Brisbane Approves Plans for 15-Storey ‘River House’ in Kangaroo Point

Developers have cleared a major hurdle for constructing a proposed 15-storey apartment tower called ‘River House’ in Kangaroo Point, after receiving approval for the project, bringing the high-rise building one step closer to breaking ground.


Read: Sydney-Based Developer, Fortis, Lodges a Kangaroo Point Riverfront Apartment Tower Proposal


The luxury development from Fortis Property Group, designed by Plus Architecture and featuring interior design by Mim Design, will bring 14 high-end residences to the neighbourhood.

The site at 44 O’Connell Street has sat vacant for years, but construction is now slated to begin in the second quarter of 2024 according to Fortis. The project, estimated to cost around $100 million, will have three levels sitting above a 1,196 sqm site.

river house
Photo credit: Plus Architecture

The group acquired the land from previous owner Joe Adsett earlier this year after plans for a similar 14-unit tower were approved but later revoked in 2021 due to legal proceedings.

Photo credit: Plus Architecture

River House will consist of 14 three-bedroom apartments, each with a multipurpose room and expansive views of the Brisbane River and city skyline. The penthouse will additionally feature a private rooftop terrace and pool. Wellness facilities like an infinity pool, sauna, steam room and landscaped gardens will provide amenities for residents.

river house
Photo credit: Plus Architecture

The plans also call for 46 total car parking spaces to be built across three underground levels – 43 resident spots and 3 visitor spaces. Vehicle and pedestrian access to the tower would be provided through the current single-lane crossover and driveway on O’Connell Street to the west side of the site.


Read: Elevated 30-Storey Residential Tower Planned for Brisbane’s Dockside Precinct


While best known for luxury developments in Sydney’s prestigious neighbourhoods, River House signifies Fortis Property Group’s inaugural project in Queensland as the developer expands its footprint.

River House is set to launch to buyers in mid to late November 2023, with estimated completion by late 2025. The new development promises to bring modern luxury living to one of Brisbane’s most desirable neighbourhoods along the river.

Published 21-November-2023

Sydney-Based Developer, Fortis, Lodges a Kangaroo Point Riverfront Apartment Tower Proposal

Fortis, a Sydney-based development company, is pushing forward with its Queensland expansion by revealing plans for a riverfront apartment tower in Kangaroo Point. 



The proposed $100 million tower comprises three levels above a 1,197 sqm site at 44 O’Connell Street, which Fortis acquired from Joe Adsett earlier this year. The site has been at the centre of a controversy as Adsett’s plans for a 15-storey, 14-apartment tower were initially approved in October 2021 but were later revoked due to legal proceedings questioning the council’s decision.

 Sydney-Based Developer, Fortis, Lodges a Kangaroo Point Riverfront Apartment Tower Proposal
Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council /  developmenti.brisbane.qld.gov.au

In late May 2023, Fortis lodged its application seeking approval for a similar-sized residential tower. The proposed tower would consist of four basement levels, a ground-floor lobby and a tiered communal recreation area.

There will be 14 three-bedroom apartments, including a penthouse that will feature a private rooftop terrace and pool. The base would feature indoor and outdoor resort-style amenities such as a lap pool, leisure deck, wellness retreat, and landscaped areas.  

 Sydney-Based Developer, Fortis, Lodges a Kangaroo Point Riverfront Apartment Tower Proposal
Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council /  developmenti.brisbane.qld.gov.au

According to the submitted planning report, the proposed building height and site cover meet the required standards. The report also highlighted that setbacks and building separation would exceed the dimensions of the previous approval. 

The Plus Architect-designed tower pays tribute to the natural beauty and earthy tones of the Kangaroo Point cliffs while adding a dynamic element to the skyline. The design statement emphasised the connection to the river and the surrounding environment.

Moreover, the O’Connell Tower aims to provide panoramic views of the New Farm area and the Brisbane River, creating a strong connection to nature and a luxurious riverside lifestyle.

 Sydney-Based Developer, Fortis, Lodges a Kangaroo Point Riverfront Apartment Tower Proposal
Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council /  developmenti.brisbane.qld.gov.au

“The building’s design is heavily influenced by the site configuration and surrounding context. It is orientated to address the Brisbane River which offers significant amenity and views, provides for future connection to the riverwalk and the existing jetty and is suitably separated from adjoining development to ensure that light and air penetration as well as privacy is maintained,” the Ethos Urban planning report states.

“The design also draws on its surrounding environment with the tower’s strength and form replicating the terrestrial makeup of its context as Kangaroo Point including paying homage to the natural beauty and earthy tones of the Kangaroo Point cliffs.”



A total of 46 car parking spaces across three basement levels are proposed as well.  The car parking space comprises 43 resident car parking and 3 visitor spaces. Additionally, the plans propose vehicle and pedestrian access to the site through the existing single lane cross over and driveway situated along O’Connell Street to the west.

Published 17-June-2023