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Time is running out for pre-Easter auction listings.
Any marketing campaign prior to Easter has to be ideally photographed within the next fortnight, and Sydney’s weather is causing problems for vendors.
“Some agents are complaining of a shortage of stock,” Richardson &amp; Wrench Mosman agent Robert Simeon says.
He says it is noteworthy that Mosman has just 108 houses listed at the moment, given it peaked at 168 last spring.
Across the harbour Laing + Simmons Double Bay agent Sally Hampshire says her last auction before Easter was Tuesday, April 3, and the deadline for advertising was Wednesday, March 7.
Every year record sa rush to pre-Easter listings with huge numbers – and the year’s first super Saturdays – in both Sydney and Melbourne.
Agents often have noted that Easter, like the Christmas break, can also present a pause to the market, which can shift market momentum – positively or negatively – for the remainder of the year.
Both Melbourne and Sydney agents typically experience autumn auction overload, with hectic scheduling to beat the calendar deadline.
With lovely light and deciduous trees adding colour to backyard, March can be a great time to photograph your property – and even file the pictures away for listing in the future.
Bart Doff from Laing + Simmons Double Bay says its best for vendors to plan well ahead.
“I'd get the photography and copy done as early as possible – and get it up on the internet as a forthcoming auction to generate enquiry – and if you’re lucky maybe sell prior to the start of the formal campaign,” he advises.
Christies International agent Ken Jacobs says he has listings ready to go to market.
“We can’t get the ads going because we are awaiting photography,” Jacobs says.
Sam Triggs at the rural agency Meares &amp; Associates says farmers would “need to be pushing buttons now if they’d like to sell before Easter”.
“We are reasonably busy with new listings, and most people have returned from their summer break, so begin now to revisit the market.
“The weather … short term, the northern part of New South Wales has obviously been heavily flooded, which would prolong any marketing programs in those flooded areas.
“The south of the state (NSW) has experienced a mild summer with ongoing rain events, so it presents in good condition …   but the wet summer resulted in a lot of downgraded wheat, … so lower prices received by farmers,” Triggs says.
LH Hooker Palm Beach agent Peter Robinson says Sydney northern beaches clients need to sign up by February 27 in order to secure an early April auction, given the lead in time for adverts to be booked.
“We have a few good campaigns coming up pre-Easter, which should stimulate some demand, however there certainly are not as many as in previous years, so there will be less stock on the market leading up to Easter.
“It’s probably a good thing.
“The last few weeks have been strong, we have had sales in Palm Beach and Whale Beach of $865,000, $1.6 million, $1,625,000, $1.7 million, $2,365,000, $5.4 million, and there are a few enquiries out there, especially sub-$2.5 million,” Robinson says.
Balmain McGrath agent Sarah Lorden says the weather had “been a bit of pain for photography” although some properties can get around it and use more twilight shots. “But I have had two campaigns pushed back by two weeks, one in the country and one as a waterfront, as they completely rely on brilliant blue sky to maximise their positions,” Lorden notes.
The first auction marketing campaign for 2012 <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/auctions/clearance-rates-up-but-volumes-down-in-auction-season-opener/2012020653264" target="_blank">has gotten off to a slow start</a>, with volumes down in both Sydney and Melbourne.

In Sydney there were 80 scheduled auctions last weekend. Clinton McNabb, research analyst at Australian Property Monitors, notes the number rises to 198 auction listings over progressive weekends to 429.

Melbourne had 112 reported auctions last weekend, which rises to 850 on the last Saturday of February, according to Robert Larocca, communications manager at the Real Estate Institute of Victoria.

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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Vendors must hop to it to secure Easter auctions in spite of the weather

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Jolly arts guru and merchant banker Simon Mordant has listed his redundant hillside Darling Point penthouse following his $10.8 million purchase of the garden harbourfront apartment in the recently completed Buckhurst block in Point Piper.
No price estimate has been given, but market observers suggest $6.5 million plus. 
Simon and Catriona Mordant have been living in Darling Point for the past 24 years, with almost a decade in a two-storey penthouse in the triplex developed by Ron Powell to a design by Peddle Thorp and Walker.
The abode, which cost $5.25 million in 2002, has about 245 square metres of space plus some 90 square metres of terraces.
“Set against a dramatic north-westerly Sydney Harbour, Bridge, Opera House and city skyline panorama, it presents the ultimate in contemporary luxury, privacy and security,” according to listing agent Bill Malouf at LJHooker Double Bay.
But Title Tattle reckons the views would be the last thing inspectees notice given the amazing artwork that occupies every bit of wall and spare space.
It accommodates four bedrooms with balconies – one currently being used as an office with his-and-hers desktops.
Along with three marble bathrooms throughout the apartment, the master bedroom suite comes with a spa.
Despite being a triplex, there are only two residences in the Darling Point Road block, which has shared use of an indoor/outdoor gas-heated pool.
“A host of prestige details make it a truly special residence, including parquet timber floors, ducted air-conditioning, moulded cornices, a storeroom, triple parking with direct internal lift access to both levels and additional visitor parking,” Malouf’s <a href="https://www.ljhooker.com.au/JFDF93" target="_blank">marketing spiel</a> advises.
Offers close with Malouf and conjunctional agent Emma Prgomelja next month.
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Arts guru Simon Mordant lists redundant Darling Point penthouse: Title Tattle 

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The future of the NSW-based builder Kell &amp; Rigby is in doubt. 
<img src="/images/stories/kr-100-years.jpg">
Finance reporter Ross Greenwood reported on his Macquarie Radio 2GB MTR 1377 Money Show that the fourth-generation family-owned construction company had ceased building today on all its sites.
“We understand it will be in [voluntary] administration tomorrow morning,” Greenwood told his listeners.
It is understood potential refinancing arrangement negotiations halted on Tuesday, and company chief James Kell advised staff it was "prudent to suspend works on site."
"When those negotations didn't continue then we had to act fairly quickly," Kell said.
"It's not over yet .. we're still talking about a way out of it, of a solution," Kell, who has been running the firm for 10 years, said.
<img style="float: left; margin: 5px;" src="/images/stories/kellandrigby.jpg">In 2009 the NSW/ACT family business Australia/Deloitte Growth Award was awarded to Kell &amp; Rigby, whose construction awards included work done for the Sydney Apple store, the State Hockey Centre, Epping RSL, Sydney University, the ANA Hotel and Parliament House Canberra.
Ross Greenwood interviewed CFMEU state secretary Brian Parker, who said the firm had seven major works projects with 500 workers.
The firm was in the headlines several years ago after fixed price construction project issues at a Rushcutters Bay site. But Kell told Greenwood that the problems surrounding a Rushcutters Bay project "had been largely isolated from the business".
“It’s a very sad day for our industry,” Parker said after speaking with the Kell &amp; Rigby management.
“And it’s a very sad state of affairs for NSW,” he added.
The family historian says the partnership started in June 1910 between two young carpenters, William James Kell, 26, and Alexander Leslie Rigby, 22, both having arrived independently from England. The original office was at 1 Elsie Street, Burwood, where Bill Kell boarded with his Aunt Beckie Freeman. It was Aunt Beckie who also tendered the phone when the partners were out on the sites.
In 1912 land was purchased in Bishop Street Burwood where a workshop and office was built and with the £200 capital each subscribed K. &amp; R. commenced growing. Initially domestic work was carried out, but more and more commercial and industrial work was undertaken. Houses built locally were in Llandilo Avenue, Torrington Road, Strathfield Avenue, Kingsland Road, Victoria Street and Wakeford Road.
 
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Kell & Rigby, one of Australia's oldest, most respected building companies, set for voluntary administration

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Consultant Jonathan Shier, the former ABC managing director and now Continental Ventures chairman, has relisted the sub-penthouse in Ikon, at Potts Point.
The 17th-floor Macleay Street unit has been listed for sale through Jason Boon and Geoff Cox from Richardson and Wrench Elizabeth Bay.
The three-bedroom pad was bought for $3.5 million in 2005 after Shier sold his Vaucluse residence for $4.4 million.
The Ikon apartment was bought from the Laing + Simmons founder turned property developer Spencer Simmons. With two large balconies it comes with over 250 sq m of indoor/outdoor entertaining space.
About $4.5 million was being sought on its initial listing in 2011 through Richardson and Wrench in conjunction with Christies International, but the initial buyer feedback was closer to $4 million.
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Former ABC boss Jonathan Shier relists Potts Point sub-penthouse: Title Tattle

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Architect Jason Gibney of Tobias Partners has listed his noteworthy Bronte apartment.
The three-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment, which he designed and renovated, has been the home for his young family over the last five years. It’s been featured in architectural magazines including Monument, Urbis, and House and Garden's Top 50 Rooms.
<img src="/images/stories/bronte1.jpg">
McGrath agent Chris Volpatti is handling the February 25 auction listing. More than $850,000 is expected.
The 99-square-metre contemporary apartment with minimalistic tones and is set on the top floor of an Art Deco block of four apartments on Bushby Parade. The dual-level apartment – through attic space – has been intuitively crafted to maximise natural light and space, plus views, Volpatti says.
<img src="/images/stories/bronte2.jpg">
Hoop pine plywood is a dominant feature along with the sanded, bleached and then beeswaxed cypress timber floors. It comes with an urbane concrete kitchen.
<img src="/images/stories/bronte5.jpg">
The master bedroom comes with an ocean view with Corian-finished full ensuite.  The block has a shared rear garden.
The apartment was entered into Houses magazine's inaugural houses awards last year and was awarded a high commendation.
<img src="/images/stories/bronte3.jpg">
“The apartment is a model in effortless elegance,” Monument writer Sam Spurr noted.
“The textures of the apartment hark back to Sydney Modernism rather than the more recent Minimalist craze, keeping the material palette to white paint and timber with an emphasis on light and form,” Spurr suggested.
<img src="/images/stories/bronte4.jpg">
“Gibney’s study of spatial efficiency is worked into a hip, urban beach pad – a quintessential Sydney typology. His design reminds us we shouldn’t have to choose between looking good or being comfortable,” he added.
Photographs by Justin Alexander
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Architect Jason Gibney lists hip Bronte beach pad that doesn’t choose between style and comfort

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The second off-the-plan marketing campaign of apartments in the Crown Group’s Top Ryde City Living development is a near sell-out.
<img src="/images/stories/topryde7.jpg">
The recent pre-sales have accounted for almost all of the 81 apartments up for sale since September.
 
<img src="/images/stories/topryde5.jpg">
Apartments ranged in price from $500,000 for a one-bedroom apartment plus study with a car space to $1.6 million for a three-bedroom penthouse with study, two car spaces and city views.
<img src="/images/stories/topryde8.jpg">
It followed the earlier successful marketing campaign when 183 apartments were put up for sale in the first stage of the release.
The Crown Group chief Iwan Sunito believes the pre-sales were achieved due to the prime location – 12 kilometres north west of the Sydney CBD, near major employment and education facilities.
On <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/developments/crown-group-seeks-out-asian-buyers-for-top-ryde-project/2012013153090">completion the $500 million complex</a> will consist of 502 apartments across five towers above the shopping centre.
<img src="/images/stories/topryde10.jpg">
The sales have been across three towers. Registration for sales for apartments in the fourth tower are currently being taken, says Roy Marcellus, the head of sales and marketing for Top Ryde City Living.
“The majority of buyers at Top Ryde City Living are owner-occupiers,” Sunito advises.
<img src="/images/stories/topryde11.jpg">
“The level of design and amenity is meeting a high level of expectation amongst the downsizer, empty-nester or first-home buyer markets.”
<img src="/images/stories/topryde12.jpg">
Crown International Holdings Group (Crown Group) was co-founded by Iwan Sunito and Paul Sathio in 1996.
The privately owned company currently has over $2 billion worth of developments in the pipeline.
Crown Group is actively searching for new development opportunities and strategic acquisitions.
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Second off-the-plan stage of Crown's Top Ryde project almost sold out

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Mount Nagle, the landmark 1870 Queenscliff property, has been sold.
It was listed by the Presentation Sisters Victoria. The property sold within two weeks for $1.1 million to a Melbourne buyer wanting to relocate.
Set on an 1,840-square-metre elevated block, it comes with glimpses of Swan Bay.
The Victorian-era building was marketed by Rendina Kensington agent Charles Bongiovanni as offering “unlimited scope for improvement”.
“One of the most significant historical buildings in Queenscliff and used as a summer house by eminent Victorians during the early 20th century, this remarkable property has been superbly maintained for more than a century,” Bongiovanni says.
“Many period features remain and the property comprises of 15 bedrooms, two bathrooms, four living areas, plus kitchen with adjoining dining room and cellar,” Bongiovanni says.
The Queen Street building is currently used as a private guest house retreat, 100 kilometres from Melbourne.
Some $1.75 million plus had been sought when local agents first listed it in 2010.
 
 
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Queenscliff Victorian house Mount Nagle sold by Presentation nuns

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Champion swimmer Geoff Huegill, and his wife Sara, who have named their three-week-old daughter Mila, have only just moved into their new Sydney abode.
It’s a three-level, four-bedroom  Darlinghurst terrace on 133 square metres that cost $1.97 million. They own 60% percent of the terrace, which was bought in partnership with Geoff Huegill’s in-laws.
Winning bronze and silver at the 2000 Olympics, Huegill established himself as one of the world’s best butterfly swimmers. All up he has won 28 international medals and set eight world records.
In 2005 he announced his retirement as he was battling with his weight and failed to qualify for the Australian team. The retirement sent him into depression, but in 2008 he announced his inspirational comeback and having shed 40 kilograms was back in the medals by 2010. He plans to compete at the London Olympics this year.
Sara Huegill, nee Hills, was in the Sweaty Betty PR fashion firm prior to her 2011 marriage, and has her own <a href="https://www.row-a-view.blogspot.com.au/" target="_blank">fashion blog</a>. Title Tattle seems to recall the couple were previously based in a teeny one-bedder, with harbour views, but filled with her her fashion books, when they appeared last February on the Channel 7 show, Better Home and Gardens. 
Mila has Slavic origins meaning “gracious, dear”.
The terrace sold late last year at an undisclosed price through McGrath agent Chris Chung after failing to sell at its May auction, when $2.05 million was being sought. 
It was sold by Sophia Massey-Green and James Hutton who’d paid $930,000 pre-renovation in early 2009.
In neighbouring Surry Hills another world record holder, Eamon Sullivan, spent $1,265,000 in 2009 for his renovated four-bedroom terrace.
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(Proud parents) Geoff Huegill and Sara Hills dive into Darlinghurst terrace abode with help from his in-laws: Title Tattle

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The Commonwealth Bank is planning to sell the State Savings Bank of NSW building at <street><address>48 Martin Place</address></street>.
Along with the adjoining property at <street><address>9-19 Elizabeth Street</address></street>, it comes with reported expectations of achieving $150 million given its offered with development approval for the moderization of the offering. 
The building at 48 <street><address>Martin Place</address></street> is an iconic <city><place>Sydney</place></city> building and is on the National Heritage list. The bank will take a long lease back. 
<img src="/images/stories/martinplace1.jpg">
It has a distinctive terracotta and pink granite Beaux-Arts façade. It was originally built as the headquarters of the Government Savings Bank of NSW, which opened in 1928. 
The interior features large scagliola columns, extensive use of marble, and a plaster and pressed-metal ceiling. The building's square trading hall was originally one of the largest in the world. Its stately vault is housed in the basement. There had been a recent refurbishment by Tanner Architects within the bank headquarters. 
<img src="/images/stories/martinplace2.jpg">
In 2010 the CBA engaged project managers TSA Management to study the ongoing feasibility of its holding as part of the bank’s overall accommodation planning program.
The CBA’s nearby “money box” building, at <street><address>120 Pitt Street/5 Martin Place</address></street> partially changed hands last year when the industry superannuation fund Cbus bought a half share for $42.3 million from the bank's Commonwealth Property Office Fund. 
The site, on which the former Commonwealth Bank's famous tin money boxes were modelled, is to be redeveloped, which CPA and Cbus will jointly finance. The estimated cost is more than $405 million. 
At the end of the project, nine floors will have been added to the side of the heritage building, which runs down <street><address>Martin Place</address></street> and around the corner in <street><address>Pitt Street</address></street>. 
The sale was part of the Commonwealth Bank's decision to consolidate its <city>Sydney</city> city-based staff into the new properties at <place><placename>Darling</placename><placetype>Harbour</placetype></place>, known as <street><address>Commonwealth Bank Place</address></street>.
The Australian Financial Review forecast the 48 Martin Place holding with its adjoining office space might fetch $150 million.
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Comonwealth Bank to sell heritage-listed State Savings Bank of NSW building 

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Sydney CBD super-prime net face retail rents fell 6.2% in the December quarter to an indicative $7,560 per square metre, but landlords have a very low vacancy rate of 0.6%.
Regional shopping centre rents rose by about 3.2% in part due to council approval delays for new retail space.
Prime strip retail is typically showing a 5.5% vacancy rate, with rents down 1.2% in the December quarter.
Oxford Street and Double Bay were the weakest, with CBRE saying Double Bay gross face rents fell 10% in the December quarter.
Click to enlarge
<a href="/images/stories/cbrefeb6.gif" rel="shadowbox" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/cbrefeb6thumb.gif"></a>
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Double Bay retail rents tumble 10%, but Sydney super-prime not immune either

ASX-listed developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/stockland">Stockland</a>&nbsp;is continuing its push back into the new apartment market, filing plans for a prominent gateway site between Collingwood and East Melbourne.

The development giant, which moved back into the new apartment space when it announced Stanton Place in Sydney's Rosebery and have since filed plans for a 50-storey tower, are jumping into the off the plan Melbourne market.

They are hoping to create a mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/79-81-victoria-parade-collingwood-vic-3066">79-81 Victoria Parade</a>, replacing an existing commercial building with a scheme by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/john-wardle-architects">Wardle</a>&nbsp;for 478 apartments,&nbsp;ground-floor retail, new public open spaces and a publicly accessible pedestrian laneway.

<img alt="First look: Stockland plans new mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for Collingwood gateway site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="72dbbca9-3918-4073-afad-a0c0c35be8e7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/stockland%20pers.png?VersionId=bzMVUKKxvwuNK1m0v_td126Rgct32uk_" />

The design report identifies the public realm as a central driver of the proposal.

"Collingwood has limited access to high-quality parks and public open space, and the proposal delivers valuable new areas for respite, social interaction and fine-grain retail activity."

The development would deliver a diverse mix of housing, including studio, one, two and three-bedroom apartments alongside townhouse-style residences. Two basement levels are proposed beneath the development, providing resident and retail parking as well as extensive bicycle facilities.

Wardle's design draws heavily on Collingwood's industrial character, using articulated building forms, brickwork and robust materials inspired by the suburb's warehouse and manufacturing heritage. The built form has been broken into a series of smaller volumes to better respond to the surrounding streetscape while extensive communal gardens, rooftop amenities and shared resident spaces are integrated throughout the project.

<img alt="First look: Stockland plans new mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for Collingwood gateway site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7b2135ed-65df-4253-ad53-f216f06bd467" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/stockland%20podium.png?VersionId=l1B6Hqn8zs772VxH6L1fDPg0KHshan9v" />

The planning documents describe the existing office building as offering little engagement with the public realm, with the redevelopment intended to create a more permeable and active neighbourhood destination.

"The proposed scheme presents a significant opportunity to deliver a vibrant retail plaza and a local neighbourhood hub serving both existing and future Collingwood residents."

The 79–81 Victoria Parade site occupies a strategic location about 1.5 kilometres east of Melbourne's CBD, at the threshold between Collingwood and East Melbourne. It is well served by tram services along Victoria Parade and sits within walking distance of St Vincent's Hospital, Fitzroy Gardens, the Fitzroy activity centre and a broad range of employment, retail and hospitality destinations.

Joel Robinson

Stockland plans new mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for Collingwood gateway site

An 1880s timber cottage that has survived Kangaroo Point's transformation from riverside suburb to high-density apartment precinct is set to become the centrepiece of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/zephyr">Zephyr Group</a>'s proposed Banksia development.

Rather than see the locally heritage-listed Alpha Cottage as an obstacle to navigate, plans integrate the landmark home into a new 18-storey residential tower, giving one of the suburb's oldest surviving residences a new role as the project's communal hub.

The development application covers a 1,177 sqm amalgamated site at 127-133 Lambert Street and 30 Shafston Avenue, where Zephyr Group plans to deliver 64 apartments above three basement levels. Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/joe-adsett-architects">Joe Adsett Architects</a>, the proposal carefully weaves the retained heritage cottage into a contemporary residential scheme, with the tower elevated above the historic building to preserve its presence within the Lambert Street streetscape.

<img alt="First look: Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f9dc5bdb-d691-4c60-bf2b-c3ed405a3e75" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Banksia.png?VersionId=Jh4bjlewU.o8HXWt0V4KaFA_lPcF7KWM" />

Named after the native Australian Banksia flower, the project draws inspiration from its distinctive form through curved balconies, sculpted planter boxes and cascading subtropical landscaping that soften the building's profile.

As the design report explains: "The tower's identity is defined by its feature facade, drawing direct inspiration from the Banksia wildflower. The building departs from traditional rigidity through the use of elegant, GRC-moulded planter boxes that appear as if shaped by the breeze."

Plans propose 64 apartments, comprising 32 two-bedroom and 32 three-bedroom residences, across an 18-storey tower. Residents would have access to rooftop amenities including a swimming pool, spa, gym, sauna, private cinema, dining spaces and landscaped recreation areas, while more than half the site is dedicated to planting and open space.

<img alt="First look: Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="16041b5f-033e-47fa-8fbe-9886e072c1f2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/pool.png?VersionId=kpx5w4EbLx0_TdWfDoD1vrSs0_cZ5Ao1" />

The heritage component is the defining feature of the proposal. Constructed in the early 1880s and occupied from at least 1883, Alpha Cottage is recognised by Brisbane City Council as an important surviving example of Kangaroo Point's nineteenth-century residential development and as a representative transverse-gable timber cottage. Despite extensive redevelopment across the peninsula, the building has retained a high degree of its original form and internal fabric.

As part of the redevelopment, the cottage will be carefully relocated a short distance within its original allotment to facilitate construction before being returned to a prominent position along Lambert Street. Original verandah elements will be dismantled, catalogued and reinstated, while significant internal features, including timber flooring, wall linings, joinery, doors, windows and hardware, will be retained. Later additions, including the enclosed rear verandah, will be removed to better reveal the building's original form.

Once restored, Alpha Cottage will accommodate the building manager's office, mail room and parcel facilities, providing an active everyday use that supports its long-term conservation rather than preserving it as a static display. The heritage strategy also maintains landscaped space around the building, allowing it to remain visually distinct beneath the new tower.

<img alt="First look: Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="43b027e1-576e-4624-a66c-7cc54ea8b7be" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/banksia%20tower.png?VersionId=2W6E2yfkj2AQlWlLeV986grA5zB9f817" />

The Heritage Impact Assessment concludes that "the proposal secures the ongoing occupation, maintenance and conservation of Alpha Cottage," finding the development would result in "no more than a minor impact on the cultural heritage significance" of the building while ensuring its long-term future.

Joe Adsett Architects have designed the tower to sit above the heritage building rather than overwhelm it, creating a clear visual separation between old and new. The development's flowing balconies, integrated planting and organic façade respond to Brisbane's subtropical climate while complementing the restored cottage below.

Banksia occupies a prominent corner in Kangaroo Point within walking distance of the Kangaroo Point Bridge, Brisbane River, ferry services, QUT, the CBD and the Woolloongabba precinct. The site also benefits from direct access to active transport infrastructure and sits within an area earmarked for continued higher-density residential growth.

Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage

Buying into a masterplanned community often means committing to a vision still years from taking shape. At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a>, that vision is already visible.

Residents have moved into the completed first stage, landscaped spaces are established, and the next chapter is now underway. Stage 1 has been completed and settled, with Stage 2 now selling off-the-plan.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/pbd-architects">PBD Architects</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> combines attainable apartment living with sustainability initiatives rarely seen at this price point, including rooftop solar, battery storage and a resident EV-sharing program.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6RNt3AvtBpI?si=JUhuCV2ZRXsYaoJZ" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Located on Schofi​elds Road, just moments from Tal​lawong Metro Station and Schof​ields Train Station, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> has been designed to appeal to a broad mix of buyers, from first-home purchasers looking for a foothold in Sy​dney's property market to downsizers seeking a connected, low-maintenance lifestyle.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> has been conceived as a thoughtfully planned masterplanned community that will evolve over multiple stages, with buyers now able to secure one, two and three-bedroom apartments within a neighbourhood that is already beginning to establish its identity.

One of the project's defining features is its focus on sustainability. Solar energy systems, battery storage and future EV charging infrastructure have been incorporated throughout the development, reflecting a long-term approach to both environmental performance and everyday convenience.

Sustainability sits at the centre of the development's vision, with solar energy systems, battery storage and future EV charging infrastructure integrated throughout the community.

That emphasis on future-ready living extends beyond the technology. Landscaped communal gardens, outdoor gathering spaces and plans for a future retail precinct aim to create a neighbourhood where residents can access daily conveniences without travelling far from home.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149637 project_image_fid=351027]

The apartments themselves have been designed with liveability front of mind. Rather than chasing maximum density, the focus has been placed on creating practical homes with generous natural light, usable layouts and strong connections to outdoor space.

Importantly, these design principles have been applied consistently across the one, two and three-bedroom apartment offerings.

The appeal of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> is also closely linked to its location within Syd​ney's rapidly evolving north-west growth corridor. Over the past decade, major infrastructure investment has transformed the area, with new transport links, business precincts and community facilities reshaping suburbs like Talla​wong and Schofiel​ds.

The agent says buyers are increasingly recognising the area's long-term potential.

"Typical buyers that we're finding across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> especially are your first-home buyers, your investors, your upsizers as well as your downsizers," Hawes says.

Connectivity remains one of the project's strongest drawcards. Residents have access to both Tallaw​ong Metro Station and Schofi​elds Train Station, providing links to the Sydn​ey CBD, Norw​est Business Park, Macquari​e Park and other major employment hubs. Retail centres including Rous​e Hill Town Centre and Sch​ofields Village are also nearby, alongside schools, parks and future healthcare infrastructure.

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For Stage 1 resident Roji, it is the balance between convenience and comfort that has defined the experience of living at Kew.

"For me, it's a balance of quality and convenience," she says. "Everything I need is right here."

"If I wanted to catch the train, Scho​fields Station is just around the corner. Tallaw​ong Metro connects me to the city."

More importantly, she says, the development has delivered something that cannot be measured in floorplans or specifications.

"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> feels like home."

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As Stage 2 enters the market, that lived experience may be one of the project's strongest selling points. Buyers are not purchasing into an untested concept or a future promise. They are joining a community that is already taking shape.

Ongoing investment in transport, retail, healthcare and public open space continues to strengthen the appeal of Syd​ney's north-west growth corridor, while <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a>'s established first stage provides buyers with a tangible sense of the community's future direction.

For a limited time, buyer can secure a new home at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> with just a $10,000.

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Kew Tallawong: A growing community taking shape in Sydney's north-west

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/freecity">Freecity</a> has received development approval for its 51-storey mixed-use tower at 153-157 Walker Street, North Sydney, set to be one of the tallest mixed-use residential-led buildings in one of Sydney’s most sought-after commercial and residential addresses.

Lodged as a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) through the Housing Delivery Authority (HDA) pathway and approved by the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure following a comprehensive public exhibition and submissions process, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/153-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">the project</a> will deliver 296 apartments, alongside a 170-room, luxury hotel, activated retail and significant public domain improvements.

Situated just 200 metres from Victoria Cross Metro Station, on one of the largest developable sites in North Sydney, the development will rise to 234 metres, making it one of the tallest buildings in the suburb. With an end value of approximately $1.5 billion, the project responds directly to the NSW Government’s mandate to accelerate housing delivery in well-located, transit-connected areas.

<img alt="Freecity gets green light for mixed-use residential and hotel tower in North Sydney" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="192ec455-94bf-4e01-83ef-922b1b269d67" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Freecity%20-%20Walker%20Street%20North%20Sydney%201%20RESIZED%20.jpg?VersionId=Bzqp0SBHCDvLAHjA4QXkjuGoOEIh73Jl" />

The apartment mix will cater to a broad range of buyers, with 65 studio and one-bedroom apartments, 139 two-bedroom residences, 35 three-bedroom apartments, 48 four-bedroom homes, and nine penthouses. Residents will have access to a dedicated amenity level on Level 33, featuring a swimming pool with views towards the Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House and North Sydney CBD, as well as a gym, library, shared kitchen, lounge and outdoor entertaining areas.

The hotel will occupy the lower six levels of the building and include meeting and function spaces, a wellness centre with gym, yoga studio, swimming pool and sauna, further strengthening North Sydney's growing hospitality offering.

At ground level, the development has been designed to improve pedestrian connections through the precinct. More than 700 sqm of retail space will activate the street frontage, while a landscaped through-site link connecting Walker Street, Little Walker Street and Doris Fitton Park will provide new public open space with seating, paving and extensive native landscaping.

Freecity Group Co-Founder and Joint CEO Tony Sun said the project represents one of the most significant development opportunities currently available in North Sydney.

"This is one of the most significant development sites in North Sydney and it comes at a pivotal moment for the precinct," Sun said.

"North Sydney is undergoing a genuine transformation, and this project will contribute housing the city urgently needs while creating a landmark destination."

Executive Director of Development Michael Romano said demand for both residential and hotel accommodation would continue to strengthen as the Metro precinct matures.

"The structural demand for high-quality housing and hotel accommodation in North Sydney is compelling, and will only grow as the precinct continues to evolve around the new Metro station," Romano said.

Architectus has designed the tower, orientating the apartments to maximise views towards Sydney Harbour while introducing a sculpted façade intended to respond to light, wind and the surrounding skyline.

Architectus Principal Marko Damic said the design sought to create a tower that contributes to the public realm as much as the skyline.

"We wanted to design a tower that doesn't just sit in the skyline but actively participates and contributes to city life," Damic said.

First look: Freecity gets green light for mixed-use apartment and hotel tower in North Sydney

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen">Abadeen</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/perifa">PERIFA</a> have celebrated the topping out of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf,</a> marking a significant milestone in the delivery of one of Syd​ney's most anticipated waterfront communities.

Located on Sydney's harbourfront at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/putney-nsw-2112">Putney</a>, the project has now reached its highest structural point, with construction progressing strongly towards completion in 2027. 
&nbsp; 
The milestone was celebrated on-site with project partners Phoenix Property Investors, Mitsubishi Estate Asia, Versatile Construction, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, consultants and stakeholders, to recognise the collective effort behind the transformation of the historic waterfront site into a vibrant new residential, marina and lifestyle destination.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362240] 
&nbsp; 
<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> will deliver a mix of waterfront residences and terraces, complemented by a private 36-berth marina, waterfront dining opportunities and a revitalised foreshore designed to reconnect the community with the river's edge. 
&nbsp; 
Abadeen Executive Chairman and Founder Justin Brown said the project represented a rare opportunity to create the next chapter in Sydn​ey's long history of successful waterfront precincts. 
&nbsp; 
"Throughout Sydney, some of the city's most sought-after addresses have emerged from carefully considered waterfront precincts such as Woolloom​ooloo Wharf, Walsh Bay and Breakfast Point," Brown said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362566] 
&nbsp; 
"What makes these places so successful is that they become much more than residential developments," Brown said.

"They bring together homes, hospitality, marina facilities, public spaces and a strong sense of community in locations where future supply is incredibly limited."

Brown has long described absolute waterfront land in Sy​dney as "finite."

"Once these opportunities are developed, they are rarely replicated. That's why Syd​ney's waterfront precincts have consistently demonstrated strong demand and long-term value growth over many decades. 
&nbsp; 
"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> is one of the few remaining opportunities to secure a residence within a masterplanned waterfront community that combines direct water access, marina ownership opportunities and a genuine village lifestyle just moments from the Sy​dney CBD."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362564] 
&nbsp; 
PERIFA Founder and Managing Director Fabrizio Perilli said the project reflected a shared commitment to delivering exceptional places that create long-term value for residents and the broader community. 
&nbsp; 
"The topping out milestone is a significant achievement for the Versatile Group and a testament to the collaboration between all project partners, consultants and contractors involved," Perilli said. 
&nbsp; 
"Beyond the residences themselves, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> will establish a new waterfront destination that celebrates the history, character and lifestyle of this unique location while creating a lasting legacy for future generations."

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&nbsp; 
Construction is being delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/versatile">Versatile Construction</a>, with structural works now substantially complete across the precinct. Attention will progressively shift to the construction of the waterview terraces, apartment façades, services and interior fit-out works over the coming months. 
&nbsp; 
With limited residences and marina berths remaining, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> continues to attract strong interest from owner occupiers and downsizers seeking a premium waterfront lifestyle within close proximity to Putne​y Village, Rh​odes, Top Ry​de and the Syd​ney CBD. 
&nbsp; 
As one of the last opportunities to secure a residence within a new masterplanned waterfront community on Sy​dney Harbour, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> is expected to remain a highly sought-after address for years to come.

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Jonathan Chancellor

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