Frank Licastro’s deep-rooted connection to New Farm runs through every corner of Della ROSA, a luxury residential development that’s not just another addition to the Brisbane skyline, but a tribute to his family’s legacy.
Inspired by childhood memories in their Nonno’s garden, Mr Licastro and his cousin Joe are on a mission to craft more than just homes — they’re cultivating a living testament to the past.
Together they make up Frank Developments, the creators of New Farm’s luxury Moray Street residence ‘Maison’ and premium growth corridor developers, Signature Property Partners, respectively.
Their partnership on Della ROSA has been a lifetime in the making.
“Some of mine and Joe’s fondest memories remain in the backyard of our Nonna and Nonno’s garden in New Farm, playing with our toy trucks where they grew all of their fruit and vegetables,” Mr Licastro said.
“We are grateful to be still in the area working together, doing what we love.
“Our grandparents were known for their variety of fruit and veg, including figs and avocados — always sharing what they picked with their neighbours. New Farm still carries that same strong community bond today.”
Construction is underway on the newest residential landmark: a collection of 12 boutique apartments with 90m of street frontage, high-end finishes, and a facade that’s every bit the elegant lady of the neighbourhood.
And not by chance, Della ROSA, or ‘of the rose’, is named as a nod to Rosa Oxlade, the matriarch of New Farm and the namesake of Oxlade Drive.
Mr Licastro said the Della ROSA was a “softened” version of Queenslander style architecture that “roses, the river and Rosa Oxlade herself” inspired.
“Della ROSA captures the elegance and femininity associated with her,” Mr Licastro said.
“As a team we considered how to manipulate the Queenslander into something more fluid and with more movement.
“We believe ROSA captures nostalgia by blending elements from the past with contemporary touches, ensuring it will age gracefully and remain timeless while honouring New Farm’s heritage.”
The 121 Oxlade Drive development is set to redefine luxury living, with an expected completion date of August 2025.
Five of the 12 apartments are already sold, with three to four bed, three to four bath and two to four car park options on offer, starting from $3.75m.
The property will be characterised by deep balconies and expansive vegetation on the outside with customisable open-living spaces inside.
Project designer, BY culprit, set out to pay homage to “the warmth found in the family homes of yesterday”.
BY culprit’s design director Luke Henderson said Della ROSA was a harmonious blend of nostalgia and modernity.
“The design team sought to capture the charm of ‘yesterday’,” he said.
“A time when beautiful things were refined and timeless, when things were slow, appreciated, thoughtful, and polite. A time when craftsmanship was honoured for its quality to last generations.”