Construction commences on landmark Bowen Hills project that blends the city’s past with the future

Shovels have broken ground to mark the start of construction on The Abbotsford, a striking residential development in Brisbane’s Bowen Hills designed to meet the demand for new stylish residences in the inner north.

The prominent 4,092sqm site at 23-39 Abbotsford Road will be transformed by Cintra Property and Core Property Partners into 122 luxury apartments across two eight-storey buildings, with a fully restored heritage-listed residence as its centrepiece.

Cintra Property Director, Peter Tan, announced during the sod-turning ceremony the appointment of Binah Constructions to deliver The Abbotsford.

“Binah Constructions is well established in New South Wales and has won awards including the NSW and National 2023 Performance Excellence Award,” Mr Tan said.

“They are also a Gold Star iCIRT registered builder, and with current projects on the Sunshine Coast, they have expanded into the Brisbane residential sector with this latest project at Bowen Hills.” 

The Abbotsford, located within the Bowen Hills Priority Development Area, is on the doorstep of major transport infrastructure, employment, health, retail and dining precincts. 

Core Property Partners Managing Director Nathan Andersen said the ceremonial sod-turning launched construction on the highly anticipated project, providing spacious, liveable two and three-bedroom residences paired with unprecedented connectivity and resident lifestyle facilities. 

Mr Andersen said sales had been strong for the elevated site, located only 3km from the CBD.

“Fifty per cent of our first release of 60 apartments have sold before the official start of construction,” Mr Andersen said. 

“A large part of its appeal is the ability to live on the Newstead fringe, with the precincts of James Street, Gasworks and King Street just a short stroll away, without the Newstead price tag.

“It also enjoys greater connectivity, with Bowen Hills train station and access to major bus routes at its doorstep, and close proximity to future Olympic venues.

“The luxury apartments have been embraced by a wide demographic of purchasers ranging from first home buyers to downsizers looking to move from large homes in Hamilton and Brisbane’s inner northern suburbs.” 

Mr Andersen said The Abbotsford was strategically located opposite Bowen Hills train station, just two stops from Central station and direct access to the airport. Major bus routes can be accessed from stops metres from the entrance. 

Core Property Partners Senior Development Manager Bikram Kaler said a focal point of the development was the historic house dating back to the 1870s.

“The heritage home has been preserved on the site and will be meticulously restored to become a striking central hub connecting the two residential buildings with shared recreation areas and landscaped gardens,” Mr Kaler said.

“Designed by DKO Architecture, The Abbotsford takes inspiration from the heritage residence while complementing Brisbane’s contemporary sub-tropical lifestyle. 

“The spacious apartments are designed to a high standard of excellence, cleverly capturing natural light with oversized balconies to make the most of stunning city views from the elevated site.’’ Mr Kaler said liveability and lifestyle were at the heart of the project.

“An emphasis on lifestyle and wellness is a focus for both rooftops, with entertainment spaces for residents that include pools, yoga lawns and open areas to take in the views to the city and mountains,” he said. 

Prices start at $950,000 for a two-bedroom apartment and $1.6 million for a three-bedroom apartment. Construction is due for completion at the end of 2026.