than $4 billion. 

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GOLD star-rated Independent Construction Industry Rating Tool (iCIRT) construction company Decode Group has been appointed by Third.i Group to deliver The Merewether Residences at The Merewether Golf Club.

The development a joint venture between ThirdAge, retirement living division of Third.i and The Merewether Golf Club. The resort-style project will comprise 178 apartments and 16 luxury penthouses, across four six-storey buildings, for over 55s retirees and downsizers.

The project will also upgrade The Merewether Golf Club with a new clubhouse, health and wellness space and brand-new sports bar.

The appointment of Decode follows their successful collaboration on Third.i’s Dairy Farmers Towers project in Newcastle.

“Having previously collaborated with Decode Group, we’ve seen firsthand their exceptional expertise and commitment to excellence. With Decode leading construction, we’re confident The Merewether Residences will set a new benchmark in retirement living, offering unparalleled quality, sustainability, and long-term value.” ThirdAge director Luke Berry said.

“Our team looks forward to bringing our expertise in high-quality, sustainable construction to this unique coastal community,” said Sam El Rihani, founder & chairman of Decode Group.

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Years of planning are set to come to fruition at The Merewether Residences following the appointment of a construction company.

Decode Group will lead the build on the eagerly-awaited over-55s retirement living resort at the neighbouring golf club, partnering with ThirdAge, a division of Third.i Group, on the landmark development.

The Merewether Residences, featuring 178 one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments along with 16 exclusive penthouses across four six-storey buildings, is slated for completion in 2027.

Residents can enjoy high-end facilities, including a health club with gym, wellness programs, and a luxurious spa with massage and facial treatments.

A serene pool, on-site cinema, communal kitchen for cooking classes, herb garden, workshop, and art and craft rooms promise a vibrant, connected community, too.

The project will also support investment in the Merewether Golf Club and its infrastructure.

Members and locals are expected to benefit from a range of extensive amenities including a health and wellness space, a sports bar and a new clubhouse, to open in 2026.

“At ThirdAge, we pride ourselves on delivering innovative, high-quality projects that resonate with today’s buyers,” director Luke Berry said.

“Having previously collaborated with Decode Group, we’ve seen first-hand their exceptional expertise and commitment to excellence.

“So, with them leading construction, we’re confident The Merewether Residences will set a new benchmark in retirement living, offering unparalleled quality, sustainability and long-term value.

“Demand has already been strong, drawing both local and out-of-town interest.

“But, the development will appeal to those seeking a coastal way of life, like-minded community and access to world-class amenities.

“We’re confident we are bringing something truly unique to Newcastle – a resort-style facility where over-55s can embrace the best of the city’s lifestyle, with the championship Merewether Golf Course right at their doorstep.”

Early works began on site in August, with the construction of the existing greenkeepers’ shed marking the start of the venture.

The approved breakdown of apartments includes 12 one-bedroom, 121 two-bedroom, and 29 three-bedroom units, along with eight two-bedroom and eight three-bedroom penthouses.

Third.i has previously delivered large-scale residential projects in Newcastle, including Dairy Farmers Towers and WEST Apartments, Eaton on Union and Stella on Hannell apartments in Wickham.

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With construction set to begin in early 2025, The Merewether Residences, will disrupt traditional stereotypes of retirement living, blending high-end design with community- focused amenities for active retirees.

The over-55s retirement village reflects the personal vision of Third.i’s founders, who sought to create a community they would be proud to offer their own families.

“We wanted to develop retirement homes that we’d be delighted to have our own parents live in,” said co-founder Luke Berry.

“The project has gone through a few challenges to get to this stage but now we’re able to move ahead on creating something that will never be replicated in the region; it’s such a rare opportunity.”

LUXURY MEETS COMMUNITY AT THE MEREWETHER RESIDENCES

Following several planning approvals since 2021, construction is set to begin in early 2025, with completion anticipated in 2027.

The Merewether Residences will boast 178 one, two and three-bedroom upscale apartments overlooking the golf course, as well as a suite of resort-style facilities. These include a health and wellness centre, a cinema, and a newly constructed clubhouse for the golf club. Designed to accommodate over 300 residents, the project seamlessly integrates luxury with an active lifestyle.

The development, initially conceptualised by Marchese Partners and now helmed by EJE Architecture, embraces a design ethos centred on light-filled, spacious apartments that cater to a new generation of retirees’ desire for luxury living and activity.

“Today’s retirees aren’t ready to slow down,” Berry explained.

“They’re looking for communities where they can golf, dine, and socialise, all while living in comfort. Which is why we have named our retirement division ‘Third Age’.”

Local interest in the project has been strong, with many downsizers from Newcastle and even Sydney expressing enthusiasm for the development.

REDEFINING RETIREMENT IN NEWCASTLE

The Merewether Residences represent a bold step forward for Third.i and the senior living industry at large. With its blend of luxury, community, and innovative design, the project sets a new benchmark for retirement living, catering to the evolving needs of today’s retirees.

“Now we’re able to move ahead on creating something that will never be replicated in the region; it’s such a rare opportunity”

When the three founders of leading property development company Third.i established the retirement living division of their business, they kept their own parents in mind.

“We said we wanted to create retirement products that we would be very proud to have our own parents living in,” one of those founders, Luke Berry, says.

“My mum and dad and all of their friends worked hard in their lives,” he said. “And I think we owe it to that generation to create something that is truly exceptional. So our goal was to build beautifully-designed, high quality apartments, combined with the kind of incredible retirement village amenity that today’s retirees are looking for.”

Now, ten years later, the company is preparing to begin construction on what will be the flagship development in its retirement living vision – The Merewether Residences at the Merewether Golf Club in Newcastle.

Third.i has announced it has now appointed a building partner for the project and has a new funding partner on board – both of which will be unveiled at a celebration event at the Merewether Golf Course on November 28. Construction is set to begin in the first quarter of 2025 and the expected completion date is 2027.

Mr Berry said that after some delays for the development, which was first approved by state planning authorities in 2021, the company was excited to get started on this landmark luxury over-55s concept.

“It is very exciting for us and everyone involved,” he said. “The project has gone through a few challenges to get to this stage but now we’re able to move ahead on creating something that will never be replicated in the region, it’s such a rare opportunity.

“It’s a once in a generation project and now we have a clear pathway to completion.”

The project includes the residential development, The Merewether Residences, that’s integrated with the existing golf course. It will comprise 178 luxury apartments overlooking the golf course, extensive amenities – including a health and wellness space and cinema, and a new Merewether Golf Club club house. It all comes together to create a resort-style lifestyle for the community of more than 300 residents who’ll be living there.

The Merewether is a shared vision between Third.i’s retirement living division, called ThirdAge Villages, and the Merewether Golf Club. It was designed by architect Eugene Marchese from Marchese Partners, a leading expert on creating over-55s communities that make life easier, more enjoyable and more fulfilling for their residents. The architectural oversight has since transitioned to the multi award-winning EJE Architecture, which has taken the lead on the ambitious project.

Mr Berry said the whole concept is aimed at helping people who are either approaching or in their retirement to transition into their “third age”.

“That’s why we called our retirement division Third Age because we want to design these communities that are reflective of the new retiree that isn’t ready to slow down – they just want to live a little more comfortably,” he said.

“The reality is retirees today want to be active. They want to play golf, and want to be out enjoying good food and wine, they want to right-size into a home that’s going to be suitable for them for the next stage of their life – their third age – but without having to compromise on anything.

“So we’re building beautiful, high-quality, generously-sized apartments but combined with the retirement village amenities and the amazing connection to the golf club which is going to have food and beverage.

“These aren’t people who are just going to go into our apartments and sit and watch the day go by. They’re on a golf course, they’re surrounded by a beautiful green sanctuary and with people who are out enjoying the spaces and the amenities – young people meeting for afternoon drinks in the bar, families celebrating a birthday at the restaurant, people catching up with friends.

“It’s set up so you can easily engage with that community and that energy when you want to but at the same time the living is also far enough away, in this lovely environment, so you can slow down and relax when you want to.”

Mr Berry said the current purchasers of the three, two and one bedroom apartments are mostly local downsizing Novocastrians but many are also people relocating from Sydney and regional New South Wales.

And among those buyers are his own parents. “My parents are going to live there and a lot of their friends have decided to buy as well,” Mr Berry said.

“We’ve got people moving from Sydney and also a lot of locals who are choosing to retire there. We’ve got a lot of farmers from the middle, west and northwest of New South Wales.

“So we are bringing together a community that’s going to be really interesting, from a lot of different backgrounds who all want to live in this beautiful environment, in a great city.”

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