22 October 2025
A small Brisbane shopping strip is set to be demolished, with a plant-covered luxury apartment block approved to take its place.
The 1205-square-metre block at 53 Racecourse Road in Hamilton, about five kilometres from the CBD, is the site of a single-storey retail hub with seven businesses including Italian and Thai restaurants.
The new apartment complex will comprise 12 two- and three-bedroom apartments across four storeys, underground parking, and a rooftop terrace.
A resort pool, hot spa, “wellness facilities” and landscaped green space will also be included.
Artist renders of the proposal released earlier this year show green and red plants in concrete tubs cascading down the building from balconies on each level.
A bakery, bar and several food outlets are also pictured on the ground floor.
According to plans, the design was inspired by historic buildings in the area with the red-brick facade a tribute to landmarks such as the historic St Augustine’s Church just metres away.
“We’re absolutely delighted to have received approval,” Dan Boman, general manager of developer Fortis, said.
“This is a significant milestone for Fortis in Brisbane and a project we believe will play a meaningful role in the ongoing revitalisation of this iconic precinct.
“Racecourse Road has long been one of Brisbane’s most loved high streets, and we’re proud to contribute to its next chapter with a design that’s both respectful of its heritage and ambitious in its vision.”
Koichi Takada Architects designed the new building.
A similar development with apartments and ground-level retail outlets is also approved directly next door, at 63 Racecourse Road.
Other major projects have begun on the strip, including a much larger complex at 77 Racecourse Road, with 30 units.
Fortis is also behind the planned conversion of a decommissioned aged care home into luxury flats in New Farm.
