The first box that many prospective home buyers tick is location. It’s often the first filter used when browsing property listing websites.

However, it’s essential to look beyond the suburb level. The location of a property within a suburb can vary dramatically, and it’s only by going deeper that buyers can truly appreciate the benefits of being in a prime spot.

Gold Coast developer <a href="/developers/sixty-sticks">Sixty Sticks</a> is shaking things up in Southport, an area where new developments have traditionally centered around the heart of the suburb. They’ve secured a prime park-facing site on Brighton Parade for their newly launched <a href="/new-apartments/brighton-on-the-park-southport-28-brighton-parade-southport">Brighton on the Park</a>&nbsp;development, offering a unique location that offers a superior lifestyle experience.

The new development of just 12 luxury apartments will sit across the road from James Overell Park. It has been designed to take advantage of its location, with each apartment offering never-to-be-built-out views over the park, famous Gold Coast waterways, and across the Nerang to the city skyline.

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James Overell Park provides a green respite for residents looking to enjoy outdoor activities on its sports field, half-size basketball court, playground, picnic facilities and dog off-leash exercise area.

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The development is also strategically located close to&nbsp;top-tier educational institutions like The Southport School (TSS) and St Hilda’s School.

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While located outside&nbsp;<a href="/developments/southport-qld-4215">Southport</a>&nbsp;CBD, future Brighton on the Park residents will be just a three-minute drive is&nbsp;The Brickworks Centre, a lively shopping destination featuring the renowned Ferry Rd Market, known for offering some of the Coast's finest fresh produce, meats, seafood, and deli items.

The CBD is about three kilometres away, offering further&nbsp;shops, cafes, and essential services. The light rail, which heads runs south toward Broadbeach and north toward the Gold Coast University Hospital, is just a five-minute drive.

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Sixty Sticks have already completed some preliminary site preparation for the six-level building which will have just two house-sized apartments per floor. Each apartment starts from nearly 250 sqm.

Crowning the building will be a resident amenity level with a rooftop pool with sun-drenched day beds, a fully equipped gym, and multiple lounge areas.

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Demolition of the existing house on the property will begin shortly, with construction expected to start in Q1/Q2 2025. The build is anticipated to take around 14 months, as the project will not require excavation for basement parking, which typically adds significant time to the timeline.

With construction on track, buyers can expect to move in by mid-2026.

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[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=138113]

Joel Robinson

Southport's only new parkside apartment development: The prime location of Brighton on the Park

Leading Gold Coast-based developer <a href="/developers/aniko-group">Aniko Group</a> has reached a significant milestone in its $500 million transformation of Hope Island with the completion of its premium townhouse development, 35 Grant Avenue.

All 58 townhouses have sold.

George Mastrocostas, Managing Director of Aniko Group, said the project’s success reflects a strong market appetite for luxury housing in <a href="/developments/hope-island-qld-4212">Hope Island</a>.&nbsp;

“The sell-out of <a href="/buildings/no-35-grant-residences-35-grant-avenue-hope-island">35 Grant Avenue</a> highlights the continued demand for sophisticated and functional homes in sought-after locations like Hope Island”, Mastrocostas said.

“This waterfront development is part of our broader vision to enhance the quality of life for residents and contribute to the ongoing revitalisation of the area.”&nbsp;

35 Grant Avenue comprises architecturally designed two-level townhouses offering spacious three-bedroom layouts set within a secure, private gated community.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95316 project_image_fid=201428]

Each townhouse features outdoor private courtyards with paved terraces and generous-sized balconies on the upper-level.

The interiors boast high-quality finishes, including Herringbone engineered timber flooring throughout the ground-level living area and ducted air conditioning throughout the main living area and bedrooms.

35 Grant Avenue features fully equipped kitchens designed for modern living, with under-bench wine fridges, electric cooktops, and quality stainless steel appliances.

<img alt="No. 35 Grant Residences" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4ee117a7-4fd6-435c-b2ec-ceb69b6f77a3" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/JPEG_living_courtyard_2_townhouse_a_31-35_grant%20ave_3d_render_by_volumevision.jpg?VersionId=9DR0NzHyRjkOhm4HUg6MDKZ.PtT9yL4G" />

The development also offers residents first-class amenities designed to enhance waterfront living, including a luxurious resort-style pool, waterfront boardwalk and private marina berths.&nbsp;

Providing residents with a peaceful, luxurious lifestyle while fostering a sense of community, 35 Grant Avenue also includes lush green landscaping, an outdoor BBQ and dining area, and an outdoor firepit and lounge area. &nbsp;

“35 Grant Avenue has been designed to promote community while offering residents quality living and the opportunity to indulge in the peaceful waterfront life,"&nbsp;Mastrocostas added.

"This focus on quality and connection has deeply resonated with our buyers."

The project’s strategic location further adds to its appeal, with direct access to the Hope Island Marketplace and proximity to the Gold Coast’s major shopping centres, dining precincts, and recreational areas.&nbsp;

“The completion and sell-out of this project highlights the strong demand for quality homes in this area.

“It reinforces our commitment to delivering developments that are not only well-designed but also meet the evolving needs of residents looking for both lifestyle and convenience.”

<img alt="No. 35 Grant Residences" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="01491ee1-4ecb-421d-8570-ac9c49151736" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/JPEG_firepit_31-35_grant_avenue_3d_render_by_volumevision.jpg?VersionId=GFB1tiW9_kK8N2eSS4Bw7BA_Cqf1FsqR" />

Aniko Group, known for delivering exceptional large-scale projects, has now completed four projects on Hope Island comprising 630 residences and is on track to complete $145 million Orama in Chevron Island, reinforcing its reputation as a reliable and trusted developer that delivers high-quality products.&nbsp;

Following the completion of 35 Grant Avenue, Aniko Group is setting its sights on the Gold Coast’s biggest project in two decades, The Landmark in Mermaid Beach, which is due to start construction in early 2025.

Having already launched a ‘Register Your Interest’ campaign for the first stage, <a href="/new-apartments/the-landmark-mermaid-beach-14-seaview-avenue-mermaid-beach-qld-4218">The Landmark</a> is primed to become one of the Gold Coast’s most iconic developments, featuring four towers and an internationally branded hotel yet to be announced.&nbsp;

“We are pleased with the momentum we’ve built with 35 Grant Avenue, and we look forward to bringing our focus to delivering The Landmark in Mermaid Beach, which is set to be a game changer for the Gold Coast on an international scale”, Mastrocostas concluded.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=95316]

Aniko Group completes sold-out 35 Grant Avenue in Hope Island

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.

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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.

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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

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.

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<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.

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[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

Developers and apartment buyers have a narrowing window of opportunity before Brisbane's Olympic infrastructure pipeline begins competing directly with residential construction, pushing up costs, tightening labour supply and making new projects increasingly difficult to deliver.

While Brisbane's apartment market continues to benefit from strong population growth and limited housing supply, industry research suggests the years leading up to 2027 could prove to be the most important period for developers looking to secure builders and buyers hoping to purchase before the next wave of price increases.

A new Colliers report, Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games: Creating Solutions, highlights the scale of the challenge. While thousands of new homes are planned across South East Queensland, the Brisbane Olympic Athletes Village alone will deliver more than 10,500 beds during the Games before being converted into around 1,750 to 2,000 apartments. Equivalent to almost two years of typical inner-city apartment supply, the project will also absorb a significant share of the construction workforce and building materials.

The broader construction pipeline paints an even clearer picture.

Construction Skills Queensland's Horizon 2032 report forecasts Queensland's annual construction pipeline will average $69 billion over the coming years before peaking at $75 billion in 2027-28. Demand for construction workers is expected to increase by 17 per cent to almost 150,000 people, with the industry facing an annual shortfall of around 19,000 workers that could blow out to as many as 35,000 during the peak construction period.

The Olympic venues, athletes village and supporting infrastructure will account for billions of dollars worth of work across South East Queensland through to 2032, creating intense competition for labour at a time when Australia's residential construction sector is already under pressure.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150489 project_image_fid=373834]

Colliers Queensland Residential Director Andrew Scriven said the convergence of these projects is creating a clear window of opportunity for both developers and buyers.

"From 2027 onwards, the market will shift dramatically," Scriven said.

"Labour will increasingly be locked into government-led infrastructure and Olympic projects, which means private residential developments will face higher costs and tighter margins. The developers who move now are the ones most likely to get projects off the ground."

Scriven said the same dynamic would also affect buyers, with fewer apartment projects expected to launch once construction capacity tightens.

"If you're looking to change your lifestyle over the next five years, now is your window of opportunity to buy."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150713 project_image_fid=373827]

Developers are already positioning themselves ahead of that window.

Following the success of Monarch at Toowong, Consolidated Properties is preparing to launch two new Brisbane apartment projects in the second half of 2026. They include <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/gloriette-30-bedivere-street-yeerongpilly-qld-4105">Gloriette</a> at Yeerongpilly Green, a 25-storey tower within one of Brisbane's key Olympic precincts, and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/castile-47-skyring-terrace-newstead-qld-4006">Castile</a>, a recently approved 25-storey riverfront development at 47 Skyring Terrace in Newstead.

Hutchinson Builders will deliver both projects, with early works already underway at Yeerongpilly and Newstead expected to commence later this year.

The timing comes as Brisbane's fundamentals continue to strengthen, with strong interstate migration, population growth and vacancy rates remaining below 1.5 per cent.

Colliers Queensland researcher Pragya Sharma said Greater Brisbane is forecast to require around 40,000 new apartments between 2021 and 2031.

"There's a real mismatch emerging between when housing is needed and when it will be feasible to build," Sharma said.

"As a result, the period leading up to 2027 presents a key window of opportunity for developers to secure approvals, funding and construction capacity, while buyers will have greater choice before supply constraints intensify."

Colliers research outlines a critical pre-2027 window to start residential projects before labour squeeze: now is the time to buy

Developers, buyers on watch in South East Queensland ahead of construction crunch: Colliers

It's taken less than nine months for developer Sherpa Property Group to sell out all 51 apartments in its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-oasis-palm-beach-7-9-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Oasis</a> development in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/palm-beach-qld-4221">Palm Beach</a>, over a year before its anticipated completion.

&nbsp;

Located at 7-9 Sixth Avenue, the $67 million development has resonated strongly with both local owner-occupiers and downsizers seeking high-quality apartments within walking distance of the beach, dining precincts and everyday amenities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151449 project_image_fid=357458]

Christie Leet, Founder of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa Group</a>, said the sell-out reflected both the strength of the Palm Beach market and the success of Sherpa's community-first approach to development.

"The sell-out of Oasis is a fantastic outcome and reinforces the strong demand we're seeing for thoughtfully designed apartments in lifestyle locations," Leet said.

"From the outset, our vision was to create a development that genuinely enhanced the Palm Beach community while providing residents with exceptional homes and wellness-focused amenities.

"We've been incredibly encouraged by the level of local support throughout the campaign, 72.5 per cent of buyers are locals, with a significant proportion of purchasers choosing Oasis as their future home rather than an investment."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151449 project_image_fid=357463]

Construction is now progressing following development approval, with trusted builder LPS Group delivering the project and completion anticipated in Q3 2027.

Oasis forms part of Sherpa Group's successful Flourish collection, which has become recognised for its focus on wellness, community and elevated coastal living.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151449 project_image_fid=357469]

Residents will have private access to a rooftop amenity space featuring a pool, gym, sauna, steam room, hot and cold plunge pools, spa and barbecue facilities.

"The success of Oasis demonstrates that buyers continue to prioritise quality, location and lifestyle," Leet said.

"We are proud to have delivered a project that has resonated so strongly with the market and look forward to bringing Oasis to life for our future residents."

Sherpa recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-palm-beach-1150-1160-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a>, its third instalment of the Flourish brand in Palm Beach following Flourish Oasis and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/amargo-6-12-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Amargo</a>.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151449]

Sherpa sells out Flourish Oasis in booming Palm Beach

Urban Property Group's <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/la-vera-macquarie-park-94-talavera-road-macquarie-park-nsw-2113">La Vera</a> is leading the next phase of Macquarie Park's residential evolution, with the new apartment development set to become the first of several new apartment projects in the precinct to complete.

The 169-apartment building has now topped out ahead of its scheduled completion in the third quarter of 2026, as new residential investment continues to reshape one of Sydney's largest employment hubs into a true mixed-use precinct.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=368645]

Cox Architecture has designed La Vera to capture the best of its unique positioning on Talavera Road, orienting the building towards Lane Cove National Park.&nbsp;The building features a sculpted northern façade with flowing curves inspired by the surrounding landscape, while its city-facing elevation adopts a more structured architectural expression to maximise skyline views.

"The vision for the project was to conceive a building that adopted an organic and curvilinear form to the northern portion that faces the Lane Cove National Park," <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">Cox Architecture</a> Director Felipe Miranda said.

"The residents that reside in the northern portion of the building benefit by having beautifully crafted curved balconies that speak to the natural context and heighten the relationship of their internal living spaces to the external balconies."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=358802]

La Vera offers a diverse mix of one, two, three, and four-bedroom configurations, with prices currently starting from $740,000. Buyers so far have been a mix of Sydney-based investors,&nbsp;metro commuters, owner-occupiers and downsizers from surrounding North Shore suburbs.

Both investors and owner-occupiers have been drawn to La Vera's proximity to Macquarie University, Macquarie University Hospital, Macquarie Centre and the Sydney Metro, infrastructure that supports both strong rental demand and a convenient lifestyle for residents.

The apartments feature full-height glazing, timber flooring throughout living areas, stone kitchen benchtops, SMEG appliances, floor-to-ceiling bathroom tiling and ducted air conditioning.

Residents will have access to a rooftop recreation level featuring a swimming pool, sauna, barbecue facilities and landscaped relaxation areas, complemented by additional communal space at ground level. Many apartments enjoy uninterrupted views across Lane Cove National Park, reinforcing the project's connection to its natural setting.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=364551]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a>, a family-owned developer and builder with nearly four decades of experience, holds a 4.5-star iCIRT rating and was Australia's first developer to introduce 10-Year Latent Defects Insurance (LDI). La Vera is the first apartment development in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/macquarie-park-nsw-2113">Macquarie Park</a> approved to offer the additional insurance protection, alongside a five-year warranty on SMEG appliances.

Urban Property Group CEO Patrick Elias said the additional protection reflects changing buyer expectations in the off the plan market.

"Consumers are a lot more weary and a lot more concerned in buying off the plan than they ever have been. Having LDI is a tool to portray the confidence that we have in our product, and a confidence we want buyers to share," Elias said.

Following completion of the building later this year, buyers will move into their apartments well before Christmas.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134951]

La Vera closes in on completion as Macquarie Park continues residential transformation

Brisbane developer Red &amp; Co's decision to include dual key apartments in its debut Gold Coast apartment development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/como-varsity-lakes-22-lake-street-varsity-lakes-qld-4227">COMO Varsity Lakes</a>, is proving to be one of the project's biggest drawcards, with buyers quickly snapping up the flexible residences.

More than half of the project's 36 dual key apartments have already sold, helping drive COMO beyond the 50 per cent sold mark within the first month of launch.

The strong response highlights growing demand for apartment designs that can adapt to changing lifestyles, with buyers increasingly looking for homes that accommodate multi-generational living, provide rental income opportunities or simply offer greater flexibility over time.

Located on the shores of Lake Orr, COMO will deliver 156 apartments across 16 levels, with the dual-key residences forming a limited release within the broader development.

Each combines a primary two-bedroom apartment with a fully self-contained studio on a single title, connected by a shared foyer and lockable internal door. The design allows owners to house ageing parents, adult children or guests while maintaining privacy, or lease the secondary residence to generate additional income.

Just 17 of the original 36 dual key apartments remain available.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135546 project_image_fid=367096]

The innovative configuration combines two fully self-contained residences on a single title, typically comprising a primary two-bedroom apartment alongside a separate studio residence, connected via a shared foyer and lockable internal door.&nbsp;

The model is proving particularly attractive to owner occupiers navigating changing family dynamics and the realities of the current housing crisis.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135546 project_image_fid=363511]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/npa">NPA</a>&nbsp;CEO Andrew Erwin said dual key living was resonating strongly with modern buyers because it delivered both financial flexibility and practical lifestyle benefits.&nbsp;

“The housing crisis and rising cost of living are fundamentally changing how Australians think about home ownership,” Erwin said.&nbsp;

“Dual key apartments provide a genuine solution for families who want to stay connected while maintaining independence. Parents can help adult children save for a future home, ageing parents can remain nearby without moving into aged care, and owners still retain privacy and flexibility.

“Importantly, buyers are also recognising the financial advantages. It creates the opportunity to generate additional income from part of the home without the holding costs associated with owning a separate investment property.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135546 project_image_fid=363509]

Unlike traditional dual occupancy arrangements, the residences operate under a single title, meaning owners only incur one set of body corporate fees, council rates and holding costs.&nbsp;

The secondary residence can also evolve over time - functioning as guest accommodation, a home office, creative studio or private retreat before later becoming an income-producing asset.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/red-co">Red &amp; Co</a>&nbsp;Director and Co-Founder David Laverty said the strong early sales reflected growing buyer urgency and changing priorities within the market.&nbsp;

“Securing more than half of COMO’s residences within such a short timeframe is an outstanding result and a clear endorsement of both the design and location,” Laverty said.&nbsp;

“Buyers are responding to the combination of location, connectivity and amenity, but ultimately it’s value relative to other East Coast markets that is driving enquiry.”&nbsp;

“We’re also seeing strong interest from owner occupiers looking for homes that can adapt with them over time. Flexibility has become one of the most important considerations for buyers in today’s market.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135546 project_image_fid=363515]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bda-architecture">BDA Architecture</a>, COMO features a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom residences with 2.7-metre ceilings and larger-format floorplans aimed at owner occupiers, downsizers and lifestyle-focused buyers.&nbsp;

The development will feature an extensive rooftop recreation and wellness offering including a 25-metre lap pool, sundeck, barbecue and dining areas, gym, sauna, plunge baths, landscaped gardens, wellness spaces and rooftop pickleball and paddleball courts.

The remaining dual key apartments range from 137 sqm to 167 sqm and include generous three-bedroom layouts with separate self-contained studio accommodation and dual parking.&nbsp;

Erwin said the dual key concept represented a broader shift in how Australians would live in the future.

“People want homes that can evolve with their lives,” he said.&nbsp;

“A dual key apartment can suit a family today, support an ageing parent tomorrow, and potentially generate income later on. That adaptability is becoming incredibly valuable in the current environment.”

Prices currently range from $2,115,750 to $2,583,000.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135546]

Inter-generational living drives demand for COMO’s dual key apartments as housing pressures reshape buyer priorities 

Builder-developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ceerose">Ceerose</a> has doubled down on its Leichhardt ambitions, lodging its second State Significant Development Application (SSDA) in the suburb in the last six months.

Their newest proposal seeks to transform a former industrial precinct into a new residential community centred around the adaptive reuse of one of the site's heritage warehouse buildings.

The new project, on a 6,930 sqm block at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/40-76-william-street-leichhardt-nsw-2040">40–76 William Street</a>, will bring more than 200 apartments to a suburb that has seen little to no new supply in recent years. It follows Ceerose's late 2025 SSDA for a mixed-use apartment project on nearby Parramatta Road, signalling the developer's growing investment in Sydney's Inner West.

Ceerose Founder Edward Doueihi told Apartments.com.au the developer’s long-standing presence in Leichhardt and the Inner West had given it a strong understanding of how the area has evolved and where its future opportunities lie.

“Ceerose has had a long-standing presence in Leichhardt and the Inner West, giving us a unique understanding of the area’s evolution and future potential,” Doueihi said.

“Having delivered projects throughout the region, we have witnessed the suburb’s transformation first-hand and understand the opportunities for its continued growth.”

Doueihi said that understanding also informed the planning process, with a comprehensive Stakeholder Engagement Outcomes Report prepared before the application was lodged.

The report identified the key issues and concerns raised by neighbouring residents and other stakeholders, allowing those matters to be considered and incorporated into the design where appropriate.

He said the delivery of additional housing would also play an important role in supporting the revitalisation of Norton Street and the Italian Forum.

“By increasing the local residential population, the development is expected to strengthen demand for local businesses, encourage further investment, and help restore the vibrancy that made the precinct a thriving destination in the early 2000s.”

<img alt="First look: Ceerose returns to Leichhardt with 203-apartment adaptive reuse proposal at former warehouse site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7258c54c-8167-479e-8361-2d5fca9915b4" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Appendix%2010B%20-%20CGI%20-%20View%202.jpg?VersionId=S9DQfxu_jpcB5LrAEYFUbyMzg5odW6i5" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a>, the redevelopment would involve the demolition of four existing industrial buildings while retaining and adaptively reusing the site's most significant warehouse. The retained structure would anchor a new residential precinct comprising five interconnected buildings arranged around a large central landscaped courtyard, with heights stepping from five storeys along the surrounding residential streets to 11 storeys at the William Street corner.

According to the Architecture Design Report by Woods Bagot, the proposal "seeks to create a residential village centred around a generous green heart while celebrating the site's industrial heritage through the adaptive reuse of the existing warehouse building."

The development would comprise 203 apartments, with 188 proposed as build-to-sell residences, alongside 15 affordable housing apartments.

Rather than treating the retained warehouse as a standalone heritage object, Woods Bagot has sought to weave the site's industrial history throughout the masterplan. The proposal retains the north and west facades of the landmark corner warehouse, while new buildings reinterpret the site's brick-and-steel industrial language through their material palette and architectural expression.

<img alt="First look: Ceerose returns to Leichhardt with 203-apartment adaptive reuse proposal at former warehouse site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9e8c64c2-881b-49e1-8c90-6b6acaaa45b6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Appendix%2010C%20-%20CGI%20-%20View%203.jpg?VersionId=Qm8_8H_Xrg_sc4Mdjc59vlAcKF_5wRTb" />

The design is organised around what Woods Bagot describes as a "green heart", a landscaped communal open space that reinstates the leafy character removed when the site became an industrial storage facility. A new pedestrian laneway running through the site would improve permeability between William, North and Francis streets, linking residents through landscaped public spaces while activating the ground plane.

Residents would have access to communal gardens and shared recreation areas distributed throughout the development. Sustainability has also been prioritised, with the project targeting an average 7.9-star NatHERS rating. Proposed initiatives include rooftop solar generation, rainwater harvesting, passive solar design, naturally ventilated lobbies, extensive cross-ventilation and the reuse of existing building fabric to reduce embodied carbon.

The adaptive reuse strategy became a defining feature of the application after heritage investigations found only one of the site's industrial buildings could feasibly be retained. The Heritage Impact Statement concludes that preserving the key warehouse façades while referencing the site's industrial character throughout the new development provides an appropriate balance between renewal and conservation.

<img alt="First look: Ceerose returns to Leichhardt with 203-apartment adaptive reuse proposal at former warehouse site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="efffafdb-594f-4e2b-a067-921fd51c05e1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Appendix%2010D%20-%20CGI%20-%20View%204.jpg?VersionId=DPmE4.k16YRt0i27hEZVtJAffarpvUfx" />

"Retention and adaptation of the site buildings has been explored but found not to be feasible except for the tallest building, whose street facades will be retained," the heritage report states.

"The proposed building will interpret the brick and steel character of the subject site, including reuse of some components and construction of a large 'sawtooth' structure in the proposed open space."

<img alt="First look: Ceerose returns to Leichhardt with 203-apartment adaptive reuse proposal at former warehouse site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3bfef2b5-83f5-40cd-9cab-767092f34266" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Appendix%2010E%20-%20CGI%20-%20View%205.jpg?VersionId=7asb3i_ql4ybbuJOUb5UHBEIy0Q9t.DF" />

The William Street site is located around 300 metres from Leichhardt North Light Rail station and a short walk to Norton Street's retail, dining and hospitality precinct. The surrounding area has increasingly become a focus for urban renewal given its proximity to public transport and the Parramatta Road corridor.

Doueihi founded Ceerose in 1998 and has grown the business to become one of Sydney's more active apartment developers in recent years, with completed projects including The Alex Collective in Alexandria, Abbie's Lane in Annandale, and the award-winning Munro House in Elizabeth Bay. They are currently delivering Belgravia, 17 luxury apartments in Potts Point.

Joel Robinson

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