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Sydney has been a hot spot for renovators over the past several years which is largely due to high demand levels, low interest rates and record capital growth in underlying value levels, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
"While we have seen this renovation trend booming across most property types and locations throughout Sydney, we are now starting to see some property types, price points and locations reacting differently to the changing markets and property cycle," HTW suggested. 
It appears that renovation and construction have been on the rise over the past year or two within inner Sydney. Generally additions or extensive renovations are more popular on the inner eastern side of town (Darlinghurst, Paddington, Surry Hills), often with significant architectural prowess.
"As inner Sydney is an expensive area, renovations or additions would be more appealing to some than the costs and hassle of moving," the report suggested. 
On the inner western side of town, whilst renovations and additions are still common around the very inner areas (Newtown, Camperdown, Glebe, Chippendale) as you get further out to Leichhardt, Lilyfield and Strathfield, knockdown and rebuilds are more common due to larger blocks, fewer heritage restrictions and better accessibility (from a materials perspective).
HTW noted that Darlinghurst has seen quite a few well renovated homes sell recently. Darlinghurst neighbours the superior suburbs of Paddington to the east and Potts Point to the north, with inferior Woolloomooloo to the north-west and slightly inferior Surry Hills to the south.
A recent example of a well renovated home is<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property/4-thomson-st-darlinghurst-nsw-2010" target="_blank"> 4 Thomson Street, Darlinghurst</a> (pictured below) which sold in original condition for $1.4 million in July 2015 and after being fully renovated, sold again for more than double in June 2018 for $2.9 million. While this represents a very strong increase, it needs to be noted that this time period also had the benefit of record capital growth regardless of renovations.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/10/2/darlinghurst%20before.jpg" alt="">
 4 Thomson Street, Darlinghurst (before)
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/10/2/darlinghurt%20after.jpg" alt="">
 4 Thomson Street, Darlinghurst (after)
In the inner city, some of the easiest ways to add value would be to utilise rear lane access for parking or add an attic level bedroom or en-suite. Wide terraces or detached dwellings (where available) are preferred. Given that these areas are quite expensive, a typical buy-in price point could be something similar to<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-terrace-nsw-darlinghurst-127936406" target="_blank"> 43 Craigend Street, Darlinghurst </a>(pictured below)<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-terrace-nsw-darlinghurst-127936406" target="_blank"> </a>which sold for $1.85 million in May 2018.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/10/2/43%20craigend%20st%201.jpg" alt="">
This is an original terrace in close proximity to a busy road. Many areas of inner city Sydney are heritage conservation precincts, meaning that the façade is not able to be altered and most additions are required to be unobtrusive.
Some of the suburban community facilities and infrastructure helping drive construction in these established areas include the light rail construction in the CBD/Surry Hills, gentrification of Kings Cross and surrounding areas and proximity to the CBD which generally facilitates good work and family life balance.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Inner Sydney renovations on the rise: HTW

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Casey, a suburb in Canberra, has the largest average annual median price increase over the past five years in Australia Capital Territory, according to Investar.
Its current median house price sits at $783,500, with a 7% growth from this time five years ago. 
The median house price has increased by 9.6% over the past year. 
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/8/28/casey%20.jpg" target="_blank">Click here to enlarge:</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/8/28/casey%20.jpg" alt="">
An example is a four bedroom house which was sold at $799,000 in March (pictured top).
The house at<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-act-casey-127540638" target="_blank"> 1 Swinney Street</a> offers four bedrooms, spacious family room, formal lounge, granite kitchen and large double garage.
Set on a 530 square metre block, other features of the house include outdoor entertaining, designer bathroom, and ducted reverse air-con. 
Another sale last year is a four bedroom house which was sold for $711,000 (pictured below).
Situated at<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-act-casey-126654534" target="_blank"> 6 Bott Crescent</a>, the house features four bedrooms, large living room, family room, gourmet kitchen and outdoor entertainment covered pergola. 
Other highlights include ducted reverse cycle air conditioning, alarm system, digital TV ports throughout and LED lighting throughout. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/8/28/casey%202.jpg" alt="">
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Casey witnesses largest property price increase in ACT over five years: Investar

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Smaller office tenants continue to choose to owner occupy rather than lease, says a Fitzroys agent.
Fitzroys agent Stephen Land negotiated the sale of Suite 302, 434 St Kilda Road for $320,000 plus GST.
The 105 square metre suite occupies a corner suite and includes one car park.
He said the office was presented to the market for sale and for lease, with the majority of enquiry came from prospective purchasers,
He said this was indicative of ongoing interest from small tenants wanting to owner occupy ahead of leasing.
“The purchaser plans to occupy the suite after their search for a space within a central location on Melbourne’s city fringe and convenient price point,” Land said.
“The on-title parking space was also an attraction, with most interest buyers requiring at least one parking space.”
Land said CBD strata prices have soared since 2014, and that while the growth has slowed recently, those gains have still priced out a number of potential owner occupiers from the city.
“There is future upside on the rental, with the new Metro train station currently under construction nearby at Domain interchange set to boost connectivity to the boulevard, while the limited number of available small suites in the area continue to shrink as office stock is taken off the market for conversion,” he said.
Land negotiated the sale on behalf of the former owner occupier.
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Small office tenants choosing to own over leasing

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Andamooka, a town 600 kilometres north of Adelaide, has the cheapest rental price in South Australia, according to Investar.
It suggests the suburb's median rent of houses is $120 per week, increased by 20% from this time last year. 
The rental yield is about 7.9%. 
Its median house price sits at $79,000.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/8/21/cheapest%20rent%20sa.jpg" target="_blank">Click here to enlarge:</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/8/21/cheapest%20rent%20sa.jpg" alt="">
A two bedroom house on Government Road was recently on the market seeking $100 per week (pictured top).
Situated at<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-sa-andamooka-403907387" target="_blank"> 245B Government Road</a>, the house features two bedrooms, open kitchen/dining/living, and low maintenance yard. 
Additional features include reverse-cycle air-conditioning, ceiling fans, and floating floorboards throughout.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/8/21/andamooka%201.jpg" alt="">
Another example is a Dynamite Drive two bedroom house which was recently listed at $150 per week (pictured below).
The house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-sa-andamooka-415041203" target="_blank">766A Dynamite Drive</a> offers two bedrooms, spacious kitchen, secure parking and strorage space.
It is just a short walk to the main street of Andamooka. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/8/21/andamooka%202.jpg" alt=""> 
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Andamooka has the cheapest rental price in SA: Investar 

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Within the regional city of Lismore and the surrounding established rural townships of Kyogle and Casino, there is no one definitive area that is suitable for renovation or major renewal.
Opportunities can exist throughout the area, providing the cost/benefit analysis is worth the investment, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report.
"That being said, it’s been noted over the past ten years that a certain heritage influenced suburb in Lismore City has provided good examples of renovating for added value," the HTW valuer said.
The suburb of Girards Hill holds a unique standing within Lismore City as it is primarily the favourite haunt of prospective purchasers looking for the heritage factor, the report said.
"Not only is it within close proximity of Lismore CBD (under one kilometre), the plethora of tired, older style homes over the years has benefited from the elbow grease of the various tradespersons and painter’s brush and roller to provide fully renovated, timber clad character homes by simply enhancing those typical features of the pre-war homestead or Federation style residence (such as high timber lined ceilings and walls, polished timber floors, timber fret work, ornate plaster and pressed metal ceilings, picture rails and, if fortunate enough to have, lead light windows.
"It is also important that the process of renovating the kitchen and bathrooms is in keeping with the overall ambience of the house.
"For example, a free standing, claw foot bath/shower is a key identifier."
Most of the work is generally carried out for the benefit of the owner-occupier, it noted.
Typically, unrenovated two and three-bedroom timber homes in Girards Hill would be attracting prices from $250,000 to $350,000 whilst the extensively renovated homes could reach the heights of $500,000 to $600,000 depending on land, dwelling size and position (flood free sites especially). Better quality renovations can be of a very high and appealing standard.
"A key point to remember in this particular suburb is to adhere to the Heritage Conservation rules for the local area," the valuer suggested. 
This is there for a reason and is generally accepted by home owners who have a liking for the heritage features and like these to be protected.
In other suburbs, the trend for the majority of renovation works are carried out for the benefit of the owner-occupier with any thought of potential capital gain a secondary consideration to the immediate enjoyment of the property upon its completion.
"Yes...there are renovation projects available for investors throughout Lismore City, Casino and Kyogle.
"However, most of these are heavily dependent upon securing property which is needing some TLC and having a realistic repair or renovation budget in mind. A lot of these rub and buff projects are taken on with a view to buy and hold and increase the rental return...hopefully." the valuer said.
"The notion of house flippers operating in Lismore, Casino and Kyogle is generally limited as any potential gain is unlikely to be overly significant in such a short time frame, unless of course a real bargain can be snapped up, and only the most savvy and equipped investors would capture those well before the general public hears about them.
"Looking into the future, how will this method of property investment and owner occupier acquisition play out? Well.... a dog house is always a prospective palace in the eyes of its owner. The opportunities are there, you just need to sniff them out."
An example was a Girard Hill renovated three-bedroom house which was sold at $405,000 in July (pictured above).
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-girards+hill-128063898" target="_blank">Situated at 3 Showview Street</a>, it comes with three bedrooms, new kitchen and bathroom areas, open plan lounge room and rear deck with views.
It is close to Wyrallah Road shopping centre, golf club and primary and secondary schools.
 <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/10/8/casino.jpg" alt="">
A current listing is a Casino recent renovated home with the price of $265,000 (pictured above).
Set on 829 square metres, the three-bedroom house situated at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-casino-128972474" target="_blank">18 Adam Street</a> features new floor covering, fresh painting in all rooms, modern renovated bathroom and European style laundry. 
The home is located within walking distance to Casino CBD, sporting fields and public transport is just around the corner.
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Renovation opportunities exist throughout Lismore, Kyogle and Casino: HTW

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A new build at 39A Parriwi Road, Mosman is set to be listed with a price guide of $12.5 million.
"It's not even ready yet but I've already got 15 groups waiting to look at it, which is a good sign," Mosman agent Michael Coombs told Fairfax Media recently.
Coombs said demand from buyers for homes over $10 million was outstripping supply, which he estimated had dropped by about 30% since last year.
"The higher the price, the stronger the Mosman market," he said. 
"People have more money and they aren't relying on the banks [for finance]."
The home had featured on the <a href="http://modernistaustralia.com/2014/08/39a-parriwi-rd-mosman-nsw/" target="_blank">ModernistAustralia website</a>.
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Yet to be completed Mosman trophy home listed with $12.5 million hopes

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Private renters, particularly older and low-income households, say uncertainty over their leases and affordability pressures are a major issue in the private rental sector, according to a report released by the Bankwest Curtin Economics Centre (BCEC).
Associate Professor Steven Rowley, from the School of Economics, Finance and Property at Curtin University and author of the one of the reports, said the Australian private rental sector appeared to be delivering quality and affordable housing for most renters, but was failing those on low incomes.
The report also found that for Australians aged 55 and over, 63% are paying more than 30% of their income on rent. 
However some positives were found with dwelling quality generally perceived as good, the relationship between the landlord and tenant often excellent and "strong feelings of home" in the sector.
Of the single parents surveyed, 36% felt they suffered discrimination when applying for a new rental property often having to apply for multiple rental properties before being successful.
"This same group was overwhelmingly the least likely to feel comfortable in their home once they found rental housing,” Rowley said.
These findings are in line with a second report also launched by the BCEC, which found older Australians reported facing a lack of tenure security despite 41% looking to sign long term leases and another 23% open to a lease extension if it was available.
That report which centered on assisting older WA renters was authored by Associate Professor Helen Hodgson, from the Curtin Law School.
“Our research found many older renters have only been in their current home for up to three years with 41% of older Australian renters forced to leave their previous rental property due to factors beyond their control,” Hodgson said. 
“This insecurity is exacerbated by a lack of affordable, and suitable, housing options for older renters, coupled with an inadequacy of the aged pension and Commonwealth Rent Assistance payments.”
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Rental uncertainty and affordability troubling Australian renters

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Three as-new warehouse/office/showroom buildings have been listed for auction in Rockhampton.
Located at 6 Dooley Street, Park Avenue (pictured above), the buildings are leased to two established businesses.
The tenants are Olive &amp; White Cabinet Making.
Plus Rifen Marine, the largest chandlery in Central QLD which is also a Mercury dealership.
They have both signed onto five year leases until July 2023 plus options to 2028.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/10/4/Dooley%201.jpg" alt="">
The tenants will pay outgoings as per the leases and there are CPI annual rent reviews.
The freehold freehold corner site (pictured above) is 2,691 sqm fully concreted and sealed and has on-site parking for 20 vehicles.
The building area is only 930 sqm.
The net income is advised as $172,200 pa + GST.
The auction is set for October 23.
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Rifen Marine warehouse premises listed in Rockhampton

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An overseas based investor has paid $5.4 million to secure a Northshore development site.
It comes with an extensive holding income.
The 15 Curtin Avenue West premises were sold by Shaw Harrison, Robert Dunne and Will Carman of Savills.
Harrison said the campaign attracted 128 interested parties resulting in 11 offers. 
“We had particular interest with a number of groups that are prepared to land bank and prepare themselves for the next cycle.
"Core located sites with holding income, make this decision much easier."
Harrison added that traditionally an industrial location, Northshore Hamilton is currently being transformed and revitalised into one of Brisbane’s best in class mixed use precincts.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/10/8/Curtin%20whist.jpg" alt="">
Executive Commercial Sales Will Carman who introduced the buyer said that the international investor was drawn to the property because of the impressive development upside potential. 
“With an existing overlay for up to eight levels of development which would include residential, retail and commercial space it was an opportunity they weren’t prepared to miss,
“The buyer was in town for the week and was keen to transact before they flew home which resulted in us achieving a cash unconditional offer which was a great outcome,” Mr Carman said. 
The 4,641sq m site has strong holding income of $208,955 per annum.
It is currently surrounded by other major development projects which include Frasers Property, Shayher Group, and Multiplex and Brookfield Properties.  
The property is currently leased with an industrial land lease in place and also benefits from additional income from a telecommunications tower situated at the rear of the site.
Carman said the buyer has no immediate plans for the property, but have significant plans in the long term. 
The Northshore Hamilton area has witnessed a significant transformation in recent years, taking the precinct from an industrial hub to a community set to house over 15,000 people.  
The precinct is experiencing rapid growth with the inclusion of McDonalds, Woolworths and Eat Street.
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Savills secure offshore investor for $5.4 million Northshore, Brisbane site

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The Hotel Gracelands in Parkes, NSW has been listed for sale.
Located at 7-9 Bushman Street, Parkes is the Hotel Gracelands as well as IKON, a restaurant and wine bar.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/10/4/Grace2.JPG" alt="">
They are currently under a 30 year lease until 2044 plus options until 2064 with annual rent increases to greater of CPI or 3%.
The hotel has 20 appointed rooms plus had DA approval which has since lapsed for 30 additional rooms.
They are reported as having "high level of repeat corporate clientele."
The net income for the property is $191,336 plus GST and the tenants pay all outogings.
In 2014 the property sold for $2 million.
The auction is set for October 23.
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Parkes' Hotel Gracelands for sale

A who's who of Australian surfing, business and entertainment has emerged on title records following the completion of Esprit Rainbow Bay, the latest boutique beachfront apartment development by former professional surfer Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects.

The completed project has attracted an enviable collection of owners, many with long-standing ties to the southern Gold Coast and the surf culture that has helped define Rainbow Bay and neighbouring Kirra for generations.

Given Gedoun's own background in surfing, it perhaps comes as little surprise that some of Australia's most recognisable surfers have chosen to buy into the development overlooking one of the country's most celebrated stretches of coastline.

Pezet Matheson directors Jayde Pezet and Todd Matheson launched the project in late 2021, and have managed the sales campaign all the way through to its sell-out and recent completion.

<img alt="Esprit" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="08fc6261-b84e-4b09-8a44-66d3067fd0d1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-29%20at%208.51.05%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=4AOcb6ETZwNUnMPdTtz1B3pZAIB_jgZ2" />

Former world champion Mick Fanning, who grew up in Coolangatta, secured an apartment in 2023. He paid&nbsp;$2.07 million. Last year he sold his Bilinga home for over $16 million.

Three-time world champion Joel Parkinson also purchased in the development, alongside big wave surfer Mark Mathews. Mathews bought the most expensive apartment in the building, spending just over $4 million.

Joining them is Rip Curl founder Doug Warbrick, whose company helped shape Australia's global surfing industry over the past five decades.

The appeal of Rainbow Bay has extended well beyond the surfing community.

International DJ Paul Fisher purchased an apartment through his investment vehicle, YLB Developments, an abbreviation of his trademark phrase "You Little Beauty".

The purchase comes as Fisher and his wife Chloe are developing their own luxury apartment project further north in Palm Beach. Their boutique beachfront development, Pescado, comprises just seven apartments on Jefferson Lane, which start from just shy of $6 million. The couple intend to retain the two-level penthouse as their Australian base between international touring commitments.

Melbourne Storm coach Craig Bellamy and his wife Wendy have also invested in Esprit, purchasing two apartments after spending decades holidaying on the southern Gold Coast. They also have a luxury apartment in Joe Adsett's Rockpool, less than 400m away from Esprit.

<h2>Boutique project draws owner-occupiers</h2>

Esprit launched in 2021 and sold strongly, with buyers drawn to its boutique scale, beachfront position and contemporary design.

The completed development comprises 94 apartments across 11 levels, offering expansive floorplans designed primarily for owner-occupiers rather than the investor market.

Crowning the building is Club Esprit, pitched as being the Gold Coast's first residential rooftop wellness centre. The roof features a&nbsp;25 metre magnesium lap pool, which is surrounded by wet daybeds and poolside cabanas,&nbsp;multiple barbecue areas,&nbsp;a yoga and relaxation play lawn, and a private dining room with a kitchen scullery, bar, lounges, and an outdoor terrace.

The wellness centre is&nbsp;fully equipped with a Technogym, ice bath, infra-red sauna, steam room, thermal room, and treatment room. The roof has views spanning&nbsp;Rainbow Bay, Snapper Rocks and the Pacific Ocean.

<h2>S&amp;S Projects continues to shape Rainbow Bay</h2>

S&amp;S Projects founder Paul Gedoun has become one of the key figures behind Rainbow Bay's evolution over the past several years.

After establishing S&amp;S Projects, Gedoun has focused on delivering lifestyle-driven apartment developments designed primarily for owner-occupiers seeking a permanent coastal home.

Esprit is Gedoun's third completed project in Rainbow Bay, following Flow and Awaken, both of which achieved record prices for the suburb.

He is now delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/radia-rainbow-bay-271-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Radia Rainbow Bay</a>, a 38-apartment development on Boundary Street that is currently selling, and has no plans to leave the precinct anytime soon. S&amp;S Projects has also lodged plans for its fifth Rainbow Bay development, an 88-apartment project on Boundary Street featuring a strong wellness focus.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-s-s-projects-proposes-88-apartment-wellness-tower-at-coolangattas-boundary-street">First look: S&amp;S Projects proposes 88-apartment wellness tower at Coolangatta's Boundary Street</a>

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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Joel Robinson

Who's who of buyers revealed as Esprit Rainbow Bay settles

Nature Based Cities (NBC), the not-for-profit organisation focused on improving biodiversity and nature outcomes in urban development, has launched its latest industry design guidelines and accreditation framework, this time targeting precinct-scale residential communities.

The move extends NBC’s influence beyond its initial focus on medium and high-density residential developments. Several projects have already achieved NBC accreditation since the launch of its Medium &amp; High-Density Residential Guidelines in early 2025.

The expansion into masterplanned communities and new residential precincts reflects the growing need for stronger nature-positive benchmarks as Australia’s outer suburban growth corridors continue to expand at pace.

Paul Hameister OAM, NBC Founder and the Executive Chairman of Melbourne developer Hamton who itself leans heavily into nature and biodiversity in its developments, says the&nbsp;nature-first approach to mitigate the effects of climate change has become standard in other parts of the world such as the UK, but Australia is lagging.&nbsp;Australia’s environmentally sustainable design (ESD) rating tools have no minimum mandatory requirements for living landscapes.

“We’ve always wanted to do more, and we know other developers who want to do more, but the ESD rating tools just aren’t there,” Hameister says. “In Australia, you can have a five-green-star rated building that’s concrete and glass with not a blade of grass. 
 
“The focus is on reducing emissions, which is laudable, but there hasn’t been enough attention paid to protecting and re-establishing nature. We need both for the health of the environment and for communities.”

He says that having now&nbsp;made good progress in supporting developers of medium and high-density residential projects, NBC is now looking to bolster better nature-based decision-making and recognise developers of greenfield projects in the outer ring and large inner-ring brownfield precincts, who want to champion nature and living landscape as a defining feature.

Since 2022, the not-for-profit has sought to remove the roadblocks preventing developers from incorporating nature and living landscapes into their projects, shifting the conversation from the reduction of emissions and grey infrastructure, toward recognising nature as an essential infrastructure.

The New Communities Design Guidelines and Scorecard arm developers with the tools needed to deliver a nature positive outcome for their new communities. Intended to be adopted at the outset of the planning process, the guidelines are designed to help create communities that are cooler, healthier and more resilient while also enhancing social wellbeing and long-term economic value.&nbsp;

New Communities developers seeking accreditation will be independently assessed across a range of key criteria including ecology, tree canopy, biodiversity, and walkability. Once the masterplan is complete and submitted for approval, the scorecard is formalised based on proposed outcomes. Projects that meet the NBC criteria will receive either Commended or Exemplary accreditation outcomes, creating a clear benchmark for nature-positive new communities in Australia.&nbsp;

Janis Fischer, Director at Tract and NBC Advisory Council member, said the development of new communities in our suburbs can have a substantial impact on nature and biodiversity.

"By incorporating nature-based design principles at the inception of a project, developers and their design teams can achieve nature positive outcomes that are good for both people and the planet.’’&nbsp;

NBC accredited New Community projects will gain access to NBC branding and marketing tools to help communicate their nature-based credentials to purchasers and the broader market.&nbsp;

Nature Based Cities: A new Australian benchmark for developing nature-positive new communities

Apartment buildings are increasingly being designed around how people actually live day to day, not just how they want a building to look.

For buyers, that shift is showing up in practical inclusions that respond to changing habits. Work-from-home spaces, EV charging, wellness amenities, secure bike storage and parcel management are becoming part of the broader apartment conversation, reflecting a move toward buildings that reduce friction in everyday life.

Online shopping has become one of the clearest examples of that change.

Australians spent a record $82.6 billion online in 2025, with nearly one in four retail dollars now spent online. That has made parcel delivery a regular part of apartment living, rather than an occasional inconvenience.

For apartment residents, however, the delivery process can be less straightforward than it is for detached homes. Parcels may be left in lobbies, redirected to Post Offices, missed entirely, or placed under the responsibility of building managers and concierge teams.

That is why secure parcel infrastructure is increasingly being considered alongside more familiar apartment amenities.

<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/-VjjLwoViX0?si=A3k7ws9NX35Uac7_" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Australia Post Parcel Lockers offer one way to address the issue. When a parcel arrives, residents receive a notification through the AusPost app or SMS, then collect it using a QR code or one-time PIN. The parcel is kept secure, accessible and removed from common areas.

The broader Parcel Locker network now includes more than 1,500 locations across Australia, positioned at Post Offices, shopping centres, supermarkets, transport hubs and other accessible locations.

For new apartment projects, the relevance is clear. A building’s amenity offering is no longer only about lifestyle spaces, but also about convenience, security and functionality.

As buyer expectations evolve, secure parcel delivery is becoming part of the same design conversation as flexible working, sustainable transport and resident wellbeing.

It is one less thing for residents to worry about, and another example of apartment design adapting to the way Australians now live.

Apartment design is adapting to the way Australians shop

While school holidays and trips to Europe tend to define the winter property market, there's been no cold snap at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-walden-north-sydney-177-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">The Walden</a> in North Sydney.

Developer-builder&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/aland">ALAND</a> sold more than $35 million worth of apartments throughout June, including a $6.8 million apartment that now ranks among the highest apartment sales ever recorded in North Sydney.

SRM Residential agent Ben Stewart said buyer demand throughout June reflected a mix of improving market confidence and longer-term thinking from owner-occupiers.

"We're seeing strong demand from owner-occupiers who are taking a longer-term view," Stewart said.

"Many recognise the opportunity to secure an apartment in an iconic building and premium location while values remain attractive. They may initially lease the property, but the intention is to eventually move in themselves, rather than purchasing purely as an investment."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=367129]

Located at 177 Walker Street, The Walden will deliver 161 one, two, three and four-bedroom residences across a 30-storey tower designed by Rothelowman. Every apartment occupies a corner position, maximising natural light, cross ventilation and views across Sydney Harbour, the Opera House, Sydney Heads and the northern districts.

Rather than a traditional balcony, the residences feature winter gardens that seamlessly extend the open plan living areas, creating versatile spaces for relaxing or entertaining throughout the year. Floor-to-ceiling glazing draws in natural light while showcasing sweeping views from the building's elevated Walker Street position.

Every apartment features high-end Calacatta marble, bespoke joinery, and fully integrated appliances.

The larger residences have been planned with distinct entertaining and private zones, with many master suites positioned on corners to capture natural light and harbour views. Walk-in dressing rooms, freestanding baths and refined stone finishes reinforce the house-like feel that has resonated with downsizers and owner-occupiers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6393]

Rothelowman Principal Ben Pomroy said the project was designed to make the most of its unique position overlooking the harbour.

"The Walden is a celebration of all things beautiful, curated for those who expect nothing less than exceptional," Pomroy says.

"Meticulously designed entertaining spaces and light-filled living areas that capitalise on capturing the natural beauty of Sydney's iconic harbour."

Residents will also have exclusive access to The Pavilion, a dedicated amenity building featuring a rooftop pool, wellness studio, gymnasium, sauna, concierge service, residents' lounge, private dining spaces and work-from-home facilities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6402]

The project marks ALAND's first major luxury apartment development in Sydney's inner-city market after more than two decades delivering residential communities across Greater Sydney.

Founder and CEO Andrew Hrsto previously said the rarity of the Walker Street site made it an opportunity the company could not overlook.

"This is a rare opportunity to bring a truly exceptional project to life in one of Sydney's most iconic locations, and to showcase our craftsmanship and design expertise at a world-class level," Hrsto said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6383]

The Walden has been introduced to the market at a time when demand for living in North Sydney is at an all-time high. Billions of dollars have been invested in infrastructure, including the recently opened Victoria Cross Metro station, located just 300 metres from The Walden, providing residents with direct access to the Sydney CBD in just minutes.

Private investment has also transformed the area through the arrival of new retail and dining destinations, elevating the lifestyle offering in what was once considered primarily a commercial precinct rather than an aspirational residential address.

The Walden is currently under construction and is scheduled for completion in 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134323]

ALAND records $35 million in sales in North Sydney as The Walden bucks quiet winter selling season

The long-awaited redevelopment of the former Eastlakes Shopping Centre site has reached a major milestone, with Conquest's plans for a new mixed-use precinct officially placed on public exhibition.

The State Significant Development Application would transform the 1.7-hectare site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/19a-evans-avenue-eastlakes-nsw-2018">19A Evans Avenue</a> into one of Sydney's largest urban renewal projects, delivering 736 apartments above a new shopping centre anchored by Woolworths, alongside specialty retail, dining, commercial space and new public open spaces.

The public exhibition marks the next chapter for the project after <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/conquest">Conquest</a> acquired the stalled Stage Two development from Crown Group, who completed the first stage across the road prior to their voluntary liquidation.

<img alt="First look: Conquest unveils plans for 736-home Eastlakes Shopping Centre redevelopment" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5fca22c5-d1ed-4e2c-8801-03f7df1eafc8" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/eastland%20podium.png?VersionId=uomwr41nF8CmLUZRDcu3mHQechlbxucS" />

&nbsp;

Designed by DKO Architecture, the proposal comprises four residential buildings ranging from 14 to 18 storeys above a two-level retail podium. The development would deliver 736 apartments, including 74 affordable homes, 215 Build-to-Rent apartments and 521 market residences. Provision has also been made for dual-key apartments, which could increase the total number of dwellings to 877.

At ground level, the shopping centre has been designed as the suburb's new meeting place, anchored by a full-line Woolworths and complemented by a curated mix of fresh food retailers, cafés, restaurants, health services and everyday convenience shopping. Generous pedestrian links and landscaped public spaces will connect the retail precinct through to Jack Mundey Reserve, creating a more walkable and connected neighbourhood.

Conquest CEO Michael Akkawi said the redevelopment was about far more than replacing a shopping centre.

"Eastlakes has been overlooked for too long, and this is the community’s moment. We are building a shopping centre and homes, a genuine heart for the suburb, and we genuinely want locals to help shape it."

"We enrich communities through the creation of homes, places, and experiences designed for life, built to last, and owner for generations. That starts with listening, so we warmly encourage everyone with a connection to Eastlakes to view the plans and share their thoughts."

<img alt="First look: Conquest unveils plans for 736-home Eastlakes Shopping Centre redevelopment" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="22f6fb20-54fb-4bd7-8a92-48fafdd00608" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/eastland.png?VersionId=cugp7s9hrMHGJJdYzkeAkrFoQgnF4GXf" />

DKO said the design had been shaped by the site's landscape setting and surrounding open space.

"Our vision for the site embraces its unique Bidjigal identity by blending the residential living with generous landscaping and a material palette inspired by the Bidjigal locality, and celebrating the panoramic views to Botany Bay and the wetlands reserves."

"Taking cues from Country, we seek to harmonise built form with the landscape and lightly touch the earth. By reconnecting, retaining and regenerating existing ecology, and weaving in natural elements, we can deepen our connection to Country."

The landscape strategy extends across the podium and rooftops, incorporating communal gardens, children's play areas, lawns, community gardens, family gathering spaces and extensive tree planting. New landscaped links will also strengthen the connection between the precinct and Jack Mundey Reserve, while publicly accessible open spaces have been integrated throughout the development.

The proposal builds on Conquest's broader placemaking strategy for the site. Through an ongoing partnership, local artist Joe Rashbrook has been appointed Urban Art Curator, working alongside young residents to transform the project's site hoardings into a public art gallery that allows the community to engage with the redevelopment before construction is complete.

Conquest has rapidly expanded its development pipeline since acquiring the Eastlakes site, with more than $6 billion worth of mixed-use projects now in planning across Sydney, including Stanmore, Castlecrag and Waterloo.

Conquest CEO Michael Akkawi said the redevelopment was about far more than replacing a shopping centre.

Staff reporter

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