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A two-bedroom Brunswick West apartment was last weekend’s most affordable sale in Victoria, selling for $300,000 according to Australian Property Monitors.  
Located at <a href="https://www.barryplant.com.au/brunswick/index.cfm?pageCall=property&amp;propertyID=2328525&amp;rssLink=true&amp;addBkmkPropertyID=2328525" target="_blank">3/608 Moreland Road</a>, the apartment (pictured below) sold at auction on April 20 through Barry Plant Brunswick.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/04/brunswickwestapril23one.jpg" width="470" height="295" alt="brunswickwestapril23one">
Jim Dandris of Barry Plant Brunswick told Property Observer that the unit was previously on the market at $292,000.  
There were about twenty people present at the auction, with two registered bidders, according to Dandris.  
Dandris said the successful bidder was an owner-occupier, who was likely to be a first-time homebuyer.
Based on Barry Plant’s estimated $275 rent a week, the price reflected a likely rental yield of 4.77%, slightly higher than the average rental yield in Brunswick West which currently stands at 4.1%.  
Dandris also told Property Observer the market in Brunswick West is “very good at the moment”, with first-time homebuyers and investors interested in the area.
According to the <a href="/news">latest report by RP Data</a>, the median sale price for units in Brunswick West is $387,500, up by 3.3% on last year. The average discount required to sell a unit in Brunswick West is 5.8%, while private treaty sales average 46 days on market.  
Other two-bedroom apartments for sale in Brunswick West include: 6/22 Whitby Street, <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-vic-brunswick+west-112961891" target="_blank">listed for $369,000</a>, and 12/380 Brunswick Road, <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-brunswick+west-112681687" target="_blank">listed for $345,000</a>, both by Nelson Alexander Real Estate Brunswick.    
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Brunswick West apartment claims last weekend's most affordable Victorian sale

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A four-bedroom house in Kurunjang was last weekend’s most affordable auction sale in Victoria, selling for $260,000, according to Australian Property Monitors.
Located at 10 Light Fingers Street, the property (pictured below) sits on a 545-square-metre block that features a large backyard. It last traded at $86,000 in 2008 and was built in 2009.
<img height="346" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/04/kurunjangapril18one.jpg" alt="kurunjangapril18one">
Property Observer reported in <a target="_blank" href="/news">August last year</a> that Kurunjang (3337) was one of Victoria’s ten worst postcodes for mortgage arrears.
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-kurunjang-113239391">Listing agent Ned Nikolic of Barry Plant Melton</a> told Property Observer that the vendor was a bank, but declined to explain the circumstances surrounding the auction.
There were four bidders present at the auction, and it appeared the successful bidder was an investor.
Based on an estimated rental of $275 a week, the auction price reflected a likely yield of 5.5%, slightly higher than the RP Data gross average yield of 5% in the area.
<a target="_blank" href="/news">According to the latest RP data report</a>, the median sale price for houses in Kurunjang is $277,000, down by 7.5% on last year. The average discount required to sell a house in Kurunjang is 9.1%, while private treaty sales average 98 days on market.
Other houses for sale in Kurunjang include: 40 Banker Street, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-kurunjang-113377675">listed for $315,000</a> by YPA Estate Agents Melton, and 10 Tulloch Avenue, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-kurunjang-113573559">listed for $319,000</a> by Barry Plant Melton.
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Kurunjang notches up Victoria's cheapest weekly sale: APM 

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A 1950s three-bedroom Lalor Park house was the weekend's cheapest auction sale in New South Wales last weekend, selling for $350,000 according to Australian Property Monitors.
Located at 9 Corella Road, the brick house sits on a 620-square-metre corner block.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2013/04/april17lalor]}
The property, last sold in 1958 for £7,200, was auctioned as a deceased estate.
Its <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-lalor+park-113328339" target="_blank">listing agent Matt Lucas of LJ Hooker Blacktown</a> told Property Observer there were 50 plus people present at the onsite auction with competitive interest.
“We had eleven registrations and five people going head-to-head,” he said.
Lucas said the house has the potential to be an “investment-style property,” but the current buyers were looking to renovate it first.
The property features the original kitchen.
Based on LJ Hooker's estimated $320 rental per week, the price reflected a likely rental yield of 4.75%, slightly lower than the average rental yield in <a target="_blank" href="/news">Lalor Park</a> which currently stands at 5.6%, according to RP Data.
However Lucas told Property Observer that the asking rent is likely to increase to $380 to $400 a week after the property has been renovated, bringing the estimated rental yield to 5.79%.
Lucas added that Lalor Park typically attracts first-time homebuyers and young families. In recent weeks investors have also been showing strong interests in the area.
“It’s a bit of a changing time mainly due to investors coming in. There’s not much available stock left,” he told Property Observer.
According to the <a target="_blank" href="/news">latest report by RP Data</a>, the median sale price for houses in Lalor Park is $350,000, down by 1.7%  on last year. The average discount required to sell a house is 5.4%, while private treaty sales average 54 days on market.
Other houses currently for sale in Lalor Park include: 46 Northcott Road, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-lalor+park-113407991">listed for $395,000</a> by Australian Real Estate Kings Langley and 16 Iwunda Road, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-lalor+park-112687911">listed for $369,000</a> by Richardson and Wrench Baulkham Hills.
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One owner Lalor Park house fetches $350,000 median after 55 years ownership

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Peninsula Riverside, a 15-storey apartment tower is slated for construction in Kangaroo Point as Tom Dooley Developments (TDD) has emerged as an $11 million Thorn Street development site project buyer.
It's one of the sites that Property Observer reported in <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/news/shafston-house-listed-by-keith-lloyd/2013013158998">February</a> has having been listed by Brisbane businessman Keith Lloyd.
The tower will replace a 31-unit apartment complex currently operated as student accommodation.
"There are 31 old flats we are knocking down for the new building," TDD managing director Tom Dooley told Property Observer.
The site’s original development approval allowed for a 20-level mixed use building, which will be amended by Dooley. 
TDD plans to build a 168-apartment block on the site, overlooking the landmark Shafston House, with north-easterly views of the river.
The <a target="_blank" href="https://www.tdd.com.au/">TDD development group </a>has previously completed three other projects in Kangaroo Point. These include 19 Thorn, a 28-unit apartment block on 19 Thorn Street; Story, an apartment complex located at 89 Lambert Street, and luxury development Mon Rêve, at 98 Thorn Street.
Story comprised 72 apartments and six two-storey townhouses when completed in January 2007. It was awarded the 2007 regional commendation from the Royal Australian Institute of Architects.
Mon Rêve is an award-winning luxury development of 43 apartments spread across two towers on the north-eastern reach of the Brisbane River. It was completed in 2004.
“There has been a lack of new apartments in Kangaroo Point due to the shortage of development sites and the fact that the Kangaroo Point Peninsula is landlocked by the river,” Mr Dooley said.
The new development will be priced from $370,000, offering one and two-bedroom apartments.
Mr Dooley told Property Observer that marketing for the new development began last Friday with its first release.
Work is expected to start on the development, to be named Peninsula Riverside, in August.
Property Observer reported in <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/industry-news/australand-profits-up-5-in-interesting-times-with-strong-demand-for-melbourne-apartments/2013020659199">February</a> that property developer Australand’s Kangaroo Point developments The Promontory, The Linc, and The Residences were showing strong sales.
The apartments at Kangaroo Point Peninsula are currently <a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-qld-kangaroo+point-113431615">listed for sale</a>. <a target="_blank" href="/news">RP Data gives the suburb's median unit price as $470,000</a>.
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Tom Dooley returns to Kangaroo Point with fourth residential project

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A one-bedroom apartment in Essendon was recorded as the cheapest auction sale in Victoria for the past weekend, selling for $266,000 according to Australian Property Monitors (APM).
Located at 20/44 Fletcher Road, the apartment sold at auction on April 6 through Barry Plant – Moonee Valley. 
Property Observer reported in <a href="/news">January</a> that Essendon was one of 23 suburbs in Melbourne where first-home buyers can purchase a one-bedroom apartment and pay equal or less than the estimated first-home buyer mortgage repayment in Victoria of $414 per week.
Data compiled by the Real Estate Institute of Victoria (REIV) reveals that first-home buyers in Essendon are spending $414 a week on mortgage repayments with a median price of $310,000 for one-bedroom apartments.
The self-contained apartment is close to public transport, includes a carport on title, according to Jim Michaels, the Barry Plant listing agent.
Based on an estimated $260 rental, the price reflected a likely yield of 5.8%, significantly higher than the RP Data average gross rental yield of 3.9% in the area.
Essendon is 10km north-west of Melbourne’s CBD, and is well-connected by public transport and the Tullamarine freeway. Cafes and other amenities are also easily accessible.
According to the latest report by RP Data, the median sale price for units in Essendon is $418,000, slightly down by 1.1% from last year. The average discount required to sell a unit in Essendon is 8.4%, and sales average 67 days on market.
Other one-bedroom apartments listed for sale in Essendon include:
304/201 Buckley Street (pictured below), <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-essendon-112516015" target="_blank">listed for $410,000</a> by Frank Trimboli Real Estate – Footscray.
<img alt="essendonapril12one" height="408" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/04/essendonapril12one.jpg">
413/55 Collins Street (pictured below), <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-essendon-111938187" target="_blank">listed for $295,000</a> by Windy Hill Real Estate – Essendon.
<img alt="essendonapril12two" height="306" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/04/essendonapril12two.jpg">
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Essendon one-bedroom apartments attracting strong buyer interest

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A 27 square metre serviced apartment in South Brisbane promising returns of around 7.5% is being offered for sale aimed at self-managed super fund investors. 
Located at 42 Montague Road  and close to the Suncorp Stadium, it is managed by corporate accomodation operator AHR Group.
It is listed for $160,000 with a new 10-year lease is in place. 
The building currently operates as Riverside Hotel Southbank.
Facilities include hotel-style accommodation as well as an outdoor swimming pool. Body corporate and repair costs are borne by the manager. 
According to RP Data, another 27 square metre unit in the building sold in December last year for $153,250. In the same month, another 27 square metre unit sold for $160,000. 
“Annual net rental of $12,000 is guaranteed by the management rights operator AHR group,” George Koukides, the First National – Commercial listing agent said.
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SMSF serviced apartment investment opportunity in South Brisbane offers 7.5% return

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The world’s worst-hit housing markets have begun to recover, according to Alistair Elliott, the newly appointed Knight Frank senior partner and international group chairman.
“The search for safe haven investments has continued to propel house prices higher in key global cities; some of the markets worst hit by the global financial crisis appear at long last to be recovering,” he says.
The latest reports suggest <a target="_blank" href="?option=com_googlesearch_cse&amp;q=property%20markets">property markets</a> in the United States and the United Kingdom are improving.
In the United States, CoreLogic (owner of RP Data) released its January HPI report, showing home prices (including distressed sales) increased by 9.7% nationwide compared to January 2012. This change represents the biggest increase since April 2006 and the 11th consecutive monthly increase in house prices nationally.
Excluding distressed sales, home prices increased on a year-over-year basis by 9% in January 2013 compared to January 2012. 
In the UK, data from the Office of National Statistics (ONS) also indicates that the property market is recovering.
House prices increased by 2.2%t in the twelve months to January 2013, down from a 3.3% increase in the twelve months to December 2012. House price growth remains steady across most of the UK, although the ONS found that prices in London are increasing while prices in Northern Ireland are falling. They also found that prices paid by first-time buyers in January 2013 were 2% higher on average than in January 2012. For existing owners, prices increased by 2.2% for the same period.
The Council of Mortgage Lenders (UK) recorded 38,300 home loans purchased in January, the highest January total since 2008. This represents an 11% increase from January 2012.
Amongst the 38,300 loans advanced in January, 15,900 loans (worth £2 billion) were advanced to first-time buyers. This is an increase of 24% compared to January last year (12,800 loans), making it the largest January total since January 2008 where 17,700 loans were advanced.
In Canada, the outlook for the housing market seems less optimistic.
While it showed signs of stabilisation in January this year as prices continued to increase, total sales fell from a year before as a result of tighter mortgage rules that came into effect in mid-2012, according to the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA).
However, the signs of stability abated in February as sales dropped 15.8% from a year ago, and 2.1% from January, prompting CREA to cut its sales outlook for 2013 for the third time since mid-2012.
The association forecast 441,500 sales for 2013, a decline of 2.9% from 2012.
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Worst-hit global housing markets starting to recover: Knight Frank group chairman Alistair Elliott

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A 1950s three-bedroom house in the popular retirement and lifestyle NSW town of Toukley was last weekend’s cheapest sale, fetching $184,000 at auction, according to Australian Property Monitors (APM).
Located at 306 Main Road, the property sold at mortgagee auction through George Brand Real Estate – Toukley. 
Property Observer reported in <a href="/news">February</a> that Central Coast Sydney was ranked the sixth-worst performing region in Australia by value, with a delinquency rate of 1.81%.
Although last <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/mortgagee-sales-decline-36-on-nsw-central-coast-property-market-consolidates-ahead-of-brighter-2013/2012121658512">December</a> it was reported that instructions to provide mortgagee valuations in Toukley were down by 36% over 2012, according to property valuation and advisory group Herron Todd White.
The sold cottage sits on a 632 square metre block with large backyard, reflecting dual occupancy income potential.
Set close to a supermarket and the beach, Matt Rogers suggested the property allowed for new owners to “build in their own equity”.
The house last sold for $105,000 in 2007 according to RP Data records, reflecting a price appreciation of $15,800 per year over the last five years.
There were about four bidders present, and it appeared the successful bidder was an investor.
The price reflected a likely rental yield of 5.93%, slightly above the average rental yield in Toukley, which currently stands at 5.3%.
It was advertised has having a potential rent return of $200 to $220 per week.
RP Data records show the property was listed for rent at $195 a week in late 2007. In 2011, the rental asking price was given at $250 a week.
Toukley lies approximately 107km north of Sydney. According to the latest RP Data report, the median sales price of houses in the area is $295,000, an increase of 6.5% from last year.
Property agents in the area say that the market in Toukley has been “exceptional”.
“We’re finding a lot of buyer enquiries, properties are selling quickly, and prices are moving in the right direction,” Benjamin Hamilton at the Wiseberry Heritage agency told Property Observer.
The average discount required to sell a house in Toukley is 10.4%, while average days on market stand at 91 days.
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Mortgagee sales continue on NSW Central Coast with Toukley providing the weekend's cheapest sale

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Properties with direct parkland views as well as in close proximity to parks are top performers compared to other properties in a given suburb, according to a report by buyer's advocates, Secret Agent.
The report, which surveyed 30 suburbs in inner Melbourne, found that parkland properties in general fetch stronger prices.
Conversely, properties that are close to parks but don't have a view do not perform as well as those with a direct view.
According to the Secret Agent report, the average sales price of park houses (houses opposite or facing parks, or in extremely close proximity) in <a href="/news">Fitzroy North</a> (Edinburgh Gardens) from 2009-2012 was $1,781,833.
In comparison, the average sales price of non-park houses was $969,749 while the average sales price in the whole suburb was $991,491 in the same period.
Similarly, the average sales price of park houses in <a href="/news">Albert Park</a> (St Vincent Gardens) from 2009-2012 reached $3,198,571. In comparison, the average sales price of non-park houses was $1,289,796 while the average sales price in the whole suburb was $1,339,183.
A <a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-albert+park-113235227">three-bedroom house</a> (pictured below) on St Vincent's Place will go to auction on April 20.
<img alt="secretagentapril9one" height="352" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/04/secretagentapril9one.jpg">
<img alt="secretagentapril9two" height="157" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/04/secretagentapril9two.jpg">
<img alt="secretagentapril9three" height="159" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/04/secretagentapril9three.jpg">
Source: Secret Agent
Secret Agent’s analysis of properties within 200 metres of St Vincent Gardens in Albert Park found that properties on St Vincent Place were at least double the value of their parallel counterparts.
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Properties with direct parkland views fetch higher house prices: Secret Agent

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Sydney can look forward to a positive 2013 with increased buyer and seller activity thus far, according to the latest market report by Australian Property Monitors (APM). 
According to APM, there are 28,000 properties listed for sale in Sydney, nearly 17% less than a year ago and approximately 13% lower than the long-term trend. 
Furthermore, the average discount required to sell a Sydney property fell from 6.3% a year ago to 5.8% as of February 2013, below its long-term average of 6.5%. 
Average days on market in Sydney increased marginally from 94 days a year ago to 95 days as of February 2013 – the long-term average is 82 days. 
"Sydney has certainly been the strongest performer of all the major capital city markets," says APM senior economist Dr Andrew Wilson.
"The Sydney median house price is at record levels and is the only capital city to have its house price at record levels. Other capital city markets are yet to recover to their previous highs," he said in a <a href="https://media.theage.com.au/property/domain/sydney-and-melbourne-markets-on-the-rise-4157788" target="_blank">Fairfax Media video bulletin</a>.
APM has Sydney house prices up 1.5% over the three months to January with a median price of $658,000 and units up 1.7% to a median of $474,000.
Wilson says Sydney is being driven by high rents and a generally solid housing market, which "continues to drive forward and motor on as a leader of capital city house market performance".
“Weekend auction clearance rates have been impressive, tracking nearly 20% higher than those recorded over the same period last year,” says APM. 
“Early season clearance rates have been similar to those recorded during the boom period of autumn 2010 and are a positive indication of rising market confidence.”
Signs are also emerging of a more generalised lift in Sydney buyer activity, with increased sales in the prestige market. 
“Auction listing numbers are also on the rise and are clearly higher than for the same period last year. This indicates rising seller confidence in the Sydney market,” says APM.
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"Solid" Sydney property market the strongest capital city performer: APM

One of North Sydney's best-known commercial buildings could become hundreds of new homes, with insurance giant Zurich Australia lodging a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) to transform 5 Blue Street into a mixed-use residential development above North Sydney Station.

Rather than demolishing the existing building and starting again, Zurich is proposing an adaptive reuse project that would convert the landmark office building into a 15-level residential development delivering 62 apartments, 86 affordable co-living dwellings, activated retail and significant upgrades to the Blue Street Plaza.

The proposal reflects a growing trend of commercial property owners repositioning ageing office assets into residential housing as Sydney grapples with housing supply shortages and changing workplace demand.

<img alt="Zurich" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0bba7d12-06dc-4375-aad7-238c94b21ac5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-22%20at%2010.42.05%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=NJl5oLAEBDGuPmY3RnyliKODjMc8lvRh" />

Located directly above North Sydney Metro and train station, the 3,051 sqm site occupies one of the most strategically positioned parcels of land on Sydney's Lower North Shore.

Designed by fjcstudio, the proposal seeks to retain and adapt much of the existing structure while creating a contemporary residential address that better connects with the public domain surrounding North Sydney Station.

The application proposes two basement levels, ground floor retail, affordable co-living accommodation across the podium levels, and apartments above, while preserving and enhancing the publicly accessible Blue Street Plaza.

Rather than pursuing maximum apartment numbers, Zurich has opted for a housing mix heavily weighted towards larger owner-occupier residences.

The proposal includes 62 build-to-sell apartments comprising 12 one-bedroom, 19 two-bedroom, 29 three-bedroom apartments and two premium penthouses. It also incorporates 86 affordable co-living dwellings, which would be managed in perpetuity by a Community Housing Provider.

That balance between traditional apartments and affordable housing reflects the NSW Government's push to increase housing diversity around major transport infrastructure.

The proposal has been lodged concurrently with a rezoning application, with Zurich arguing the site is ideally positioned to support additional housing given its immediate proximity to public transport, employment and services.

"The proposal aims to respond to the housing challenges facing Sydney through the delivery of diverse housing types in a highly accessible location," the design report by fjcstudio states. It also seeks to improve pedestrian amenity through upgrades to Blue Street Plaza while creating a high-performing residential building that responds to the surrounding context.

<img alt="Zurich" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="36082e15-c636-4481-bb68-5a5f6443fe39" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-22%20at%2010.41.36%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=5P6VD.fvmqjQfIG3TWWMRXxQWiQBjeFB" />

Rather than replacing the commercial building, fjcstudio has developed a design that works with the existing structural framework above the rail corridor, an approach that significantly reduces demolition while allowing the site to be repositioned as a mixed-use residential precinct.

The existing structural constraints have informed much of the building's design, including its relationship with Blue Street and surrounding public spaces.

The building has been designed as a slender tower rising above a clearly defined podium, with vertically expressed façades intended to reduce the perceived bulk while reinforcing North Sydney's emerging skyline.

According to fjcstudio, the architectural language responds directly to the surrounding commercial towers while maintaining a finer grain expression more closely aligned with the neighbouring Lavender Bay streetscape.

The tower incorporates articulated façade elements, landscaped podium edges and recessed upper levels to soften its appearance and improve pedestrian amenity below.

A significant component of the proposal is the revitalisation of Blue Street Plaza.

The existing public space has long served as one of the primary pedestrian connections between North Sydney Station, Greenwood Plaza and Blue Street, yet its role is expected to become even more important following the opening of Sydney Metro.

Zurich's proposal seeks to strengthen that role by improving landscaping, introducing new retail frontages, enhancing pedestrian permeability and creating more active edges throughout the day and evening.

Ground floor retail would wrap the plaza, while separate residential and co-living entries have been designed to improve wayfinding without reducing street activation.

Landscape design has been integrated throughout the podium and public realm, softening what is currently one of the most heavily urbanised parts of North Sydney.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

fjcstudio has carefully oriented apartments towards Sydney Harbour and the CBD while using privacy blades and articulated façades to minimise overlooking between neighbouring buildings.

Large framed openings along the western elevation maximise harbour outlooks, while the eastern apartments have been angled towards the south-east to improve privacy from neighbouring development.

The project forms part of the continuing transformation of North Sydney from a predominantly commercial CBD into a genuine mixed-use city centre.

Since the completion of Victoria Cross Metro Station, developers have increasingly shifted their attention towards residential projects capable of leveraging the area's unparalleled transport connectivity.

&nbsp;

FiveX recently lodged plans for a 61-storey, 490-apartment tower that would become one of the tallest residential buildings in North Sydney if approved.

Aqualand continues to expand its Lower North Shore presence following the completion of AURA on Walker Street and its recent St Leonards and Roseville proposals.

Developers are also progressing projects throughout Walker Street, Miller Street and the Victoria Cross precinct as demand for well-located owner-occupier apartments continues to strengthen.

Joel Robinson

First look: Zurich targets North Sydney office conversion with 148-unit proposal above Metro station

Busy developer Aqualand Prestige has formally taken the next step in its expansion across Sydney's Lower North Shore, lodging a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for its long-held Archer Street site in Chatswood.

The application covers <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/51-55-archer-street-chatswood-nsw-2067">51-55 Archer Street</a>, a 1,767 sqm amalgamated site on the eastern edge of the Chatswood CBD, where the developer is seeking approval for a 45-level mixed-use tower delivering 114 apartments, including a significant affordable housing component, alongside retail, commercial space and six basement levels of parking.

The SSDA marks the latest milestone for a project Aqualand has been quietly progressing over the past two years. The developer first secured the site for its Aqualand Prestige platform before undertaking an alternative design excellence process with PTW Architects, ultimately avoiding a formal design competition through the Housing Delivery Authority pathway.

The proposal has evolved considerably from Aqualand's original concept. The revised scheme has been designed around larger owner-occupier product, with an unusually high proportion of three and four-bedroom apartments, targeting the more affluent buyer profile, and downsizer, emerging across the North Shore.

<img alt="Archer St" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0171204c-5811-41b5-9b09-2335d1b7c3d0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-22%20at%208.52.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=6YTuxfq.puZo7k2wbfgemcO5K3QfXYGQ" />

The 114-apartment mix comprises six studios, 27 one-bedroom apartments, 18 two-bedroom apartments, 50 three-bedroom residences and 13 four-bedroom homes. A quarter of the building will be dedicated to affordable housing, well above the mandated 15 per cent&nbsp;

PTW has structured the building vertically, with affordable housing across levels one to six, premium apartments through levels seven to 31, duplex skyhomes on klevels 32 to 43, a penthouse on level 44, and a rooftop plant level above. Six basement levels will provide resident parking and servicing.

The tower is proposed to reach approximately 154 metres, placing it among a growing collection of residential high-rises transforming Chatswood's skyline.

Rather than competing purely on height, PTW says the design has been driven by creating a slimmer tower capable of delivering significantly larger apartments.

"The primary objective of this project was to create a distinctive building that stands out from the recently approved or built structures in the Chatswood area," the design report states, noting the structural efficiency allows greater investment into apartment quality and resident amenity.

Residents would have access to more than 450 sqm of communal open space including landscaped gardens, swimming pool, rooftop entertaining areas, fitness spaces, community gardens, children's play areas and barbecue facilities.

A major focus of the design has been the public domain.

The ground plane has been opened up through landscaped terraces inspired by Willoughby's sandstone ridges, with native planting, public seating, artwork, retail activation and a series of gathering spaces intended to soften what has traditionally been a hard commercial streetscape.

The landscape strategy references Blue Gum forests once common throughout the area, while incorporating Indigenous storytelling, public art and lighting installations to strengthen the connection to Country.

Chatswood has been one of Sydney's busiest apartment markets over the past 12 months, with a steady pipeline of both new project launches and fresh development applications.

Hyecorp recently launched Celine, a 122-apartment development just along Archer Street, while Changfa and Huirong Group are progressing The Anderson, an 84-apartment project on Anderson Street.

Develotek recently secured approval for a 101-apartment tower on Pacific Highway, while Tian An LFD received the green light for Hammond Greens, its apartment development on the edge of the Chatswood Bowling Club.

Commercial property developer FiveX is also making its move into the residential market. Last month it lodged plans for a 61-storey tower with 490 apartments, which, if approved, would become one of the tallest residential buildings in Chatswood.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-fivex-targets-chatswood-skyline-with-61-storey-tower-after-north-sydney-plans">First look: FiveX targets Chatswood skyline with 61-storey tower after North Sydney plans</a>

Aqualand is also expanding its development pipeline following the launch of its luxury residential brand, Aqualand Prestige. The developer has delivered a string of high-end apartment projects across Sydney's affluent suburbs over the past decade, most recently AURA by Aqualand on Walker Street in North Sydney.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=292863]

It has since quietly assembled its next wave of projects.

Earlier this year Aqualand launched Boronia in Roseville, a boutique 111-apartment development on Larkin Street. The project is one of the first significant apartment developments to launch in the suburb ahead of what is expected to become one of Sydney's most active new housing precincts under the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing reforms, which allow greater density around train stations.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152095 project_image_fid=373685]

The developer has also lodged plans for a two-tower, 413-apartment development on Herbert Street in nearby St Leonards, further strengthening its presence across the Lower North Shore.

Beyond that, Aqualand remains behind the final stage of Barangaroo, where plans will deliver a five-hectare mixed-use precinct comprising new homes, retail, hospitality and community facilities, alongside a new Metro entrance and more than two hectares of public open space, completing the Barangaroo precinct.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/central-barangaroo-development-takes-big-step-with-concept-proposal-approval">Central Barangaroo development takes big step with concept proposal approval</a>

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-aqualand-joins-st-leonards-apartment-party">First look: Aqualand joins St Leonards apartment party</a> 
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First look: Aqualand pushes ahead with Chatswood apartment tower as SSDA lodged for Archer Street

Mass timber is becoming an increasingly popular construction material in apartment developments, but Adelaide developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/otello">Otello</a> is taking the approach a step further.

At its new <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flowe-bowden-18-gibson-street-bowden-sa-5007">Flowe Bowden</a> development, the exposed cross-laminated timber (CLT) structure isn't just about reducing the building's environmental footprint. It also forms the foundation of a broader wellness strategy, influencing everything from indoor air quality and natural materials to the way residents move through and experience the building.

The 115-apartment mixed-use development, designed by Melbourne-based architecture practice Fieldwork, will occupy a prominent island site opposite Bowden Village Reserve, combining one, two and three-bedroom apartments with retail and a dedicated wellness destination.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375528]

Wellness isn't confined to a gym or shared resident facility at Flowe. Instead, Fieldwork embedded the concept into the building itself.

The development has been split into two residential wings connected by a naturally ventilated central breezeway, replacing traditional enclosed corridors with open-air walkways that improve natural light, encourage cross ventilation and create more opportunities for neighbourly interaction.

"Rather than treating wellness as something that only happens on the ground floor, our response integrates it throughout the building, which led us to ask what it really means to design a healthy building," Fieldwork Director Quino Holland said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375531]

The building's architecture also reflects Bowden's industrial heritage. The lower podium references the area's historic brick and sandstone buildings, while the upper levels transition to exposed CLT, allowing the timber structure to become a defining feature throughout the apartments and shared spaces.

The use of mass timber sits alongside a range of sustainability initiatives, including a fully electric, gas-free design, rooftop solar and a targeted 5 Star Green Star rating.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375524]

Inside the residences, the focus remains on natural, durable materials. Blackbutt engineered timber flooring, exposed CLT ceilings, porcelain surfaces and warm timber joinery create a calming interior palette, while low-VOC finishes and responsibly sourced materials have been selected to improve indoor air quality.

Kitchens have been designed as the centrepiece of each apartment, featuring porcelain island benchtops, timber-look cabinetry and brushed steel tapware, with layouts that maximise natural light and ventilation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375530]

The more traditional interpretation of wellness comes in the form of Level Eleven, a two-storey wellness club spanning the ground floor, mezzanine and first floor.

The facility will include a gym, yoga and reformer Pilates studios, Finnish and infrared saunas, magnesium hot and cold plunge pools, and dedicated recovery spaces. Unlike many residential wellness facilities, Level Eleven will also operate commercially, allowing the broader Bowden community to access the venue while giving residents exclusive membership benefits.

The ground floor has also been designed around everyday living. A café overlooking Bowden Village Reserve will activate the street frontage, while a bike workshop with tool storage, co-working space and dog wash has been incorporated to support daily routines and encourage interaction between residents.

"Flowe brings together my two biggest passions, creating places and creating healthier lives," Otello founder Daniel Harris said.

"We wanted to create something Adelaide hasn't seen before, a genuinely healthy building, where the way you live is lifted without even trying."

Flowe is positioned directly opposite Bowden Village Reserve and within walking distance of Bowden Railway Station and the Adelaide Entertainment Centre, placing future residents just minutes from the Adelaide CBD while remaining connected to one of the city's most established urban renewal precincts.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152022]

Otello launches wellness-focused Flowe Bowden with Adelaide-first mass timber apartment design

Not all apartment amenities are immediately visible.

Swimming pools, gyms, rooftop terraces and residents' lounges have long featured on buyers' wishlists, but as the way Australians live has changed, so too have the features that make apartment living more convenient.

Increasingly, buyers are placing value on the practical aspects of day-to-day life. Fast internet, EV charging, secure bike storage, flexible workspaces and parcel management are becoming just as relevant as lifestyle amenities, reflecting changing habits and expectations.

Online shopping has been one of the biggest drivers of that shift.

Australians spent a record $82.6 billion shopping online in 2025, with almost one in every four retail dollars now spent digitally, making parcel deliveries a routine part of everyday life rather than an occasional convenience.

For apartment residents, however, receiving those deliveries isn't always straightforward.

Without someone home to accept a parcel, deliveries can be redirected to a nearby Post Office, left in building foyers or common areas, or require building management to temporarily store packages. As apartment living continues to grow across Australia's cities, parcel management has become an increasingly important consideration for both residents and developers.

Australia Post's Parcel Locker network is one response to that shift.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KPZ9j5FRdsQ?si=Qztc1dNP3ZvEIUhb" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Rather than relying on home delivery, eligible parcels can be directed to a nominated Parcel Locker, where they're securely stored until collected. Once a parcel arrives, residents receive a notification through the AusPost app or SMS and can retrieve it using a one-time code or QR code at a time that suits them.

The network has expanded to more than 1,500 locations nationwide, with Parcel Lockers positioned at Post Offices, shopping centres, supermarkets, transport hubs and, increasingly, within or alongside residential developments.

That growing presence reflects a broader change in how apartment buildings are being planned.

Developers are increasingly considering the operational side of apartment living alongside traditional lifestyle amenities. Just as secure mailrooms, bicycle storage and EV charging have become more common inclusions, parcel management is emerging as another feature that supports everyday convenience.

It also helps preserve the arrival experience within a building. Carefully designed lobbies and communal spaces can quickly become cluttered when deliveries accumulate, while secure parcel solutions reduce the likelihood of missed deliveries or parcels being left unattended.

For buyers comparing apartments, these everyday details are becoming part of the decision-making process.

Location, floorplans and finishes remain fundamental, but the features that simplify daily life are carrying greater weight than they once did. As online shopping continues to shape consumer behaviour, secure parcel delivery is increasingly becoming another amenity worth looking for.

Parcel delivery is joining the apartment amenity checklist

Inca Property Group has lodged a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for Dawn, a 53-apartment oceanfront development overlooking Mona Vale Beach.

The proposal, at 35-39 Darley Street East, would replace an existing 18-apartment strata building with a new owner-occupier-focused development comprising 53 two and three-bedroom apartments, including nine affordable built-to-rent residences delivered under the State's infill affordable housing scheme.

Positioned on a 2,679 sqm elevated site around 280 metres from Mona Vale Beach, the development has been designed to maximise panoramic ocean views while responding to the site's sloping topography.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/inca-property-group">Inca Property Group</a> Managing Director Josh Thompson said the State Significant pathway provided greater certainty for projects of this scale.

"This State Significant pathway gives the team real certainty to progress <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/dawn-35-39-darley-street-east-mona-vale-nsw-2103">Dawn</a> through to completion," Thompson said.

"It allows us to acquire a one-off site, design it carefully and deliver the right offering for the suburb, assessed by the NSW Government's planning department."

The project is one of the first developments in the area to be assessed under the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy, with the site sitting on the edge of the policy's designated inner area.

The proposal includes three basement levels providing 124 car spaces, alongside a range of resident amenities including a swimming pool, gym, sauna, wellness facilities and private plunge pools for selected ground-floor and penthouse apartments.

<img alt="Dawn" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fc1a1daf-0ce4-4f12-9076-b1fa553c7a91" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-21%20at%208.42.11%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=4GZ9h.gpNkTljbxyAET8Jfhv51XUamDm" />

Thompson said Dawn had been designed specifically for owner-occupiers and downsizers, a buyer profile that has driven demand across Inca's recent Upper North Shore developments.

"The majority of buyers in our recent North Shore projects have been downsizers, and we are learning exactly what this market is looking for. Beyond the location itself, we have included resort-style amenities to deliver a genuine lifestyle offering," Thompson said.

Located within walking distance of Mona Vale Beach, the town centre, Mona Vale Golf Club and the Royal Motor Yacht Club, Dawn represents Inca's first Northern Beaches project following the sell-out of Tara on Park in Waitara and Ellis Residences, currently under construction in St Ives.

Construction will be undertaken by Inca's in-house construction arm, GOP Constructions.

Dawn is the latest major apartment proposal for Mona Vale, with the suburb emerging as one of the key beneficiaries of the NSW Government's new Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy.

New developer One Living, led by industry veteran Joseph Scuderi, recently secured a site on Mona Vale Road, on the border of Mona Vale and Pymble, where it is planning around 140 apartments.

IPM is also planning its third project in Mona Vale, significantly increasing the scale of its previous developments with an 82-apartment proposal at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/159-167-darley-street-west-mona-vale-nsw-2103">159-167 Darley Street West</a>, opposite Bayview Golf Course and less than 800 metres from Mona Vale town centre.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/one-living-enters-sydneys-new-apartment-market-with-northern-beaches-site-acquisition">One Living enters Sydney's new apartment market with Northern Beaches site acquisition</a>

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-ipm-plans-third-mona-vale-project">First look: IPM plans third Mona Vale project</a>

Diane Leow

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