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A record two thirds of Australians say now is a good time to buy property, according to the latest research from comparison website Finder.

Having surveyed over 20,000 respondents in their Consumer Sentiment Tracker nationally, 67 per cent believe now is a good time to buy, an all-time high since Finder began tracking the stat in May 2019.

It was 42 per cent in April. 
Graham Cooke, insights manager at Finder, said that the recent uptick in buyer confidence is a good sign for the economy.  
“This rebound in buyer confidence is indicative of increased economic activity over the past few months, along with an optimistic outlook for 2021," Cooke says. 
“Not only did the Australian government do a better job than most at restricting the spread of COVID-19, but federal and state economic support measures helped prop up the property market.  

<img alt="" height="738" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/finder_survey_january.jpg" width="1200">

“Now we're seeing that house values in every capital city bar Melbourne are higher than they were compared the same time last year.  
“This trajectory looks set to continue, with 86% of economists telling Finder* that they expect prices to fully recover nationally this year,” Cooke said. 

Nearly 19 per cent of Australians expect house prices to "significantly increase" in their area. That was just five per cent in September. 
Those who expect property values to "somewhat increase" has jumped to 44% from a low of 18% back in April. 
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Graham Cooke, insights manager at Finder, said that the recent uptick in buyer confidence is a good sign for the economy.

Joel Robinson

A good time to buy property? A record high number of Aussie's think so

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The impact of COVID-19 has seen young Australians more committed to home ownership, according to research by the listed mortgage broking firm Mortgage Choice.

Around 45 per cent of survey respondents are more likely to want to purchase a home now, with a similar number feeling optimistic about achieving their homeownership goals.

Over 60 per cent of young people are reducing their spending, with 58.5 per cent adding more to their saving accounts and 43 per cent are applying for government grants for first home buyers.

Mortgage Choice chief executive Susan Mitchell says young people are not giving up on the great Australian dream despite the challenges of getting in to the property market.

"In times of uncertainty, it is human nature to want stability, and this is what investing in property can provide," Mitchell says.

“The fact that first home buyers can now access the most competitive home loan rates on record and unprecedented levels of government support such as grants and schemes provides compelling incentives to act on property ownership dreams.”

“I would encourage homebuyers who are navigating their way into first-time property purchase to enlist the help of an experienced mortgage broker to help them put their best foot forward.

First home buyers have been the most active segment over the COVID-19 pandemic. Finder's research showed that 11,018 first home buyers bought a property in July, 20 per cent more than May.

Over August data from the ABS showed mortgage approvals for first home buyers jumped by 17.7 per cent over August.
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Around 45 per cent of survey respondents are more likely to want to purchase a home now, with a similar number feeling optimistic about achieving their homeownership goals

COVID-19 sees young Australians more keen on committing to home ownership

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The COVID-enduced downturn in the Australian economy has given residential developers a chance to look to the future and secure residential sites across Sydney.

The NSW Residential Site Sales Division at Savills secured 12 sales over 2020, worth over $330 million, and have another four sites set to exchange early this year for another $190 million.

Apartment sites located near rail, retail amenity and educational facilities remain in high demand, with the lower and upper north shore, city fringe and inner west particularly popular.

Real estate forecasts are strong for 2021 and beyond, particularly in Sydney, where 

Off the plan sales in premium residential blocks such as Crown Residences, Kurraba Residences and the Sirius Building were strong over 2020, particularly in the owner-occupier market.

Savills Australia's director of residential site sales Stuart Cox says he anticipates 2021 being their biggest year on record.

"The residential market is set to bounce in a very positive direction," Cox says.

Cox suggests 2021 has all the ingredients for a rapid recovery for the residential market, with record low interest rates, government grants and incentives and the winding back of restrictive lending obligations which will make it easier and quicker for owner occupiers and investors to get a loan, once it comes into effect in March 2021.

“House and land developments experienced a huge resurgence during 2020 as developers took advantage of the various Federal and State stimulus programs currently available which were introduced to keep the construction industry going through the pandemic, these measures are expected to continue to strengthen the demand for house and land developments well into 2021," Cox says.

Cox said his team is still experiencing significant interest from well-established local Asian developers with strong offshore backing for sites in excess of $50 million that can provide scale and access to rail networks.

“Looking ahead to 2021, there are a significant number of sites already signed up and set to hit the market towards the beginning of 2021, with site values ranging from $10m to over $100m, located across of Sydney.

"We anticipate 2021 being our biggest year on record as the residential market is set to bounce in a very positive direction."

 

 
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Residential developers eye quick recovery in Sydney as development sites get snapped up

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Brisbane architect-turned-developer Joe Adsett and his development partner Craig Purdy are teaming up again for Arcilla, their latest project in New Farm.

The pair submitted plans to the Brisbane City Council shortly before Christmas to create a new five storey apartment block at 28 Maxwell Street, not far from their recently completed and sold out project Botanic on the nearby Sydney Street.

They paid $4 million for the 845 sqm Maxwell Street site which homed an original four storey apartment block.

Adsett has designed a five storey block which will comprise eight three bedroom apartments and one four bedroom apartment, which will span the whole of the top level. 

There's been a nod to the Spanish Mission heritage residence Neville Court next door, designed in 1936 by the prominent interwar architects Chambers and Ford.

<img alt="" height="1697" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/28_maxwell_arcilla_2.jpg" width="1200">

The building also prompted the development's name, Arcilla, Spanish for clay. Adsett has incorporated its design aesthetics in to his design, with a sculpted facade and a direct imprint of the Spanish Mission tile.

There will be landscaping on all levels including a green roof. Levels one and will will have bigger open spaces, but each apartment will have a minimum of near 27 sqm of balconies and terraces.

The ground level will feature a communal gym and swimming pool.

<img alt="" height="930" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/arcilla_new_farm_2.jpg" width="1200">

"Arcilla epitomises contemporary classic architecture in the diverse and evolving suburb of New Farm through a refined material palette and sweeping, curved forms," Adsett wrote in the architectural plans.

"The building is enveloped by planting, providing a sanctuary for residents whilst giving back to its surroundings.

"The architectural language of Arcilla is strongly enlightened by the neighbouring heritage place’s arches, colonnades, and lush subtropical gardens.

"Expansive views across the Brisbane River to the CBD are afforded from each balcony and living space which are consciously designed to promote outdoor living.

The town planning assessment said the proposed development has been designed to respond to Brisbane’s subtropical climate and lifestyle.

“All units benefit from a dual aspect and well-proportioned living areas and balconies that create indoor/outdoor living spaces and maximise access to natural light and ventilation.

“The proposal provides a high quality and contemporary architectural design outcome that responds to the continually developing and diverse streetscape of Maxwell Street, while remaining respectful of the materiality and architectural themes of the remaining pre-1947 character of the street."

Purdy and Adsett have combined before, on Botanic New Farm, the 17-apartment development on the nearby Sydney Street (below), which is just getting its finishing touches.

<img alt="" height="938" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/botanic_new_farm.jpg" width="1200">

Every apartment in the six storey building was snapped up quickly upon its launch.

Adsett and Purdy have previously teamed up to create Brick Lane in Teneriffe, the mixed-use residential development positioned on Teneriffe Hill, as well as the Jardin townhouse development in Hamilton.
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Brisbane architect-turned-developer Joe Adsett and his development partner Craig Purdy are teaming up again for Arcilla, their latest project in New Farm

Plans lodged for contemporary New Farm project Arcilla

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Victoria’s property market is likely to rebound with high levels of activity forecasted in the new year.

According to Barry Plant chief executive Mike McCarthy, Melbourne is likely to see recovery in the outer-suburbs first, while traditionally it is the inner-suburbs that lead the recovery. Townhouses and single-level units are likely to continue to gain value, McCarthy said.

Not only do townhomes represent an attractive investment to investors, but families are choosing to take advantage of their affordability and low maintenance. Urban takes a look at four three-bedroom townhomes you can secure in Victoria for under $650,000.  

1. <a href="/new-townhouses/marshal-place-marshal-place-williams-landing">Marshal Place, Williams Landing</a> 
Address: 100 Overton Road, Williams Landing VIC 3027 
Three-bedroom townhomes from $549,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29660]

Cedar Woods’ Marshal Place is a collection of nine three and four-bedroom townhomes, located just 20-kilometres from the Melbourne CBD. The homes, which offer turn-key and hassle-free options, are backed with a 10-year structural guarantee.

Four-bedroom townhouses start from an affordable $555,000 and include light-filled living rooms, contemporary design and an engineered stone benchtop.

2. <a href="/new-townhouses/highlands-1-north-shore-drive-craigieburn">Eastside at Highlands, Craigieburn</a>

Address: 1 North Shore Drive, Craigieburn VIC 3064 
Three-bedroom townhomes from $465,000.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=92985]

Stockland are offering three bedroom townhouses in their Craigeburn development Eastside at Highlands starting from just $465,000. There are two bedroom townhouses available from $415,000.

The development is located in the growing suburb on the edge of Melbourne, within walking distance to Craigieburn Central Shopping Centre, Aitken Creek Primary School and the award-winning Treehouse park.

3. <a href="/new-townhouses/st-a-1-griffiths-street-st-albans">St. A, St Albans</a>

Address: 1 Griffiths Street, St Albans VIC 3021

Three bedroom townhomes from $524,000.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7633]

St A. is the new townhouse development from renowned developer Cedar Woods. Estimated to be completed in mid-2022, St A. will comprise 254 townhouses with six different floor plans. The townhouses are designed by the well known DKO Architecture with three bed configurations starting from $589,000. There are two bedroom townhouses priced from $524,000 and four bedroom townhouses from $644,000.

4. Sixth Avenue, Chelsea Heights 
Address: 15 Sixth Avenue, Chelsea Heights VIC 3196 
Three-bedroom townhomes from $650,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=32136]

Sixth Avenue, delivered by the Aultun Group offers coastal living in Chelsea Heights, ideal for families or downsizers. Boasting a collection of 59 two, three and four-bedroom residences, the project offers the premium location for all lifestyles.

Designed by Point Architects, the development features light-filled interiors, bespoke landscaping and recreational amenities within easy reach.  

NB: This article was updated for March
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Not only do townhomes represent an attractive investment to investors, but families are choosing to take advantage of their affordability and low maintenance

April 2021: Three bedroom townhouses in VIC for under $650,000

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Private sector house approvals jumped 6.1 per cent over November to reach their highest levels since 1999, figures released by the ABS found.

They've now soared by 40 per cent since June.

Daniel Rossi, director of construction statistics at the ABS, said that Federal and state housing stimulus measures and low interest rates have resulted in strong demand for detached dwellings.

There were 11,489 houses approved for building over November.

Queensland led the way in approvals, up 17 per cent, followed by Western Australia up 7.5 per cent.

South Australia saw 2.8 per cent more private sector houses approved, Victoria 1.5 per cent and New South Wales 0.7 per cent.

<img alt="" height="1083" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/november_building_approvals.jpg" width="1200">

Total building approvals were up 2.6 per cent, beating economist forecasts of a two per cent rise.

Over October approvals rose 3.6 per cent.

 
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There were 11,489 houses approved for building over November

Private sector house approvals reach highest levels since 1999

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Centurion Group have submitted $25.8 million plans for a new mixed-use development in Sydney's Alexandria.

Architecture firm Rothelowman has designed the development of three buildings at 21 Collins Street, on the corner adjoining O'Riordan Street.

The four level buildings will comprise 85 apartments, ground level retail and a cafe. There will be 36 one bedroom units, 43 two bedrooms and seven three bedroom apartments, as well as 71 car spaces on the basement and ground levels.

The building has been designed with sustainability in mind, with living areas of the apartments to be orientated to maximise sunlight, daylight and natural ventilation.

The 4,305 sqm site was last sold for $3 million in 1999 when bought by Jaimee Alex Pty Ltd, directed by the Vaucluse-based ragtrader Eliezer Alster.

It currently homes The Alex warehouse conversion business centre, occupied by a number of retail and wholesale trade tenants.

Edwina Stuart is handling the landscaping which will feature a central garden area with an avenue of deciduous trees and bench seating.

Rothelowman's architect lead and firm principal Ben Pomroy wrote in the documents lodged to the City of Sydney that the proposed development recognises that the locality is undergoing a transition towards higher density residential uses and responds to the existing context through integration of commercial/retail uses along the prominent street frontages.

"The proposal has been developed in response to planning controls which encourage development and promote a liveable city."

 

 
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Plans lodged for $25.8 million Alexandria mixed-use development

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EXPERT INSIGHT

This year has been a rollercoaster for residential values, from January onward the market began to rally off the back of some political and financial certainty in Q3/Q4 2019.

This ended abruptly at the beginning of lockdowns as we saw prices decline seemingly 10-15% overnight.

Once restrictions were lifted, buyer sentiment and demand returned to near pre-lockdown levels while the number of properties on the market remained considerably less than comparable months in previous years.

Low stock levels meant that there was a shift in the supply/demand dynamic which is now weighted toward larger dwellings as buyers' value usable space more than ever.

With stronger demand per property some local markets saw houses sell for record highs towards the end of 2020, surpassing previous peaks set in 2017. The apartment market has not been as lucky due to other external factors that appear to have stagnated prices however for the most part, this segment of the market has remained stable since restrictions were eased.  

Over the year we also saw a sharp decline in rents which has meant less investors were actively looking at residential property due to lower yields. What we are now seeing is a steady return of investors to the market due to the poor performance of cash so while yields may have declined, the net position of many investors remains relative due to lower borrowing costs.  

Next year the following changes are proposed to take place which will have significant impact on the local residential property market:

Changes to the National Consumer Credit Protection Act - 1 March 2021 
While it won't quite be like the old days when you would walk into a bank and walk out with a loan approval, one of the legislative frameworks that banks work within and are held to account will be eased. This is proposed to shift the balance of responsible lending from lender back to consumer which will have interesting effects, one of which we will likely see is an increase in borrowing in affordable markets where access to credit has previously not been possible or too expensive. Is a bubble coming, maybe, all we know for sure is that there will be more money in the market which will likely lead to price growth. 

COVID-19 Vaccine - First half 2021 
Many industries and local businesses seem to be almost back to normal (apart from distancing measures) so while we are able to live and operate locally without a vaccine, the news is welcomed and will give certainty to businesses and consumers who will be able to forward plan and travel internationally. To give you an understanding of one of the biggest impacts a vaccine will have, International tourism in Australia is a ~50 Billion dollar industry that is currently non-operational. 

Changes to stamp duty in NSW - Second half 2021 
The formula of how the new duty will be accrued is yet to be determined and this will impact the feasibility of a more transactional property market, however the reform in principle has been welcomed by both potential buyers and sellers. As always, time will tell, however we expect to see this enable the business of real estate manage cashflow better (developers, investors etc.) which will create additional activity and subsequently increase prices with competition.

Overall, in 2021 it will be a good year to own residential property, I expect the detached dwelling market to continue to outperform others in inner suburbs while we will likely see a renaissance in off-the-plan sales as investors and first home buyers begin competing for the same stock, leaving a hole in the market and pushing up prices making currently held development sites more feasible.

Chris Orr is the director of residential at Savills Australia
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This year has been a rollercoaster for residential values, from January onward the market began to rally off the back of some political and financial certainty in Q3/Q4 2019.

2021 will be a good year to own residential property: Savills director of residential Chris Orr

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The traditional Christmas property listing decline saw listings fall -7.9 per cent over December, down from 296,267 in November to 272,999, figures released by SQM Research show.

Sydney drove the decline, down -18.3 per cent, although their 26,038 total listings in December 2020 was 13.8 per cent higher than it was in December 19 (22,888).

Listings in Melbourne were a huge 30.5 per cent higher than in December 2020 compared to 2019. They have 39,475 listings on the market compared to 30,247 12 months ago.

New listings were unsurprisingly down by 17 per cent nationally in December, with 13,680 less new properties listed for sale.

<img alt="" height="564" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/sqm_december_listings.jpg" width="1200">

Sydney’s new listings decreased by 41.8 per cent followed by Melbourne which decreased by 27.1 per cent. 

Hobart was the only capital city that recorded an increase in new listings of 0.8 per cent.

Louis Christopher, managing director of SQM Research said it's no surprise to see listings decline at this time of the year.

“The month of December traditionally records falls in properties listed for sale as it is the start of the festive and summer holiday period," Christopher says, adding however that activity was strong all the way through to the last weekend before Christmas.

He said this was unusual and likely reflected a degree of catch up from the property inspection restrictions earlier in the year.

"Going forward I believe listings activity is going to remain strong in early 2021 but could weaken on the wind up of Job Keeper in March 2021.

"We believe Job Keeper has provided support to the market over 2020.”

 

 
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New listings were down by 17 per cent nationally in December, with 13,680 less new properties listed for sale.

Property listings tail off in December, but activity strong through to Christmas: SQM Research

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The Australian cricketer Ashton Agar has traded up handsomely in Perth.

The specialist ODI and T20 spin bowler has spent $2.25 million in the pricey waterfront suburb Dalkeith.

The three bedroom home, built in 1990, sits in 1,165 sqm grounds which feature a tennis court and resort-style swimming pool.

It had been for sale for a year and a half before Agar swooped.

Agar was trading up from the beachside Scarborough where he has owned a four bedroom townhouse since paying $660,000 in 2016, shortly after making his international T20 debut for Australia.

Agar, who plays for the Perth Scorchers in the BBL, has played four Tests for Australia, earning his baggy green in 2013.
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The specialist ODI and T20 spin bowler has spent $2.25 million in the pricey waterfront suburb Dalkeith.

Cricketer Ashton Agar trades up in Perth

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

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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