Green light for Valley's $180m Utopia

A $180 million residential tower set to rise in the heart of Brisbane’s vibrant Fortitude Valley has been given the green light following DA approval.Utopia, a 24-level apartment tower is the first in a number of Brisbane projects by Sandt developments, headed by Bill Wang and Ben Collins backed by a consortium of foreign investors.Utopia will comprise 300 high-end apartments primarily aimed at owner-occupiers and investors and will be launched in the coming months.The tower is earmarked to be constructed on a site at 275 Wickham Street, just two blocks from Brunswick Street Mall in the centre of the emerging lifestyle precinct.Sandt Developments Group Development Manager Bill Wang said Utopia would add to Fortitude Valley’s eclectic mix of heritage-listed and modern buildings as the area continued to undergo urban renewal.“Utopia will take Brisbane’s inner urban lifestyle to a new level by incorporating luxury, innovation and functionality in its design and the range of facilities and services available,” he said.“Its sophistication will appeal to the young, hip professionals who are drawn to The Valley’s vibrant arts, dining, shopping and entertainment scene.“They will also value the location on the doorstep of the CBD and close to a range of public transport options.”Mr Wang said the project would be officially launched to the market late June and they’re currently reviewing a shortlist of three of Brisbane’s most respected builders.Sandt has appointed Ben Collins, as Marketing Director to handle the sales and marketing campaign and appoint local agents.Utopia’s residents will have access to a recreation deck and an extensive rooftop garden featuring an open-air cinema, yoga lawn and an alfresco dining area.Designed by Kris Kowalski Architects, Utopia will also incorporate a 400 sqm retail precinct fronting Wickham St ideal for several restaurants or boutiques.Utopia’s one-bedroom apartments will start from $375,000 while two-bedroom configurations will be priced from mid $500,000.