Plus Architecture and Macquarie York are elevating Gold Coast development standards with Cirrus — a sculptural 13-storey tower in Palm Beach, that has secured a 50% height bonus for design excellence.
With the Design Application (DA) approved by the City of Gold Coast Council, the development showcases Plus Architecture’s innovative approach, successfully designing a 42.4-metre tower on a 488-square-metre site that enhances Palm Beach’s evolving coastal character.
The development’s distinctive form is defined by a sweeping curved façade with fluted concrete detailing inspired by organic shell patterns. The design carefully articulates mass through a considered two-part composition: a grounded podium featuring textured stone paving and warm concrete tones, transitioning to a lighter tower element finished in cool-toned concrete and expansive glazing. A vertical green spine threads through the building, creating natural material separation while anchoring it to the site.
Plus Architecture Director Danny Juric explains how the practice achieved this milestone: “We approached this project as an opportunity to demonstrate how design excellence can transform a site into an architectural landmark. Our collaborative process with Council, often involving real-time design refinements sketched during meetings, helped us create a building that not only maximises resident amenity but makes a genuine contribution to Palm Beach’s urban fabric.”
“The building’s form is deliberately shaped to maximise setbacks and optimise views, while its street-level interface creates a welcoming presence that strengthens Palm Beach’s emerging village heart.”
Cirrus will deliver ten full-floor three bedroom residences and a two-level four bedroom penthouse, with 15 metres of ocean frontage — more than double the typical beachfront apartment width. An elevated recreation deck on level one features an infinity-edge pool overlooking the ocean, while layered landscaping cascades down the podium to create a direct pedestrian connection to the beach.
Macquarie York Managing Director, Roy Skaf said the successful collaboration with Plus Architecture builds on their previous work together: “Having experienced Plus Architecture’s design excellence capabilities on Nina Chevron Island and Sunset Residence in Surfers Paradise, we knew they could help us achieve something truly exceptional here. The result speaks for itself – Cirrus will be an iconic addition to Palm Beach’s skyline and sets new standards for sophisticated beachfront living on the Gold Coast.”
“I want to acknowledge the exceptional engagement from Gold Coast City Council Officers throughout the assessment process, and thank both the Planning & Regulation Committee and Full Council for their overwhelming support of this landmark development. Their vision and support have been instrumental in bringing Cirrus to life.”
A prime location — residents will enjoy protected views across Andy Frizzel Park and Palm Beach Surf Club, while being just moments from the area’s thriving café and restaurant scene. With each residence offering the privacy of a luxury home alongside the amenity of a boutique development, Cirrus is set to be at the heart of Palm Beach’s evolution.
Construction is expected to commence in Q2 2025, with sales to be launched once the structure is substantially complete — reflecting Macquarie York’s confidence in the strengthening premium apartment market and the project’s unique position in the Palm Beach precinct.
The development marks Plus Architecture’s latest contribution to Palm Beach’s transformation. With three completed projects, five others approved and in design development and several more in the pipeline, the practice is taking a leading role in shaping the precinct and defining the area’s architectural character.
