Prominent Sydney developer ALAND is set to transform the abandoned Brands on Sales outlet in Campbelltown into a $400 million mixed-use development.

They've further enhanced the proposal which was submitted to council earlier this year, with the project now set to feature a shared environment for the wider community.

There will be a&nbsp;community building, public open space, playground, and curated gardens, totalling over 4,000 sqm of publicly accessible. The development will also comprise residential apartments, an 'eat street', and several retail and commercial spaces across the two hectare 22-32 Queen Street site

“Campbelltown is a fantastic suburb and this new chapter will bring with it an exciting neighbourhood space for not only the new residents of our upcoming development, but for generations to enjoy in years to come” said ALAND’s Head of Development Ryan Lane.

"Until now the site has been a wasted opportunity in a great location and we’re proud to be able to repurpose the space for the wider community."

Earlier concepts of the development have been scaled back to increase the useable communal footprint, which is a direct result of conversations with Council. Lane said Council and community feedback has been critical in shaping how the project could meet both future housing demand while simultaneously improving liveability for the greater Campbelltown population.

The proposed open green space will include multiple play areas for children of all ages including interactive water, sand and nature play, climbing equipment, a native meadow and level lawns. There will also be a bicycle loop path and community amphitheatre seating with a stage area.

ALAND’s Senior Development Manager Andrew Stacey said&nbsp;such an exceptional address deserves a superior meeting place for the community.

"That’s what we’re striving to create," Stacey added.

"To get the fit just right ALAND has been in ongoing consultation with Council and the community to ensure this plan will deliver the best outcome for all.

“Our research has taught us that Campbelltown’s local businesses and residents want an authentic community hub with a true village feel and that’s what we plan to deliver."

ALAND has already submitted plans to Council for the residential and retail component on the site. The masterplan will include 558 apartments throughout five buildings and an ‘Eat Street’ style dining precinct with over 9000 sqm of commercial and retail space, including a childcare, all within walking distance of the local train station and other key Campbelltown amenities including Macarthur Square.

To ensure the local character at the rear of the site is maintained and celebrated, all mature legacy trees around the community building and public play area will be retained as well as the view corridor to the neighbouring heritage buildings.

Planned at the heart of the shared community area will be a colourful fringe lily public art piece, visible from Queen Street and illuminated at night in celebration of 200 years of Campbelltown. The DA is also proposing a two-level (ground and basement to preserve the low impact landscape) community centre, which will house an auditorium, kiosk, lift and several multi-purpose spaces. 
 
Campbelltown City Council Mayor George Greiss praised ALAND’s design and its contribution to a revitalised Campbelltown City Centre.

“It’s great to see this development application has given consideration to our city centre master plan to achieve a people-focused place that’s innovative and connected to plenty of open space," Greiss said.

“Through considered design in prime locations such as this, we can realise our vision for a good life here in Campbelltown where our communities are inclusive, diverse and friendly."

Fast Facts

<ul style="color:#222222; font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:small; font-style:normal; font-variant-ligatures:normal; font-weight:400; text-align:start; white-space:normal; background-color:#ffffff; text-decoration-thickness:initial; text-decoration-style:initial; text-decoration-color:initial" type="disc">
	<li style="margin-left:15px">22-32 Queen Street, Campbelltown</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px">$400M mixed use project including residential, retail and commercial spaces</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px">Over 4000sqm open space including children’s play areas, community amphitheatre with stage and a bicycle loop path</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px">Two-level community centre consisting of an auditorium, kiosk, lift and multi-purpose spaces</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px">Public art piece to commemorate 200 years of Campbelltown</li>
</ul>

ALAND has already submitted plans to Council for the residential and retail component on the site

Joel Robinson

ALAND further plans for $400 million mixed-use Campbelltown development

The revitalisation of the Gosford CBD is on track with the sale of significant master-planned site.

The largest concept approved, mixed use development site on the Central Coast, known as Pacifica Gosford, has been sold by Paul Lederer's Lederer Group.

There are plans in place for five towers that will sit above retail and commercial podiums on the 1.42 hectare site at 136-148 Donnison Street, in the heart of Gosford's CBD.

<img alt="Pacific Gosford" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5eb6b78d-a675-4b7a-864d-187b399f9de2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-10-14%20at%209.31.18%20am.png?VersionId=XI85fa_K3IggXAyEQC.PqVlai0SqQPA_" />

Colliers agents Jon Chomley and Eugene White secured the record transaction, calling the site "truly irreplaceable."

“Pacifica Gosford is a remarkable central city, development approved site capable of accommodating over 700 residential apartments with additional commercial and retail space and parking for over 1,000 cars,” Chomley said.

“With four street frontages and a design that enables the staged development of up to five towers, this is a truly irreplaceable development site.”

The stage one plans show there is set to be 5,422 square metres of retail and commercial gross floor area, as well as recreation spaces and a new pedestrian link to complement the precinct. The site is currently occupied by the untenanted former Kibbleplex Shopping Centre.

The multi-staged nature of the potential development could also enable the purchaser to consider a variety of end uses, including student accommodation, retirement living and residential apartments.

<img alt="Pacifica Gosford" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="907eed54-f7d4-43e7-b27a-24be0c69ad4a" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-10-14%20at%209.31.31%20am.png?VersionId=Vp5UgbUm7DF_QxrZtpuMKtLCqtbl4AU0" />

Eugene White said that due to Gosford's coastal location, and also being just an hour from Sydney, the area has&nbsp;been the beneficiary of the sea change movement from Sydney, with an uplift in new residents over the last two years.

"It is also a highly sought after retirement area with older residents benefitting from the extensive medical and care services in the region,” White added.

Located directly across from the recently upgraded Kibble Park and the Imperial Shopping Centre, Pacifica Gosford is just 500 metres from the Gosford railway station. It is also within walking distance&nbsp;to major employment hubs and Government services such as the ATO, the Department of Finance, Safe Work NSW, Gosford Court House, Gosford Hospital and Gosford TAFE.

There has been recent major investment supporting essential infrastructure throughout the Central Coast region to meet the needs of the projected population growth. Some of these include the $368 million redevelopment of Gosford Hospital, the $200 million redevelopment of Wyong Hospital, funding upgrades of the M1 Pacific Motorway, planned university campus and the recent completion of the $10 million waterfront park.

There are plans in place for five towers that will sit above retail and commercial podiums on the 1.42 hectare site at 136-148 Donnison Street, in the heart of Gosford's CBD

Pacifica Gosford, the largest concept approved development site on the Central Coast, sells 

There are strong signs that the lengthy property market downturn may not be quite as drawn out as first thought.

First the RBA only cut rates by 25 basis points in the October meeting, where many forecasters and economists had expected a 50 basis point hike. The cash rate now sits at 2.6 per cent, with the overarching view there are still a few more rate hikes to go before the RBA wait to see if their efforts to curb inflation have been successful.

It was the sixth consecutive month the RBA had hiked rates from a record low 0.1 per cent, but it was the first time in six months it wasn't what is referred to as a "double rate hike."

Clearance rates, which is one of the leading metrics in buyer appetite, was just over 63 per cent, the sixth week in a row it was over the 60 per cent mark. By no means is 60 per cent a target figure given clearance rates are in the high 80's and into the 90's when the market is hot, but it's a start.

But in Melbourne, where the clearance rate was 66 per cent last weekend, Projects by Buxton Director Heath Thompson believes the uptrend of clearance rates will continue due to a type of buyer that has emerged in recent weeks.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108897 project_image_fid=180981]

"Bargain hunters are always the first to come back when the market has seen a significant drop," Thompson said.

"They're almost an indication as to when the market has bottomed, as they think now is the time to pick property up at its lowest price before it starts to shoot back up again in the historical pattern.

"Bargain hunters will almost singlehandedly drive the market back up. They essentially compete with each other which creates competition at auctions which does two things; drives prices up, which in turn drives auction clearance rates. There's a much less likelihood of a property passing in and not meeting a vendor's expectation when there's a few bidders at an auction."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112375 project_image_fid=204404]

Thompson says it's the old adage, "if you wait for the bottom, then you've probably missed it."

Thompson, who markets off the plan developments around Melbourne's exclusive Stonnington and Bayside areas, is expecting a late run into Christmas as buyer demand starts to pick back up.&nbsp;

At the moment Thompson is predominantly dealing with two types of buyers; the first home buyer who wants certainty in what they pay and are happy to wait for it to be ready, and the luxury downsizer, who wants the low maintenance living in a brand new property that requires no renovations.

Before the rate hike of just 25 basis points,&nbsp;CoreLogic's Research Director Tim Lawless said it's possible we have seen the initial shock of a rapid rise in interest rates pass through the market and most borrowers and prospective home buyers have now ‘priced in’ further rate hikes. However, Lawless suggested that if interest rates continue to rise as rapidly as they have since May, we could see the rate of decline in housing values accelerate once again.

Lawless cited the improvement of other indicators as the rate of decline in the property market slowed in September.

“Auction clearance rates also trended upwards, albeit subtly, in September and consumer sentiment nudged a little higher as well on the back of strong labour market conditions,” Lawless said. &nbsp;

“We’ve also seen the flow of fresh listings continue to slide through the first month of spring, which is uncommon for this time of the year.”

Expect listings to flow next year as thousands of fixed loans expire. Those fixed loans, whether they were one-year or five-year fixed, will likely have been fixed at around the two per cent mark. Now the average interest rate on the market is in the mid four per cent range.&nbsp;

In Melbourne, where the clearance rate was 66 per cent last weekend, Heath Thompson believes the uptrend of clearance rates will continue due to a type of buyer that has emerged in recent weeks.

Is the property market starting to bottom out?

The Graaf retail and development dynasty are set to redevelop one of Potts Point's most iconic buildings into four luxury terraces.

The Graaf family, led by Graaf Founder, Managing Director, and family patriarch Gennaro Autore, have submitted a development application for 20-26 Bayswater Road, the heritage-listed Mansions Terraces which they secured last year for $22 million. They were previously the home of the famous Candy's Apartments Nightclub, as well as the backpacker hotspot World Bar, which occupied two of the terraces.

The terraces will be fully redeveloped and extended, which will free up more commercial space on the ground level.

The terraces themselves will have four bedrooms across the new 340 sqm of internal living space. The attic level will be converted into a full floor master suite with a rooftop terrace.

Tony Leung from A+ Design Group has drawn up the plans which aim to keep the "fingers" which have become synonymous with the site.

<img alt="Mansions Potts Point" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e61f4802-cbaa-4d19-84a8-993f492778f8" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-10-13%20at%207.57.10%20am.png?VersionId=8czUJsgM86Q7XJWHFQ0cI2qam0Nfh_2j" />

"The proposed development involves alterations and additions to an existing building, with majority of the existing front façade on Bayswater Road and the four ‘fingers’ on Mansion Lane being retained,"&nbsp;the design verification statement submitted by Leung noted.

The lower ground and ground floor at the rear are proposed to be demolished and rebuilt with two new basement levels. The above ground works are proposed between the existing “fingers” and an additional part-floor attic level under roof space at the existing building height threshold.

"It respects the existing heritage building fabric by delicately curating rear wings design, to enable a contemporary and contextual fitting addition to the buildings while being able to provide a positive contribution to both existing and future public domain," the reported stated.

"The site presents a unique opportunity to revitalise the surrounding commercial with integrated residential neighbourhood because of its’ location,"

"It offers an extensive network in proximity to existing shops, public and private transportation, linking major arterial roads to the city, eastern suburbs and northern beaches."

The terraces are just 150 metres East of Kings Cross Train Station, and there are extensive public transport links in front of the site on Bayswater Road.

Graaf has a long history in both retail and property development. As well as handling the distribution of luxury retail brands&nbsp;Missoni and Brunello Cucinelli in Australia, they've been part of a number of commercial redevelopment projects across Sydney, including The Trust Building in the Sydney CBD, The Amalfi Way on Woolloomooloo wharf, as well as a number of store fitouts.&nbsp;

The terraces will be fully redeveloped and extended, which will free up more commercial space on the ground level

First look: Graaf Group plot iconic Mansions Terraces, Potts Point redevelopment

Prolific developer GURNERTM has unveiled its most significant and ambitious project yet; a $1.75 billion mega-project that will transform the last major site in Melbourne’s Docklands into a world- class mixed-use, botanical destination.

GURNERtm wants the buildings to rival those in Singapore, New York and London.

The 18,000 sqm island infill site at 208-226 Harbour Esplanade is controlled by development consortium City Harbour – backed by the Liberman family – who hold the development rights. The project, now a JV between GURNERTM and City Harbour, stretches over a substantial parcel of land that will be transformed to become the entrance to the city and Docklands from Melbourne’s west.

The intent of the project will be to create a world-class public realm within the site that will be a drawcard for Docklands, the city and Melbourne as a whole.

“From a destinational and tourist perspective, it will be something Melbourne has never seen before – it will create a lot of excitement, and drive huge interest to the area and be something truly different for Docklands,” GURNERTM CEO Tim Gurner said.

“As the business continues to diversify and grow we are heavily focussed on large-scale, mixed-use precincts like this where we can create something with real point of difference and enough scale to transform the area around it.

“This will be like nothing ever delivered in Melbourne and really put Docklands on the global map.

<img alt="Gurner's Docklands site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="908bf11b-ccd7-4325-8ccf-813eb04022d5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-10-12%20at%209.36.07%20am.png?VersionId=nDq53useb.YyEgwARx2I5N3GZf.avhEK" />

“There has been some great development progress in Docklands over the years, however what we are going to deliver here will create a true heart and soul of Docklands where the community and visitors can come and embrace life.

“Our whole ethos is all about delivering product that pushes boundaries – and this landmark destinational precinct will be no different, it will feel like you’re stepping into another world and experiencing something you didn’t think was possible in the built form.

Gurner said he's always loved the Docklands, having lived there for a number of years.

"I always wanted to put my own stamp on it, but we needed a site that was large enough to be transformative – we’ll be creating a new world-class precinct, which will take the area to another level and put it on the world stage in terms of architecture, design and luxury property," Gurner said.

The public realm attraction, which will soon be revealed, will be a huge drawcard to the area and connect in with what will becomes Melbourne’s largest and most important wellness, recovery and performance centre, as well as a bustling mixed-use, retail and commercial precinct which will anchor the site, with multiple mixed-use towers floating above.

Each tower will be distinct in its character, form and function – each one draws on a cross-section of the most well-known and ambitious architecture exemplars from the world’s most well-admired cities – including Singapore, Dubai, London and New York.

The towers will include GURNERTM’s signature mix of luxury build-to-rent and build-to-sell residences, hotel and sky-high hospitality venues.

<img alt="Gurner's Docklands site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f7d68f86-bc4c-4387-9596-c203077b2198" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-10-12%20at%209.33.53%20am.png?VersionId=dz88J5g9_3M.g9DVjV1d0o020ofllsSD" />

“The precinct will inspire a sense of adventure and wonderment in visitors – with more public amenities and interaction between architecture – this will be like nothing people have experienced before, and certainly something never-before-seen in Melbourne," Gurner added.

“We’ve taken cues from some of the best architects in the world, and some of my favourite designers – each tower will be distinct in its identity, centred around the ‘creation’ in the centre of the site, with additional public land and amenities, interaction between each tower and world-class mixed-use spaces.

“Opportunities to create projects of this size and scale come along once in a lifetime – then GURNERTM brand has evolved into a national and multi-faceted business, and our capabilities mean we are among just a small handful of private developers that can confidently take on projects of this scale to deliver something that is transformative and ground-breaking.

“We are committed to helping Docklands become what we all know it must for our city to get back its claim as the World’s Most Liveable City. Docklands is the biggest opportunity in Melbourne for a world class precinct and we look forward to adding to its future.”

Bordered by Wurundjeri Way, Dudley Street, La Trobe Street and Harbour Esplanade, the site will offer immediate Quay and harbour-front views. GURNERTM will be seeking to amend the existing scheme to unlock the full potential of the site, and bring its distinctive ultra-luxury inclusions to each tower, amenity and public space.

The revised plans are currently being finalised, with the team seeking to significantly improve and increase the size of the ground-floor public realm, with a significant focus on pedestrian circulation, public activation, lagoon-like greenery and communal shared spaces.

Plans are expected to be lodged with council in Q4 2022.

The intent of the project will be to create a world-class public realm within the site that will be a drawcard for Docklands, the city and Melbourne as a whole.



Gurner targets $1.75 billion Docklands precinct

A local developer has lodged plans for a site fronting Marine Parade&nbsp;overlooking the waterfront at Biggera Waters.

Just 30 two-bedroom apartments will be offered across the 1,091 sqm site at 456 Marine Parade, with BDA behind the designs.&nbsp;&nbsp;

BDA noted that the apartments, which start from 90 sqm internally, will provide short term accomodation along the water frontage of Biggera Waters.

"As designed, the project will provide a memorable sculptural short-term accommodation tower," BDA stated in their submission to the Gold Coast City Council.

"The design intent is to create a high quality short term accommodation that contributes to the diverse range of building typologies within the area.

<img alt="Marine Parade Biggera Waters" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="75080bd2-32d2-4106-93a8-04eb657709db" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-10-12%20at%203.53.32%20pm.png?VersionId=Gkbeur720Aq1HRVuqt2t9ZTwFiKdTTBa" />

"The tower has been broken up into two distinct floor plates that undulate back and forth to give variation and movement in the overall form," the statement read.

Four apartments will be spread across each floorplate, with a focus on maintaining optimum cross ventilation and natural light, whilst capturing surrounding views.&nbsp;

Each apartment will also be provided with a generously-sized balcony, to encourage indoor and outdoor interactions.&nbsp;

The nine-storey building will take on a minimal and coastal design, set to enhance the streetscape, while adding to the diverse range of building typologies within the locale.

<img alt="Marine Parade Biggera Waters" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1d84d688-e5ce-47b6-920b-8e98cfee0186" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-10-12%20at%203.53.36%20pm.png?VersionId=S8Hj6UBMUnzFz8L_HcugG1vJtQMVEQTb" />

"Overlapping balcony edges create a subtle movement up the building facade creating visual interest from the Broadwater, while a composition of white brickwork, timber-look screening, large glazing elements and planters provide a subtle but well crafted mix of natural materials.&nbsp;

“The detailing and articulation of the built form demonstrates a positive outcome for the streetscape and Biggera Waters area."

The development encompasses wide-reaching water views from the site's frontage to Marine Parade, catching views towards Wave Break Island, with multiple mature Norfolk Pines within Khoundavong Park.

<img alt="Marine Parade Biggera Waters" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3fbfcdcf-7086-45c4-95eb-8734f4c7bd4b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-10-12%20at%203.53.17%20pm.png?VersionId=rfkAzzyFnMS7g_fApxyMpB5Fpg2EZORD" />

Residents will also enjoy the amenity of the linear park and walkway along the Broadwater edges, while also being within a short distance to a variety of shopping and leisure amenities, as well as public transport options.&nbsp;

BDA noted that the apartments, which start from 90 sqm internally, will provide short term accomodation along the water frontage of Biggera Waters

First look: New Marine Parade, Biggera Waters apartments to target short term accomodation

Local Brisbane developer Sarazin is tweaking the next two towers of its popular Silk Lane development in the heart of Woolloongabba's Olympic precinct.

Sarazin is seeking to add more levels on the two towers which will literally look into the famed The Gabba, the focal point of the 2032 Summer Olympics.&nbsp;

In a community engagement report, Sarazin said the aim to design larger apartments reflects current buyer demand.

"The apartments are aimed at families and downsizers seeking to enter the area of Woolloongabba, as it is revitalised by Cross River Rail and the Olympics," the report noted.

They'll be adding another 34 apartments to the two towers which were approved at 20-levels per tower. They're now wanting Silk Two to rise 25 levels and Silk Three to reach 32 levels. Both of the towers have been designed by Nettleton Tribe, who designed Silk One.

<img alt="Silk One Two and Three" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8ffb7196-89df-4a54-af75-76998e489c41" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-10-12%20at%2011.11.51%20am.png?VersionId=hc4W8z60Fu3yR2VDDZQPQAeEP6Tdv2SC" />

Silk Two will have 146 apartments, a mix of 36 one-beds, two thirds with a multi-purpose room, 80 two-bed apartments, and 30 three-bedders. Silk Three will have 239 apartments, 69 one-bedrooms, 102 two-bedrooms, 60 three-bed apartments, and eight four-bedders.

Half of the resident amenity in Silk Three will be on the third level, where there will be a gym with treatment rooms and hot tubs in landscaping. The rooftop will home a dining space, outdoor barbecue area, a swimming pool and a sauna.

All of the resident amenity in Silk Two will be on the rooftop. That will too have a pool, dining and barbecue space, as well as a wine room.&nbsp;

There will be eight retail tenancies on the ground level to invigorate the streetscape.

In addition to the tweaking of the density and the heights, Sarazin are proposing a groundbreaking gallery for science and the arts. STEAMM (science, technology, environment, art, music and mathematics), will sit across a two level, 1735 sqm gallery space in Silk Three and will open to a STEAMM Garden.

<img alt="Silk One Two and Three" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3206b39f-1ebf-4526-ab49-08ff5fd00ac6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-10-12%20at%2011.02.30%20am.png?VersionId=a1yXajmiW9PW1hOpmtda3Z5Xihv7zL2E" />

"The inclusion of a STEAMM Gallery and Community Garden represents a ground-breaking project for Queensland, bringing science and art together through multi-form exhibitions, artists and scientists in residence, installations and curated experiences," planning documents submitted to the Brisbane City Council read.

"Sarazin believes the STEAMM Garden is a key additional community benefit, transferring 520 sqm of private space courtyard to the public realm, as the Garden will be open even when the Gallery is closed.

"Partnering with leading universities, research facilities, museums, artists and galleries both in Australia and abroad, STEAMM emboides Brisbane City Council's vision for a "new world city".

"STEAMM Gallery’s annual exhibition program supports Brisbane’s major science events such as the World Science Festival and National Science Week, in line with state and national educational curriculums.

<img alt="Silk One, Two and Three" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="03b8beb6-3495-4072-a330-dcd1cf30649b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-10-12%20at%2011.03.30%20am.png?VersionId=_VQNoMgFxeLSubtPje90T8dXEE1KkLhR" />

Sarazin was committed to strong engagement with the local community prior to the submission of the amendment to the development approval.

The project team met with several stakeholders in a series of briefing meetings. These included Planning Chair Cr Adam Allan, Lord Mayoral Advisor Nathan Percy, Economic Development Queensland, Queensland Art Gallery and Gabba Business Association.

A community newsletter was hand delivered to about 2,000 residences and businesses in Woolloongabba to advise of the proposed development and promote the community information sessions. Local business was engaged via a doorknock of the area surrounding the development, including the Logan Road precinct.

Sarazin believes the amendment is balanced by better design and significant community outcomes.

In a community engagement report, Sarazin said the aim to design larger apartments reflects current buyer demand

First look: Sarazin to favour downsizers and families in revised Woolloongabba apartment tower plans

The great Australian dream of owning a home is getting further and further out of reach for many. House prices in Sydney have jumped 113 per cent in the last decade, while unit prices have gone up 64 per cent Sydney-wide, property data house CoreLogic note.

Earlier this year the housing market saw its biggest 12 month growth in two decades, up 26 per cent over the year to March, CoreLogic data found.

Stamp duty, and the now required 10 per cent deposit request by banks, has first home buyers needing to dig all the way to the lining of their pockets before even starting to pay off their mortgage.

The NSW government recently announced a sweeping reform of stamp duty which gives prospective home buyers in New South Wales a leg up. They can opt to pay stamp duty, which only kicks in for property higher than $650,000, or pay a smaller annual property tax, for properties under $1.5 million.

But before the government announced the reform in June, some developers were already consciously trying to help buyers get on the property ladder.

In March, local Sydney developer Coronation Property launched a new scheme that allows buyers looking for an apartment to be able to pay with just a one per cent deposit, opposed to the standard 10 per cent deposit upfront. The ‘1% Own Way scheme’ allows buyers to then save the rest of the deposit over the next 12 months and pay over monthly instalments. A win for the buyers to save, while also increasing the potential of further price growth the earlier the property is bought.

Joseph Nahas, the Managing Director of Coronation Property, says the program was primarily designed to support first home buyers and young families, who are consistently priced out of the housing market.

“As Sydney property prices continue to grow, and reasonable entry into the market continues to decrease, we understand there’s been little opportunity for first home buyers to get on the property ladder in emerging areas close by to Sydney’s CBD,” Nahas says.

“The Own Way Program has been designed to help first home buyers, and young families, to live in suburbs that have previously been inaccessible to them because of the daunting prospect of a 10 per cent deposit payment. Through the Own Way Program, they are able to buy quality assets in quality suburbs, at today’s prices, with just one per cent providing peace of mind. We ultimately hope to achieve for our buyers a brighter financial future, and an attainable entry into the property market.

"The Sydney property market continues to grow and grow, which has meant there's been little opportunity for first home buyers to get on the ladder in area's close to the city," Nahas says.

Coronation Property trialled the scheme in 2021 and had positive feedback and a strong uptake from buyers. First home buyer Soomin Lee, who purchased at Coronation Property’s Mason &amp; Main development, said she would have had to have waited another two to three years to buy her first property if she had to save up the 10 per cent deposit.

“I feel like we’re always told to buy house and land, but the 10 per cent upfront deposit wasn’t feasible,” Lee says. “By locking in an apartment on a one per cent upfront deposit instead, and then having time to save the remaining portion of the deposit, I was able to get into the property market straight away and have the convenience of being able to pay the remaining balance over a reasonable timeframe.

Coronation Property’s Head of Sales Cameron Porter says they know how tough saving for a home deposit can be in today’s climate.

“As property prices continue to climb, we believe it’s important to support aspiring home buyers to take a step up the increasingly competitive property ladder,” Porter says.

The scheme is part of Coronation’s ethos to build for the owner-occupier, an ethos which puts the design of a project even more in the spotlight.

“Our attention to design attracts a high number of owner-occupiers,” Porter says. Last year Coronation made the decision to build their own in-house design team, Studio Circle &amp; Co, who start thinking about the potential design of a project even before a site is secured.

Porter says the design-focused approach was a major driver at The Paper Mill Precinct in Liverpool. Around half of the buyers in the striking urban regeneration project were first home buyers. “The Paper Mill precinct set a new benchmark for design and architecture previously unseen in Liverpool, which attracted a high percentage of locals who hadn’t been able to find anything in their price range worth purchasing,” Porter says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5847 project_image_fid=34768]

In a similar but very different vein is Coronation’s Ashbury Terraces, again aimed at the owner-occupier, but more geared toward downsizers and upsizers. The project of 59 terraces has been designed by SJB and focuses primarily on garden terrace homes filled with natural light which connects to the surrounding nature of the suburb.

“We understood that a large portion of our buyers for this project would be upsizers or downsizers, and designed the terraces to respond with inclusions such as large backyards and courtyards, oversized living and dining areas, multi-level gardens and generous master suites,” Porter added.

The owner-occupier focus sees Coronation secure a number of repeat purchasers, those who have been a first home buyer in a Coronation Property project a few years ago and are looking at upsizing and already have that developer trust that is needed in the off the plan industry.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112253 project_image_fid=193248]

Developing for the owner-occupier is generally considered a more rounded approach for developers. Owner-occupiers tend to care more about the building they own a part of, and its shared amenity, as well as a better sense of community and neighbourship when there are more permanent residents within the development as opposed to the transient nature of tenants.

While building for owner-occupiers naturally brings owner-occupiers and first home buyers, an owner-occupier approach will inevitably lead to investors buying the apartments, given that’s exactly the target market they’re seeking as a landlord.&nbsp;

While the majority of apartments were snapped up by owner-occupiers, The Paper Mill boasts a 0 per cent vacancy rate for those investors in the project, while apartments are only on the market for an average of seven days before being snapped up.

Coronation Property’s Managing Director, Joseph Nahas, and Head of Sales, Cameron Porter, discuss the importance of developing with first home buyers and owner occupiers in today’s climate

How Coronation Property focuses on first home buyers and owner-occupiers to ensure long-term success

Brisbane’s riverfront is set to welcome some of the city’s most sustainable high-end homes, with developer SABI revealing the first images of its extraordinary new residences at KIOME.

Situated on the edge of the Brisbane River in Highgate Hill, KIOME comprises a collection of three and four-bedroom residences, each with customisable internal spaces, extensive native and edible landscaping, and a host of exceptional design features.

SABI Co-founder and Partner, Riye Arai-Coupe, said the result is the creation of seven beautiful and functional family-sized homes that are a ‘true exemplar of design with a conscience’.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134270 project_image_fid=205672]

“KIOME’s connection to nature and resilient sustainability is balanced with a refined design approach that celebrates its absolute riverfront position,” Arai-Coupe said.

“Those of us who know and love Highgate Hill understand the area’s deep connection to the river, the environment, and community.

“It’s a melting pot of culture and heritage, greenery and river, and art and architecture, on the doorstep of Brisbane’s ever-evolving CBD.

“With this site, we knew we had a rare opportunity, and responsibility, to raise the standard of sustainable design, and riverfront living, in a meaningful and enduring way.”

Arai-Coupe said the four-storey building, while boutique in size, is targeting a 7 Star natHERs rating and packs an exceptional amount of design detail and rooftop resident amenities.

Designed by award-winning Brisbane studio Ellivo Architects, KIOME draws inspiration from the Brisbane River and surrounding landscape.

The use of natural forms, materials and cascading greenery throughout the building blurs the lines between the indoor and outdoor realms, while the interiors celebrate the inclusions of a traditional home.

Arai-Coupe said each residence features multiple living and entertaining zones and offers options to tailor these spaces to truly meet the needs of the owners.

<img alt="Kiome" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c7abf4a9-1cfb-4963-9663-686b69d5150a" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-10-12%20at%2012.15.36%20pm.png?VersionId=RfMNTz3GdxTCkP_O9UvWuv6fSWnRQ1Pz" />

“KIOME is proof that sustainable, biophilic design goes hand in hand with quality,” she said. “It is designed as a living, breathing building, where every residence embraces life and connection to water, natural light, fresh air and nature.

“This theme is carried through to the resident amenities, which include a rooftop pool and gardens, sun lounges and entertaining areas, extensive landscaping and deep planting, and the ‘rewilding’ of the riparian zone adjoining the river’s edge.”

Arai-Coupe said an enormous fiddleleaf fig is a striking feature within the main gallery of the penthouse.&nbsp;The two ground floor apartments feature private plunge pools overlooking the Brisbane River and private gardens.

Rooftop solar panels will offset energy consumption and rainwater will be captured and reticulated to service the extensive gardens. EV car charging provisions and a new focus on waste management are included in the design. KIOME is also targeting to be fossil-fuel free, with no gas within the building and provisions made for green power use throughout.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134270]

Arai-Coupe said the four-storey building, while boutique in size, is targeting a 7 Star natHERs rating and packs an exceptional amount of design detail and rooftop resident amenities.



Highgate Hill set for new luxury apartments as KIOME approaches launch

After just a month since its launch, AALTO,&nbsp;the new Surfers Paradise beachfront apartment development on the dress circle Garfield Terrace, has secured over $30 million worth of sales.

The most impressive was the $15 million penthouse, which was snapped up by a local buyer who had been looking for a high-end beachfront apartment for a number of months.

The massive 1,830 sqm spread atop the 38-level&nbsp;Conrad Gargett-designed tower, will be one of the biggest penthouses in Queensland. It will feature&nbsp;five bedrooms, its own cinema room, a gym, an indoor and outdoor kitchen, and a 15 metre swimming pool.

The buyer, who works in the property industry, was put onto the project due to the rarity of what developer Weiya Holdings is offering with AALTO, sales and marketing director Patrick Pancur says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108209 project_image_fid=205935]

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"They were impressed by the sheer size of the penthouse compared to others on the market, and the beach frontage that only AALTO offers,"&nbsp;Pancur says, referring to the massive 24 metre beach frontage over two levels, AALTO will give its residents, considerably wider than any other beachfront project.

Pancur says the lack of high-end stock in the area will continue to drive sales.

"At the start of the pandemic the high-end stock was all snapped up, particularly by southern buyers, leaving little to no luxury product on the market. Now, those projects are under construction and are all pretty much sold out, there's not much left for the still high levels of demand for this calibre of apartment."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108209 project_image_fid=206389]

Among the $30 million worth of sales was an amalgamation of two apartments on level eight, which created a 420 sqm apartment. That was again secured by a local buyer. Pancur says locals have made up the vast majority of buyer interest so far. However, he expects the interest to come from the southern states over the Christmas period where traditionally those from Sydney and Melbourne head up for holidays.

There's a diverse mix of apartment configurations at AALTO, starting from the two-bedroom plus multipurpose room, which start at $2.32 million. The three-beds start at $3.2 million and the four-bed apartments from $4 million. They span a huge 270 sqm plus. Some of the premium four-bedroom apartments span a whole floor and will have nearly 360 sqm of living space. They start from $4.7 million.

Much like the apartments, the residential amenity has also been designed to take in the sweeping beach views, with an ocean view gym with sauna and rain showers, an ocean view yoga area, and an infinity pool almost hovering over the sand, one of two pools in the tower.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108209 project_image_fid=204976]

The Club AALTO lounge will have an owners bar and private function facilities, as well as a business centre with conference room and meeting rooms, a must have for the fly-in, fly-out business elite. Of course there's a concierge who can handle anything from booking space in Club AALTO, airport transfers, catering services and hair and make-up stylists, to laundry services and housekeeping.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108209]

The buyer, who works in the property industry, was put onto the project due to the rarity of what developer Weiya Holdings is offering with AALTO

AALTO secures quickfire $30 million in sales including $15 million penthouse sale

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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Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News