The name of the suburb Sorrento, on Perth's stunning coastline, is believed to be inspired by the Italian town overlooking the Bay of Naples. It’s easy to see why—both places share incredible ocean views, beautiful beaches, and scenic walking trails.

What sets <a href="/developments/sorrento-wa-6020">Sorrento</a> in Perth apart, however, is something the Italian town doesn’t have: a brand-new apartment development. Apartments are a rare find in the beachside Perth locale, making up only about five percent of the suburb’s 3,000 or so homes. That’s what makes Megara’s Ora Sorrento such a unique opportunity for those wanting a modern, low-maintenance apartment by the coast.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136169 project_image_fid=213841]

With such limited supply, the potential for strong long-term value growth is clear. <a href="/new-apartments/ora-sorrento-128-136-west-coast-drive-sorrento">Ora Sorrento</a>, currently under construction by Thomas Building, will offer 73 apartments when it’s completed in late 2026.

The award-winning MJA Studio took inspiration from Ora’s prime location, right across from Marmion and Sorrento Beaches. The design reflects the natural beauty of the coastline, with organic curves and high-quality finishes throughout both the exterior and interiors.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136169 project_image_fid=213846]

Ora will feature a mix of spacious one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, plus the exclusive Cascade Collection of multi-level, three and four-bedroom penthouses. The design embraces a ‘barefoot luxury’ style, combining top-tier finishes with a laid-back, coastal vibe.

The open-plan layouts at Ora Sorrento are designed to maximise space and natural light, with kitchens featuring premium V-ZUG appliances and Astra Walker fixtures. In the larger apartments, the master suites include walk-through wardrobes that lead to private ensuites with double vanities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136169 project_image_fid=213851]

Residents will enjoy an impressive range of resort-style amenities, including a private residents’ deck with a heated pool, cabanas, a sauna, steam room and a gym. There’s also a dedicated lounge with a kitchen and dining area, perfect for entertaining, while a wine cellar provides a cosy setting for tastings and secure storage.

Conveniently located just minutes from Seacrest Shopping Centre, the Flora Terrace Strip, Hillarys Boat Harbour, and Sorrento Quay, Ora offers easy access to a variety of dining, retail, and recreational options. Families will appreciate nearby schools like Sacred Heart College and Sorrento Primary School, the only two schools in the suburb.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136169 project_image_fid=213847]

Ora is currently under construction, with construction expected in 2026.

<a href="/developers/megara">Megara</a> has a strong track record, having been developing across Perth since 2006. They are currently developing <a href="/new-apartments/serai-north-fremantle-21-mccabe-street-north-fremantle">Serai</a>, one of the few new developments in <a href="/developments/north-fremantle-wa-6159">North Fremantle</a>.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=136169]

The award-winning MJA Studio took inspiration from Ora’s prime location, right across from Marmion and Sorrento Beaches

Joel Robinson

The unrepeatable nature of Ora Sorrento apartments

In a move that underscores the sustained demand for large-scale mixed-use development opportunities in metropolitan Melbourne, one of the city’s most significant infill development sites has been acquired by a prominent local developer.

The coveted Kinnear’s Precinct at 124-180 Ballarat Road, <a href="/developments/footscray-vic-3011">Footscray</a>, spanning nearly three hectares, has been snapped up from R&amp;F Property in a deal that highlights the precinct’s immense potential for urban renewal. While the final sale price remains undisclosed, it is understood it was in the vicinity of $40 million.

With an approved development plan already in place, the site can accommodate over 1,200 dwellings, setting the stage for a transformative urban project in one of Melbourne’s most rapidly evolving suburbs.

Footscray has been identified as a ‘Priority Precinct’ by the Victorian Government, a designation aimed at driving coordinated growth and investment to solidify its role as a major hub for residential, commercial, and cultural activities.

<img alt="Major Footscray development site changes hands in landmark deal" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e31215d7-7893-43e7-8193-51c1d1062d99" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/124-180%20Ballarat%20Rd%2C%20Footscray%20markup2.JPG?VersionId=VwHkEL3EAGJsBVoN0laeKrKatV2azxx4" />

The Victorian Government’s Housing Statement, which outlines a vision for 800,000 new homes across the state over the next decade, further enhances the appeal of the Kinnear’s Precinct. Coupled with Plan Melbourne’s 70:30 objective to direct the majority of new housing into established areas, the site represents an unparalleled opportunity to deliver large-scale housing close to key services and transport links.

The site itself comprises a mix of partially vacant land and older warehouse buildings, with 128 Ballarat Road featuring a renovated heritage structure alongside a well-established display suite. Positioned within walking distance of public transport options and key infrastructure projects, including the new Footscray Hospital currently under construction, the location is primed for significant redevelopment.

<img alt="Major Footscray development site changes hands in landmark deal" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a76e7aa9-196b-4afc-aa9a-fc5ef3fd3179" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/124-180%20Ballarat%20Rd%2C%20Footscray%20markup.JPG?VersionId=A7Hj2HtIhFNzNh.6IFQkFENLIDCG6wxB" />

Cushman &amp; Wakefield’s Joe Kairouz, Hamish Burgess and Leon Ma facilitated the sale following a highly competitive campaign that attracted strong interest from both local and international developers.

“The site’s significant scale, mixed-use zoning, approved staged development plan, and proximity to major employment hubs and lifestyle amenities attracted widespread interest, with a locally based developer ultimately securing the site under highly competitive terms,” Kairouz said.

Hamish Burgess said The Kinnear’s Precinct represents Melbourne’s premier opportunity to develop a world-class mixed-use project that harmoniously integrates Footscray’s rich history with modern placemaking.

"Its proximity to Melbourne’s CBD, combined with the area’s abundant amenities, makes it an exceptional location for creating a truly unique development.”

Demand for Melbourne apartment development sites ramps up as $40m Footscray block sells

Transport Oriented Developments (TODs) are generating significant buzz across Sydney. The acronym has been a new strategy implemented by the NSW Government to encourage, and increase, housing density near key transport hubs.

While TODs are the in thing, veteran developer <a href="/developers/deicorp">Deicorp</a> has long prioritized developments close to both established transport networks and future transport hubs.

Robert Furolo, Deicorp’s Executive Manager for Corporate Communications, says that connectivity to transport is a top priority when assessing development sites.

"We have over 1,500 apartments in various stages of planning, and all located not just within a kilometre of public transport, but just a few hundred metres away," Furolo explains.

"It’s essential for our future buyers that we offer excellent connectivity to the rest of Sydney, whether we're five or 40 kilometres from the city—the criteria remain the same."

Founded in 1999 by Fouad Deiri OAM, Deicorp has been a major player in Sydney's property market for over two decades. However, in the last five years, the company has ramped up its focus on addressing Sydney's housing supply issues. Currently, Deicorp has over 3,350 apartments under construction across Greater Sydney—a number set to grow in 2025 as the company embarks on some of its most exciting developments yet.

In 2024, the iCIRT-rated builder-developer completed more than 1,500 apartments across several key projects in <a href="/developments/zetland-nsw-2017">Zetland</a> and <a href="/developments/castle-hill-nsw-2154">Castle Hill</a>.

While completing projects is central to Deicorp’s business, it’s their ongoing contribution to alleviating Sydney’s housing shortage—and their ever-growing pipeline of new developments—that has many industry peers taking notice.

In addition to last year's completions, Deicorp ventured into new markets, demonstrating their ability to succeed in different locations, provided the site meets the needs of the end buyer. In 2024, they launched three new projects in these markets: Melrose Central in Melrose Park, Marquet &amp; Mary in Rhodes, and Cosmopolitan in Parramatta.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134220 project_image_fid=289878]

<a href="/new-apartments/melrose-central-melrose-park-33-hope-street-melrose-park-nsw-2114">Melrose Central</a> is one of Deicorp’s largest developments to date—a $700 million, mixed-use project featuring just under 500 apartments. This development will be the heart of the Melrose Park precinct, with six buildings designed by Turner Studio sitting atop a five-level podium.

The podium will house a 30,000 sqm shopping centre anchored by a Coles supermarket, along with specialty stores, wellness facilities, and retail and hospitality venues. The site is directly in front of the future Melrose Park light rail stop. Sales were brisk at its launch in August, with significant numbers achieved through CBRE.

<a href="/new-apartments/marquet-mary-rhodes-1-9-marquet-street-rhodes-nsw-2138">Marquet &amp; Mary</a> marked Deicorp’s first development in Rhodes. The soaring 42-level, 274-apartment tower, designed by FK Australia, is located opposite Rhodes Station, while their <a href="/new-apartments/cosmopolitan-by-deicorp-parramatta-34-hassall-street-parramatta-nsw-2150">Parramatta project Cosmopolitan</a> will bring over 600 apartments across two towers on Hassall Street, on the doorstep of the Robin Thomas Light Rail station.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=141515 project_image_fid=287863]

2024 also saw the completion of Downtown, part of Deicorp’s major revitalization of Zetland. This project was also Deicorp’s first completed development with Latent Defects Insurance.

With a significant footprint in central Sydney through Hyde Metropolitan and the redevelopment of the Polding Centre, Deicorp is also active in the fast-growing Hills Showground Precinct in Castle Hill, right next to the newly opened Metro station.

Looking ahead to 2025, Deicorp will continue its momentum, adding several thousand apartments to its construction pipeline. Later this year, they will begin their largest development to date—Kings Bay Village in Five Dock. Located near Parramatta Road, bus stops, and the future Five Dock Metro station (set to open in 2032), Kings Bay Village will deliver nearly 1,200 apartments to Sydney’s undersupplied housing market. The development will feature six towers sitting atop a commercial, retail, and community podium, with a central plaza running between the towers.

Furolo is excited about the project’s significance for both Deicorp and the local Canada Bay area.

“Every conversation we have—whether with industry professionals or potential investors—everyone is asking about the timeline for Kings Bay Village,” Furolo says.

“The precinct will offer everything. Of the 1,200 apartments, 15 percent will be set aside for affordable housing—an integral part of our ethos that we’ve been committed to for several years now.”

The scale of Kings Bay Village means it will contribute 23 percent toward Canada Bay Council’s goal of delivering 5,000 new homes by 2029.

Deicorp hopes to secure approval for the project in mid-2025, after which they will begin clearing the site and undertaking land remediation.

Furolo highlights that Deicorp’s competitive edge lies in their ability to act quickly once approvals are in place.

"Once we secure approval, we waste no time," he says. "We immediately begin preparing the site for construction. During the planning and design phase, we assess the market, so we already know there’s demand for this type of product in this location. This allows us to deliver housing supply consistently across Greater Sydney."

In 2025, Deicorp will again expand into new areas, with its first development on the Lower North Shore. <a href="/new-apartments/falcon-alexander-8-alexander-street-crows-nest">Falcon &amp; Alexander</a> in Crows Nest will rise 22 levels from the corner of Falcon and Alexander Streets, near key transport links. The building will offer 188 one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, 15 percent of which will be affordable. Furolo anticipates the project will be especially popular with downsizers in the area.

Additionally, Deicorp will break ground in Macquarie Park, another hot development zone. They have plans for a 17-level tower with 180 apartments, designed by DKO, just 300 metres from the Macquarie Park Metro station and shopping centre.

Deicorp’s Chairman, Fouad Deiri, stresses the importance of connecting housing to transport infrastructure.

“Being able to provide affordable homes for essential workers in such a prime location makes these projects all the more meaningful,” Deiri says.

In 2024, the iCIRT-rated builder-developer completed more than 1,500 apartments across several key projects in Zetland and Castle Hill

How Deicorp is shaping Sydney’s housing future with transport-oriented apartment developments

As a developer who has been one of the biggest contributors to the Sydney housing market for over two decades, it would be easy for ALAND Founder Andrew Hrsto to rest on his laurels. Founded in 2002 by Hrsto from his kitchen table, ALAND has delivered over 4,000 apartments in the last 22 years, predominantly focused around Sydney’s west, with a further 1,300 currently under construction.

But there’s no slowing down for Hrsto, who remains as hands-on in the business as he was two decades ago, when it was just him and a small team of two — who are still part of ALAND today. Now, with over 6,000 apartments in planning and 200 employees across the development and construction sectors, ALAND’s workforce is only expected to grow as the company looks to venture into different market segments.

“First and foremost, our whole company ethos is to look after people,” Hrsto says, referring to both his staff and the buyers of ALAND apartments. “The obligation is to the buyers, and that has been the foundation of our business from day one. We knew if we did that, then every other element would fall into place.”

Catching up with Andrew recently, he shared a story of a founder who isn’t just “on the tools” metaphorically, but literally. His daily routine involves speaking with local councils, engaging with the community, interacting with apartment buyers, and occasionally donning a hard hat on site. “We’re a community-focused developer,” Andrew says. “It was never in our DNA to be anything different. It wouldn’t make sense to us to build something that wasn’t in line with what the community wanted.”

After five years in planning and project management, Hrsto decided to take the leap. “It was in the late 2000s that we went full end-to-end, handling both development and construction,” Andrew says. They soon expanded their scope, bringing building management into the fold.

“When we develop, we’re in that building for life,” Andrew adds. ALAND is well known for delivering more than just buildings — it creates precinct-style communities. “We started developing multi-stage projects just before COVID, and that allowed us to plan the whole process. It gave us more room to work with, considering the size of the development site. It enabled us to look beyond just a building and create a community that serves not only our future residents but the whole local area.” This approach is evident in their multi-stage masterplan for Gladstone Village, where ALAND is delivering over 1,000 apartments to Merrylands, just outside Parramatta.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7642 project_image_fid=283648]

In addition to three buildings offering a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, Gladstone Village features significant public amenities: a large grass park, an outdoor gym, a kids’ playground with a water play zone, a games area with table tennis tables, a life-sized chess board, and barbecue and alfresco facilities. Residents will also have private access to a rooftop pool, yoga lawns, outdoor cinemas, and a private forest walkway with a dedicated pet zone.

“Gladstone Village really typifies what we want to achieve and are continuing to execute in 2025,” Andrew says. “While we’re building homes for Western Sydney, there’s more to development nowadays. You have to contribute to the wider public, and that’s what we try to do with every masterplan we put our name to.” Nearby, ALAND will soon launch Queen Square, on its prime gateway site in Campbelltown.

The abandoned Brands on Sale outlet at 22-32 Queen Street will become a new community with around 558 apartments across five buildings. The two-hectare site will also comprise an Eat Street with retail and hospitality spaces and over 4,000 sqm of publicly accessible space, including a two-level community building with an auditorium, kiosk, and multi-purpose spaces.

<img alt="ALAND" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2cf8c06c-065d-4c1e-a94b-7b0e3cc3e4a6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-02-20%20at%2010.47.24%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=o9vRFRY0cmHdHDS5nJDBPEr1xI107X9d" />

Many developers stick to what they know, sticking to safer, more familiar paths. Hrsto, however, has a different approach. In 2022, Andrew and the team stepped out of their comfort zone, acquiring a prime development site in Gosford, the gateway suburb to the Central Coast. For a developer that had exclusively focused on Sydney’s western suburbs, this was a significant jump—not just geographically, but also in the execution of a new type of development. “We were probably biting off more than we could chew,” Andrew jokes.

Hrsto explained that they approached the Gosford project somewhat blindly, as the approved plans included a hotel component—an area ALAND hadn’t previously ventured into. But Andrew and his team returned to the company’s core values: if they did right by the buyer and the community, the rest would fall into place.

“Gosford proved to be a really interesting test for us as a business, pushing us to branch out and take on something we hadn’t done before, in a region we hadn’t developed in,” Andrew says. Fast forward two years from site acquisition, and the two-tower development, Archibald by ALAND, is nearing completion. With 99% of the apartments already sold, the project is one of the best-selling apartment developments the Central Coast has ever seen.

<a href="/new-apartments/archibald-by-aland-gosford-108-donnison-street-gosford-nsw-2250">Archibald by ALAND</a>&nbsp;includes 327 apartments and a 130-room hotel to be run by IHG VOCO, as well as ground-floor hospitality and a rooftop area. During the development and construction phase, Hrsto has also established another new capability for ALAND: an internal hotel management arm.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134670 project_image_fid=215487]

“A mixed-use hotel and apartment development is now very much something we can run end-to-end, and manage both components of the development well into the future,” Andrew says. Having seen such success in their first Gosford project, they are now moving ahead with their second: Amalfi by ALAND, on Mann Street, which will feature 506 apartments and 9,530 sqm of retail space.

ALAND’s 2025 development pipeline is as robust as ever, with the diversified developer planning projects across traditional build-to-sell, build-to-rent, co-living, student accommodation, hotel, and hospitality sectors. “2025 is shaping up to be a massive year for us,” Andrew says. “We’re taking on new challenges, pushing the boundaries, diversifying our offering, and delivering projects that set a new standard in the industry. I’m excited to see the hard work of our team come to life, and to continue contributing to the communities we serve.”

Inside the success story of ALAND, one of Sydney’s most prolific apartment developers

Prahran's new apartment market is set for a bumper 2025, with several developments soon to come to market.

Tom Howgate's <a href="/developers/kincrest">Kincrest</a> is soon to launch <a href="/new-apartments/the-osment-prahran-3-7-grattan-street-prahran">The Osment</a>, 22 apartments overlooking Grattan Gardens, while Adam Coff's <a href="/developers/coff-property-group">Coff Property Group</a> recently secured approval for <a href="/news/vic/coff-property-secure-permit-for-luxury-prahran-townhouses">17 townhouses on Chomley Street</a>.

The latest entrant to the market is B&amp;B Property Group, who have secured the longtime St Edmonds Road home of InterFlora, the international flower and gift distributor, who hve ben in the two-level office building for the last two decades.

They will be finalising plans over 2025, but won't settle on the $9 million purchase until 2026 when Interflora relocate their new head office in <a href="/developments/west-melbourne-vic-3003">West Melbourne</a>.

Gorman Commercial's&nbsp;Peter Bremner and Jonathon McCormack secured the Prahran sale of the 964 sqm site which came with a&nbsp;design and development overlay allowing multi-level apartments or a mixed-use development to be built on the site.

The property is centrally positioned in Prahran just off Greville Street near Prahran Train station and Chapel Street, and between Malvern Road &amp; High Street.

Ben Buxton of B&amp;B Property Group said St Edmonds Road is a&nbsp;standout street <a href="/developments/prahran-vic-3181">in the suburb</a>.

"The site and location presented us with a great opportunity to introduce an above market product to one of Melbourne’s oldest and most eclectic locales," Buxton says.

"The proposed building, designed by Cera Stribley Architects is a timeless homage to the colourful and creative spirit of the area."

The apartments, which will sit above ground-floor commercial and retail offerings, will be enveloped in landscaping by Jack Merlo and feature interiors by Hecker Guthrie.

Gorman Commercial's&nbsp;Peter Bremner said the show of confidence by B&amp;B Property Group to acquire the site despite some continuing headwinds in the development market indicates the strength of the location and lack of future supply of sites in this central Prahran area.

“There was interest in the property from owner occupiers seeking to buy the building for their own office headquarters, but as it turned out the development value exceeded the office value which can often happen in these prime inner city fringe locations."

Prahran new property market set for busy 2025

Over the past decade, <a href="/developers/princeton">Princeton Financial Services</a> has been working quietly behind the scenes as a very successful, fully integrated fund management, lending and development business.

But in recent years, with a trophy penthouse in <a href="https://eurangibondibeach.com.au/">Eurangi</a> Bondi Beach approaching completion, Princeton is establishing itself as a more recognised name in the new residential development market.

Established in 2012 by current directors George Gadallah and Craig Anderson, Princeton's journey began four years earlier, after the 2008 global financial crisis shook the world.

Gadallah, an executive at St George Bank at the time, had a lightbulb moment.

"The GFC eradicated the non-bank lending sector altogether," Gadallah recently told Urban.

"At the same time, capital was reduced by the banks, who now considered lending to the development sector as a risk, so they largely exited the sector. The big banks were focusing on buying regional banks, as Westpac did with St George, and the monopoly of the Big Four as we know it now started to form."

In 2012, Gadallah and Anderson launched a Commercial Real Estate Debt (CRED) fund, a segment with no competition. It was, in fact, one of the first CRED funds since the GFC.

"We took the learnings from what had come before and deployed them in a sustainable business model," Gadallah says.

Fast-forward eight years, and the market became crowded. Gadallah had worked through development cycles since the mid-1990s and identified an opportunity to pivot into residential development.

They acquired development sites across a wide range of Sydney metro suburbs, from Campbell Parade on the dress circle <a href="https://eurangibondibeach.com.au/">Bondi Beach</a> to a warehouse in Balmain that will be one of the last warehouse conversions in the Balmain village.

Gadallah says every development Princeton delivers will be of a standard that is well above its peers in its respective market.

"We're taking the same level of finish from our $20 million Bondi Beach penthouse to areas that haven't had that level of quality before," Gadallah said.

"We engage some of the country's best architects and interior designers, creating bespoke buildings in areas they've never really designed anything in before. This is the unique offering we want to take to different suburbs across Sydney."

While understanding the drivers in the property industry, Princeton has been an early adopter of Resilience Latent Defects Insurance. This new policy protects buyers from structural defects on new apartment buildings for up to 10 years.

"We are committed to providing certainty to our purchasers by utilising the best-in-class products that provide peace of mind and warranties for any defects," Gadallah says.

Princeton's current portfolio includes the luxury Eurangi in <a href="https://eurangibondibeach.com.au/">Bondi Beach</a>, The Llewellyn Series in Balmain, a unique collection of warehouse homes, <a href="/new-apartments/marque-rockdale-602-608-princes-highway-rockdale">Marque&nbsp;</a><a href="/developments/rockdale-nsw-2216">Rockdale</a>, 58 apartments with LDI, and Sydney Park Terraces, a recently completed set of only eight bespoke terraces in <a href="https://www.sydneyparkterraces.com.au/">St Peters</a>.

Princeton is also due to launch two other projects to market in the second half of this year.

On Princeton's geographic spread of new development, Gadallah says they won't be tied to developing in one location.

“We focus on developing unique assets in high demand, high amenity locations. If a site and our unique lending metrics fit that criteria, we’ll look at it.”

Princeton's decade-long evolution from commercial fund to luxury off the plan apartment developer

Summary:

<ul>
	<li>Hamton has revealed the first stage of&nbsp;Scotch Hill Gardens in Hawthorn</li>
	<li>The first stage will comprise 146 residences across three buildings</li>
	<li>Stage 1 sales are now open, with construction starting in Q3 and completion in early 2027</li>
	<li>Approved under Victoria’s Development Facilitation Program, the project was fast-tracked by 12 months</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

<hr />
&nbsp;

Prominent developer <a href="/developers/hamton">Hamton</a> has lit a fuse under Melbourne’s off the plan apartment market, kicking off sales at one of the capital’s most anticipated new communities in 2025.

Hamton, the developer behind the $3 billion redevelopment of the Moonee Valley Racecourse, Moonee Valley Park, has launched sales of the residences at its $550 million Scotch Hill Gardens.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149097 project_image_fid=327631]

Hamton held an Open House event at the weekend to give buyers an early look at the project. Residences in the first three buildings - The Tate, The Woodburn, and The Ingleburn are now available to purchase. The trio of buildings will deliver 146 residences planned for the prime site on Robinson Road.&nbsp;

Construction of the three buildings will kick off in Q3 2025, and will be welcoming residents in early 2027.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149097 project_image_fid=327640]

Located in the sought-after Scotch Hill precinct, Scotch Hill Gardens will comprise of one, two and three-bedroom residences designed by&nbsp;<a href="/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a>, with views of surrounding treetops, landscaped gardens, and the city skyline.

Residents will have access to a range of amenities, including a bathhouse with wellness facilities, a gym, co-working spaces, and communal dining and lounge areas.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149097 project_image_fid=327706]

The planned revitalisation of the Bill Street Retail Village will further enhance the convenience of the location, with shops and cafés on the projects’ doorstep.&nbsp;

Scotch Hill Gardens is one of the largest projects to be approved under Victoria’s Development Facilitation Program, following a streamlined approval process which accelerated its timeline by approximately 12 months.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149097 project_image_fid=327664]

The site was formerly owned by the University of Melbourne, with Hamton securing the purchase in early 2024 following a rezoning process overseen by the Planning Minister.

Hamton’s latest project is expected to attract interest from local downsizers, professionals, families, and investors looking for high-quality residences in Melbourne’s inner east.

Hamton’s Founder and Executive Chairman, Paul Hameister OAM, said Scotch Hill Gardens will create a rare opportunity for buyers in a premium suburb that is highly sought-after.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=149097]

Construction of the three buildings will kick off in Q3 2025, and will be welcoming residents in early 2027

Hamton launches sales at Scotch Hill Gardens, Hawthorn 

The Reserve Bank has cut the official cash rate for the first time since the COVID pandemic.

The pandemic saw rates shoot down to record 0.1 per cent lows, before they were quickly increased over a short period to try and tackle rising inflation.

The hikes stopped at 4.35 per cent, where the cash rate has been since November 2023. Now inflation is returning to the RBA's two to three per cent target band, they've cut the cash rate by 0.25 per cent to 4.1 per cent.

The Big Four banks have already cut their interest rates on the back of the decision, while most believe there are several more cuts to come in 2025.

<h2>What does this mean for the off the plan market?</h2>

The off the plan market functions quite differently from the established property market. Prospective homeowners don’t take out a mortgage until the property is completed. This means that the current interest rate may become irrelevant if the building is not expected to finish for several years—your borrowing capacity will be based on the rate at the time of settlement.

That said, new developments are completed every month, and those nearing completion will see buyers settle based on the current interest rates.

Lower interest rates allow buyers to borrow more, as their ability to service a loan increases when the cost of borrowing decreases due to the lower rates.

How it will impact the off the plan apartment market is the level of demand for property as a whole. Lower interest rates increase confidence in the property market which drives demand, and demand drive price increases.

Expect to see more transactions across both the established and new property markets in 2025 and 2026 compared to the previous two years.

RBA cut interest rates amid inflation decline

The opening of Reddam House North Shore, one of Australia's most prestigious schools, is set to attract families to the heart of North Sydney as the area continues to thrive.

Located on McLaren Street, just a short walk from the newly opened Victoria Cross station on the expanded Sydney Metro, Reddam House North Shore offers a prime location for students and their families.

The school’s first-year enrolment has already reached full capacity, highlighting the high demand for premium private education in Sydney, especially in the northern suburbs. With ongoing growth expected, Reddam House North Shore plans to accommodate up to 1,350 students, solidifying its position as a leading educational institution in the region.

Spanning over 9,000 sqm, the school features state-of-the-art facilities, including science labs, multiple libraries, an auditorium, and fully equipped arts, dance, drama, and music studios. Additionally, the school boasts a dedicated VR classroom, introducing the Inspired Metaverse experience.

Reddam House caters to students from ages one to 18, providing a comprehensive education from early childhood through to senior school.

Taking full advantage of its proximity to Reddam House North Shore is <a href="/buildings/aura-by-aqualand-north-sydney-168-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">AURA by Aqualand</a>, the recently completed luxury apartment development. Located directly across the street from the school, AURA is one of the few new apartment buildings in North Sydney. Its larger apartments are perfect for families with busy parents who work locally or in the CBD and seek the convenience of living near a top-tier private school before heading to the office.

Several residents at AURA have already secured their enrolment at Reddam.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=292875]

Reddam House is also not the only exclusive school in proximity to AURA. Directly behind the building is&nbsp;Wenona School, an independent, secular day and boarding school for girls, offering junior and middle school through to college.

Monte Sant' Angelo Mercy College is another independent girls' school, only five minutes from AURA by&nbsp;Aqualand. Monte is the oldest independent girls' school on Sydney's North Shore. It is a Roman Catholic single-sex secondary day school for girls years 7-12 founded by Sisters of Mercy in 1875.&nbsp;

Two academically selective secondary day schools nearby are the government-funded North Sydney Boys High School and North Sydney Girls High School, known for their rigorous admissions process and academic excellence.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=292866]

On top of the excellent schooling matched with the proximity of schools, AURA is also just a short walk to St Leonards Park, a popular spot for families.

The 15-hectare park has a custom kids playground, barbecue areas, and large expanses of open lawn space perfect for children. The park is also home to the famous <a href="/developments/north-sydney-nsw-2060">North Sydney</a> Oval, the Bon Andrews Oval and Cunningham Pavilion, as well as netball courts, cricket nets, and bowling greens. The North Sydney Oval complex also has commercial and retail outlets, as well as a childcare centre.

Less than a 20-minute walk from the front doors of AURA by&nbsp;<a href="/developers/aqualand-australia" target="">Aqualand</a>&nbsp;is also Forsyth Park and&nbsp;Anderson Park, the latter not far from&nbsp;<a href="/developments/neutral-bay-nsw-2089">Neutral Bay</a>&nbsp;village.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=292896]

While the location of AURA is ideal for families, Aqualand placed a strong emphasis on designing spacious living areas to accommodate their needs.

In collaboration with the architecture firm Woods Bagot, Aqualand revised the building's design, reducing the number of apartments from 448 to 386 to allow for larger living spaces. As a result, AURA’s apartments significantly exceed North Sydney Council’s minimum building requirements.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=292878]

While the typical two-bedroom apartment in the area is 80 sqm, AURA’s two-bedroom apartments are 95 sqm, plus a wintergarden, bringing their total area to well over 100 sqm. Many of the apartments also feature a multi-purpose room that can be adapted as a media room, home office, or kids' living area and homework space.

AURA by Aqualand apartments are now complete and ready for immediate move-in.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=30959]

Reddam House North Shore opening to lure families to North Sydney

Developers are set to queue up to grab the opportunity to redevelop the former <a href="/developments/albion-qld-4010">Albion</a> Flour Mill site in Brisbane's inner-ring.

There are approved plans for 456 studio, one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments above a full-line Woolworths. Woolworths development arm, Fabcot, is selling the 5,586 sqm site at 60-78 Hudson Road, opposite the train station, through Colliers.

The project, dubbed <a href="/new-apartments/60-hudson-road-albion">The Albion</a>, has been designed by Cottee Parker and comprises two 18-level towers which will share a podium that will home retail spaces and give direct public access to the adjoining train station. There will be a BWS next to the Woolworths, as well as a cafe and several recreational and communal spaces.

<img alt="Albion" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4fd6ad52-3389-4740-bf7a-fa2a55deac1e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-02-18%20at%209.32.13%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=1LdgSqb72Zbe_vI1ssy7K.vVuz.1Y862" />

Colliers Queensland Residential Director Troy Linnane said the record population growth being experienced in SEQ is driving exceptional demand into Brisbane’s apartment market making development site opportunities in key inner city locations highly sought after.

“Brisbane is now Australia's second most expensive capital city housing market, with limited new apartment supply despite acceptance of higher prices,” Linnane said.

“We are expecting to see strong interest from local, interstate and offshore developers, with a compelling opportunity for both build to rent and build to sell outcomes, as well as investors and high net worth individuals.

“The development site market in Brisbane has excellent fundamentals which are seen as having the best growth prospects of any city on the eastern seaboard of Australia. The average sale price for&nbsp;inner-city new apartment stock soared to a new peak of $2,083,000 in Q2 2024."

<img alt="Albion" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a933b1bd-8e9e-4870-956e-3d0156ad3af1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-02-18%20at%209.32.18%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=TNYTE_I0dAc2BjL6DRokzVAQTaTh.0jI" />

&nbsp;

Colliers Head of Retail Middle Markets James Wilson said the site offered further retail amenity to the growing area, and on completion would offer a new Woolworths supermarket.

“Upon completion, the retail will comprise a full line 4,000m2 Woolworths Supermarket, BWS and a café that will provide much needed amenity to the rapidly evolving Albion precinct,” James Wilson said.

“Colliers recently transacted another Fabcot owned development site at Kangaroo Point for $18.25 million to Mosaic Property Group which has reported strong sales since it launched in late 2024, highlighting demand for these mixed use development sites underpinned by Woolworths supermarkets remain highly sought after.”

Woolworths to sell another prime Brisbane development site with apartment approval

Construction is set to begin at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/orchard-mews-glen-iris-18-scott-grove-glen-iris-vic-3146">Orchard Mews</a> in Glen Iris, with&nbsp;PC Whitehall &amp; Sons&nbsp;now appointed as the townhome development moves into its next phase.

The development by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/montcoeur">MontCoeur</a>,&nbsp;located at 18 Scott Grove, is now around 30 per cent sold, with completion targeted for late-2027.

Orchard Mews comprises a curated collection of three- and four-bedroom customisable townhomes, positioned within one of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/glen-iris-vic-3146">Glen Iris</a>’ more tightly held residential streets. The low-density project has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a>, with landscape architecture by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/jack-merlo">Jack Merlo</a>, bringing together a team known for high-end residential projects across Melbourne.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150128 project_image_fid=366285]

The development is defined by its focus on flexible living and long-term usability. Each residence includes multiple living zones and a customisable multipurpose room, allowing buyers to tailor spaces to suit changing needs, whether as a home office, additional bedroom, wellness area or entertainment space.

Architecturally, the townhomes emphasise natural light and spatial volume, with dual-aspect layouts and double-height living areas incorporated into the design. Interiors feature natural stone benchtops, premium appliances, and a neutral material palette intended to support everyday functionality rather than statement-driven finishes.

All residences are all-electric and include private lifts and secure double garages, reflecting a broader shift toward sustainability and future-focused housing in Melbourne’s established suburbs.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150128 project_image_fid=366277]

Outdoor connections are also central to the offering, with a mix of private courtyards and terraces extending internal living spaces and integrating with the landscaped surrounds.

The Scott Grove address places Orchard Mews within close proximity to some of Melbourne’s key lifestyle and education amenities, including Scotch College, Sacré Cœur, Cabrini Hospital and the retail hub of Chadstone. Public transport access is also nearby, with trams and Gardiner Station providing connectivity to the CBD and surrounding suburbs.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150128]

Construction to commence at luxury Glen Iris townhome project, Orchard Mews

A rare new apartment development has been proposed on the fringe of St Ives Village.

Developer Newquest Property has lodged plans for a low-rise apartment project designed by well-regarded architecture firm Warren &amp; Mahoney, which is best known for its work in the multi-residential sector in Melbourne.

The building, proposed for a 1,916 sqm site on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/st-ives-residences-3-5-memorial-avenue-nsw-2075">Memorial Avenue</a> opposite St Ives Village Green, has been designed to blend into the surrounding natural environment.

<img alt="St Ives" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5c1c7437-2fba-4345-a6d7-05321714ad3e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-04%20at%201.28.46%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=KrYyMaJvNqR7vbx0xbB3Ef8sJ6FuHpmn" />

“Drawing inspiration from the pale trunks and flowering canopies of the scribbly gums and blue gums prevalent in the area, a considered material palette was developed,” the architectural design report states.

“This palette references the established materiality of the suburb while elevating it through refined finishes to achieve a more luxurious architectural expression.”

Of the 33 apartments proposed, 21 will be three-bedroom residences. The remaining mix includes nine two-bedroom apartments, one one-bedroom apartment and two four-bedroom residences. The development will be supported by 62 car parking spaces and 33 secure bicycle spaces.

The proposal would replace two single-storey brick buildings currently on the site.

<img alt="St Ives" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="21422eaf-09a9-4439-9278-b9bd9daf22a1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-04%20at%201.38.10%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=v.fXSgcUcEscvOZzqcjG5nk3gVqk_Amt" />

St Ives remains a relatively untapped market for new apartment development. North Shore developer WINIM has a number of projects in the area, while INCA is nearing completion of Ellis Residences.

More recently, Traders In Purple has lodged plans for one of the denser projects proposed in the suburb, a 75-apartment development on a 5,900 sqm site on Cowan Road.

NewQuest, a construction, design and development firm, has delivered over 24 projects across commercial, residential, industrial, and lad markets.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

First look: NewQuest Property proposes new St Ives apartment development

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/centa-property-group">Centa Property Group</a> has achieved two major milestones at its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bilinga-house-107-golden-four-drive-bilinga-qld-4225">Bilinga House</a> apartment development in the sought-after southern Gold Coast.

They've almost sold 50 per cent of the Golden Four Drive building, while at the same time announcing the commencement of construction through reputable builder Greyburn Construction.

The boutique 10-storey building, with 47 two- and three-bedroom apartments, now has a mid-to-late 2028 completion date.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150037 project_image_fid=5333]

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>-designed project is positioned just 200 metres from Bilinga Beach and brings a relatively rare apartment offering to a market that has seen limited new supply in recent years.

Residences have been designed to maximise natural light and ventilation, with open-plan interiors, generous glazing, and material palettes that reflect the surrounding coastal landscape.

Interiors incorporate engineered timber flooring, stone benchtops, and custom joinery, with layouts designed to adapt to both permanent living and lock-and-leave use.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150037 project_image_fid=5336]

Rothelowman Senior Project Leader Matthew Tencate said the design approach centres on liveability and community.

“Providing curated on-site amenities and communal spaces for residents that facilitate a sense of community, liveability, and wellness,” Tencate said.

Residents will have access to a suite of private amenities including a pool, gym, sauna, and communal alfresco areas, alongside practical features such as surfboard storage and bicycle facilities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150037 project_image_fid=5336]

Centa Property Group Director Jason Yuen said the project has been designed to appeal to a range of buyers seeking flexibility in how they use their property.

“Bilinga House is designed for those who want the best of both worlds – a modern beachside escape with the flexibility to generate income when you're not there,” Yuen said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150037 project_image_fid=5338]

Bilinga remains one of the quieter pockets of the Gold Coast, sitting between the more established hubs of Coolangatta and Palm Beach. Its appeal has strengthened in recent years, supported by proximity to the Gold Coast Airport and the Oceanway coastal path.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150037]

Bilinga House apartments snapped up as Greyburn commences construction

Breaking into the Sydney property market has long felt out of reach for many first home buyers, particularly as median house prices sit above $1.6 million and unit prices push beyond $900,000.

But entry points still exist in pockets of Greater Western Sydney, where pricing, government incentives, and product mix are aligning to make ownership more attainable.

Understanding where those opportunities sit, and how the numbers actually stack up, is becoming increasingly important for buyers weighing up their next move.

<h2>Work out what you can actually afford</h2>

Sydney is expensive, but it isn’t uniformly expensive. The Greater Parramatta region continues to offer comparatively accessible entry points, particularly for buyers open to alternative configurations like studios.

There's an assumption that a first home needs to be a certain size, that anything smaller than a one-bedder is a concession rather than a choice. That assumption doesn't hold up against what well-designed studios in the right location actually offer: immediate liveability, strong urban amenity, and a price point that makes the deposit target realistic rather than theoretical.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/mason-main-merrylands-249-259-merrylands-road-merrylands-nsw-2160">Mason &amp; Main</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/coronation-property">Coronation Property</a>'s multi-award winning precinct in Merrylands, studio apartments are unlike the typical studio configuration.

Starting from $498,000, the bedroom is fully enclosed, separated from the living area by a cavity sliding door, creating a genuinely private sleeping space that functions more like a one-bedroom apartment than a traditional open-plan studio.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=31751 project_image_fid=359814]

At 42 sqm internally, with an open-plan kitchen, built-in robes, modern bathroom, and separate laundry, the apartments are designed for everyday liveability rather than short-term use.

With a five per cent deposit under the Federal Government's First Home Guarantee, that equates to a deposit of around $24,200, achievable for many first home buyers without the added cost of Lenders Mortgage Insurance.

<h2>Understand the real cost of renting versus buying</h2>

For buyers weighing up the shift from renting to owning, the numbers are closer than many expect.

Here’s how the numbers stack up for a studio at Mason &amp; Main (based on a $498,000 purchase):

<ul>
	<li>Purchase price: $498,000</li>
	<li>Five per cent deposit (First Home Guarantee): ~$24,900</li>
	<li>Loan amount: ~$473,100</li>
	<li>Estimated mortgage repayment (6.29% variable, 30-year term): ~$675–$695/week*</li>
	<li>Estimated rental return: $590–$620/week*</li>
	<li>Rental yield: 6.16% - 6.47%</li>
</ul>

At this level, the gap between renting and owning is relatively narrow, particularly when factoring in long-term equity, with rental returns also making the apartments a viable option for investors.

The rental range reflects current asking rents for remaining studio stock in the development and, based on prevailing asking prices, equates to an indicative gross rental yield of up to 6.47 per cent.

For buyers seeking more internal space, Mason &amp; Main also offers a range of one-bedroom apartments from $629,000, alongside larger one-bedroom plus multipurpose room configurations priced from $680,000 - all priced under $800,000 and eligible for first home buyer incentives.

<ul>
	<li>Purchase price: $629,000</li>
	<li>20 per cent deposit: ~$125,800 (5% deposit on exchange: $31,450)</li>
	<li>Loan amount 80%: ~$503,200</li>
	<li>Estimated mortgage repayment: ~$720–$740/week*</li>
	<li>Estimated rental return: $650–$680/week*</li>
	<li>Rental yield:&nbsp;5.37% - 5.62%</li>
</ul>

One-bedroom apartments continue to present a balanced option for both owner-occupiers and investors, supported by steady rental demand across Western Sydney.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=31751 project_image_fid=359812]

<h2>Make sure you're across the government incentives</h2>

Government incentives continue to play a key role in reducing the upfront cost barrier.

At Mason &amp; Main, studio, one, and two-bedroom apartments are priced under $800,000, allowing eligible buyers to access a full stamp duty exemption under the NSW First Home Buyers Assistance Scheme.

On a $498,000 purchase, that represents a saving of roughly $17,900 that would otherwise need to be paid at settlement.

Combined with the First Home Guarantee, which enables purchases with as little as a five per cent deposit, the total capital required to secure a home is significantly reduced compared to traditional lending pathways.

<h2>No waiting, no uncertainty</h2>

For first home buyers who want to move sooner rather than later, Mason &amp; Main removes one of the more common pain points from the purchase process entirely. The development is already complete and move-in ready, meaning buyers can walk through the apartments, inspect the finishes, and have full certainty about what they're purchasing before signing anything.

Coronation brought in renowned architecture firm <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a> to design the development.&nbsp;

"The project's design drew inspiration from the area's rich heritage, in particular the nearby brickworks and aqueduct, infusing a contemporary perspective to seamlessly integrate historical influences into the design," Woods Bagot Principal Dom Alvaro says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=31751 project_image_fid=736]

<h2>Factor in location and lifestyle</h2>

Beyond the apartment itself, the surrounding infrastructure matters, particularly for a first purchase. Merrylands Station sits 350 metres from the development, putting the Parramatta CBD a five-minute drive away and the Sydney CBD roughly 25 minutes via the Western Line. Directly across the road is Stockland <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/merrylands-nsw-2160">Merrylands</a>, one of Greater Western Sydney's major retail centres.

At street level, Mason &amp; Main's own retail and dining precinct has more than 30 tenants trading, including Iftar, Macelleria, Hayat, San Churro, Yuzu, and Fat Jaks. Residents also have access to a resort-style pool, a Technogym-equipped gym, private dining rooms, and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views across Parramatta, the Sydney CBD, and the Blue Mountains, all exclusive to the building.

Due to the mix of configurations, including studios which are rarely offered in today's new apartment market, first home buyers and investors have driven Mason &amp; Main to over 90 per cent sold.

Coronation Property Managing Director Joe Nahas says the development is driving a revitalisation of Merrylands, setting a high standard for future developments in the area.

Mason &amp; Main is move-in ready and is the latest in a series of award-winning mixed-use developments by Coronation Property.

Disclaimer: Mortgage repayment figures are estimates only, based on a 6.29 per cent variable rate over a 30-year term (Canstar, April 2026). Pricing and rental estimates are indicative and based on current listings and project information. Gross yield figures are indicative and derived from asking prices and estimated rental ranges. Stamp duty savings are indicative only. Buyers should seek independent financial and legal advice before proceeding.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=31751]

How first home buyers can enter the Sydney property market for under $500k

Australia’s housing debate has rarely been more urgent. The National Housing Supply and Affordability Council forecasts the country could fall around 262,000 homes short of housing needs by 2029, underscoring the scale of the challenge facing planners, governments and developers.

In response, much of the conversation has centred on high-density towers around transport corridors and strategic centres.

Diversified developer Coronation Property, while also focused on well-located, strategic sites, is incorporating an arguably underutilised typology, the terrace.

Difficult to integrate into true high-rise developments, terraces have become a defining feature of Coronation’s lower-rise portfolio, including projects in Ashbury and Erskineville. <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/ashbury-terraces-165-171-milton-street-ashbury-nsw-2193">Ashbury Terraces</a> places a stronger emphasis on this housing type, forming part of a broader community mix.

At its Erskineville development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/lillian-erskineville-9-metters-street-erskineville-nsw-2043">Lillian</a>, terraces are more limited, with just a handful&nbsp;included within the wider, predominantly apartment-led precinct, one of the first developments to launch in Erskineville in several years.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135149 project_image_fid=368392]

Terrace residents at Lillian benefit from many of the same advantages as apartment owners, the lock-up-and-leave lifestyle and access to shared amenities like the rooftop wellness space, but with significantly more space.

Spanning multiple levels, the terraces also feature front and rear courtyards, providing direct access to the central landscaped gardens within the precinct.

<h3 data-end="212" data-section-id="1n97jye" data-start="191">The terrace model</h3>

Terrace housing has long been part of Australia’s urban fabric. From Paddington and Surry Hills to Glebe and Annandale, rows of terrace homes have shaped neighbourhood streets, offering a housing form that sits between detached houses and apartments.

The contemporary terrace, however, addresses many of the limitations of older designs, where narrow staircases and constrained layouts often compromised liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135149 project_image_fid=368157]

“Terraces represent one of the city’s most intelligent housing models,” says Joe Nahas, Managing Director of Coronation Property.

“They deliver density without losing the human scale that makes neighbourhoods liveable. In many ways, they provide a bridge between the Sydney we know and the Sydney we need to build. If Sydney is going to grow well, it can’t rely on towers alone.”

<hr data-end="1090" data-start="1087" />
<h3 data-end="1124" data-section-id="1a7l0gw" data-start="1092">The evolution of the terrace</h3>

That thinking has shaped Coronation’s approach at Ashbury Terraces, where the terrace typology has been reinterpreted for modern living.

Designed by SJB, the project recently received recognition at the 2026 Better Future World Design Awards, acknowledging its architectural clarity and response to the surrounding suburban context.

SJB Director Adam Haddow says the intent was to evolve a familiar housing form rather than reinvent it.

“The terrace is one of Sydney’s most familiar housing forms, so our approach at Ashbury was to reinterpret that typology in a contemporary way,” Haddow says.

“The homes are designed to sit comfortably within the existing neighbourhood while introducing more light, landscape and shared spaces that support modern living.”

Ashbury Terraces combines terraces, apartments and penthouses across a series of low-rise buildings, integrating contemporary architecture with landscaped communal spaces and resident amenity.

That same typology is now being carried into Coronation’s Lillian development in Erskineville, where a smaller number of terraces sit within a predominantly apartment-led precinct.

<hr data-end="2269" data-start="2266" />
<h3 data-end="2289" data-section-id="cazuws" data-start="2271">Buyer response</h3>

Coronation’s decision to include terraces at Lillian was informed by strong buyer feedback from Ashbury Terraces, where purchasers were drawn to the flexibility and scale the housing type offers.

One resident, Sweta Pursem, purchased a terrace as a single buyer, citing its long-term versatility.

“As a single buyer, it might seem surprising that I chose a terrace over an apartment, but I was thinking long term,” Pursem says.

“The terraces are incredibly versatile, catering to a range of lifestyles while still offering the space and privacy of a house.”

For Pursem, the multi-level layout provides a level of functionality not typically found in apartment living.

“Having a separate living area from the bedroom and home office makes everyday living feel both functional and comfortable. When friends and family come to visit, the layout gives a sense of privacy while still feeling open and spacious.”

Her terrace also supports a more connected, lifestyle-driven way of living.

“I love entertaining, and the courtyard is ideal for relaxed weekend drinks with friends. I tend to use each level differently throughout the day, it creates a natural rhythm between work, downtime and entertaining, which I didn’t have in apartment living.”

Ashbury Terraces is now complete and ready to move in, while Lillian in Erskineville is under construction and expected to welcome residents in mid-2027.

Joel Robinson

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