Prominent luxury property developer Luxcon Group are set to break into two new markets.

The Sydney-based developer, who has a string of high-end projects across Sydney's eastern suburbs and Melbourne, is set to launch two new high-end projects in Surfers Paradise and Byron Bay.

The two projects, Escape in Surfers Paradise on Garfield Terrace and Bohemian in Byron Bay on Jonson Street, located on the popular tourist spots most sought-after streets, will be part of Luxcon's new Coastal Collection.

Escape, Luxcon's first project in Queensland, will comprise 28 full floor and dual level penthouse-style residences, each with four bedrooms. There will be two floors of amenities including a pool, gym, sauna and spa.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113448 project_image_fid=206730]

Sydney architecture firm PBD Architects suggested in their design statement submitted as part of the development application process back in July that Escape&nbsp;will be an iconic tower overlooking the ocean from the coast of Surfers Paradise, towering out amongst the Gold Coast cityscape as a new destination for those looking for resort-style luxury living.

"Its uniqueness is comparably contemporary and "edgy" amongst a sea of beachfront architecture incorporating coastal curvature and sleek ripple effects in their designs. It also creates a highly sophisticated urban design," PBD noted.

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"Inspired by the natural transition or movement from the coast to the air by the cooling coastal breeze, Japanese art of paper folding, origami, a simple rectangular paper begins to articulately transform into a sculptural object."

PBD were also in charge of the designs for&nbsp;Bohemian at 96 Jonson Street Byron Bay. That will home 44 two and three-bedroom apartments, at the heart of Byron Bay’s main strip and just moments to the beach.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108275 project_image_fid=206721]

The Byron Bay project will sit above a 1,750sqm retail shopping and international food plaza and will also include a rooftop terrace with infinity edge pool, gym and spa.

Both developments will feature VZUG Swiss appliances and interiors by Coco Republic.

The Bohemian and Escape developments will see prices start from $2.2 million.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108275 project_image_fid=206722]

Highland Project Marketing CEO David Highland, who secured quick-fire sales at the Sydney-based Sammut's Coast development down the road, said&nbsp;it is a pleasure working alongside such a highly credentialed developer to bring the exclusive range of apartments to market.

“It is incredibly rewarding to be collaborating with Luxcon to deliver these projects and doing the unveiling at Margaret was phenomenal,” Mr. Highland said.

“We never expected anything less from Neil Perry, but with Margaret he raised the stakes and having him there on the night was just wonderful.”

Luxcon Director Ilya Melnikoff said the team are excited to have launched the projects to market and look forward to what is to come.

“We have worked closely with PBD Architects to evolve a design that is both sophisticated and functional, capturing the essence of true coastal luxury living,” Melnikoff said.

Luxcon Director Ilya Melnikoff said the team are excited to have launched the projects to market and look forward to what is to come

Joel Robinson

Luxcon launch new Coastal Collection apartments in Surfers Paradise and Byron Bay

Castle Hill is set to see two huge new apartment developments that will bring well over 600 apartments to the burgeoning suburb.

Sydney developer Bathla Group are behind one of the two projects submitted to the local council in the last week.

The prominent Greater Sydney developer is planning a near $80 million, 350-apartment development&nbsp;across a 1.77 hectare site incorporating Dawes, Hughes, and Middleton Avenue's, will see the 350 apartments built across four buildings on the huge 1.77 hectare site.

The site, in the continually transforming Showground Station Precinct, is an amalgamation of 19 sites with 19 separate dwellings. It's just 300 metres from the Hills Showground Railway Station.

Bathla's plans are for 60 one-bed apartments, 205 two-beds, and 85 three-bed units. There will be 487 parking spaces, 407 for residents and 80 for visitors, as well as 10 motorcycle spaces and 151 bicycle parking spaces.

<img alt="Bathla Castle Hill" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="54fa0f03-3b9a-44fc-894e-7a2ebd3bd47e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-10-20%20at%204.29.31%20pm.png?VersionId=.c6Ftav_1DVvbRIRQNJbcu8vw7W9yusD" /> 
The propose Bathla development. Image credit: Plus Architecture

The apartments will be spread across four buildings. Building A will have&nbsp;103 apartments, Building B 106, Building C 95, and Building D just 46. Each will rise six levels.

Plus Architecture noted in their architectural design statement that the development seeks to maintain a green and walkable setting, in keeping with the residential areas in Castle Hill which have lush landscaping with established street trees following the undulating topography.

"The proposal provides extensive green spaces through multiple open spaces, tree lined streets and garden areas within the street setbacks," Plus stated.

"The ground plane provides connectivity between the public domains and communal open spaces for the residents and general public."

"The proposal generally has four-storey articulated base podium to respond to the pedestrian movement and human scale. The four-storey podium is further broken down with various facade materiality and articulations to be expressed as either single or double storey expression from the ground to be sympathetic to the existing pedestrian network."

Just a 200 metre walk around the corner is another massive 1.6 hectare site which has plans for 315 apartments lodged this week.

<img alt="Castle Hill" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="86a7c67a-5e19-4ffc-9512-61f232aa37c2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-10-18%20at%2010.51.06%20am.png?VersionId=7fyot877QUgMTojhQLi6hHA.HBn0vjba" /> 
The proposed Place Studios development. Image credit: Place Studios

There will be eight buildings in the $80 million development which fronts Dawes and Hughes Avenue and Cadman Crescent, with the plans submitted by town planners BMA Urban on behalf of architects Place Studio. 515 residential car spaces have been planned, a further 62 visitors spaces, 205 bicycle spaces, and 31 motorbike spaces.

It was noted in the submission that Place wanted to "deliver&nbsp;an architecturally unique and contemporary development that strives to set a new standard for high amenity residential developments."

They are seeking to deliver a modulated skyline with a variety of building heights, with taller elements creating visual interest.

<img alt="Castle Hill" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d3e06084-edad-41a6-a22b-75a15a6c65bb" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-10-18%20at%2010.51.12%20am.png?VersionId=sP2J5SDBJEej9C3r7ujy6KgUQw.XJQ0w" />

Zenith Landscape Design are across the landscaping. The strategy from them "seeks to provide residents with a diversity of spaces and activities for their leisure that are both attractive and functional.

"The design aims to deliver opportunities for community gathering and private retreats across both the ground floor and rooftops. Large open lawns, seating pods and passive retreats have been integrated into the ground floor communal open space and is connected by a number of pedestrian paths through the development."

Sydney developer Bathla Group headlines the two projects submitted to the local council in the last week

First look: Castle Hill set for two huge new apartment developments

Developers are set to get a chance to buy into the tightly held Chevron Island precinct.

Builder developers Draycon have listed their development site at 5-7 Stanhill Drive through GV Property Group, with plans submitted to council back in June for a striking tower.

Development approval is expected to drop in the coming weeks, making the 1,194 sqm site an unrivalled opportunity on the Island just a bridge away from Surfers Paradise. The site will be sold subject to the development application being approved.

GV Property Group's Luke Reaby says there's little opportunity on Chevron Island to secure a near 1,200 sqm site.

"This is a rare opportunity for developers who are keen on Chevron Island to create a tower which will stand among just a handful on the Island," Reaby says.

<img alt="5-7 Stanhill Drive" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="85365c72-d423-40cd-8409-028af3802a20" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-10-20%20at%2012.53.53%20pm.png?VersionId=9CuWysFjF2rvoaGtP3TikezJb882RXVU" />

"The quality of the building design on Chevron Island is changing the shape of the Chervon skyline," Reaby says.

Reaby says the site is in the highly sought-after south west pocket of Chevron Island, a short walk to the Thomas Drive retail strip, and just a one kilometre walk to the Surfers Paradise sand.

The plans submitted by Draycon, who have developed Boutique on Chevron Island previously, are for a 22-level tower with 82 apartments aimed at the owner-occupier. It will be a mix of 42 two-bedroom apartments and 40 three-bedroom units.

"The architecture of the proposed development is minimal and timeless," BDA Architecture's statement to the Gold Coast City Council read.

"The gently sculpted form of the tower balances over the grounded podium. Stacks of bespoke slabs lines and a textured and timeless material palette of white concrete, timber screening and planting creating a rich and layered coastal effect."

BDA note that the mix of two and three bedroom apartments cater for a number of price points and encourage genuine diversity of ownership/occupation.

Currently the site is occupied by two apartment buildings with nine apartments.

GV Property Group's Luke Reaby says there's little opportunity on Chevron Island to secure a near 1,200 sqm site

Chevron Island site listing paves the way for future development

AVID Property Group (AVID) has bought its second strategic development site in as many months, securing 40 hectares of land for a new 275-lot residential development in Chisholm in New South Wales’ Lower Hunter Region.

The announcement follows the confirmation last month of a deal on a 30.5 hectare site in Pakenham, west of Melbourne. The two new sites add almost $500 million to AVID’s national development pipeline.

AVID purchased the strategically located site adjacent to AVID’s highly popular communities of Waterford and Harvest.

“The site in Chisholm builds on our existing presence in the area and takes our Waterford community to a total of 1,500 lots, which will eventually become home to up to 3,600c people,” AVID CEO Cameron Holt said.

Substantial population growth in the Hunter Region will see rising demand for housing in the region, with predicted population rises set to see another 86,703 more people – 10 per cent more than what was predicted just a few years ago.

According to the Hunter Regional Plan 2036, the Hunter is the leading regional economy in Australia and is currently home to more than 860,000 people. This figure is expected to grow to 1.1 million by 2031 
 
“AVID has grown a strong foundation within the Lower Hunter Region of New South Wales, allowing us to continue to expand our offering and investment within this corridor,” Holt added.

“As one of New South Wales’ highest growth areas, the Hunter region is an appealing lifestyle proposition at great value, which has long been a draw card for buyers at all stages of life.

“We’ve had considerable success in the Lower Hunter, with the sell-out of Harvest, a 510-home community in Chisholm, and high demand for Waterford, which has already sold around 1000 home sites since it was launched in Jan 2018.”

The acquisition enables the completion of the masterplan envisioned for the Waterford community, including new housing options and connecting roads.

The greenfield site is located 23 kilometres north of Newcastle, surrounded by 74 hectares of green space, pristine waterways and native wetlands, and seven kilometres of cycling and walking tracks, with a scenic outlook across Four Mile Creek.

AVID will lodge planning applications with Council in the coming weeks, and it anticipates launching to market in 2024.

AVID secure Hunter region development site

The team behind Melbourne’s $2 billion transformation of the Moonee Valley Racecourse has unveiled the project’s most anticipated residential release to date; Trackside House – the first residential offering in Moonee Valley Park to boast track frontage, and the only one with uninterrupted views of the racetrack’s future finishing straight.

Trackside House will feature 205 residences including some high-end apartment stock, which come with a twist. The project will include three and four-bedroom penthouse product on each level, as opposed to stacking all of the penthouses on the top level. The clever design will accomodate those who want the larger apartment while also being closer to the track.

Joint venture partners, developer Hamton and superannuation fund Hostplus, who are working in partnership with Moonee Valley Racing Club, had renowned architecture firm Rothelowman collaborate with interiors house Carr on the designs.

Prices at Trackside House will start from $470,000 for the one-bedroom apartments, and range in price through the two, three and four-bedroom offerings to over $5 million.

The unobstructed views across the racecourse, which extend across Ascot Vale and Brunswick to the Melbourne city skyline, will offer residents unparalleled vision of iconic race days like the Cox Plate alongside the future infield of the track – which will be transformed into a lush, green landscape of walking tracks, parklands and integrated community amenities.

<img alt="The tower overlooking the race course" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="04f4c647-7aef-4f5c-a22a-5e73296029aa" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-10-19%20at%203.54.53%20pm.png?VersionId=vH.k0ZF5I1Gm9VPaqLphjemZhjX1hNGa" />

Trackside House will be the fourth stage released within Moonee Valley Park. Its designs by Rothelowman maintains&nbsp;the precinct’s strong connection to nature and biophilic design, fostering a unique urban sanctuary surrounded by greenery – just only six kilometres.

Inspired by the composure and calm of a refined hotel, the Trackside House lobby will welcome residents with a tree-lined landscape that leads to a private drop off area and concierge – complete with a number of services that can be booked via smartphone on the Residents’ App.

Trackside House will also be serviced by a number of exclusive resident amenities including a rooftop pool, residents’ lounge, business lounge and state of the art Wellness Sanctuary – equipped with glass-walled yoga room, meditation space and sauna and fully equipped gym.

Hamton Property Group Executive Chairman Paul Hameister said Trackside House’s uninterrupted views of both the Moonee Valley Racecourse and the city set it apart, adding to the project’s botanical design, community amenities and 20ha of green open space and parklands.

“Residents at Trackside House will be able to soak up the fun atmosphere of Moonee Valley Racing Club’s race days, events and activities, in person or from the privacy of their balcony or the rooftop entertaining areas, while enjoying uninterrupted views of the city skyline," Hameister said.

“Trackside House is the first racetrack-fronting stage within Moonee Valley Park – we have a large database of buyers who have been waiting for a track-fronting apartment, so we are excited to be bringing these unique homes to market.

<img alt="Trackside House" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="75be6960-6c20-438a-bc32-f5b24bf9215c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-10-19%20at%203.54.49%20pm.png?VersionId=gPWhWRBO5kbNbPQ3LbuwLzepTg9MLOYO" />

“We are once again, offering purchasers of our Penthouse apartments the opportunity to collaborate with Rothelowman and Carr to design a customised home tailored personally to their needs and believe this will resonate strongly with the local owner occupier market."

Rothelowan Principal Chris Hayton says the opportunity for purchasers to customise their future home is reflective of the Moonee Valley Park design ethos, which brings together unique residences and premium amenities that complement its natural surrounds, location and landscape.

“We are thrilled at the prospect of being able to work with future residents of Trackside House to tune the building and apartments to perfectly match their lifestyles," Hayton says.

"The underlying design philosophy for the building has always been to deliver a living experience of enviable generosity by leveraging its truly unique setting. Collaborating with residents of the building further amplifies the opportunities to provide one-of-a-kind residences."

The $2 billion redevelopment of Moonee Valley Racecourse will transform the 40 hectare site into a botanic-inspired residential landmark, and the new premium neighbourhood of Melbourne’s inner north.

Once complete, Moonee Valley Park – which is designed to be a neighbourhood within a park – will encompass around 2,000 dwellings across eight village-style precincts, complete with resident amenities, retailers, cafes, restaurants, playgrounds, sporting fields, running and walking tracks, set among 20 hectares of abundant green open space.

Moonee Valley Park launched to the market in August 2019, and has since delivered its first completed stage – as well as amenities including Tote Park and TOTE Bar &amp; Dining – with the first residents moving into their new homes in 2022. Two further stages are under construction with completion in 2023.

The $2 billion redevelopment of Moonee Valley Racecourse will transform the 40 hectare site into a botanic-inspired residential landmark, and the new premium neighbourhood of Melbourne’s inner north.

Hamton reveal Trackside House at $2 billion Moonee Valley Racecourse redevelopment

One of the Gold Coast's most anticipated projects is set to launch in the coming months.

Tim Gurner's GURNERTM,&nbsp;in a joint venture with investment house Wingate, are soon to unveil the first tower in La Pelago, their $1.7 billion, four-tower masterplan at Budds Beach in Surfers Paradise.

Launching to the market later this year, the “Resort Residences” will be the first stage available in the project, located in the first 28 storeys of the project’s first tower, ‘Aquia’, which will soar 65 levels and have a total end value of $1 billion.

The Resort Residences will have a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments ranging from $525,000 up to $1.8 million, ranging in size from 60 sqm to 200 sqm.

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Aquia boasts an exclusive private wellness club, the three level resort-style podium deck with its ‘private island’ Archipelago of pools, lagoons and relaxation areas, and direct access to a signature restaurant, bars and cafes located throughout the tower and on ground level.

The Aquia tower also will house the yet-to-be-announced global hotel brand which is rumoured to be around 185 rooms across levels 29 - 42.

Tim Gurner said he's&nbsp;never been so excited to launch a project.

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"This concept is something truly different and iconic for Australia that we believe will really take the residential market by surprise.

“We have made the brave call to launch the project amid the current global uncertainty due to huge interest and demand from our sophisticated investor database and past clients who can see through the next few years and are very excited by the fundamentals of the Australian property market and especially the Gold Coast," Gurner said.

“With now almost no supply in the pipeline for Gold Coast due to construction pricing, but with demand still incredibly strong, our sophisticated investors know that in 2-3 years we will be in a rental crisis that will push rents and therefore pricing to a level not seen before.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108339 project_image_fid=206593]

“We have been monitoring construction pricing to determine when it settles which we now believe it has; and with little to no larger projects on the horizon, we think trades will look at the next 12 – 24 months and realise most of the jobs they had planned to work on are now not progressing and they will need to price on new work at a competitive rate again."

La Pelago, inspired by some of the world’s most exclusive private Archipelago resorts, has been imagined as a series of island precincts among a vast expanse of lagoon pools, with private bookable lounges and private dining areas, cabanas, sundecks, swim-up bars, restaurants and soaring mature palm trees over a three-level resort podium.

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Architecturally designed by international architect firm, Warren &amp; Mahoney, with interiors imagined by GURNERTM’s own in-house interior design team led by Italian designer Simon Brugaletta. The globally renowned&nbsp;SWA – the landscape designers behind the Beverly Hills Hotel and Los Vantanas in Mexico, two of Tim Gurner’s favourite hotels – are designing the lush tropical landscapes that will bring the 12,000 sqm site to life.

Inspired by nature’s organic forms and everchanging sand dunes, Aquia is defined by its sweeping curves and natural symmetry. Its façade of shimmering glass reflects the hues of the Gold Coast sun, creating a form that appears to shift and morph as you approach from different angles.

The resort-style experience will start in the lobby, with cascading water features and a porte cochere entrance leading to a private concierge where residents can choose to have their car valet parked and shopping taken directly into their rooms.

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“Everything about La Pelago represents a relentless pursuit of perfection and point of difference," Gurner added.

"We have scoured the globe to uncover the world’s very best examples of private resort living, bringing everything together into one private sanctuary.

“We want our clients to own something that has never been done before in the world and cannot be done again. A truly irreplaceable investment and home.

Gurner said the&nbsp;Gold Coast is experiencing one of the most exciting periods in its history.

"Over 40,000 people moved here each year in 2020 and 2021, and with 70 kilometres of pristine sandy beaches and 300 days of sunshine per year, it’s not hard to see why.

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“The vision for La Pelago really came together in 2020 when I was in lockdown at home with my family in Melbourne, thinking there has to be a way to bring an unparalleled resort lifestyle into a residential setting in Australia that’s only 2 hours from Sydney and Melbourne as opposed to 6 hours to Bali or Fiji.

“While we are still finessing the details of the amenities and service that will be on offer, we have spent over 18 months ensuring that there is nothing else like it, not only on the Gold Coast but anywhere else in Australia.

“We want La Pelago to be the defining destination of the Gold Coast, not just known for its architecture and amenity, but the experience from the moment the valet first opens your car door, through to the designer retail precincts and sky-high restaurants that will be the name on everyone’s lips when they launch to the public,” he said.

"It’s a collection of my most out-there ideas and “what ifs” brought to life.”

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Tim Gurner said he's never been so excited to launch a project

Gurner to launch Aquia, the first tower in $1.7 billion La Pelago, Surfers Paradise precinct

The latest luxury development by national developer JWLand, The Grounds in Ivanhoe East, is set to welcome its first residents in early 2023.

Located only nine kilometres north east of Melbourne’s CBD, construction of the trio of apartment buildings and townhomes is at the tail end of construction.

Proving to be popular among local downsizers, JWLand has fast tracked construction of a three-bedroom apartment in the Wilfred building.

No expense has been spared at The Grounds, with premium SMEG kitchen appliances and a 50-bottle Vintec wine fridge set to make entertaining a delight in either of the apartments or townhomes.

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Residents will also be able to enjoy luxury inclusions such as heated towel rails and underfloor heating in the master ensuite, making those chilly Melbourne winters more tolerable.

JWLand’s Project Marketing Manager Nick Babic says the fast-tracked display apartment gives both prospective buyers, and those who have already purchased, the most accurate representation of the finished product.

“The completed apartment shows purchasers what they bought,” Babic says.

“We’re getting a number of locals walking through the display and they’re getting a feel for the size and quality of the project when in the space,” Babic added.

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Babic said that buyers will have the confidence that the fast-tracked apartment is exactly what will be delivered because JWLand is both the developer and the builder of the project, an uncommon offering which allows them to control the process from start to finish.

“We’re a one stop shop,” Babic added. “There’s only one place buyers need to go to. There’s not the unknown of the builder/developer relationship, or whether the building firm is under pressure in the current labour and materials shortage environment.”

The structures for all three apartment buildings, Wilfred, Wamba and The Boulevard have been completed with internal fitouts well underway. Also nearing completion are the structures for the townhomes, also known as Oak Terraces.

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The landscaping by Memla Landscape Architects is one of the most impressive features in this master planned development. More than 15,000 sqm of land has been dedicated to gardens and public spaces, creating a sense of nature and tranquility on residents' doorstep.

Babic says it will really hit home what they’re producing as the landscaping starts to come to life.

“The landscaping is one of the major drivers for this project. Most of the residents will be downsizers from the local area, who have been accustomed to large gardens.

When forming the masterplan for The Grounds, we focused on creating this landscaped environment where residents are still connected to nature, without having to maintain their own gardens.”

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JWLand also has a promotion running currently where buyers can secure their apartment or townhouse with just a $10,000 deposit, leaving the rest payable at settlement.

“Traditionally buyers would have to pay 10% on exchange of contract, which can be a significant cash outlay. By offering the opportunity to exchange on just $10,000, we are giving our buyers a few more months to store or save the rest of their deposit.”

Two, three and four-bedroom apartments start from $995,000 while three-bedroom townhomes start from $1.85 million.

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Buyers are expected to move into the nature-driven project toward the end of Q1 2023

The Grounds, Ivanhoe East to welcome residents in early 2023

It's every developer's goal to sell out its project before construction commencement.

It's something that can only be achieved through two complementing elements; a well-thought out design plan, offering something different than what's available in an area, and a reputable development team who are trusted to deliver what they set out to.

Melbourne developer Young Group recently achieved the feat, selling out their 38-apartment project Custom Highett before it began construction.

And now buyers have moved into the recently completed building&nbsp;which came with a six-year building guarantee.

The sales were dominated by owner-occupiers, with the two-bedrooms predominantly snapped up by first home buyers, and the three-bedrooms more sought-after by the downsizer and empty nester demographic.

Joshua Muyambo from MAP Architect said they designed diverse apartment types - multifunctional - with ample flexibility.

<img alt="Custom kitchen" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ad4841e8-b617-451a-bb4b-535bc7ea93a2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-10-04%20at%202.19.27%20pm.png?VersionId=RRaREEoDjBKuDMyOyGlEAvUJzpcvIgY2" />

"We've gone with a neutral palette, which focuses primarily on natural stone, and warm timber accents,"&nbsp;Joshua says.

The environmentally-friendly building secured an average 7.8-star natHERS energy rating, with no combustible cladding used in the façade materials.

Purchasers at Custom said they were attracted to the layout of the apartments, which have a real focus on indoor and outdoor living. The courtyard apartments feature wraparound outdoor spaces, which can be accessed from both the open plan living area and the bedrooms, maximising the amount of natural light each apartment captures.&nbsp;

The overarching driver that every purchaser highlighted as the most attractive proposition of Custom was the location.

Resident and downsizer Steven Ryan said he and his wife had been looking for around eight months before they found Custom.

"When we saw this one, it really jumped out at us because of the location," Steven says.

"That's all we knew at the start, was where it was. There was shops, public transport, and all those things we had wanted.

"It was the first time we felt that we should get in contact with the agent. We went and liked what we saw. We were sold."

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/MztR8LsOfdg" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Spring Yang, who heads up Young Group, said the location of the Station Street site made the team venture into Highett for the first time when they secured it in 2019.

"Custom is tucked away on a quiet residential street, while also being just 200 metres from the best shopping retail strip in Highett," Spring said.

"The Highett Street retail strip has a number of shops and cafes, as well as strong public transport infrastructure which easily links residents at Custom to the rest of Melbourne."

<img alt="Custom location" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5ceae1de-6d09-4c25-a8af-ebe312671128" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-10-04%20at%202.21.35%20pm.png?VersionId=ERhwr3ROGHNZTvmw6mYQ.Us5fM3MZsGM" />

Young Group's latest project Tomorrow is another that's focused primarily on location, something that Spring says is the deciding factor in any new development the Young Group tackle.

"Tomorrow is ideally placed to enjoy the very best of Northcote - which was reported as Victoria's most liveable suburb in the recent <a href="https://www.pwc.com.au/important-problems/future-victoria/future-victoria-2021.pdf">'Future Victoria' report by PwC</a>," Spring says.

"Recognising that we are increasingly spending more time close to home, the local amenity and walkability of Northcote awarded it with ‘Top Live’ on the ‘Staying Local Score’ in the report.

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"Tomorrow is located just a short stroll from the banks of Northcote’s Merri Creek – and has been designed to connect residents to all that Northcote has to offer, both in terms of nature and retail," Spring notes.

Young Group are going through the planning and approval process for their next three projects, Young Oakleigh, Victoria Brunswick, and Rose Essendon, the latter two apartment developments expected to go to market mid to late 2023.

Spring Yang, who heads up Young Group, put the success at Custom down to the location


Buyers move into recently completed Custom Highett apartments following pre-construction sell-out

Melbourne developer Golden Age Group are soon to launch their latest Glen Waverley development, following the success of Sky Garden, their apartment project above The Glen shopping centre.

Their new project, Floret, at 583 Ferntree Gully Road, comprises&nbsp;77 architecturally-designed townhouses, which Golden Age believe will&nbsp;fill a much-needed gap for new developments within the thriving suburb.

Designed by leading Melbourne architect Rothelowman, the townhomes are designed to be sensitive to the site’s existing context, while capitalising on an opportunity to deliver an outstanding&nbsp;architectural response that will set a new standard for townhouses within the area.

Golden Age Chief Marketing Officer Dandan Zhao said the townhomes respond to the changing needs of the population by providing diverse housing options.

“Glen Waverley is an area predominantly dominated by single-family homes and there is little choice when it comes to townhomes, particularly architecturally-designed homes that offer a premium feel,” Zhao said.

“Glen Waverley is such a highly connected suburb and there is appetite for new developments that cater to not only downsizers but young professionals and young families who are priced out of this area. Glen Waverley is an aspirational area that has traditionally been unaffordable; we’re pioneering a product not typically seen here.”

<img alt="The living area in Floret" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="aef88c85-3dd5-4b40-b874-008ccfdd4ded" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-10-18%20at%2010.26.12%20am.png?VersionId=ADF5JAPd.0d4n_kIsggUijS8zjP0B0YT" />

With existing townhouses in Glen Waverley typically being dual occupancy, or featuring multiple homes on one lot with no amenities, Golden Age’s project will seek to put community at the heart, offering a number of resident amenities complemented by extensive gardens in a secure neighbourhood that will likely draw families to Floret.

Concept designed by Aspect Studios, the central open space - a 1000 sqm central park - offers an open lawn with walking track complemented with facilities such as a fitness station, barbecue and picnic area, and a children’s play area with seating walls, offering convivial social spaces for residents. An entry boulevard of evergreen and deciduous canopy trees will line the perimeter of the site, while a network of trees will create green corridors across the development site.

The layouts of each townhouse are conducive to multi-generational living with ensuite ground-level bedrooms featuring courtyard access for greater privacy, while the kitchen and living areas serve as connection points.

In response to post-pandemic lifestyles which see more professionals working from home, the three-level townhouses offer much-needed separation from the ground-floor offices and higher-level living areas.

Rothelowman’s design inspiration was capturing character through texture and tactility. Timber is used throughout, both compositionally and strategically, as a defining element. It can be seen oscillating across streetscapes, as enveloping covers, and in feature moments.

“This project has a prominent internal urban planning strategy that makes it unique, Shane Rothe, Principal and Founding Director of Rothelowman said.

"While it responds to a mixed external context, the lush streets and inviting open spaces within the complex promote connectedness and provide a place for the community to connect."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=104680]

Floret comprises 77 architecturally-designed townhouses, which Golden Age believe will fill a much-needed gap for new developments within the thriving suburb



Golden Age Group secure approval for latest Glen Waverley development, Floret

The Melbourne-based developer Little Projects has redesigned its Broadbeach apartment tower Aperture, which had been knocked back at council.

Now seeking the sell the high-end project on a prime Broadbeach address at 20 Mary Avenue, on the border of the Broadbeach State School, Little Projects have had Plus remodel the luxury tower which had initially been designed by Elenberg Fraser. They've cut it in half from its 34 levels to just 17, and created a more curved facade.

<img alt="The new tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2bab4377-6eb1-4739-ae76-0cae96462655" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-10-18%20at%208.46.01%20am.png?VersionId=ncLyeEvmWBG7NpCI5vbRiqHwbpgBteQi" />

It will still be as high-end as it was previously, just with fewer levels and apartments. Instead of 29 full floor and double-storey apartments, it will now be 17 full-floor apartments across 18 levels.

Level one will still home the resident facilities. There will be a pool, spa, barbecue area, and a gym with sauna and steam room.

From levels two to 18 will be 17 full-floor apartments, with three bedrooms each across its 158 sqm floorplate. There will be a further 13 sqm of balcony.&nbsp;

<img alt="Aperture" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a7c0d810-e9e2-4a0b-a067-0bff1a219ad0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Aperture.jpg?VersionId=qKgruOANowoiDwi13BEtM5.JQiH6Hxhv" />

The new plans for 20 Mary Avenue, left and right, and the former plans, centre

Despite Little Projects highlighting the former plans met a number of criteria, being code assessable under the Planning Scheme and being in a High Residential Density Zone Code, the plans were still rejected. The council suggested "the proposal does not meet the light rail urban renewal overlay code, high density residential zone code, and aspects of the high-rise accomodation design code and general provisions code."&nbsp;&nbsp;

Site amalgamation specialists and development site sellers GV Property Group have expressions of interest for 20 Mary Avenue.&nbsp;

Little Projects, headed by Paris Lechte and Leighton Pyke, have had success in Broadbeach before, selling out their nearby development Signature before it was completed.

They also have a development application sitting nearby for another high-end tower at 118 Old Burleigh Road. Expected to be in a joint venture with fellow Melbourne developer R.Corp, they are wanting to develop 33 apartments across&nbsp;37 levels on the corner of Old Burleigh Road and Australia Avenue.

<img alt="One Australia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="67df3858-f5a5-4bf8-8a1a-14aba589e11f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-10-18%20at%209.22.32%20am.png?VersionId=9ToZ2k3HNZ4xvIe2m5ISWSUCW5hgg_lr" />

It will tower over the neighbouring Ocean Royale and Boulevard Tower, which are 16 and 17 levels respectively. They are also more focused on short-term accomodation apartments, whereas the new project, dubbed One Australia, will be another by Little Projects targeting the high-end owner-occupier.

DKO Architecture has put forward the designs for the slender tower, which will have full floor apartments, with 218 sqm of living space, from level two to level 33. Above will be a three-level penthouse with its own rooftop pool.

The new building will still be as high-end as it was previously, just with fewer levels and apartments

First look: Little Projects redesign luxury Broadbeach tower to meet council pushback

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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