Seven years after securing a development site in Brisbane's Spring Hill, national property developer Cbus Property has revealed it's plans for the site.

Cbus Property, who are set to complete their other Brisbane apartment tower 433 Queen Street next year, have proposed a 30-level tower at <a href="/news/qld/cbus-property-propose-sustainable-rothelowman-designed-brisbane-apartment-development">185 Wharf Street, Spring Hill</a>, one of Brisbane's most popular inner-city suburbs.

Rothelowman have designed the striking building which will have 125 apartments. They are targeting a 5 Star Green Star rating for the project, and a Nathers rating of 7.5 Stars. There are a number of sustainable features in the project, which will be 100 per cent electric. There will be EV charging, PV panels, and rainwater harvesting which will help create a more sustainable way of living.

Rothelowman noted in their submission to the Brisbane City Council that 185 Wharf Street embodies the&nbsp;empirical learnings from the rapid evolution of multiple dwelling architecture in SEQ and responds to the market demand from prospective residents for quality, sustainability and the integration of technology.

<img alt="Rothelowman Cbus Spring Hill" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="459270f1-770d-438b-9759-f103a2363203" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202022-12-05%20at%209.30.17%20am.png?VersionId=jysmVJ6PhjQz2l7Wh4mIwBStRbpeVqCT" />

"It is proposed that an increasingly global awareness for the importance of environmental and social sustainability is closely aligned with the elevated expectations of people seeking quality higher density housing typologies in Australian urban centres," the report read.

"This enlightened longer-term focus is considered necessary to successfully respond to the increasing urbanisation of our cities and at the same time capture the opportunity to positively enhance urban living environments.

"The realisation of these core objectives will assist in promoting physical and mental wellness of individuals, create a meaningful sense of community and serve to leverage the utility of existing infrastructure to control the urban footprint."

Cbus Property are committed to the owner-occupier market, with not a single one-bed apartment on offer. They've pitched for 60 two-bedroom units, 45 three-bedroom apartments, and 20 four-bedders. There will be 233 resident parking spaces across the four basement levels of parking, and 32 bicycle spaces.&nbsp;

The apartments hav been designed to&nbsp;have a large balcony that is well connected to the living space.

"The tower has a front yard and backyard conceptual overlay which allows each unit to feel like a bespoke home," Rothelowman's report continued.

<img alt="Rothelowman Cbus Spring Hill" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a356ac40-eaba-411c-9445-a9f1112bc4bd" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202022-12-05%20at%209.33.19%20am.png?VersionId=ufSv.aeNQz8tcmJx0yfZ4S1t0k6md4c9" />

"The balconies align up the tower as the mix changes to ensure architectural integrity is maintained."

There are a number of sky terraces which occupy the top of the southern tower form. They feature expansive backyards with trees and private pools.

The resident amenity will be located on the second level and is designed as a "natural Queensland escape". Dubbed "The Conservatory", residents will have access to a jungle gym, lap pool, kids play baths, magnesium baths, a sunbathing area, numerous alfresco areas, a gym with sauna, and a private dining room.

<img alt="Rothelowman Cbus Spring Hill" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="87e6e42b-e7d9-4b7f-957f-1ff850c05828" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202022-12-05%20at%209.32.56%20am.png?VersionId=8y_efCWg.419TbnXuH5mXqYFU4KGyWVF" />

"The resident recreation amenity is considered an extension of the new subtropical Queensland apartment and offers prospective residents a sophisticated level of luxury only previously found in the single detached dwelling," Rothelowman added.

"185 Wharf Street will establish the Spring Hill Neighbourhood precinct as a re-imagined subtropical inner-city residential enclave at the doorstep of Australia’s New World City – Brisbane."

Cbus secured the 1,835 sqm site in 2015, paying $14.6 million for the block. At the time it had approval for 141 apartments across 15 levels.&nbsp;

<h2>Project Snapshot</h2>

<ul>
	<li>30-level tower</li>
	<li>125 units</li>
	<li>60 x two-bed, 45 x three-bed, 20 x four-bed apartments</li>
	<li>233 resident parking spaces</li>
	<li>32 resident bicycle spaces</li>
	<li>Level two amenity with&nbsp;jungle gym, lap pool, kids play baths, magnesium baths, a sunbathing area, numerous alfresco areas, a gym with sauna, and a private dining room.</li>
	<li>EV charging</li>
	<li>Rainwater harvesting</li>
	<li>PV panels</li>
</ul>

Cbus secured the 1,835 sqm site in 2015, paying $14.6 million for the block. At the time it had approval for 141 apartments across 15 levels

Joel Robinson

Cbus Property propose sustainable, Rothelowman-designed Brisbane apartment development

The burgeoning Sydney developer Urban Property Group is looking to close the year out strong adding over 1100 dwellings to its pipeline with development applications in Penrith and Edmondson Park.

The group is also looking to double down on its success in its completed project Navali by committing to more specialist disability accommodation and affordable housing for key workers.

UPG, led by brothers Patrick and Mark Elias, have submitted plans for Mayfair on Penrith, on their prime 8280 sqm, Lord Sheffield Circuit site opposite Penrith Station, and a townhouse and apartment project over 51,000 sqm in Edmondson Park.

The two-tower Penrith development has been designed by SJB, who won the design competition for the project beating out Cox Architecture and Scott Carver.

SJB noted in their&nbsp;design statement submitted to the local council that the site has a unique opportunity to present a key gateway development into the North Penrith Town Centre as a destination site when arriving at Penrith via high frequency transit.

"It has the opportunity to provide a true transit orientated development and contribute high amenity offerings to the locality including improved connectivity to the Penrith Railway Station and a highly active ground floor retail offering," the statement read.

"As you move closer to the station the role of the built form is to ‘build’ the city, to elevate the importance of the station within the fabric of the city. This civic building, the train station, plays a pivotal role in the daily lives of the people of Penrith."

They said the proposal celebrates the scale of the site, taking the opportunity to deliver a truly civic building.

<img alt="Mayfair on Penrith" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="60c63691-a8fb-47c7-a782-88b740008a7a" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202022-12-01%20at%201.30.45%20pm.png?VersionId=N5mBwf77UANpo8B44G_aTManskYWjnm1" /> 
Mayfair on Penrith. Image credit: SJB

"Our role as architects in this instance is not only to design a mixed-use building that will stand the test of time – to provide great housing for generations to come, but also to design a building that is worthy of its setting, worthy of its relationship with the public interface and indeed face of Penrith Station."

SJB compared the ground level colonnades to those found in Sydney's GPO building, or the buildings at East Circular Quay.

Mayfair on Penrith delivers a double height colonnade with retail at the ground level and commercial office space to level 1.

"The colonnade is enlivened by the energy of the activity captured, provides protection for pedestrians from rain and sun, while delivering a physical separation to the residential dwellings above – helping to manage potential acoustic conflicts."

The two 10-level buildings, which fit in with the current building heights in the North Penrith Precinct, will home 287 apartments. A fifth of the apartments will have one bedroom (58). Nearly two thirds of the project is two-bed units (182), and the rest are three-bedroom apartments (47).

Both buildings will be crowned with rooftops with extensive communal spaces and large lap pools.

UPG's Edmondson Park project at Buchan Avenue will incorporate 335 apartments and 270 terraces designed by Cox Architectures.

<img alt="UPG Edmondson Park" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="aa96418a-a6e6-4064-9e89-e5d4f5f7c66d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202022-12-01%20at%202.04.06%20pm.png?VersionId=FB1WOSiqnSCijJt5HQ9Cezf9jPDkkecp" /> 
The Buchan Avenue, Edmondson Park project. Image credit: Cox Architecture

The project is located near Maxwell Creek, and opposite a future school site.

Urban Property Group, founded by George Elias in 1987, have a number of projects currently in the planning phase of development, ranging from Macquarie Park to Little Bay in Sydney's sought-after Eastern Suburbs. They're hoping to lodge another application in before Christmas in Edmondson Park.

Urban Property Group Development Manager Richard Boulus says there will be a lot of local interest, particularly in the North Penrith project, because the market is starved of new stock.

"We're expecting locals, likely first home buyers, wanting to buy a new apartment and take advantage of the close proximity to the train station and various government grants on offer," Boulus says.

"There's currently no residential projects under construction in this precinct, and only a couple of projects are going through the planning process."

Exclusive first look: Urban Property Group prepare over 1100 dwellings in Penrith and Edmondson Park developments

Property values across the country continued to decline over November, research from property data firm CoreLogic found, but there was a further ease in the speed of the declines.

Dwelling values (which incorporates both houses and units), contracted a further one per cent in November, driven by declines in Hobart (-2 per cent), Canberra (-1.2 per cent), and Sydney (-1 per cent).

Capital city housing markets declined -1.2 per cent, with Brisbane (-2.2 per cent), Hobart (-2 per cent) and Sydney (-1.5 per cent), feeling the declines the hardest.

Capital city units however dropped just -0.6 per cent. Hobart (-1.8 per cent), Sydney (-0.9 per cent) and Canberra (-0.8 per cent) the capital's the most affected in the unit market.

Declines however have continued to soften since August when the national index dropped by -1.6 per cent.

CoreLogic Research Director Tim Lawless said the easing in the rate of decline is mostly emanating from the Sydney and Melbourne markets, but is also evident across many of the smaller capitals and most regional markets.&nbsp;

“Three months ago, Sydney housing values were falling at the monthly rate of -2.3 per cent. That has now reduced by a full percentage point to a decline of -1.3 per cent in November," Lawless said.&nbsp;

"In July, Melbourne home values were down -1.5 per cent over the month, with the monthly decline almost halving last month to -0.8 per cent.

“The rate of decline has also eased across the ACT (from a -1.7% fall in August), and is no longer accelerating in Brisbane. Most of the broad rest-of-state markets have also seen the pace of declines decelerate."

Lawless said that it is possible we are seeing the initial uncertainty around buying in a higher interest rate environment wearing off, while persistently low advertised stock levels have likely contributed to this trend towards smaller value falls. He does however note that housing risk remains skewed to the downside while interest rates are still rising and household balance sheets become more thinly stretched.

“There is still the possibility that the pace of declines could reaccelerate, especially if the current rate hiking cycle persists longer than expected.

"Next year will be a particular test of serviceability and housing market stability, as the record-low fixed rate terms secured in 2021 start to expire."

<h2>Melbourne Market Snapshot</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Unit values across Melbourne dropped just -0.2 per cent across November, the lowest declines the Victorian capital has seen since May. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>It's stark comparison to the housing market, which dropped another -1 per cent.</li>
</ul>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112174 project_image_fid=199593]

<ul>
	<li>Unit values are now -4.1 per cent down over 2022, almost half the declines felt in the housing market, now -8.1 per cent since the turn of the year. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>The median Melbourne unit value is now $597,000, and houses $759,000.</li>
</ul>

<h2>Sydney Market Snapshot</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Unit values across Sydney dropped just -0.9&nbsp;per cent across November, the third highest of all the capital city markets. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Sydney houses dropped another -1.5 per cent in November.</li>
</ul>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=22748 project_image_fid=204929]

<ul>
	<li>Unit values are now -8.2 per cent down over 2022, which is double the declines in Melbourne. Houses in the Harbour capital are down -11.9 per cent in the same period. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>The median Sydney unit value is now $781,000, and houses $1,025,000.</li>
</ul>

<h2>Brisbane Market Snapshot</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Brisbane had the biggest divergence between the house and unit market in November 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Unit values across Brisbane dropped just -0.2&nbsp;per cent across November, the third best performing unit market across the capitals. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Brisbane houses however were the worst performer, down -2.2 per cent</li>
</ul>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102309 project_image_fid=163977]

<ul>
	<li>The Brisbane unit market has been one of the biggest success stories of 2022, bucking the trend of the downturn. Values are still 7.1 per cent higher than they were at the start of the year. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>The Brisbane house market has also remained resilient, just ticking into negative territory, down -0.8 per cent this year. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>The median Brisbane unit value is now $492,000, and houses $798,000.</li>
</ul>

CoreLogic Research Director Tim Lawless said the easing in the rate of decline is mostly emanating from the Sydney and Melbourne markets

Property downturn continues, but rate of decline softens again: CoreLogic

As a leader of Australia’s urban development, builder-developer Hickory made a significant contribution to Melbourne’s ever-expanding skyline in 2022, with several residential projects reaching completion and many more breaking ground.

As a specialist in the creation of high-rise residential buildings, Hickory projects are known for promoting, engaging, and enriching community life. ​

We've wrapped up the top five&nbsp;Hickory projects completed and commenced in 2022.

<h2>1. HOME 
Address: 626 Heidelberg Road, Alphington VIC 3078 
Two-bedroom apartments from $699,000</h2>

Home is a collection of 326 architecturally-designed homes, sky homes and apartments that blend seamlessly into the leafy, riverside suburb of Alphington.

With a private park on level four, Home residents have access to a playground, yoga lawn, state- of-the-art gym and pilates pavilion.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=24441 project_image_fid=84979]

Other amenities include a wine cellar and hotel-style guest rooms for when family and friends come to stay.

<h2>2. Aspire 
Address: 299 King Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000</h2>

ICD Property’s 65-storey residential tower comprises 594 apartments with a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom units. Located in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD, the tower is just moments from the city’s best hospitality, cultural and retail offerings.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2575 project_image_fid=79447]

Award-winning architects Elenberg Fraser designed the tower’s façade to include a row of planter boxes, which works to soften the exterior. Hickory utilised its innovative prefabricated construction methods for parts of the build such as the staircase.

Upon completion, residents will have access to boardrooms, a library, table tennis, billiards, media room, lounge and BBQs, private dining rooms, whiskey parlour, function ballroom, champagne conservatory, gym, pool, and hydro spa.

<h2>3. Victoria &amp; Vine 
Address: 1-57 Wellington Street, Collingwood VIC 3066</h2>

Victoria &amp; Vine is a $280 million luxury residential and retail precinct ideally positioned in the heart of Collingwood.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5117 project_image_fid=165555]

Designed by COX Architecture and delivered by GURNER, the homes embody the area’s rich industrial character. Inspired by New York’s Meatpacking District, the warehouse-style structure allows the precinct to blend into its surrounds.

Limited apartments currently available.

<h2>4. Trio Box Hill 
Address: 845-851 Whitehorse Road, Box Hill VIC 3128 
One-bedroom apartments from $409,000</h2>

Trio presents the next generation of mixed-used development in Box Hill, offering residents a wide variety of retail, dining, and lifestyle amenities.

Located 30 minutes from the CBD, the development comprises three towers above a 6-level podium occupying 488 apartments.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4134 project_image_fid=27479]

Two towers are residential apartments, with the third housing independent living apartments and a two-level childcare facility.

With construction well underway, Hickory is fast-tracking the project timeline by using precast core panels.

<h2>5. The Queensbridge Building 
Address: 90 Queens Bridge Street, Southbank VIC 3006</h2>

Queensbridge is a neighbourhood building located at a nexus joining Melbourne CBD, the Yarra River, South Melbourne and the Arts Precinct.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1504 project_image_fid=208256]

Upon completion, the 62-storey tower will offer one, two and three-bedroom apartments, as well as co-working space options and generous entertainment zones.

Currently being delivered by Hickory, Time &amp; Place, and MaxCap Group, the Queensbridge Building display suites are now open to the public for viewing.

As a specialist in the creation of high-rise residential buildings, Hickory projects are known for promoting, engaging, and enriching community life

The top 5 Melbourne apartment projects Hickory are building in 2022

Iwan Sunito's development firm One Global Capital has locked in it's next project.

One Global Capital, which will deliver&nbsp;the first residential buildings at Mastery by Crown Group in Sydney's Waterloo, has secured a huge six block, 6,974 sqm site in Macquarie Park.

Plans are being put together for three towers on the site which incorporates&nbsp;7-11 Lachlan Avenue and 157-159 Herring Road, which will have 270 apartments, a 100-room hotel, and specialised retail.

The project provides for a shared concierge and premium community facilities allowing residential purchasers lower cost strata levies along with access to services usually only accessible in hotels such as 24-hour food and beverage services.

Sunito, who is the Founder at One Global Capital, said he was excited to announce the introduction of the new premium, ‘signature selection’ residential and hotel “platform” which aims to set a new benchmark in luxurious larger-sized residences, hotels, retail and facilities.

<img alt="Sunito Macquarie Park" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fc88d5a4-2ecc-4745-b151-356d070a5825" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202022-11-30%20at%2011.45.16%20am.png?VersionId=Fem6cHKZ9fbSgEjqkd52uBkpVuSLrZbs" />

“The platform has been specifically established to work with funds and financial institutions in stand-alone joint ventures,” Sunito said.

“As the first of many acquisitions, the Macquarie Park site is a significant investment which we plan to deliver a truly extraordinary residential offering to the market, unlike anything else currently available in Sydney.

“The Macquarie Park site is ideally located for residential apartments as it is within easy walking distance to Macquarie University, the recently expanded Macquarie Centre and Macquarie Park Metro Station.”

Savills Director Stuart Cox who handled the sale, said it is largest collective sale in Australia so far this year, with all six adjoining blocks having to settle on the same day.

“This was a very unique offering for Macquarie Park providing future residents within this development the opportunity to live within 300 metres of Macquarie University, Macquarie Centre, Macquarie Railway Station and the Macquarie Bus Interchange,” Cox said.

“Also significant is the site’s 77 existing apartments which will remain tenanted until a DA is achieved later this year.”

It is envisaged the project will be brought to market in 2023.

The new company is a separate venture from Sunito’s other property development company, Crown Group of which he is Chairman and Group CEO.

Crown Group recently scrapped it's plans to break into the Melbourne market, but are still set to push ahead with their first project in Brisbane.

Plans are being put together for three towers on the site will comprise 270 apartments, a 100-room hotel, and specialised retail.



Iwan Sunito's One Global Capital set for three-tower Macquarie Park development

With inflation rises currently taking hold of the country, it’s becoming difficult to do much of anything across Australia.&nbsp;

But Sydneysiders Paul and Jessica Hutchinson, who have been visiting the Gold Coast for years, bucked the trend of sorts, transitioning from regular holidayers to residents on their last trip to the sunshine state.&nbsp;

It was Iris Capital’s Broadbeach development, Victoria &amp; Albert which lured the Sydney couple to call the sandy strip home, with the pair’s usual getaway turning out to be one for the history books.&nbsp;

Offering a range of apartments coupled with resort-inspired amenities, V&amp;A is situated in the heart of Broadbeach, just a short walk from restaurants, shopping centres, entertainment venues, and the beach, which has been a major drawcard for interstate buyers, says Residential Director of Colliers Gold Coast, David Higgins.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107928 project_image_fid=184936]

“The project has clearly seen remarkable interest from the interstate buyers who have contributed to over 60 per cent of our sales thus far,” said Higgins.

The Hutchinsons have always loved Broadbeach and what it has to offer, but with their V&amp;A purchase, they will get to enjoy it in the newfound comfort of their own abode.

The $1 billion project comprises two towers, with an array of premium amenity and ground-floor retail and dining facilities.

“We have been visiting Broadbeach for a decade before this most recent adventure where we found V&amp;A, and we just love it,” the Hutchinson’s said.

“We’ve explored the Gold Coast extensively, but Broadbeach is for sure our favourite area with all the restaurants and its proximity to the beach.”

There has been a lot of buyer confidence in this mixed-use build, with the developer Iris Capital being heavily backed financially, and from this, Paul and Jessica becoming firm believers that the risk of it not going ahead is slim.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107928 project_image_fid=198887]

“It was quite far along when we were introduced, it looked like demolition was about to start, so it was perfect timing” the pair said.&nbsp;

“We bought a Victoria Residence. It was perfect for what we thought to use it for, which was a place to stay when we visit the Gold Coast – a lifestyle investment if you will.”

“All of the development’s promised amenities, as well as those found in and around the area of Broadbeach really sealed the deal for us."

“We thought if we planned to continue visiting this beautiful city as much as we do now, we might as well have a place to call home in our favourite part of it.”

“We are beyond excited to have bought an apartment in a place we hold so close to our hearts. It really is a dream come true.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107928 project_image_fid=180734]

“V&amp;A is a beautifully designed, luxurious build, and we were lucky to get in when we did. I’m glad we took the leap and am looking forward to its completion."

“I never expected us to buy on this trip because we were only up there for a weekend, but that just shows the influence this development had on us.”

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=107928]

Offering a range of apartments coupled with resort-inspired amenities, V&A is situated in the heart of Broadbeach, just a short walk from restaurants, shopping centres, entertainment venues, and the beach, which has been a major drawcard for interstate buyers, says Residential Director of Colliers Gold Coast, David Higgins.

Why Sydneysiders are buying apartments in Broadbeach's V&A

A Central Coast tower that was originally approved over seven years ago has finally arrived in the heart of Gosford.

Prominent Sydney developer ALAND expanded on the plans after acquiring the 5656 sqm site at 108 Donnison Street in June.

Named after Archibald Acheson, the second Earl of Gosford, the two-tower development will be home to 323 residential apartments, 130 hotel rooms, multiple food and beverage tenants, plus a whole floor 960sqm sky bar.

ALAND CEO George Tadrosse said the revitalised development would be worth the wait given its tremendous offering and outstanding location.

"This is an excellent opportunity to offer an unmatched product to Gosford and add a significant new addition to the local skyline," Tadrosse says.

"As a result of careful consideration, we believe we have created an exceptional contemporary design that will appeal to holidaymakers, local buyers, purchasers moving to Gosford, and investors looking to capitalise on the growth potential of this thriving community."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134670 project_image_fid=208124]

John McGrath, CEO of McGrath Estate Agents who are marketing the project, said the Central Coast is poised for impressive price growth performance.

“With a perfect blend of coast and country lifestyle, combined with an easy drive to one of the biggest cities in the world, it has everything the market wants," McGrath said, adding that the growing work from home trend has made it an even more in-demand lifestyle.

“Gosford is rapidly emerging as one of the most exciting fast-growth commercial hubs on the east coast of Australia and provides the area with the long-awaited commercial and retail opportunities it’s been crying out for.”

Despite a widespread price correction across many residential markets, McGrath said the thriving region has great long-term prospects.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134670 project_image_fid=208124]

“The Central Coast has been impacted along with almost every other market in the country, but the growing trend towards sea and tree changes - coupled with work from home demands - has positioned this market for a softer landing and a more rapid bounce when interest rates stabilise.

“A very large section of the growing demand for the Central Coast are both big city downsizers from nearby Sydney as well as professional couples and families. Apartment living has never been more in-demand by these groups.” McGrath also suggested Archibald will suit Sydneysiders seeking a nearby getaway within an hour of Sydney.

The two buildings will house one, two and three-bedroom units, plus three and four-bedroom penthouses, all with access to resort style facilities and many with views of Brisbane Waters and the city skyline.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134670 project_image_fid=208124]

Apartments in the development range in sizes from 58 sqm to 280 sqm, with a one-bedroom starting from $475,000.

Jaimie Woodcock, principal of McGrath Central Coast, said Archibald by ALAND is a breath of fresh air for the region.

“We've been waiting a long time for a development that has something significant to offer the area. This has the hotel offering, a significant food and beverage offering as well as a gym and pool," Woodcock said, adding that the price point has already proven attractive for prospective buyers.

“We’ve had a lot of investors and first home buyers looking because they can buy in brand new under $750,000 with an extraordinary view and all of those added offerings, and that’s a compelling attraction to so many purchasers right now," Woodcock says.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134670]

ALAND CEO George Tadrosse said the revitalised development would be worth the wait given its tremendous offering and outstanding location

ALAND launch Gosford apartment tower Archibald by ALAND

Downsizers and rightsizers have been targeted at Akoya Greenwich, the new high-end, over 55's apartment development on Sydney's North Shore.

Rather than the expectation all downsizers and rightsizers are cashed up, developer Alceon is offering a variety of configurations in the development, everything from one-bed apartments to the recently released Premium Collection.

The Premium Collection, made up of a handful of penthouses and garden homes, each have three bedrooms and start from $3.45 million.

Alceon Development Director, Todd Campling, says that given the density of the project and the restriction to over 55's, it's the closest thing someone will get to picking their neighbours.

"Akoya buyers take great comfort knowing they’ll be living with like-minded individuals,” Campling says, adding that&nbsp;a lot of the purchasers actually know each other.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=94146 project_image_fid=165484]

"Some have encouraged friends to buy but often they bump into each other at the private purchasers evenings we regularly hold and realise there’s a familiar face there”, Campling says.

With expansie views over Sydney harbour, Akoya has seen strong demand from&nbsp;downsizers across the North Shore who have been drawn to the boutique development and the lifestyle on offer.

“Akoya is so much more than just an apartment building, with over 700 sqm of residents-only amenities shared between only 39 residences, it’s more like a private club, and a very exclusive one at that.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=94146 project_image_fid=165483]

“There’s definitely some perks that come with growing older and being able to live here is one of them."

Akoya is made up of 39 apartments, comprising three one-bedroom units, 14 two-bedders, and 22 three-bedroom apartments.&nbsp; 
 
Each apartment has luxury finishes such as built-in Ambe fireplaces, 60mm marble kitchen benchtops with Wolf appliances, Sub-Zero integrated fridge and full height wine fridge and spacious terraces to take advantage of the views.&nbsp;

Amenities include an on-site concierge, in house bar, private library, golf simulator room, cinema, rooftop retreat with firepits and an infinity pool overlooking the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=94146 project_image_fid=165486]

Akoya residents are even given access to their own individual wine cellars surrounding a private dining room and finishing kitchen which can be reserved for private events and dinner parties.

“We also have a collection of chairmans suites available to purchase within the building as we’ve realised that over 55’s don’t necessarily want to retire so this way they can have the best of both worlds,” Campling added.

“70% of the building has already been sold which is why we’ve now decided to release the Premium Collection. With thousands of enquiries to date, we anticipate being sold out by the end of Summer in time for completion mid-2023.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=94146 project_image_fid=165482]

“The penthouses are the last chance for buyers to purchase uninterrupted harbour facing units in the development.”

One buyer has come from the Eastern Suburbs, with 90 per cent coming from the Lower North Shore. Campling says the&nbsp;Eastern Suburbs buyer was blown away by what you can get in the Lower North Shore compared to the East.

“Our customers are seeking something special when it comes to downsizing. They’re not wanting to purchase into large apartment towers where they don’t know their neighbours. They’re buying into a community here of like-minded individuals.”

“It’s a special development and when you see the views and amenities you can see why. Even the 2 garden home apartments in the premium collection have city views which is pretty rare.” 
 
The development is designed by award winning architects Marchese Partners and is a partnership between private investment group Alceon and NGS Super.

The building is being built by Stevens Construction with top-end finishes with construction expected to be completed mid next year.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=94146]

Alceon release Premium Collection apartments at Akoya Greenwich

The national property developer Goldfields is already seeing high demand for it's maiden Western Australia land development, set in the heart of wine country, Margret River.

The 47 hectare masterplan, called Spindrift, will be officially unveiled this month.

Construction has begun on the 423-lot project, three kilometres south of the Margaret River town centre in WA's South West area.

Spindrift is surrounded by a developed community to the west and established Karri trees to the north and east. The first release of land will have prices starting from $194,500.

Gareth Wilson, Goldfields General Manager in WA, said Spindrift was perfectly positioned within a short drive to town while still having access to the natural beauty of Margaret River.

He said the development’s larger lots, intelligent design and landscaped reserves would make it highly sought after in a constrained local real estate market.

“Margaret River offers a unique opportunity to live in one of Australia’s most picturesque and renowned destinations and continues to be one of the most sought-after regions in WA,” Wilson said. “Housing demand has continued to outweigh supply in Margaret River which is testament to the attractiveness of the South West lifestyle.

“Spindrift will play a pivotal role in meeting short and medium term demand for housing in Margaret River.”

Spindrift is centred on a strong sense of community, where residents can immerse themselves in nature while still enjoying the comforts and amenity of modern life. It&nbsp;will offer all the amenities expected of a contemporary estate, including immediate access to neighbouring parks and playgrounds, schools, shopping strips, cafes, restaurants and medical facilities.

<img alt="Spindrift Goldfields" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="45ea4607-d6af-4c87-9448-52c216d28499" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202022-11-28%20at%201.43.30%20pm_0.png?VersionId=g3sfILTkHvjeotjkCCiCGs2Xg1k2gbdh" />

Brook Palmateer, Associate Director at Acton Belle Property in Margaret River, said early interest levels in Spindrift were on par with that seen at larger, metropolitan housing developments.

“Interest is coming from a wide variety of people, but particularly local homebuyers,” Palmateer said. “That early interest has been all the greater because there are very few blocks on the market in the region at the moment.

“Everything has sold, there is hardly anything titled on the market and the only things that are titled at the moment are on very steep blocks that are harder and more expensive to build on. We have a significant lack of stock at this price point for people to choose from, across the whole South West region but particularly in Margaret River.”

The Augusta-Margaret River Shire recorded a sharp 17.8 per cent increase in population from 2016 to 2021 in Census data released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics. The estimated local population of 17,298 represented a year-on-year increase of 2.85 per cent compared to 0.93 per cent population growth in Regional WA more broadly.

According to the Real Estate Institute of WA (REIWA), there were a total of four properties advertised for rent on reiwa.com on 31 October 2022. In October 2021 there were two, and in October 2020 just one.

“We have a housing crisis in Margaret River and the surrounding region at the moment,” Palmateer added. “People cannot find anywhere to live – there is nowhere that is suiting them to buy, there’s no land to build on and we’ve got a rental shortage, and almost zero percent vacancy rate.

“80% of the walk-ins to our office are people looking for rentals. Margaret River in particular, closely followed by Dunsborough, are in the highest demand. Not only are a growing number of people keen to move here and enjoy the beautiful lifestyle now that they have more flexibility with working arrangements, but there are a lot of local people that are looking for housing as well, people that have been here 20-30 years. It is across the board.

“Spindrift is ideally situated to address this significant need for more housing in Margaret River and it is doing so at a great price point, in a central location close to amenities and all the natural beauty the region has to offer. This land will be snapped up swiftly.”

Construction has begun on the 423-lot project, three kilometres south of the Margaret River town centre in WA's South West area.

Goldfields launch Margaret River land estate, Spindrift

Chapman Gardens is set to be one of the earliest completed projects in the new $1 billion Showground Precinct in Sydney's Castle Hill.

The first stage of the three-building, 258-apartment development is slated for completion early next year, with the whole project expected to be completed by early 2024.

The completion date has been an attractive proposition for buyers, Shant Van Kolck, head of sales and marketing at developer CG says.

"The precinct is coming alive and we'll be one of the earliest completed projects," Van Kolck recently told Urban.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29359 project_image_fid=207473]

CG are a builder developer, which Van Kolck says has been another major drawcard for buyers.

"Because we're also building the project, buyers know our building timelines aren't going to blow out as much, and we have building teams on site all day to answer construction details about the project."

Chapman Gardens, on a massive 12,000 sqm site on Dawes Crescent, comprises three buildings, The Chapman, Greenview, and Parkfront, all focused on being surrounded in lush landscaping.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29359 project_image_fid=199355]

Van Kolck says the team have tried to create something that sets it apart from the rest.

"There's a number of projects slated for the Showground Precinct, so it's important to develop something that brings buyers to your project and not anyone else's, and that's what we've done."

Chapman Gardens is unique in that it gave 50 per cent of the site back to gardens and landscaping, which meant the space between the three buildings is larger than anything else on the market.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29359 project_image_fid=207474]

"No shadow diagram was requested as part of the development application," Van Kolck notes.

What the separation means for buyers is that not only is the project surrounded in walkways and outdoor meeting spaces, the apartments get double the amount of sunlight in winter than any other development in the immediate area.

Another drawcard for buyers Van Kolck says is that they've created the project in a way that will bring in a variety of different buyers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29359 project_image_fid=199352]

"There are a number of different configurations throughout, with the majority being one-off designs" Van Kolck says.

"We have a real mix of configurations across our three buildings, which means there's something for everyone. Some of the apartments have two bedrooms and two study rooms. No one offers that anywhere."

Van Kolck says it can be an attractive proposition for an investor who might be looking at an apartment's resale value and rental yield.

The majority of interest however has come from downsizers and upsizers, from the immediate area.

"Castle Hill and Hills District locals have shown the most interest, while we've got buyers coming from Macquarie Park and Hornsby who want to move into the area."

There's small touches that CG have made to their apartments, such as going with a five burner gas cooktop instead of four, and including butler's pantries as standard. Showers and baths have been separated in the bathrooms. Van Kolck says the modern day buyer is moving away from the traditional, and now quite outdated, shower and bath combo.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=29359]

The first stage of the three-building, 258-apartment development is slated for completion early next year, with the whole project expected to be completed by early 2024.

How Chapman Gardens created a point of difference in Castle Hill

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.

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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.

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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.

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>

Joel Robinson

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