General News
13 August, 2026
High rise with tropical vibes
TOWNSVILLE-based Swanland Group wants to build a 14-storey residential and tourist accommodation building in the Cairns CBD with a rooftop garden that creates “a sense of rainforest within the city”.
Their development application before Cairns Regional Council, has been lodged by Property Projects Australia Pty Ltd on behalf of International Palace Pty Ltd, for the site at 142-144 Grafton Street, currently occupied by Cyrus Rugs and opposite the Cairns Performing Arts Centre.
They are seeking a development permit for material change of use for food and drink outlet, multiple dwelling and short-term accommodation.
The application says the 14-storey building will “provide essential residential and tourist accommodation”.
It includes:
A clearly-defined central entry point into an activated ground floor that includes a food and drink outlet, lobby for visitors and 18 car parking spaces
Three podium levels of car parking to provide for 85 car parking spaces and services to support the proposed development
Four levels of short-term accommodation totalling 72 units
Five levels totalling 35 residential dwellings
High amenity, landscaped rooftop that includes a pool, wellness area, conference room and other communal areas in addition to a gym on level three
AdvertisementConsidered, integrated landscaping extending up the building from the ground floor to the rooftop
Feature landscaping at the rooftop to create a unique viewpoint and generous planters at the rooftop, particularly along the building edge, to soften the perceived bulk and scale to create sense of rainforest within the city.
“It strengthens and reinforces the role and function of Cairns city centre as the principal centre for, not only Cairns, but Far North Queensland as it provides an attractive, contemporary built form that celebrates tropical urbanism and positively contributes local identity,” the application said.
“This proposed development provides a high-quality architectural design that responds to the site and the surrounding context.
“Positioned in the heart of Cairns city centre, the proposed development takes inspiration from the movement of water and sand to create a well-articulated building.
“Swanland is committed to delivering integrated urban design outcomes and the creation of connected, liveable communities.”
The privately-owned developer is behind the Bushland Beach and Bluewater Estate residential projects in Townsville.
The application will be assessed by council planners before a recommendation is brought before councillors.
