Design-led property developer Bottega House has secured council approval for its first Brisbane project – a landmark $270 million luxury residential development on an absolute riverfront site in leafy St Lucia.
The 15-storey project, known as St Lucia by Bottega House , will occupy a prime north-facing site at 178-180 Macquarie Street, directly fronting the Brisbane River in the established inner-west suburb known for its rowing clubs, golf courses and sprawling University of Queensland campus.
St Lucia by Bottega House will comprise a selection of stunning residences complemented by a suite of amenities, including dedicated wellness spaces, a mineral pool and cold plunge. The project has been positioned to attract affluent owner-occupiers seeking high-quality, house-sized apartments.
At the helm of the Bottega House development team are co-directors Nick Malloch, Louis Mennes and Craig Marsh. Malloch said the project drew inspiration from its Brisbane River setting and leafy inner-west surrounds, while responding to the demands of discerning locals looking to transition from freestanding homes into apartment living.
“With an expansive river frontage and lush green surrounds, we knew we had to create something special that reflects the natural beauty of the location while offering residents masterfully crafted homes,” said Malloch.
“Our intent was to complement the project’s quiet, private setting by introducing residences that offer a calm retreat and sanctuary from the everyday. The result is a harmonious blend of architecture, interiors and amenity that emphasises wellbeing, comfort and beauty without excess.“
Malloch added that project consultants had been carefully selected in alignment with Bottega House’s commitment to care, quality and attention to detail. The design team includes architects Plus Studio, interiors practice Mim Design and landscaping by Urbis.
With a rich history as one of Brisbane’s oldest and most sought-after suburbs, St Lucia lies just seven kilometres from the CBD and has long been defined by its relationship to the river. Home to both the Toowong Rowing Club and University of Queensland Boat Club, even the iconic St Lucia Golf Links fronts the river at several points along its 18 holes.
Locals benefit from easy access to active mobility options including ample walking paths and the Brisbane River Loop, a 37-kilometre cycleway that connects St Lucia to the nearby University of Queensland campus and onward to the CBD.
St Lucia is one of Brisbane’s most tightly held pockets, with growing appeal among buyers drawn to the suburb’s highly desirable riverside lifestyle. Positioned on a north-facing riverfront site, St Lucia by Bottega House represents a rare opportunity in the leafy enclave.
With three-bedroom residences expected to start around $5 million, Bottega House St Lucia is expected to set a new precedent for local prestige property prices. Selling agents Keenan & Byrne said the pricing strategy for the project was anticipated to achieve upwards of $25,500 per square metre.
The project’s development approval this week follows the success of Bottega House’s inaugural Queensland project – a 22-storey collection of full-floor sky homes at Broadbeach on the Gold Coast which included the sale of a two storey penthouse at a record price for a beachside residence.
St Lucia by Bottega House is expected to launch to market in November, with construction anticipated to be completed mid 2029.
