Why builders are digging this huge hole in the inner city
As the Brisbane property market continues to boom, foundations are being laid for another new luxury apartment complex in a huge hole in Teneriffe.
Dubbed “Brera” in Teneriffe, the building at 31 Doggett Street will include 14 three-bedroom units over eight floors, a ground-floor food and beverage outlet, office space and a rooftop lounge area with a 25-metre swimming pool.
The block has direct sightlines to the CBD and Fortitude Valley and is approximately a 300 meter walk from the center of James Street in New Farm.
There is no information about prices on the developer’s website, but the apartments are unlikely to be cheap; The average price of three-bedroom units in Teneriffe was just under $2 million at the start of 2026.
Before it turned into a 50-foot-deep pit, the address was a modest three-story commercial building that housed furniture and home goods store Life.
The huge excavated area will house 68 car spaces (more than three per flat) on three underground levels.
On Friday afternoon, about a half-dozen workers were at the site where a tall crane was being erected to begin construction.
The development is expected to be completed in mid-2027. New documents outlining the construction program were submitted to Brisbane City Council in January.
The developers did not respond to a request for comment from this byline, but the project’s website describes the building as “a true urban landmark” and says it is unlike anything else in the city.
“Brera is an unprecedented lifestyle opportunity,” the page reads in all capital letters.
“Every day… it will bring a wealth of health and wellness offerings to your door, bringing you closer to the heart of Brisbane’s premier dining and shopping precinct.”
Some residents have previously expressed concern about the project, arguing it would increase traffic on Doggett Street and overshadow surrounding buildings.
“This proposal significantly increases the risk of traffic or pedestrian accidents, potentially resulting in serious injuries,” one said in a presentation to council.
Another added: “The building is too tall and cumbersome, does not provide a suitable setback and plays a significant role in the development of the site.”
Architect firm Richards & Spence designed Brera on behalf of developer Forme. Graya signed a contract for its construction.
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