An updated development application has been submitted by Verso Development Group for a mixed-use residential project at 23 Castlebar Street, Kangaroo Point. The proposal seeks to restore the heritage-listed Shafston House, introduce a 25-storey residential tower rising approximately 90 metres, and create two new standalone river homes facing the Brisbane River.
The application supersedes a previous application for a 15 storey residential proposal on the site proposed by Burgundy Group in 2022.
According to the architectural design statement prepared by Kerry Hill Architects, the building incorporates a layered façade, sheltered terraces, and generous balconies to facilitate cross-ventilation and natural airflow.
“Our vision for this development is to blend timeless heritage elements with modern vertical living, respecting Shafston House while providing a comfortable and highly functional residential environment,” notes the design statement.
The design emphasises open floorplans that transition seamlessly between indoor and outdoor areas, accompanied by carefully considered screening treatments to maintain privacy. Inspired by local architectural traditions, the tower’s aesthetic adapts expansive verandas and shaded spaces to a high-rise form while preserving sightlines to Shafston House.
Project rundown
| Development Parameter | Proposed Development |
|---|---|
| Address: | 23 Castlebar Street, Kangaroo Point |
| Development Type: | Mixed-use residential development and heritage restoration |
| Site Area: | Approximately 9,000m² |
| Height: | 25 storeys / approximately 90 metres |
| Apartments: | – x46 3-bed apartments – x2 4-bed apartments x48 apartments, 2 river homes |
| Elevators: | 2 elevators (lift-to-unit ratio 1:26) |
| Communal Space: | Lower ground – include spa, sauna, steam and treatment rooms and outdoor resort style pool Level 27 rooftop – Pool, dining and lounge |
| Retail: | None proposed |
| Car Parking: | Basement parking |
| Bike Parking: | Dedicated bicycle storage |
| Developer: | Verso Development Group |
| Architect: | Kerry Hill Architects |
| Landscape Design: | PWP Landscape Architecture |
| Town Planner: | Urbis |
| Sustainability: | – Passive cooling measures reduce reliance on air conditioning by optimising airflow and shading. – High-efficiency HVAC and lighting systems minimise energy consumption across the tower and communal areas. – Rainwater harvesting captures runoff for irrigation, cutting down on potable water usage. – Water-saving fixtures, like low-flow taps and dual-flush toilets, further reduce water consumption. – Thoughtful material selection includes locally sourced, durable products that limit the development’s carbon footprint. – Green landscaping and rooftop plantings help lower the urban heat island effect and improve air quality. – Dedicated bicycle parking and enhanced pedestrian routes encourage active transport options. – Dual recycling and general waste chutes which encourages building recycling |
| Date Submitted: | 18/11/2024 |
| Assessment Level: | Code-assessable |
| DA Application Link: | A006656931 |
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The development would offer a range of recreational amenities for residents. These include landscaped areas around the podium, lounge spaces within the podium level, and a rooftop featuring an outdoor gym, multiple lounge pockets, and an infinity-edge pool overlooking the city skyline.
Apartment layouts are designed to be spacious, with attention to internal flow, storage, and operable glazing systems to manage temperature and airflow in all seasons. The design statement highlights relaxed communal zones that accommodate everything from casual gatherings to more formal entertaining.
A further aspect of the proposal is the continuation of the Brisbane Riverwalk, extending through the precinct to provide continuous pedestrian and cyclist access along the river. The goal is to maintain views of Shafston House’s original frontage, with the public realm carefully arranged so that heritage features remain prominent.
There would be an emphasis on clear, level connections between the tower’s entry points, the communal podium facilities, and the adjoining riverfront paths. Additional details submitted with the application indicate thorough consideration of significant trees while enhancing the layout around Shafston House’s lawn areas.
The project’s plan includes a basement-level carpark to cater to resident vehicles, minimising streetscape impact by housing cars below ground. Public thoroughfares around Castlebar Street and Thorn Street would remain active and accessible, allowing pedestrians to view restored heritage structures at the estate’s core.
Shafston House itself would be adapted for communal uses, potentially including a residents’ lounge, meeting spaces, and other private amenities fitting its scale and original interior proportions. Interior modifications are proposed to maintain key heritage elements, reinstate original features where feasible, and update selected rooms to support the proposed use.
Further documentation in the application notes that the new river homes would be separate from the main tower, positioned to maximise privacy and capture river views. These homes would feature open living areas, ample balconies, and carefully recessed façades to avoid obstructing sightlines between the tower and Shafston House.
The architect’s approach suggests each home’s design would be coordinated with broader site landscaping, promoting a consistent, tranquil aesthetic. While no retail outlets are proposed, the overall master plan envisions a lively interplay of private and public domains, driven by an expanded riverside pathway and comfortable communal pockets.
Plans show that the podium level of the tower would contain gathering areas for residents, possibly including lounges, informal dining sections, and a landscaped courtyard. This location is intended to link the modern tower and Shafston House, preserving direct sightlines while offering respite for residents.
The proposal indicates that Shafston House’s more decorative interior details, such as ornate windows, fireplace mantels, and historically significant structural elements, would be retained or restored. A heritage consultant has advised on the approach, ensuring interventions remain reversible and key features—including window proportions and external finishes—are preserved.
This approach extends to the immediate grounds, where the Wards Building and Postal Depot, also integral to the estate’s story, would be retained and adapted as needed to support communal or ancillary functions. The plan aims to reinforce the property’s layered history while aligning with modern living needs.
Documentation outlines how the development is intended to address Kangaroo Point’s ongoing transformation into a high-density residential precinct. The site is close to major transport nodes, including CityCat terminals and pedestrian connections to the CBD, encouraging a lifestyle oriented toward walking and cycling.
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Yeah, a nicely designed building. Absolutely wrong for this site. No amount of marketing guff will excuse the fact that this building will contravene the 15 storey height limit for this area, overshadow Shafston Hse and severely diminish the amenity of the building behind. Can’t help but feel the egregious height is a gambit to get the 15 storey limit relaxed in some guise. The Schrinner council has form in this area and is changing Kangaroo Point from a model of leafy, relaxed high density living to just another sunless, windy Newstead. See also the 30 storey obscenity proposed for the corner of Deakin and Cairns Streets. Shameful.
Strongly agree the height of the construction will be absurdly out of character with the area and submerge Shafton House.
This is a complete disgrace. The council has lost its soul on this one. Fifteen stories was already madness for such a historic site but 25?! One of the last remaining riverside homesteads in Brisbane and they import Gold Coast ugliness on what is supposed to be a heritage listed site. If they were using the funds to make Shaftston House in some way a public space maybe it could be defensible but turning it into a spa retreat accessible only to the wealthy!!
I get the need for housing in Brisbane but this is just grotesque.
Joh Bjelke-Peterson would be proud. The Council should be ashamed!!