Proposed Toowong Tower Gets Upsized and Reimagined for Build-To-Rent Development

Plans for a residential tower site on High Street in Toowong have been given a strategic redesign, with the proposal now aimed at the booming build-to-rent market. The project will see an increase in height and the number of apartments, as well as design changes to accommodate the new scheme.



An approved tower site in Brisbane’s inner-west is set to undergo a redesign and expansion of its proposed plans that is now geared towards a build-to-rent development. The 1571sq m site located at 60 High Street, Toowong, will now feature a 25-storey tower, a significant increase from its originally approved 20-storey height, and an expanded apartment count of 326 units, up from 125 under the revised plans.

Proposed Toowong Tower Gets Upsized and Reimagined for Build-To-Rent Development
Photo credit:  Brisbane City Council / developmenti.brisbane.qld.gov.au

The project which features a ground-floor lobby, commercial tenancies, a two-level podium, three basement levels, and a rooftop recreation area across a 20-story residential tower had already received approval.

Changes are now being proposed in response to the adoption of a Build to Rent scheme, where units will be collectively rented out for long-term rentals and managed on-site. The removal of the podium car park is a significant design change that will enhance the building’s aesthetic appeal, particularly along High & Ebor Streets. 

The new design includes units on all podium levels except for the ground level, a revamped residential lobby with an expanded mail room and reception area, and minor alterations to the tower elevations and rooftop recreational area.

Proposed Toowong Tower Gets Upsized and Reimagined for Build-To-Rent Development
Photo credit:  Brisbane City Council / developmenti.brisbane.qld.gov.au

It will also see the two-level podium scrapped, and the basement levels increased to four. Whilst car parking spaces would be cut from 184 to 156, bike spaces will increase from 163 to 408.

Moreover, the design changes will include minor changes to the podium and tower floor plates, and the provision of internal common recreational areas on Levels 2 and 25. Other minor changes include the internal design of the basement car park and changes to servicing arrangements at the lower ground level.



Build-to-rent (BTR) is a model where an entire apartment complex is built with the sole purpose of leasing out all its dwellings, a well-established concept in the US and UK but still in its early stages in Australia.

As the rental housing shortage in Australia worsens, experts see BTR as a potential solution to address the growing demand for rental accommodation and the need for a more secure and stable lease.

With the forecasted population growth in Australia over the next decade, experts suggest that BTR developments could play a crucial role in boosting housing supply and affordability.

Published 24-April-2023

Cue Up: One of the Hottest Billiard Lounges in Toowong

Come unwind with some drinks, shisha, and a few friendly games of pool at Cue Up, one of the hottest billiards venues on High Street in Toowong.



For $25, Toowong’s very own Cue Up lets people compete against one another from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. with unlimited games of pool and table football. 

The venue doubles as a lounge which closes at 2:00 a.m., where people are free to stick around and hang out after their respective games have ended. Drinks are free and plentiful between 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., as a special promotion. Did we also mention that BYOB is also allowed?

Photo credit: Instagram/Cue Up (Billiard Lounge)

Shisha, in a variety of flavours, is also available at the venue. Cue Up also has 12 different flavours of Peters Ice Cream so customers literally can pick their pleasure. 

Photo credit: Instagram/Cue Up (Billiard Lounge)

Based on customer reviews, visitors like the ambiance and value for money that the lounge provides. One person refers to it as the “Best pool hall in Brisbane.” 

Photo credit: Facebook/Cue Up

The billiard and shisha lounge can be found at 27 High St, Toowong, open every day from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. Follow their social media pages on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates on deals, dates, and other special announcements. 

20-Storey Apartment Building Proposed for High Street in Toowong

A 20-level apartment building has been proposed for 58-60 High Street in Toowong.

The development application submitted by Nan Xin Brisbane Toowong Ltd Pty proposes the construction of a residential tower right at the corner of High Street and Ebor Street. The plan calls for 171 apartment units consisting of 78 one-bedroom units, 84 two-bedroom units and nine three-bedroom units.

Proposed residential building Toowong
Photo credit: pdonline.brisbane.qld.gov.au

Describing Toowong as a nexus between the leafy suburbs and the city, the developer says that it aims to build a tower with communal outdoor rooms and leafy neighbourhood backyard for the residents. To realise this, the plan boasts three double-height outdoor rooms that can be shared by residents.

Proposed residential building Toowong
Communal outdoor rooms (Photo credit: pdonline.brisbane.qld.gov.au)

The common spaces, which will include a patio and a BBQ space for gatherings and family get-togethers, will be surrounded by green walls, trees and shrubs.



Retail spaces will dominate the ground level with alfresco seating adjacent to the footpath. The main entrance will also be activated by retail and dining areas.

Proposed residential building Toowong
Photo credit: pdonline.brisbane.qld.gov.au

Car spaces will be located at the back of the size through an access easement. This way, it will free up the High Street frontage for public pedestrian use. The development will provide 204 car spaces, 174 of which will be for residents. There will also be space for 30 motorbikes and 214 bicycles.

On the roof will be lush, green gardens for relaxation and social activities. The roof garden will offer residents panoramic views of the mountains, the city and the river. The communal space will also incorporate a swimming pool, a gym, and BBQ terraces. The greeneries and pergolas will help bring shade and minimise the strength of the afternoon sun.

Proposed residential building Toowong
Photo credit: pdonline.brisbane.qld.gov.au

Development Snapshot:

Find out more about Development Application A005076003.