A major development application has been submitted for an ambitious $1 billion mixed-use precinct called Toowong Central, planned for a largely vacant site next to the Toowong Village shopping center and the suburb's train station. The proposed urban village is located approximately four kilometers southwest of Brisbane's Central Business District, positioning it as a significant addition to the city's inner south-west region.
The groundbreaking tri-tower proposal features a comprehensive design that includes a retail podium and multiple ground-floor plazas. Kerry Hill Architects (KHA) has taken the lead on the architectural design of the project, working alongside Cottee Parker Architects and PWP Landscape Architecture. KHA secured their role after winning an international design competition in 2024, beating out notable competitors including United Network Studio (UN Studio) and Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG).
According to a detailed report from planning consultant Urbis, KHA's winning competition concept presented "an activated and connected ground plane with generous public realm that crafted a vision for living, working and enjoying at the site." The firm notes that the original design "has since been developed further, in response to additional feedback from both council and the community," demonstrating the collaborative approach taken throughout the planning process.
The proposed development comprises three slender residential towers with heights ranging from 49 to 58 stories, with the tallest structure reaching 225 meters above ground level. The towers will house a total of 1,031 apartments, including 92 units specifically designated as short-stay serviced accommodations. These residential towers are strategically arranged around a central plaza, which serves as the focal point of an extensive network of public spaces and walkways that weave through and around retail and commercial spaces within the mixed-use podium.
Urbis's report emphasizes that "a specific focus in the design is unlocking and maximizing the ground plane for public open space, while co-locating much-needed housing supply with lifestyle amenities to support the growing inner-city population." This approach reflects current urban planning priorities that seek to balance residential density with quality public spaces and community amenities.
The heart of the precinct features a circular plaza designed as a flexible, multi-functional space. This central area is envisioned to accommodate interactive water play features, informal community gatherings, and regular night markets, creating a vibrant hub for residents and visitors alike. The development also thoughtfully addresses each of the site's three street frontages with smaller public forecourts, ensuring the project integrates well with the surrounding neighborhood.
In a nod to local heritage, the scheme incorporates the former Carver and Co. building, which has been designated as a local heritage place, into the project's retail offerings. This integration demonstrates the developers' commitment to preserving the area's historical character while introducing modern urban amenities.
Drawing inspiration from Toowong's characteristically leafy suburban environment, each of the three towers features vertical articulation enhanced by elevated subtropical sky gardens. This emphasis on urban greening extends throughout the development, including the landscaped podium level, which will feature a series of pools, wellness facilities, and multifunctional community spaces designed to promote resident well-being and social interaction.
Regarding the project's significant scale, Urbis's report notes that "the design responds directly to the existing and future site context, along with its proximity to the CBD and Brisbane River." The planning document explains that "the concept design process was driven by a bold vision of revitalizing and reawakening the heart of Toowong through the creation of an iconic and memorable precinct on the site to enhance the area's appeal and serve as a catalyst for planned improvements in the surrounds."
The proposal's height represents a substantial departure from current zoning regulations, standing more than double what is currently permitted under the existing neighborhood plan. The towers also exceed previous high-rise approvals in the area, such as the 25-story design by Nettleton Tribe for The Aviary project. Due to this significant scale variance, the application requires impact assessment and is subject to public submission processes, allowing community members to provide input on the proposed development.
The complete development application and associated documentation are now available for public viewing online, marking the beginning of the formal review process. If approved, Toowong Central would represent one of the most significant urban development projects in Brisbane's inner suburbs, potentially setting new standards for mixed-use developments in the region.
