Find your dream home and lifestyle at Third.i’s visionary Merewether Golf Club development project

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”

New building partner and new funding for The Merewether retirement living development in Newcastle, NSW

In May this year, The Weekly SOURCE reported a 50% increase in construction costs over two years had forced Third.i to take its approved development at Merewether Golf Club  back to the City of Newcastle with new plans. 

Third.i sought 36 extra apartments and have been successful and has now announced it has appointed a building partner for the project. It has a new funding partner on board.  

Co-Founder Luke Berry said, in a prepared media release, after some delays for the development, which was first approved by state planning authorities in 2021, said the company was excited to get started on The Merewether Residences, which will have 178 two- and three-bedroom apartments overlooking the golf course, a health and wellness space and cinema. 

The Merewether is a shared vision between Third.i’s retirement living division, ThirdAge Villages, and Merewether Golf Club. It was designed by architect Eugene Marchese from Marchese Partners I Life3A. The architectural oversight has transitioned to EJE Architecture. 

Construction is set to begin in the first quarter of 2025 and the expected completion date is 2027. 

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Third.i’s Crows Nest Metro Stage Wins Consent

Sydney developer Third.i and joint-venture partners Phoenix Property Investors have been granted consent by the Sydney Metro for their Hume Place over-station development. 

Designed by Woods Bagot, Stage 1 of the project over the Crows Nest Station, dubbed Elevate, consists of 130 apartments.

Stage 2 of the project will offer 476 one, two and three-bedroom apartments and operate as a build-to-rent project and includes 60 affordable apartments.

Amenities for Stage 2 announced late last month include a health and wellness centre, golf simulator, co-working space, cinema, rooftop bar, pool, and music rooms.

Third.i and PPI will team up with community housing provider Evolve Housing to manage the project, offering one full tower of Site A as affordable housing in perpetuity.

Third.i and PPI was granted Stage 1 approval for the Metro Precinct development for sites A and B, before amending the concept State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for Site A for mixed-use, which includes affordable and private housing, retail and commercial floor space.

The amended plan, which was approved by Sydney Metro, includes 15 per cent, or $100 million worth, of accommodation for frontline workers at the nearby Royal North Shore and Mater hospitals.

The amended concept SSDA is compliant with the transit-oriented development rezoning proposal for Crows Nest announced earlier this year, which would add 3255 homes in precincts within a 1.2km radius of the Metro station.

Third.i last month said its Stage 1 Elevate project had attracted 300 appointments in its opening weekend, of which 25 per cent were Australian-based buyers, with a skew towards downsizers aged over 55.

Twenty-five per cent of interest was from Asia, and the remaining 50 per cent defined as investors, particularly from Singapore and Hong Kong. 

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Construction set to begin on landmark Merewether Golf Course retirement development

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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Third.i breaks ground on WMK Architecture-designed Potts Point luxury residential project

Work has officially begun on the transformative Muse Potts Point project in inner city Sydney, being developed by Third.i, in collaboration with acquisition partner Toohey Miller. The development is part of a larger $100-million revitalisation of Potts Point and its surrounds.

Designed by WMK Architecture with the interiors meticulously crafted by Mathieson Architects, Muse will feature 13 luxury boutique residences, including one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments. Spacious terraces offering sweeping views of the harbour and city skyline will be complemented by a communal rooftop featuring a residents-only pool and expansive vistas. Muse is conveniently located within walking distance of the Royal Botanic Garden, Sydney Modern Art Gallery, local dining spots, cafes, boutique shops and the scenic Sydney Harbour waterfront.

Continuing a collaboration spanning 15 years, NSW-based construction company Dilcara has once again been engaged by Third.i to deliver Muse Potts Point, with construction anticipated to complete by early 2026.

With Muse situated on Brougham Street in the vibrant fringe of Potts Point, the coveted Sydney suburb is poised for a monumental transformation, as it becomes the focal point of significant regeneration. New projects in the area including Third.i’s Muse will add a total of 35 new boutique residences across approved and proposed developments. These residences promise to provide access to everything Potts Point offers, from its vibrant food and beverage scene to the upscale boutiques lining Macleay Street, at a significantly lower cost per square metre compared to surrounding streets.

“Muse Potts Point, nestled in the heart of Sydney’s most vibrant location, is set to redefine urban living with its exceptional design and breathtaking views. We are excited to enhance the area’s iconic landscape and offer a unique lifestyle experience, blending sophistication with the dynamic spirit of Muse’s surroundings. We are thrilled to embark on this groundbreaking journey and we can’t wait to bring this project to fruition,” says Third.i co-founder Luke Berry.

Recent data reveals that Eastern Sydney suburbs, including Potts Point, remain a drawcard for local buyers seeking premium properties in heritage locations with access to a variety of lifestyle amenities. Demand remains steady among prestige downsizers seeking their next home in Sydney’s East, with Potts Point gaining popularity due to its growth potential and local cultural offerings.

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Homes with the metro on your doorstep – literally!

You don’t need an excuse to try out the new Sydney Metro City line. Hop aboard for the sheer joy of frequent, reliable and super-speedy public transport.

Travelling largely underground between Tallawong in Sydney’s north west via Chatswood and the CBD to Sydenham in the inner west, this new metro service doesn’t just have commuters in its thrall. It’s luring passengers from all walks of life looking to complete daily tasks, from shopping and lunching to exercise and appointments.

And if you really want to dial up the convenience, there’s now the opportunity to live directly over the Crows Nest metro station, in the only project positioned above the new line.

Developer Thirdi is launching Elevate, the first stage of the Hume Place precinct, a master plan designed to inject new life and energy into Crows Nest.

Thirdi director Luke Berry says he’s been blown away by the interest in the project and says the metro is a huge part of Elevate’s appeal. He estimates he’s had 30 per cent more enquiries in the early days of the campaign compared to previous developments.

“People have gone on the metro and gone, ‘Wow – I can get into the city in 10 minutes with no traffic and no parking problems,’ ” he says.

Positioned 200 metres from Thirdi’s Hume Street office, the metro has had an instant impact on foot traffic in the area.

“Pedestrian activity has changed completely since it opened,” says Thirdi development manager Anna Limnios, who can spy on the surrounding streets through the office windows. 

“The metro is working smoothly and we’ve heard really great feedback. There’s a lot of locals as well as people who are in the surrounding suburbs and would like to live here.”

Limnios says Crows Nest is already a vibrant village and will only become more inviting as the Willoughby Road upgrades are completed.

“We’re really spoiled for choice here,” she says. “You can get pretty much everything you need and there’s lots of food stores, cafes, restaurants, bars, gyms and hospitals.”

While it’s incredible to be building above a metro station, Limnios says she’s also excited by the project’s sustainable attributes. 

From designing a fully electrified building with the inclusion of winter gardens, to solar generation and a hybrid car share service, Hume Place will continue Thirdi’s quest to build as sustainably as possible.

Limnios is working closely with building consultants, the council and the Department of Planning to move the project forward, with the design currently being finalised before submission. 

“It’s quite an exciting time,” she says. “We’re not only making a lot of key decisions for the project and getting ready to launch, we’re also building a display suite.”

Berry says the display suite is due to open on-site on October 19, just before the annual Crows Nest Fest. He’s expecting to see a mix of investors, rightsizers and first home buyers vying for the 130 one, two and three-bedroom apartments.

Importantly, buyers will be able to see first-hand that Hume Place won’t take away from Crows Nest’s beloved village vibe.

“Crows Nest is arguably one of those rare villages on the lower north shore that will retain this diverse village setting,” Berry says.

“From a development point of view, it’s got an enormous amount of restrictions on changing the heights around the Willoughby Road precinct, which I think will endear it in the future.

“But it’s also going to benefit from investments like ours that are on the edge of the village.”

The very same edge where you’ll find the super-duper new metro.

“We’re hopeful that our work locally will help educate people about the value that is going to be captured by owning a piece of real estate above a once-in-a-generation piece of infrastructure.”

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Third.i gives buyers confidence in Newcastle project

PROPERTY developer Third.i has introduced latent defects insurance (LDI) at its Dairy Farmers Towers project in Newcastle’s West End, marking the first project in Newcastle with the protection.

Dairy Farmers Towers will deliver over 180 luxury one, two and three-bedroom apartments that will boast some of the largest in the market complete with 180-degree north-facing views to the city.

LDI safeguards against structural and construction defects for up to 10 years, meaning unforeseen issues can be addressed without major financial burden, offering developers financial protection and offering buyers confidence in their purchase.

Developers who implement LDI must adhere to high construction standards, comply with regulations, conduct thorough risk assessments and maintain financial stability to mitigate potential financial risks associated with latent defects.

“We take immense pride in our Dairy Farmers Towers project and the high standards we’ve upheld every step of the way. Our LDI insurance reflects our dedication to assuring our buyers that we stand behind the quality and durability of our work,” said Luke Berry, co-founder of Third.i.

Almost 80% of the project has already sold since its launch to market. The project will feature on-site amenities that include communal green spaces, gym, an elevated north-facing outdoor swimming pool and sundeck, a wine bar and cellar, and residents’ only shared work hub.

Dairy Farmers Towers will include 10 SDA apartments.

In response to demand, Third.i has added nine additional apartments to the project. One, two and three-bedroom apartments are still up for grabs. Remaining apartments range from $595,000 to $2,950,000.

Dairy Farmers Towers is set to complete construction in mid 2026, with construction company Decode appointed to deliver the project.

As an ode to Newcastle’s history, the project will re-imagine the site’s heritage listed glass milk bottle and clock towers as part of a pedestrianised, broader public art installation.

Builder defects policies are still in their infancy in Australia. They were developed in response to the Mascot Towers and Opal Towers episodes in Sydney, which saw thousands of residents displaced from their homes after the discovery of structural defects. A subsequent review recommended an overhaul of the construction industry, while the Mascot Towers Owners Corporation told the NSW government inquiry into the regulation of building standards, quality and disputes in 2019 that buyers have more consumer protection buying a $1,000 television than a multimillion-dollar apartment.

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Third.i to protect apartment buyers at Newcastle’s Dairy Farmers Towers with leading 10-year Latent Defects Insurance

Residential developer Third.i is the latest to provide its buyers with the most comprehensive insurance policy in the off the plan apartment market.

They’ve taken out Latent Defects Insurance (LDI) from Resilience Insurance, a first-party insurance that safeguards against structural and construction defects for up to 10 years, meaning unforeseen issues can be addressed without major financial burden.

The policy offers both developers financial protection and instills buyers with confidence in their purchase. Dairy Farmers is the first development in Newcastle to have the insurance.

Developers who implement LDI must adhere to high construction standards, comply with regulations, conduct thorough risk assessments and maintain financial stability to mitigate potential financial risks associated with latent defects.

“Introducing Latent Defects Insurance is a testament to our commitment at Third.i to building homes and spaces that offer our buyers lasting peace of mind and ensures they feel confident in their investment,” said Luke Berry, Co-Founder of Third.i.

“We take immense pride in our Dairy Farmers Towers project and the high standards we’ve upheld every step of the way. Our LDI insurance reflects our dedication to assuring our buyers that we stand behind the quality and durability of our work. As we eagerly anticipate its completion, we’re thrilled to see this project come to life, creating homes that families can trust and enjoy for generations to come.”

Dairy Farmers Towers is set to complete construction in mid-2026, with multi-award-winning construction company Decode appointed to deliver the project.

“We’re excited to be working with Third.i on this project in the heart of Newcastle’s West End,” said said Jack Peschardt, Construction Manager at Decode.

“This development represents a significant milestone for the area and reflects our shared commitment to contributing to the growth and vibrancy of the community.”

Almost 80 per cent of the 180 one, two and three-bedroom apartments have sold. The project will encompass a range of deluxe on-site amenities, including communal green spaces, a state-of-the-art gym, an elevated north-facing outdoor swimming pool and sundeck, a wine bar and cellar, as well as an exclusive residents’ only shared work hub.

Remaining apartments range from $595,000 to $2,695,000.

In addition, as an ode to Newcastle’s history, the project will also re-imagine the heritage-listed, iconic glass milk bottle and clock towers as part of a pedestrianised, broader public art installation.

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Crows Nest Metro station apartment project on track for launch

Property developer Third.i Group and its joint-venture partner Phoenix Property Investors are poised to launch a major apartment tower over the recently opened Crows Nest Metro station, just north of the Sydney CBD.

Stage one at the Hume Place Metro Station, to be known as Elevate at Hume Place, will feature 130 one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments designed in a contemporary style by major architectural firm Woods Bagot.

Prices start from $930,000 for the one-bedroom apartments with one bathroom but no car space.

Residents will be able to access the CBD within seven minutes, and the suburban hub of Chatswood within four minutes, given the tower’s proximity to the newly opened rail station beneath.

Stage two of the project, a mixed use development, is to be launched in 2025.

The tower will be pitched at first-time owners and investors, as well as downsizers wanting to be close to the Crows Nest Village.

According to the developers, a recent global study of the impacts that metro stations have on residential property on or directly next to metro stations, those properties can demand premiums ranging from 20 per cent to 30 per cent higher than neighbouring properties. Importantly for investors, a nearby metro can help secure 15 per cent to 20 per cent higher premiums in rents, compared to similar properties in the area.

“There are plenty of projects claiming close links to the Crows Nest Metro, but there is only one project getting built above it all,” said Third.i co-founder and director Luke Berry in a statement.

“Having Elevate built directly over the station is why this project will outperform any other local projects in the future …

“Elevate is also a one-of-a-kind development in terms of the value the metro will bring long- term to its owners.”

JLL Residential Project Sales will market the apartment block, which will be launched in next month.

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Construction commences at Muse Potts Point new apartments

Luke Berry, Third.i. Co-Founder, said Muse Potts Point is set to redefine urban living with its “exceptional design and breathtaking views.”

Muse Potts Point, the rare new apartment development in the harbourside suburb, has kicked off its construction.

Developer Third.i and acquisition partner Toohey Miller have officially broken ground on the WMK Architecture-designed building that comprises just 13 one, two and three-bedroom apartments.

The apartments, with interiors crafted by Mathieson Architects, offer terraces with extensive views of the harbour and city skyline. The views are best captured from the communal resident rooftop which features a swimming pool and seating areas.

Dilcara has been appointed to deliver Muse Potts Point, with construction anticipated to complete by early 2026. Third.i and Dilcare have been working together for 15 years. Their joint project portfolio includes recent developments such as Third.i’s Botany Road project in Waterloo, Soho in Surry Hills, Cavallo in Kensington, and most recently the new Third.i head office in Crows Nest.

Muse is set to play a pivotal role in transforming Brougham Street, adding to a total of 35 new boutique apartments planned across approved and proposed developments.

Recent sales data shows that apartments on Brougham Street, both new and second-hand, currently average around $45,000 per square metre. In comparison, properties on Victoria Street average $70,000 per square metre, while those on Macleay Street/Darlinghurst Road range from $62,000 to $80,000 per square metre.

Luke Berry, Third.i. Co-Founder, said Muse Potts Point is set to redefine urban living with its “exceptional design and breathtaking views.”

“We are excited to enhance the area’s iconic landscape and offer a unique lifestyle experience, blending sophistication with the dynamic spirit of Muse’s surroundings,” Berry said.

“We are thrilled to embark on this groundbreaking journey and we can’t wait to bring this project to fruition.”

Based on recent data, Eastern Sydney suburbs, including Potts Point, continue to attract local buyers seeking premium properties in heritage locations with access to a variety of lifestyle amenities. Demand remains steady among prestige downsizers seeking their next home in Sydney’s East, with Potts Point gaining popularity due to its growth potential and local cultural offerings.

Berry emphasised the current opportunity for buyers to invest in Potts Point. “Now is the time to invest in Potts Point,” Berry added.

“With ongoing regeneration and community upgrades, property values are expected to rise. Sales are increasing on popular streets like Victoria and Macleay, while Brougham Street properties are priced at about a third to half the cost per square metre.

“Muse Potts Point offers access to the area’s lifestyle at a lower price, with additional rooftop views. High interest in premium properties makes this a unique opportunity to enjoy Potts Point’s exceptional offerings at an attractive value.”

Muse Potts Point is set to complete in March 2026 and welcome residents shortly after.

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