For most new apartment buildings, the Owners Corporation starts life with little more than a bank account and the first quarterly strata levies.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/9-gay-street-castle-hill-9-gay-street-castle-hill-nsw-2154">9 Gay Street</a> in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/castle-hill-nsw-2154">Castle Hill</a>, it starts with around $7 million in reserve.

It's an unusual legacy of what was once one of Sydney's highest-profile apartment remediation projects. When the development, originally known as Skyview and built by disgraced developer Top Place, came under scrutiny by then NSW Building Commissioner David Chandler, an $11 million remediation bond was negotiated to ensure any building defects could be fully rectified.

The building underwent an 18-month remediation program, during which around $4 million of that bond was spent bringing the building up to the standard it should have been in from the outset.

After extensive inspections, all active rectification orders have been lifted. What's more, around $7.2 million remains secured for the Owners Corporation for the next 15 years.

In a twist few would have predicted, what began as a significant concern for purchasers has left the building with something almost unheard of in the apartment market: a multi-million-dollar financial reserve from day one.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359136]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a> Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said the structure offers buyers a level of certainty that is difficult to replicate.

"The $11 million bond established for the Skyview Castle Hill development represents exceptional value, providing genuine financial security for purchasers," Huxley said.

"Unlike a standard insurance policy, this bond consists of real funds held in trust for the Owners Corporation, offering a tangible layer of protection and added peace of mind."

The apartments themselves have been designed with a focus on practical, contemporary living. Interiors feature Smeg appliances, stone benchtops, tiled living areas, carpeted bedrooms, 2.7-metre ceilings, floor-to-ceiling glazing, and ducted heating and cooling throughout.

Residents also have access to a range of shared amenities, including two rooftop barbecue areas, a swimming pool, children's playgrounds, secure building access, storage cages, and visitor parking.

The location continues to be one of the project's strongest drawcards. Castle Hill Metro Station sits virtually on the doorstep, providing direct connections across Sydney's expanding Metro network, while Castle Towers offers extensive retail, dining, entertainment, and service amenities within walking distance.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359127]

The building, now named after its location at 9 Gay Street, comprises a diverse mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments starting from just under $600,000.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett said demand in the Hills District continues to be driven by buyers seeking convenience and connectivity.

"Interest from both owner-occupiers and investors in Castle Hill remains exceptionally strong, with buyers consistently prioritising developments in close proximity to the Metro station and Castle Towers Shopping Centre," Hamblett said.

"There is a clear trend in the market, with purchasers seeking convenient access to transport and lifestyle amenities that support a seamless, low-maintenance way of living."

On top of the long-term protection afforded by the remaining $7.2 million bond, Equitifund is offering a limited-time stamp duty rebate on selected apartments.

Eligible purchasers can also secure finance options, including a 3.99 per cent two-year variable rate, loan-to-value ratios of up to 90 per cent, and interest-only lending options through EquitiCredit.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=147685]

Joel Robinson

Why this Castle Hill apartment building starts with a $7 million advantage

For much of the past few years, conversations about Australia's property market have centred on the rapid growth seen in Sydney, Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Perth. <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/melbourne-vic-3004">Melbourne</a> has followed a different trajectory.

That relative underperformance is now encouraging some buyers to reassess the city, particularly those willing to look beyond short-term market movements and focus on quality property in established locations, along with the long-term growth prospects of a city expected to overtake Sydney as Australia’s most populous.

John Bekiaris, Research &amp; Market Insights at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Projects by Equitifund</a>, said Melbourne's current position is attracting increasingly sophisticated purchasers.

"Melbourne continues to present one of Australia's strongest long-term investment stories," Bekiaris says.

"While other capital cities have experienced stronger recent growth, that relative underperformance is exactly what's attracting sophisticated counter-cyclical investors."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363268]

Equitifund isn't just commenting on Melbourne's property market, it's investing in it.

The Sydney-headquartered capital partner has taken over the remaining apartments at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/victoriana-melbourne-20-queens-road-melbourne-vic-3004">Victoriana</a>, the recently completed glass-encased development opposite Albert Park Lake in Melbourne's tightly held St Kilda Road precinct.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> and built by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/hickory">Hickory</a>, Victoriana places residents between one of Melbourne's most recognised parklands and the CBD, offering oversized two and three-bedroom apartments aimed at owner-occupiers seeking a genuine alternative to a traditional family home.

The development comprises 232 completed residences alongside a suite of resident amenities, including a 25-metre indoor swimming pool, gymnasium, landscaped entertaining areas, resident lounges, EV charging, secure basement parking and a concierge-style arrival experience.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363229]

The apartments have been designed with owner-occupiers firmly in mind.&nbsp;Open-plan living and dining areas flow onto generous balconies framing views across Albert Park Lake, Fawkner Park, the Royal Botanic Gardens and the Melbourne skyline.

Kitchens feature Gaggenau appliances, stone benchtops and generous preparation space. Bedrooms include built-in robes, while bathrooms feature full-height textured tiling. Hardwood flooring and ducted air conditioning complete residences designed for long-term living.

Rothelowman's architecture takes its cues from the landscape opposite the site. Sweeping horizontal glazing references the movement of Albert Park Lake, while generous balconies and expansive glazing strengthen the connection between the apartments and the surrounding parklands. The result is a building designed to deliver the scale and amenity expected of luxury apartment living, while offering the larger floorplans increasingly sought by owner-occupiers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363284]

The location is one of Victoriana's defining characteristics. Positioned on Queens Road, residents are directly opposite Albert Park Lake and within easy reach of Fawkner Park, the Royal Botanic Gardens, South Melbourne, St Kilda Road and the CBD. With few comparable development opportunities remaining in the precinct, buyers are increasingly placing value on outlooks that are unlikely to be interrupted by future construction.

Greg Huxley, Founder of Equitifund, believes those qualities become even more valuable over time.

"Premium real estate has always rewarded buyers who take a long-term view," Huxley said.

"Victoriana represents the kind of asset that's increasingly difficult to recreate today, particularly in an established location like Queens Road."

He said rising construction costs are also changing the way buyers assess completed developments.

"When you combine an irreplaceable location with thoughtful architecture and premium finishes, you create something that becomes increasingly difficult to reproduce as construction costs continue to rise."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363228]

According to National Sales Director Ben Hamblett, enquiry has been driven largely by Melbourne downsizers and buyers upgrading from smaller apartments.

"Interest in Victoriana continues to build, with strong buyer focus on the larger owner-occupier residences within the development," Hamblett says.

"Enquiry is increasingly driven by local buyers who recognise the rarity of what's on offer: park-facing apartments in an established neighbourhood where new development opportunities are becoming increasingly scarce. At Victoriana, the view is not just a feature; it's an appreciating asset in its own right."

He said interstate enquiry has also strengthened as buyers reassess Melbourne's position within the national property cycle.

"Melbourne currently stands as the most compelling entry point of any major Australian capital, and discerning buyers are beginning to recognise what those who move early always understand: the best opportunities are taken before the price rise confirms them."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=1979]

Why now is the time to buy in Melbourne's premium apartment market

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

Sydney’s property market is known for high prices, competitive bidding, and mounting pressure on first home buyers. But change is on the horizon.

From late 2025, eligible first home buyers in New South Wales will have access to a new federal government initiative aimed at addressing affordability: the Help to Buy Scheme.&nbsp;

<h2>What is the Help to Buy Scheme?</h2>

The program introduces a shared equity model intended to reduce the upfront cost of entering the property market, particularly in high-demand urban areas such as Sydney.

The scheme operates under a shared ownership structure in which the federal government takes an equity stake of up to 40 per cent for new homes, or 30 per cent for existing dwellings. This arrangement allows eligible buyers to significantly reduce their loan size and avoid the added cost of Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI).

Under this model, purchasers can enter the property market with as little as a two per cent deposit, well below the traditional 10 to 20 per cent usually required. The government’s contribution is not a loan but a co-ownership stake in the property. As such, there is no interest or rent charged on its portion.

Because the government’s equity combined with the buyer’s deposit typically meets or exceeds the 20 per cent threshold, LMI does not apply. The remaining balance, generally between 60 and 70 per cent of the property’s value, is financed through a standard home loan with a participating lender.

The government's equity in the property remains in place until the buyer chooses to repay it voluntarily or until the property is sold. Buyers can buy back the government’s share over time, in increments of at least five per cent, depending on their financial situation.

There is no fixed repayment timeline, but the amount to be repaid will be based on the property's market value at the time of repayment, not the original purchase price.

<h2>How do you qualify for the&nbsp;Help to Buy Scheme?</h2>

To qualify for the Help to Buy Scheme, applicants must meet the following conditions:

<ul>
	<li>Be an Australian citizen at least 18 years of age.</li>
	<li>Be a first-home buyer who does not currently own property.</li>
	<li>Intend to live in the property as their primary residence.</li>
	<li>Earn less than $100,000 per year for individuals, or $160,000 for couples.</li>
	<li>Purchase a property within the regional price caps, currently $950,000 in Sydney, though this is expected to rise to approximately $1.3 million ahead of the program’s launch.</li>
</ul>

While the Help to Buy Scheme does not solve affordability challenges across the board, it does offer a more accessible pathway for a defined segment of the market, particularly younger buyers with moderate incomes who have been priced out of traditional lending routes.

The scheme is expected to commence in NSW in late 2025, as part of a national rollout.

Under the new model, purchasers can enter the property market with as little as a two per cent deposit, well below the traditional 10 to 20 per cent usually required

Help to Buy Scheme: What first home buyers in NSW need to know

The First Home Owners Grant (FHOG) is a government initiative designed to help eligible first-time home buyers by offering financial assistance towards the purchase or construction of a new home.

While the FHOG is a nationwide program, it is administered separately by each state and territory, meaning the eligibility criteria, grant amounts, and property requirements can vary depending on your location. This means that the amount available and the conditions attached to the grant will differ, so it is important to check the specific guidelines for your state or territory.

It’s important to note that the FHOG is just one of several incentives available to first home buyers. In most states and territories, the grant is not linked to stamp duty exemptions or concessions, with the exception of the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). The FHOG is typically a one-off payment, reducing the overall cost of purchasing or building a new home before any stamp duty concessions are applied.

Below, we provide a breakdown of the First Home Owner Grants available across Australia, outlining the specific details for each state and territory.

<h2>New South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes valued up to $600,000. For land purchases and owner-builders, the threshold extends to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Benefits: Provides full stamp duty exemption for homes valued up to $800,000, with concessions available for properties up to $1 million.

<h2>Victoria South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Provides a $10,000 grant for first-home buyers purchasing or building new homes valued up to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Benefits: Offers full stamp duty exemption for properties up to $600,000, with concessions available up to $750,000.

<h2>Queensland First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers $30,000 for contracts signed between 20 November 2023 and 30 June 2025. The FHOG applies to new homes valued up to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Concessions: Provides additional concessions for properties valued up to $800,000.

<h2>Western Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

&nbsp;

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes valued up to $750,000 in the southern regions and up to $1 million in the northern regions.

Stamp Duty Concessions: Available for homes valued up to $600,000 for transactions entered into on or after 9 May 2024.

<h2>Australian Capital Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Replaced by the Home Buyer Concession Scheme, offering full stamp duty concessions for eligible buyers.

<h2>South Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Provides up to $15,000 for new homes, including houses, apartments, and townhouses. As of 6 June 2024, there is no property value cap for eligibility.

Stamp Duty Relief: Available for new homes and vacant land purchases.

<h2>Tasmania First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes and off the plan purchases.

Stamp Duty Exemption: Between 18 February 2024 and 30 June 2026, first home buyers of established homes valued up to $750,000 receive a full exemption on property transfer duty.

<h2>Northern Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: The Northern Territory provides a $10,000 grant for new homes only. Additional government grants and concessions are available for first home buyers.

Stamp Duty Exemption: The only stamp duty exemption available to property buyers is the House and Land Package Exemption (HLPE).

Eligibility criteria and application processes differ across states. Prospective buyers should refer to their respective state revenue offices for full details on grant availability, conditions, and additional concessions.

Every First Home Owner Grant for new property by state

In the ever-evolving landscape of sustainable architecture and environmentally conscious design, systems and ratings in place can help determine the energy efficiency of residential buildings in Australia.

Australia has multiple building rating systems that evaluate energy efficiency and sustainability in existing and new building designs.

Some systems assess individual building components, while others provide an overall rating for the entire structure.

A rating system ensures that homes are comfortable and energy-efficient, whether you are buying, renovating, or building.

NatHERS (Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme) is a common way for new homes to meet energy efficiency requirements.

As new developments continue to shape the urban environment, understanding NatHERS ratings becomes essential for developers and homeowners. This article delves into the concept of NatHERS ratings, their significance, and how they contribute to creating energy-efficient homes.

<h2>What is NatHERS?</h2>

NatHERS is a national initiative implemented by the Australian government to promote energy efficiency in residential buildings. The scheme aims to provide a standardised method for assessing the thermal performance of homes, considering factors such as insulation, orientation, ventilation, and building materials.&nbsp;

NatHERS ratings are the most common way new homes meet the National Construction Code's (NCC's) minimum energy efficiency requirements.&nbsp;

NatHERS assessments provide thermal and whole-home ratings for new homes, townhouses, and apartments.

The rating helps evaluate the energy performance of buildings, guides homeowners and developers to make informed decisions about the energy efficiency of their properties, and encourages the construction of more sustainable, comfortable, and cost-effective homes.

<h2>How NatHERS Ratings Work</h2>

NatHERS ratings are determined through four accredited software tools (AccuRate, BERS Pro, FirstRate5, HERO) using a calculation engine CSIRO developed to predict building temperature based on various factors.

The tools can model complex effects of building mass, insulation, window size, and other elements.

The outcome is a star rating that reflects the building's overall thermal efficiency, indicating how well it can maintain a comfortable indoor temperature without excessive reliance on heating or cooling systems.

The star rating scale ranges from 0 to 10, with a 6-star rating being the minimum requirement for compliance with the National Construction Code (NCC).&nbsp;

Achieving a higher star rating demonstrates a commitment to energy efficiency and sustainability, as the building is better equipped to minimise its environmental impact and reduce long-term energy costs.

Anyone can use NatHERS tools, but accredited assessors can provide certified ratings and professional advice.

<h2>Benefits of Higher NatHERS Ratings</h2>

Energy Efficiency: Buildings with higher NatHERS ratings are more energy-efficient, requiring less heating and cooling energy. This reduces the structure's carbon footprint and lowers occupants' energy bills.

Cost Savings: Homes with higher NatHERS ratings are generally more energy-efficient, resulting in reduced energy consumption for heating and cooling. This translates to lower energy bills for homeowners, making sustainable living environmentally friendly and economically viable in the long run.

Environmental Impact: Lower energy consumption directly translates to a reduced environmental impact. Buildings with higher NatHERS ratings contribute to the overall goal of mitigating climate change by lowering greenhouse gas emissions associated with heating and cooling systems.

Improved Comfort: Buildings with high NatHERS ratings offer better thermal comfort to occupants. Proper insulation, well-designed ventilation, and optimal orientation maintain a consistent and comfortable indoor temperature, providing occupants with a more enjoyable and healthier space.

Market Value and Desirability: Higher NatHERS ratings can enhance the market value of a property. As energy efficiency becomes a more significant consideration for homebuyers, a well-rated building may attract a premium price and stand out in the real estate market.

Compliance with Building Codes: NatHERS ratings are a vital component of the National Construction Code (NCC), and compliance with these ratings is often a mandatory requirement for new developments. Local councils and planning authorities may set minimum energy efficiency standards that must be met to obtain development approval.

The Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) is a crucial initiative shaping the future of energy-efficient, resilient, and cost-effective homes. With its recent upgrades, NatHERS has evolved into a world-leading tool for the building sector, supporting the global commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

Staff Writer

What is a NatHERS rating in new off the plan apartment developments?

Mixed-use developments have gained significant popularity across Australia in recent years due to their unique blend of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces.

Unlike traditional single-purpose developments, mixed-use projects offer a harmonious integration of various functions within a single locale.

Residential units seamlessly coexist with commercial establishments, retail outlets, dining venues, entertainment hubs, and recreational facilities, with the combination not only enhances convenience but also fosters a vibrant lifestyle and a sense of community.

<h3>Convenience and accessibility</h3>

Mixed-use developments are designed with convenience in mind. They often integrate residential units with commercial spaces, retail outlets, restaurants, and recreational facilities, creating a self-contained community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114215 project_image_fid=204874]

The proximity allows residents to enjoy the convenience of having essential amenities and services within walking distance. Whether it's grabbing a cup of coffee, going grocery shopping, or accessing healthcare services, everything is conveniently located, saving residents time and effort.

<h3>Vibrant lifestyle and community</h3>

One of the major advantages of mixed-use developments is the vibrant lifestyle they offer. With a diverse range of amenities and communal spaces, residents have ample opportunities to interact, socialise, and build a sense of community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107714 project_image_fid=214122]

The presence of parks, community centres, and shared spaces fosters a lively atmosphere, encouraging residents to engage in various activities and events. The vibrant lifestyle within these developments creates a unique sense of belonging and camaraderie among the residents.

<h3>Potential for higher rental yields and property value appreciation</h3>

Mixed-use developments tend to attract a broad range of tenants and buyers due to their versatile nature. This high demand can result in higher rental yields for investors and potentially lead to property value appreciation over time.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139989 project_image_fid=212887]

The integration of commercial and retail spaces attracts businesses, which can provide a stable rental income stream. Additionally, the popularity of mixed-use developments often drives up property values, making them a potentially lucrative investment in the long term.

<h3>Enhanced security and maintenance</h3>

Mixed-use developments typically have comprehensive security measures in place. With controlled access points, CCTV surveillance, and professional security staff, residents can enjoy enhanced safety and peace of mind.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108019 project_image_fid=212658]

Additionally, these developments often have dedicated maintenance teams responsible for the upkeep of common areas, landscaping, and infrastructure. This ensures that the overall appearance and functionality of the development are well-maintained, creating a pleasant living environment for residents.

<h3>Live-work-play balance</h3>

One of the key attractions of mixed-use developments is the ability to achieve a desirable live-work-play balance. The integration of residential and commercial spaces allows residents to live closer to their workplaces, reducing commuting time and improving work-life balance.

The proximity to various amenities and recreational facilities encourages an active and healthy lifestyle. Residents can easily access fitness centres, parks, restaurants, and entertainment options, all within the same development, leading to a more fulfilling and convenient way of life.

alisonwarters@gmail.com

The top five reasons to buy in a mixed-use development

When buying a property, everyone needs to be aware of the additional costs that come as part of the buying process.

Often the largest outlay, after the deposit which goes to the bank, is stamp duty.

<h2 style="line-height: 1.38;">What is Stamp Duty?</h2>

Stamp duty is an extra tax to pay the government when you buy land, a property, and other certain assets.

It happens when the legal ownership is transferred. It can also be known as property transfer duty or transfer duty.

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<h2>Who pays Stamp Duty?</h2>

In some circumstances, you may get an exemption. For some states, you won’t have to pay for stamp duty if you are a first home buyer or a pensioner for houses under a particular price. There are also stamp duty concessions, where you may be entitled to a discount.

<h2>How much does Stamp Duty cost?</h2>

Each state has different rules which affect how much you need to pay. These rules can affect the rate you pay, and the timeframe you will need to pay in. Before you buy land or a property, make sure you check the up-to-date information for your state’s stamp duty.

You can use a free stamp duty calculator online to see approximately how much you’ll need to pay. Find out if you’re eligible for an exemption by enquiring on a project via Urban!

Overall, the stamp duty you need to pay will depend on:

<ul>
	<li aria-level="1">How much your land/property is worth</li>
	<li aria-level="1">Where your land/property is located</li>
	<li aria-level="1">What type of land/property it is</li>
</ul>

Want to find out more? <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@UrbanAustralia?utm_source=YouTube&amp;utm_medium=Video&amp;utm_campaign=Subscribe&amp;utm_id=Subscribe">Subscribe to our YouTube channel</a> for more property videos.

Ellen Walker

Off-the-plan property explained: What is stamp duty?

The boutique Sydney developer Fiducia is set to launch its latest apartment collection to the market, an exclusive range of 12 Mediterranean-inspired residences in the heart of the Sutherland Shire.

Callista, derived from the Greek word for ‘most beautiful’, is positioned in one of Cronulla’s most intimate beachside neighbourhoods, with the apartments featuring design pieces hand selected from the European coastline.

<img alt="Render of the proposed Cronulla apartment project, Callista" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="971c72a3-78b0-4b10-95f3-c7fff712aba7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/LAANSTUDIOS_S010_HERO_FINAL2500%20V2.jpg?VersionId=UC4ED_IrEFlgpyOD2FXCH11V.BNAbAQ0" />

Two, three and four-bedroom apartments are on offer on, with the apartments extending onto either lush garden courtyards or balconies, with the four-bedder dwellings on the higher levels benefitting from ocean views. &nbsp;

Fiducia’s Development Director, Marie Doyle, said the group have long had a love and history of delivering boutique costal apartments, with it only being a matter of time until they developed in Cronulla.

“Callista offers something for a range of buyers from young professionals, downsizers with a love for beachside proximity or locals simply seeking an upgrade in living," Doyle said.

Prices begin at $2.2 million for a two-bedroom courtyard apartment, ranging up to $7.3 million for the four-bedroom penthouse.

<img alt="Render inside one of the proposed Cronulla apartments at, Callista" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b7a37ff6-3f12-47fa-b2fb-937edf0c4cb2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/LAANSTUDIOS_4.01%20PENTHOUSE%20LIVING_FINAL2500.jpg?VersionId=Jt3F5AQE1E7jvhEFJVmZLoSQmqTvhqK6" />

Fiducia have appointed interior designer Chloe Matters to handle the interiors of the apartments, which are designed by local architects Peter Courvaras.

“We wanted to bring together an organic palette rich in texture with elements of rustic stone, natural whites and materials that conjured up that effortless feeling of summer on the Mediterranean coast,” Doyle added.

Callista will also offer residents a communal pool, barbecue area, outdoor shower and surfboard racks.

Highland has been appointed as the exclusive selling agent on the project. Highland CEO David Highland saying the project will set a new benchmark for luxury in apartment living in Cronulla.

<img alt="Render of the proposed Cronulla apartment project, Callista" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a93da543-d87b-474a-b198-011ae877fa76" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/LAANSTUDIOS_COMMUNAL%20AREA_FINAL2500.jpg?VersionId=R4cBZa4EwuzafpZl3VKM6h5XmTocnXsb" />

“With an obvious nod to European design and styling not seen before in Cronulla, Callista will offer buyers something very special and unique," Highland said.

"I’m excited to see Fudicia’s new project come to life."

Established in 2004, Fiducia has completed over 700 residences to date, picking up a string of awards along the way, including from the Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA NSW), Housing Industry Australia (HIA), and REINSW.

Fiducia set to launch luxury Cronulla apartment project, Callista 

Urban regeneration is one of the key drivers in how our cities are shaped.

Urban regeneration, or an urban renewal project, turns disused&nbsp;land or an&nbsp;uninhabited building into something that will positively change to the local community, providing both&nbsp;economic and social benefits. Often, they involve the creation of new dwellings that reinvigorate an established suburb, providing a different kind of offering the suburb hasn&#39;t seen before.

Barangaroo is one of the most well known across Sydney, which has seen a stretch of 22 hectares that was once the hub of Sydney&#39;s maritime activity transformed into a world renowned destination with the country&#39;s most expensive apartments, as well as office towers,&nbsp;a string of high end restaurants, and Crown&#39;s recently signed off VIP casino.

Aras Labutis, Head of Urban Transformation at Sydney developer Coronation Property, says an urban regeneration project is not a simplistic application of density.

&quot;Urban regeneration projects typically&nbsp;consider the historical context of the site and incorporate more open space and public amenity such as food and retail offerings,&rdquo; Labutis says.

&quot;In addition to prospective buyers, the planning of these projects considers the wider community from the outset with the integration of public and recreational amenity you&rsquo;re less likely to find in single &nbsp;tower-style developments.

&quot;Urban regeneration projects are as much about creating new places for residents to live and work as they are about improving the lifestyle experience of locals and visitors.&rdquo;

Labutis notes that an urban regeneration project requires a developer to consider many different disciplines at a much larger scale - like how to provide substantial utility infrastructure to the location, site preparation&nbsp;works that often comprise of re-purposing industrial or environmentally sensitive land to suit a new mixed-use, and the economic consideration of a longer duration to deliver the final development.

Coronation Property&#39;s first urban regeneration project was the Paper Mill precinct, which was designed to unlock the Georges River foreshore and re-establish the city of Liverpool by transforming an underutilised parcel of industrial land into a vibrant residential and community destination that combined public amenity, architecture, design, and retail.

<img alt="" height="1080" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/tpm_building_a_aerial.jpg" width="1620" />

The revered international design teams of both Woods Bagot and SJB worked on the 15 hectare project, on land which previously homed a cottage built for a convict ship captain in the 1790s. Before it became Australia&#39;s first paper mill precinct in 1868, the site was a tent hospital for soldiers and convicts. After the paper mill closed, the main building became a wool mill, before being used for the servicing of cars.

&quot;The curation of open space and retail components in an urban regeneration development are meticulously planned as there is more spatial freedom to create a lifestyle experience,&quot; Labutis added. Coronation was able to adaptively re-use The Paper Mill building, one of the only surviving early-20th-century industrial buildings in Liverpool.

&quot;The repurposed heritage mill building pays homage to its heritage through the provision of the original brickwork, a distinctive saw-toothed roof, exposed ceilings, and concrete flooring.&quot; The 1,800 sqm building now homes The Paper Mill Food, which has become one of Western Sydney&#39;s most popular food hotspots with a number of eateries within the building.

The food precinct received recognition as a finalist in the Urban Renewal category at the 2020 UDIA NSW Awards for Excellence.&nbsp;Coronation purposefully retained the asset,&nbsp;to ensure they had a stake in the future of the development.

Labutis says to get an urban regeneration project right, the developer needs to combine a balance of vision, creativity, and realism in their desire to regenerate a large urban precinct.

&quot;Developers need to have a solid technical plan and the tenacity to allow for the many different facets of the project&rsquo;s delivery. Everything from the development of the asset on the land through to the commissioning of the project needs to be considered.&rdquo;

Construction began on The Papermill Precinct&#39;s first two residential buildings, of six in total, back in 2015. The fully integrated property developer, who manage everything from site acquisition and planning through to design, construction, sales, leasing and property management, is ready to put the final touches to the project, with the looming completion&nbsp;of The George&#39;s Riverwalk, which Labutis says with a&nbsp;viewing platform&nbsp;and&nbsp;pedestrian pathway&nbsp;is comparable&nbsp;to&nbsp;the famous Bondi to Bronte walk.

<img alt="" height="1080" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/tpm_building_a_pool.jpg" width="1620" />

The Riverwalk currently starts at Casula Powerhouse Museum and is set to finish at Liverpool&#39;s Lighthorse Park.

Labutis said&nbsp;Liverpool and Western Sydney have long been forgotten for projects like The Paper Mill precinct, which now homes nearly 900 completed apartments.

&quot;We collaborated with the most distinguished architects and interior designers in the industry to develop and build high-quality, high-design residences, crafted especially for the diverse lifestyles of our buyers and the wider Liverpool community&rdquo;

&ldquo;We set out to deliver a heritage-inspired precinct of the highest design standards, with landscaping and amenities to not only provide a home and social spaces for residents, but also a vibrant new destination for Liverpool.&rdquo;

Coronation Property's first urban regeneration project was the Paper Mill precinct, which was designed to unlock the Georges River foreshore and re-establish the site’s importance to the city of Liverpool



The importance of urban regeneration in Sydney's west

New South Wales property developer Anson Group has filed plans to create a near 200-apartment, four-building project in Sydney's Kensington.

Anson Group, who also have a high-rise apartment tower planned for St Leonards, are behind the $103 million mini-masterplan project across&nbsp;77-103 Anzac Parade and 59A-71 Boronia Street.

The four buildings vary in height from four levels on Boronia Lane to nine levels fronting Anzac Parade and will be anchored by a supermarket and further retail lining&nbsp;a new through-site access between Anzac Parade and Boronia Street.

<a href="/new-apartments/77-103-anzac-parade-59a-71-boronia-street-kensington"><img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="462" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-08-09_at_8.51.47_pm.png" width="700" /></a> 
The view from Anzac Parade south toward Building D. Image credit: BVN Architects

The scale, density and design of the proposal is consistent with the vision of the Randwick DCP to transform the Anzac Parade corridor, within which the site is identified as an ‘opportunity site’ adjacent the Kensington Town Centre, architecture firm BVN noted in their design statement submitted to the Randwick Council.

BVN have used brick for the striking facade for the buildings, but with one of the buildings a lighter brick colour.

The majority of the development will be two-bedrooms, with 140 (71%) the owner-occupier, first home buyer and investor friendly type of stock. There will be 33 one-bedroom apartments (17%) and 24 three-bedroom apartments (12%),

<a href="/new-apartments/77-103-anzac-parade-59a-71-boronia-street-kensington"><img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="515" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-08-09_at_8.51.55_pm.png" width="1048" /></a> 
A view east of the through-site link from Boronia Street. Image credit: BVN Architects

Due to the site's sloped topography and deep footprint, the architectural response was to design four&nbsp;duplex units along the north-west corner of Boronia Street.

The lower courtyards provide privacy and a large private open space for the bedrooms on the lower levels, while the living spaces above maintain visual connection with Boronia Street.

The integrated developer and builder TOGA are currently selling their Anzac Parade, Kensington project down the road nearer Randwick Race Course.

They've seen early success at the project, aptly named The Kensington, which will deliver&nbsp;142 apartments above a mix of commercial and retail at street level.

Turner Studio has designed the $59 million project at 137-151 Anzac Parade, having handled TOGA's popular mixed-use Marrickville precinct, Wicks Place, which is around 50 per cent sold.

&nbsp;

Anson Group, who also have a high-rise apartment tower planned for St Leonards, are behind the $103 million mini-masterplan project across 77-103 Anzac Parade and 59A-71 Boronia Street

First look: Anson Group plot mixed-use Kensington development

Inspired by the lush, green landscape of Newlands Park, Audrey has been crafted and inspired by the timeless classicism of New York.

Each of the communal spaces within Audrey have been designed as an extension of the homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110379 project_image_fid=198678]

Taking inspiration from luxury resorts around the world, Audrey delivers a number of curated communal spaces set to imbue a grand hotel experience.

The expansive skygarden terrace benefits from views across the Sydney skyline and beyond, complete with wood-panelled lounges and dining space, surrounded by lush verdant landscaping.

Audrey also includes a pool and spa, a training studio, a private dining room, a music room, and a resident’s cinema.

Hyecorp's Head of Sales, George Benlian says the building was designed with a work-from-home importance, which then extended into the amenity offering at Audrey.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110379 project_image_fid=198679]

"Audrey, St Leonards offers its residents a level of luxury amenity usually only found in the world's most luxurious hotels,"&nbsp;Benlian said.&nbsp;

With high-level amenity a signature of Hyecorp's, the group believes access to amenity can add value and desirability to a property.&nbsp;

"What sets us apart is our focus on providing for the owner occupier, with amenities being an extension of their homes."

As the importance of offering more than just a pool and a gym within residential projects continues to grow, Benlian says amenities today are crucial for the design of new projects.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110379 project_image_fid=198681]

"As communities are developed with the aim of improving the quality of life of residents, many prospective buyers and investors increasingly aspire to have spaces for activities inside their own domain, both for convenience and the time it saves."

"Amenities provide luxury, but they also save time, the one asset we can’t buy or get back."

"Residents can enjoy hosting a private party within the private dining room, host the world cup on the big screen and have their children practice the flute in the music room without disturbing neighbours or having to worry about if they have the space; momentous occasions and memories are made."

With Hyecorp having a history of giving back to the community, Audrey is also set to include a day care within the building.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110379 project_image_fid=198682]

"The day care is being delivered in partnership with Lane Cove Council as a future asset owned by Lane Cove Council to service the future residents of the St Leonards South precinct," Benlian added.&nbsp;

Designed by renowned local architecture firm, SJB, Audrey delivers&nbsp;84 apartments across its 12 levels on Canberra Avenue.&nbsp;

Comprising a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, the development still has a limited number of each floorplan available, with&nbsp;many of the residences featuring&nbsp;studies or multipurpose rooms.&nbsp;

With floorplans spanning from 61 sqm to 142 sqm, the homes flow seamlessly onto sculpted balconies and terraces, which are home to cascading gardens and planters, enhancing the indoor-outdoor experience, as well as providing sweeping views to the park and Sydney city skyline.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=110379]

Taking inspiration from luxury resorts around the world, Audrey delivers a number of curated communal spaces set to imbue a grand hotel experience.



Inside Hyecorp's amenity-rich St Leonards apartment project, Audrey

With over 15 years development experience across Sydney&#39;s eastern suburbs, RnB Property Group have taken to the sought after Bellevue Hill for their latest project.

Drawing inspiration from the original building&nbsp;which laid claim to the 49 Drumalbyn site before the recent development, Palomar will deliver just&nbsp;eight&nbsp;residences to the&nbsp;prestigious&nbsp;enclave.

RnB say Palomar evokes a timeless romance, with the development curated with&nbsp;Mediterranean-style architecture.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=14891 project_image_fid=203718]

The built form comprises a white brick-finish fa&ccedil;ade, with arched bronze windows encompassing some of the most impressive north harbour aspects.

The residences will include three-bedrooms, with state-of-the-art finishes and a modern Australian sensibility that brings a unique quality of design and luxury to the enviable pocket.

Bathed in northern light, Palomar also incorporates expansive gardens and terraces, featuring floral terrazzo tiles, stone-clad exteriors and lush oasis-inspired landscaping.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=14891 project_image_fid=203721]

Stepping inside Palomar, the interiors are coloured with an earthy palette, complimented with organic textures.

An organic minimalism is featured throughout Palomar&#39;s kitchens, comprising honed limestone bench tops, splashbacks of handmade Spanish tiles, powder-coated white and bronze lattice cabinetry, as well as fully integrated Gaggenau appliances.&nbsp;

Construction is set to wrap up later this year on the boutique&nbsp;project, with 1st City Agent, Yaron Foghel saying the respect the developers and architects have paid to the existing heritage of the building is something that truely sets Palomar apart.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=14891 project_image_fid=203719]

&quot;The design of Palomar, with the&nbsp;white bricks and organic materials really&nbsp;respects&nbsp;the original building design,&quot; he said.

&quot;While they&#39;ve created a brand new building, they&#39;ve kept the same name and overall look of the original building.&quot;

Foghel said they had a number of local downsizers taking up stock at the Bellevue Hill project, along with international buyers from Hong Kong and Singapore.

&quot;We&#39;ve seen high interest particularly from expats, as well as local downsizers&nbsp;who are&nbsp;looking to stay maintain the exclusive&nbsp;eastern suburbs address, while enjoying the luxuries of apartment-style living.&quot;

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=14891]

Mediterranean-inspired apartments set for Bellevue Hill

The latest apartment developments plans in the exclusive Lower North Shore suburb of Neutral Bay are a little different to what is usually lodged.

Local developer WINIM are set to transform a landmark 1905-built&nbsp;duplex at 112-114 Wycombe Road,&nbsp;near&nbsp; the Neutral Bay village.

They've had Rothelowman create&nbsp;the unique design for The Wycombe, which will be a collection of just nine apartments across three levels.

<img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="532" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-08-09_at_8.08.01_am.png" width="1078" /> 
The plans from Wycombe Road. Image credit: Rothelowman

WINIM Managing Director Justin Kuiters says, “As locals, we are committed to adding enduring value to Sydney’s Lower North Shore and passionate about creating the heritage of the future with homes that we would be proud to live in ourselves.”

“This site, which is really right in our own backyard, presents a unique opportunity for us to demonstrate our respect for the architectural character of the area,"&nbsp;Kuiters says.

“Although the existing building is itself not listed as being of heritage significance and has undergone a number of alterations over the years, it is located within the Cre​morne Conservation Area. As such, we’ve worked diligently with Rothelowman to come up with a thoughtful design solution to offer contemporary living that compliments the existing street context.”

<img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="534" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-08-09_at_8.51.50_am_0.png" width="721" /> 
A render of the original and new addition of&nbsp;The Wycombe. Image credit: Rothelowman

“The proposed alterations and additions are purposefully limited primarily to the building interior and the rear of the property. Everything has been carefully considered and is extremely sympathetic in preserving the Federation characteristic elements of the original built form.”

There will be nine apartments on offer, four three-bed apartments, four four-beds, and a single two-bed. The three-bedroom apartments start from 125 sqm of internal space, and the four-bedders from 149 sqm. The top level, full floor penthouse has nearly 210 sqm of internal space, and a further 90 sqm of external terracing.

Rothelowman noted in their design statement submitted to the local council that their design seeks to emulate and respectfully retain the elements of character, before contributing to a new phase in the building's history.

It was initially a residential building when it was created over 115 years ago, before it underwent substantial renovations in the 1970s where it was converted to a convalescent home. A major renovation in the 1990s saw it become a private residence with four units. Most recently the property has been a duplex, before WINIM bought the building earlier this year.

The design response seeks to establish, respond to, and respect the existing character of the 1905-built building.

The original roofline will be reinstated, with the gable roof removed. Rothelowman said the existing character is prioritized.

"Any addition is recessive and does not seek to imitate character. An acknowledgement that any protruding element will be of a distinct difference, but complimentary to character; tying both existing and proposed design elements together," they noted.

<img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="681" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-08-09_at_8.12.39_am.png" width="1413" /> 
A render of the rear addition&nbsp;of&nbsp;The Wycombe. Image credit: Rothelowman

"A contemporary addition draws upon character cues in materiality and proportion to sit comfortably yet contrasting to the existing."

WINIM Development Manager Jessica Duce said the team undertook extensive research and community engagement before the lodgement.

“The feedback has been positive, and we have taken input from multiple consultations with neighbours and with council to achieve something that is in keeping with the residential scale and character of the area," Duce said.

WINIM Managing Director Justin Kuiters says as locals, they are committed to adding enduring value to Sydney’s Lower North Shore

WINIM to redevelop 1905 Neutral Bay building into luxury apartments

Crown Group has been announced the winner of the Urban Taskforce Australia 2022 Development Excellence Awards in the Mixed-Use Development category for its $1 billion master-planned project, The Grand Eastlakes, creating &ldquo;the new east&rdquo;.

Completed in January at the start of the year, Stage One of the development comprises 133 apartments, complete with a rooftop entertaining area and swimming pool, as well as a ground floor shopping centre which is home to 15 retailers, anchored by a large-format Aldi Supermarket, Woolworths Metro, Australia Post and a variety of speciality stores and services.

<img alt="" height="3125" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/ts_14_of_14.jpg" width="5000" />

Chair of the Urban Taskforce Judging Panel, Chris Johnson said The Grand Eastlakes by Crown Group represented an exemplar project in mixed use developments and urban renewal.

&ldquo;It will significantly revitalise this previously overlooked area of Sydney and create immeasurable benefits for the local community, allowing it to better meet the needs of the future forecast population growth,&rdquo; he added.

The entire purpose of The Grand Eastlakes was to breathe new life into an area of Sydney that has largely been missed in the development booms of the east in the past 10 years said Crown Group Chairman and Group CEO Iwan Sunito.

The project comprised a grand vision designed to embrace and enhance the already vibrant Eastlake&rsquo;s culture he added.

&ldquo;Once the entire precinct is complete, it will deliver new public realms for shopping, dining and lifestyle experiences. These will include a rejuvenated parkland adjoining and open-air dining strip, community services such as a medical centre and childcare centre and is positioned to become the new town centre for the area. The new east will be a destination for every convenience, enjoyment and celebration.&rdquo;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7652 project_image_fid=190047]

&ldquo;Crown Group are in constant consultation with the surrounding community as to what their requirements are and attempt to ensure the retail element answers those needs, now and into the future.

&ldquo;Crown Group&rsquo;s investment into the area has seen once stagnant unit sales and prices in the surrounding areas steadily rise over the last six months, and interest in the area from investors has increased significantly also.&rdquo;

Developed on both sides of Evans Avenue in the heart of Eastlakes, the dual-staged master-planned urban renewal project comprises 490 apartments designed by acclaimed architecture practice,&nbsp;fjmt,&nbsp;with two retail precincts on both sides of the project.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7652 project_image_fid=190036]

Stage Two, located on the south side of Evans Ave, is set to commence construction later in the year, consisting of 357 apartments positioned above a sprawling 13,000 sqm three storey ultra-modern shopping centre, designed by Buchan Group, featuring 80 high-end and convenient retail outlets including a full line Woolworths and a contemporary, community town centre including a medical centre and public library.

A new eat street will also offer an array of restaurant and dining options, alongside apartments set across five high-rise buildings.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=7652]

Crown Group takes out Urban Taskforce award for mixed use Precinct The Grand Eastlakes

Rarely does a brand new apartment development come to market in Northbridge in Sydney&#39;s Lower North Shore, more well known for its harbourfront houses and original apartment blocks.

The recent launch of Haven Northbridge however has given buyers an opportunity to secure a brand new apartment in the exclusive suburb on Middle Harbour, the only brand new project on the market in Northbridge.

Developer Blanc Black have had&nbsp;architecture firm 3EM Architects work with&nbsp;interior designer Richards Stanisich&nbsp;and landscaper Dangar Barin Smith to create Haven Northbridge, a collection of just 11 apartments across the road from Shore Playing Fields.

There is a good mix of two and three-bedroom apartments, which either open to a landscaped garden courtyard or deep balconies with brick planter boxes to compliment the architecture.

3EM were inspired by the local nature surrounding the Eastern Valley Way site, in an exclusive haven within Northbridge, which inspired the name.

Blanc Black Director Luke Kim says the collaboration&nbsp;between the revered trio has resulted in simple yet sophisticated residences in Northbridge.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113058 project_image_fid=201941]

Kim says most of the enquiry has come from local downsizers and empty nesters, generally already living in the Lower North Shore.

&quot;The typical scenario is that the downsizer couple have a larger, older house in the Lower North Shore and they are considering downsizing into our apartments because it allows them to stay in the area (in which they love) without compromise to the amenity and high-end living that they are accustomed to but with the added benefit of moving into brand new, boutique residences, which are nestled in a convenient location in the prestigious suburb of Northbridge,&quot; Kim says.

Kim says picking Northbridge was a no brainer. He and his family have lived in Northbridge for a number of years, so he has a deep connection with the area.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113058 project_image_fid=201947]

&quot;We chose&nbsp;Northbridge for our flagship, multi-residential project for the same reason we decided to live here,&quot; Kim says.

The amenity was one of the key drivers, everything from cafes and restaurants, to some of Sydney&#39;s best schools, as well as the&nbsp;Northbridge Golf Course, Northbridge Sailing Club and Northbridge Baths.

Kim says the exclusive suburb offers a good blend of being in close proximity and an easy commute to the CBD, while also feeling like you&#39;re in nature, with the abundance of green open spaces, tree-lined streets,&nbsp;and extensive Sailors Bay and Middle Harbour views.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113058 project_image_fid=201942]

The Eastern Valley Way&nbsp;site was secured last year.

Kim says he said it is rare to find a site with such serenity and amenity, but convenientialy located close to Sydney CBD, North Sydney CBD and Chatswood BD.

&quot;It is a surreal experience to be on site and surrounded by all the greenery, birds and sounds of water trickling down Sailors Bay Creek, when 5-10 mins ago you were passing the busy CBD and crossing Sydney Harbour Bridge,&quot; Kim says.&nbsp;

&quot;We immediately knew that we would be able to create and curate something beyond a typical apartment project by offering a tranquil lifestyle and experience of living amongst nature and the canopy of trees &ndash; every day.

A builder is expected to be appointed in the coming months, with construction slated for the end of 2022. Completed is expected by late 2023 or early 2024.

Blanc Black have an established track record in the commercial and industrial development space, and expect Haven Northbridge to be the first of many multi-residential projects.

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3EM were inspired by the local nature surrounding the Eastern Valley Way site, in an exclusive haven within Northbridge, which inspired the name

Blanc Black launch first apartment development, Haven Northbridge

Bondi Beach's famed Campbell Parade strip, across the road from the beach, is set for a rare new apartment development.

MHN Design Union have designed plans for <a href="/new-apartments/mayfair-bondi-beach-58-campbell-parade-bondi-beach">Mayfair</a>, a $7.8 million project which will deliver a boutique collection of just 10 residences to 58 Campbell Parade, replacing an original block of 17.

The project has been crafted to&nbsp;retain a number of notable original building features. MHNDU will&nbsp;open the façade, creating more established viewpoints of the iconic neighbouring beach.

The five-level&nbsp;building will see&nbsp;two apartments per floor, barring the ground level and the top level, which will home just one residence.

The ground floor apartment comprises two-bedrooms, benefitting from an adjoining balcony, facing Lamrock Place, as well as a grassed courtyard area.

<a href="/new-apartments/mayfair-bondi-beach-58-campbell-parade-bondi-beach"><img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="1194" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-07-29_at_2.38.42_pm.png" width="1360" /></a> 
Render of the proposed development from Lamrock Place. Credit: MHNDUnion.

Each of the apartments from level one to four contain three-bedrooms, with the master bedrooms featuring&nbsp;an ensuite and a walk-in-robe, as well as a west-facing Juliet balcony and herb garden.

The bedrooms are located at the rear of the home in each of the residences, with the living, kitchen and dining spaces following an open-plan layout, designed to maximise view lines, as well as cross flow ventilation.

Floor-to-ceiling doors slide open to adjoining balconies, which front Campbell Parade, creating enviable views to Bondi Beach.

Due to the space of the entry cutting floorspace across the level one apartments, each residence from level two features a larger living, dining and kitchen area, along with an expansive 16 sqm east-facing balcony.

Crowning the project will be the level five penthouse which will have&nbsp;four bedrooms. The master bedroom, complete with walk in wardrobe and ensuite, has been positioned to connect to the large 52 sqm balcony that overlooks Bondi Beach. The balcony is set to feature a spa.

An additional bathroom, powder-room and ensuite will also feature, with a second lounge room located at the back of the residence with a&nbsp;Juliet balcony.

The main kitchen, living and dining space is open at the front of the home, with the kitchen set to include a walk-in-pantry and wine storage room.

MHN Design Union have designed plans for a $7.8 million project, which will deliver a boutique collection of just 10 residences to 58 Campbell Parade, replacing an original block of 17

First look: Rare new apartments to hit Bondi Beach's Campbell Parade

Australian integrated property development group, Aqualand, is leading North Sydney&rsquo;s transformation into one of the harbour city&rsquo;s most sought-after new residential lifestyle precincts, as works progress on the company&rsquo;s AURA by Aqualand project.

Comprising 386 apartments above an extensive retail precinct at 168 Walker Street, AURA by Aqualand is a $1 billion mixed-use residential development, designed by award-winning architects Woods Bagot and Richards Stanisich.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=202657]

Currently under construction, the project&rsquo;s structure is now visible, with the six-level basement carpark complete, while practical completion is expected by mid-2024.

Positioned to contribute to the reactivation of the North Sydney CBD, AURA by Aqualand is on the doorstep of the area&rsquo;s Ward Street Precinct masterplan, which, bounded by Miller, McLaren, Walker and Berry Streets, will deliver new activated plazas and a civic hub, featuring social and cultural facilities within the podium of a new commercial tower on Berry Street.

Key to the future precinct&rsquo;s vision is a series of activated laneways that will connect Miller Street to two new plazas, while Ward Street will be pedestrianised and linked to the recently named Faith Bandler Place, completing part of the north-south laneway network running from St. Leonards Park to the North Sydney train station.

Aqualand&rsquo;s Project Director, Andrew Cooper says the pedestrian-friendly laneway and caf&eacute; culture, which will promote community connectivity, has been reflected in the design of AURA by Aqualand.

&ldquo;At AURA by Aqualand, our design takes into account the natural walkability of North Sydney by extending the pedestrian desire lines from the Ward Street Precinct through the site, directly contributing to the future civic and green spine outlined in North Sydney Council&rsquo;s urban place strategy,&rdquo; said Cooper.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=202655]

&ldquo;This will see a network of new laneways running between North Sydney&rsquo;s buildings, creating enticing pockets filled with lively caf&eacute;s, bars and walking trails that add to the evolving cultural ecosystem of the area,&rdquo; he added.

&ldquo;Importantly, this pedestrian link will run from Lavender Bay, adjacent to our BLUE at Lavender Bay project, all the way through North Sydney and alongside the AURA by Aqualand site, so we&rsquo;re excited to be supporting this future through our developments.&rdquo;

North Sydney will experience a rapid transformation in the coming years, with 19 key projects planned for the suburb, in addition to more than 17,000 sqm of new parks and plazas.

Aqualand&rsquo;s Head of Sales and Marketing, Alex Adams said AURA by Aqualand will play its own role in the growth of North Sydney, with the development slated as a future lifestyle precinct.

&ldquo;The project will introduce a service and lifestyle offering all of its own, that is central not only to this development, but also to the future of North Sydney,&rdquo; said Adams.

Aqualand&rsquo;s hospitality arm, Etymon Projects has collaborated with designers to craft a curated selection of venues in the development, including a providore, bakery/caf&eacute;/wine bar, an all-day diner and a contemporary Japanese eatery.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=202656]

&ldquo;This will serve to enhance and enrich the lives of residents living above a vibrant and refined culinary scene, while also creating a new neighbourhood destination that is a beacon for visitors and residents in the broader metropolitan area,&rdquo; he added.

Recognising the appeal of the project as a future residential destination, Aqualand, in conjunction with longstanding corporate partners the South Sydney Rabbitohs, is now offering one person the chance to win an apartment at AURA by Aqualand, valued at over $1 million.

Three competition finalists, who attend the Round 23 Rabbitohs v Panthers NRL game at Accor Stadium on 18 August, will be invited onto the field at halftime, where they will then compete for the chance to select a key that could open the door to a new AURA by Aqualand apartment.

&ldquo;We are incredibly excited to be running this competition alongside our long-time corporate partners the South Sydney Rabbitohs, and we can&rsquo;t wait to see if someone walks away with a new home at AURA by Aqualand,&rdquo; added Adams.

&ldquo;We know this is a potentially life-changing opportunity for someone to own a magnificent new home that gives them financial security, while enjoying the benefits of living in a prominent and rapidly transforming residential area, where the sky really is the limit.&rdquo;

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=30959]

The project is set to play a major role in the reactivation of the CBD, with Aqualand now offering one lucky person the chance to win an apartment within the city-shaping development.

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