Adding to Chatswood’s growing skyline, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-anderson-chatswood-54-56-anderson-street-chatswood-nsw-2067">The Anderson</a> is grounded in a simple principle: apartment living in a major centre does not have to come at the expense of space and outlook.

Set on Anderson Street in the heart of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/chatswood-nsw-2067">Chatswood</a>, the new residential tower, a collaboration between developers <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/changfa-group">Changfa Group</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/huirong-group">Huirong Group</a> with architecture and interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ajc-architects">AJC Architects</a>, will introduce 122 apartments that prioritise generous proportions, considered orientation, and a strong connection to the surrounding heritage precinct.

The design originated from a Design Excellence Competition, where AJC proposed a building that combines suburban-style apartment scale with the density expected in a transport-rich centre. The development will include more than 1,800 square metres of retail and commercial space at street level, landscaped communal roof terraces, and a ground-floor pocket park framed by canopy trees. Together these elements aim to create a building that integrates with Chatswood’s evolving streetscape while maintaining a strong residential focus.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151353 project_image_fid=353250]

A key driver behind the architecture was the desire to deliver family-sized apartments rarely seen in the Chatswood market. The Anderson includes a mix of one to four-bedroom apartments, with around 35 per cent of the residences configured as three or four-bedroom homes. At the top of the building, two double-storey penthouses span approximately 200 square metres each, reinforcing the project’s emphasis on scale and long-term liveability for both downsizers and intergenerational households.

Orientation and outlook were central to the planning of the building. The apartments are positioned to maximise views to the north and east across Chatswood’s heritage precinct, with upper levels capturing glimpses of the Pacific Ocean. South-facing apartments gain distant views toward the Sydney CBD and Harbour Bridge, while the building’s configuration intentionally reduces western exposure at lower levels to minimise overlooking toward the nearby railway corridor.

The external design references the character of the surrounding conservation area without replicating it directly. A brick podium anchors the building to the street and introduces a series of architectural portals that draw inspiration from the nearby Chatswood Presbyterian Church. Above this base, the tower shifts to a lighter, more open expression defined by horizontal lines and carefully detailed balconies that balance privacy with outward views.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151353 project_image_fid=353254]

Toward the top of the tower, AJC introduces a distinctive lantern-like element formed by sliding screens. These screens provide both solar shading and privacy while also creating a visual marker for the building within the Chatswood skyline. The feature reinforces the architectural intent of the project, a structure that is visually refined while still responding to the practical requirements of apartment living.

Inside the residences, interior architecture by Hayball focuses on clear spatial flow and practical everyday use. Open-plan living areas connect directly to large balconies, extending the internal living spaces outward and allowing natural light to move deeper into the apartments. Kitchens are designed as central working spaces with premium appliances and carefully selected materials, positioned to serve both daily living and entertaining.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151353 project_image_fid=353256]

Bathrooms follow a similarly restrained design language, using refined fixtures and materials to create calm, functional spaces, while wardrobe areas adopt a gallery-style layout with integrated lighting and generous storage. These elements reflect a broader design approach that prioritises clarity, functionality, and durability over decorative gestures.

Positioned just a short walk from Chatswood Interchange, residents will have direct access to rail, metro, retail, and dining. The Metro extension allows travel from Chatswood to Martin Place in approximately 11 minutes, placing the CBD within easy reach for residents while maintaining the convenience of a walkable North Shore neighbourhood.

One-bedroom apartments at The Anderson start from $1,022,000.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151353]

Joel Robinson

How AJC designed The Anderson to bring oversized apartment living to Chatswood

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/bridgewell-development">Bridgewell Capital</a> has lodged plans for a major mixed-use apartment development in the heart of Maroubra, seeking a significant uplift in height and density controls to deliver 120 apartments and a 120-place childcare centre near Maroubra Junction.

The State Significant Development application, filed through the NSW Government’s Housing Delivery Authority pathway, covers a 3,270 sqm amalgamated site at 251-257 Maroubra Road and 133-135 Garden Street. The proposal includes a concurrent rezoning that would increase the maximum building height from 12 metres to 35.6 metres and lift the floor space ratio to 4.02:1.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bka-architecture">BKA Architecture</a>, the project would replace a mechanic’s workshop and several detached homes with a 10-storey residential building above four basement levels.

The scheme comprises 120 apartments, including 27 affordable housing units to be managed by a community housing provider for 15 years, alongside 203 basement car spaces and 92 bicycle spaces. A childcare centre occupying nearly 900 sqm of floor area would sit at ground level and be capable of accommodating 120 children and 22 staff.

<img alt="First look: Bridgewell plots 120 apartments and childcare centre in Maroubra town centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="038a0639-f9e4-4303-8fcc-d43e73fa480f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Bridgewell%20pers.png?VersionId=eGBElxmNqJW.YF3JFYgHTnPgAstdyXR3" />

According to the Design Report, the project has been conceived as a “gateway proposal” that responds to Maroubra’s evolving urban character and its proximity to the town centre.

“Designed to complement the character of Maroubra’s town centre, this gateway proposal features a building scale that matches its surroundings,” the report stated.

“It integrates residential units above a ground-level childcare centre, fulfilling the strategic objectives of the Randwick City Council Masterplan.”

The apartment mix is weighted toward larger residences aimed at families and downsizers, reflecting changing demographics in the Randwick LGA and increasing demand for medium-density housing close to transport and amenity.

BKA Architecture said the proposal seeks to reinforce Maroubra Road as a civic spine while improving the pedestrian experience around the site through landscaping and upgraded public interfaces.

“The design capitalises on the following site opportunities: reinforcement of Maroubra Road as a civic spine, enhancement of pedestrian pathways and the public interface via new landscaping, and strong market demand for two and three-bedroom apartments to support families and down-sizers,” the Design Report noted.

<img alt="First look: Bridgewell plots 120 apartments and childcare centre in Maroubra town centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ee509779-3c7e-4918-b03d-761c785459d0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Bridgewell%20site.png?VersionId=eZC4Ruyn.C7O.Qwfr1SVeP5.ds1c5.66" />

The building has been designed with setbacks and articulation intended to transition between the commercial intensity of Maroubra Junction and the surrounding lower-scale residential neighbourhoods. Communal open space is proposed on level one, while upper-level apartments would secure views towards Port Botany, Maroubra Beach and Sydney’s eastern suburbs.

The development sits around 200 metres east of the Maroubra Junction intersection of Anzac Parade and Maroubra Road, within one of Randwick’s identified strategic centres. The site is close to Pacific Square Shopping Centre, major bus routes, schools, parks and future cycling infrastructure proposed under the Maroubra Junction Masterplan.

The Maroubra proposal aligns with broader NSW Government initiatives encouraging higher-density housing near established centres and transport corridors, particularly where affordable housing is incorporated.

Bridgewell is also working on a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/goldfields-sets-the-stage-as-quartet-milton-launches">new 55-unit project in Killara</a>.

First look: Bridgewell plots 120 apartments and childcare centre in Maroubra town centre

National diversified developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/goldfields-group">Goldfields</a> has launched its latest Brisbane apartment project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/quartet-milton-33-manning-street-milton-qld-4064">Quartet Milton</a>, marking its entry into the sought-after inner-city suburb just two kilometres from the CBD.

The circa $100 million development will rise 18 storeys and deliver 131 apartments, offering a mix of one, two-, and three-bedroom residences.

Ideally located on Manning Street, Quartet residents will be within 300 metres of Milton Station, 500 metres from the Milton Ferry Wharf, and a short walk to Milton Markets, the iconic Park Road, as well as a range of breweries and cafés.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=367993]

Designed by architecture firm <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> and brought to life by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a>, the building features a simple, gridded façade paired with generous glazing to enhance views, maximise aspect, and capture both sunrises and sunsets from within the apartments and their generously sized balconies.

Residents will have access to a 1,000 sqm rooftop, curated to balance wellness and entertaining, in response to increasing demand for wellness-focused shared spaces.

"We've approached Quartet Milton as a complete lifestyle offering, not just apartments, but a place where the design, amenities, and location all work together in a meaningful way," says Goldfields Managing Director Lachlan Thompson.

"Buyers are looking for that sense of confidence, knowing the vision has been carefully thought through not just by us as developers, but by all our consultants appointed to bring this together, and that it will be delivered to the standard they expect."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=368000]

Cera Stribley Co-Founder and Managing Principal Domenic Cerantonio said the rooftop is designed to feel like a place "you'd genuinely use every day."

"A 25-metre pool framed by city and mountain views, wellness areas, and private dining spaces for evenings with friends create a setting designed for year-round comfort and effortless Brisbane living."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=367999]

In addition to the 25-metre pool, the rooftop will include a sauna, cold plunge, fully equipped gym, and zen gardens, all complemented by panoramic views of the city and river.

While the building is expected to appeal predominantly to owner-occupiers, Goldfields anticipates interest from investors seeking strong rental returns, driven by the project's design, location, and the city's projected capital growth in the lead-up to the 2032 Brisbane Olympics.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=367991]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/milton-qld-4064">Milton</a>, widely regarded as one of Brisbane's most desirable inner-ring suburbs due to its lifestyle offering and proximity to the CBD, has experienced a shortage of new apartment supply in recent years.

Goldfields is already active in the Brisbane residential market through its Ripley Valley masterplanned community, Hayfield. The 109-hectare neighbourhood is already home to more than 300 families and features a large community park.

Plans for the precinct include a 4 km running track, future schools, and retail and commercial amenities, all within a 35-minute drive of the Brisbane CBD.

Goldfields also plans to deliver a new mixed-use tower at 88 Robertson Street in Fortitude Valley, within the James Street precinct. The project will include 16,000 sqm of boutique commercial space, a level of wellness facilities, and a rooftop restaurant and event space, akin to Goldfields House in South Yarra, its flagship mixed-use development on Chapel Street, which is crowned by the Beverly Rooftop bar, one of Melbourne’s best-known venues.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108736]

Goldfields sets the stage as Quartet Milton launches

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/stockland">Stockland</a> and Homes NSW have taken the next major step in the transformation of Waterloo Estate, lodging a Concept State Significant Development Application and concurrent rezoning proposal for the renewal of Waterloo South.

The proposal, now on public exhibition, outlines plans for around 3,300 new homes across the 12.3-hectare precinct. A minimum 30 per cent of residential gross floor area will be delivered as social housing, approximately 20 per cent as affordable housing, and a maximum 50 per cent as market housing. The redevelopment would more than quadruple the number of homes currently on the site and more than double the existing supply of social and affordable housing.

The renewal of Waterloo South forms the first stage of the broader Waterloo Estate transformation and is set to unfold over the next 10 to 15 years. The estate currently contains 750 social housing dwellings and 120 private homes.

<img alt="First look: Stockland and Homes NSW unveil plans for 3,300-home Waterloo South renewal" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ba2da34b-171b-4ff1-b0c7-4baf0bce97f2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Waterloo%20public.png?VersionId=S5apPKOqjPHJhk_SzCvdVPxsEBYs300o" />

The proposal, prepared by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a> and Beam Planning, spans 10 street blocks bounded by Cope, Raglan, George, Wellington, Gibson, Kellick, Pitt and McEvoy Streets, directly adjoining the Waterloo Metro Station precinct and within walking distance of Redfern and Green Square stations.

Under the masterplan, building heights would range from two to 33 storeys, delivering approximately 282,485 sqm of residential floor space alongside at least 10,000 sqm of non-residential uses and a minimum 5,000 sqm of community space. The planning framework has been specifically structured to support the mixed-tenure outcome, with the residential gross floor area capped at a maximum 50 per cent market housing allocation.&nbsp;

The Urban Design Report describes the vision as creating “a unique and vibrant mixed-tenure housing precinct that supports the needs of the community and delivers much needed housing in response to National and State Government priorities.”&nbsp;

<img alt="First look: Stockland and Homes NSW unveil plans for 3,300-home Waterloo South renewal" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6e1a6d8b-0626-4fa7-94fc-aa91c0af86dc" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/waterloo%20per.png?VersionId=duyiJTFOeezTNdM22leI3SoHuqnW6ZaY" />

A major focus of the revised proposal has been increasing the social and affordable housing component. The Minns Government increased the affordable and public housing allocation from 35 per cent to 50 per cent after coming to office in 2023.

Minister for Housing and Homelessness Rose Jackson said the changes were critical to maintaining Waterloo’s social diversity.

“When we came to government, we immediately reviewed the plans for the Waterloo renewal and boosted the number of public and affordable homes from 35 to 50 per cent,” Jackson said.

“This was a crucial step to ensure Waterloo remains a welcoming place for people from all walks of life to call home now and into the future.”&nbsp;

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said the project would reshape the precinct for generations.

“This concept DA brings thousands of new public, affordable and market homes on the doorstep of the Waterloo Metro station another step closer to reality,” Scully said.

“Importantly, alongside the new homes the plan also proposes new open space where residents and the broader community can gather, relax and play.”&nbsp;

<img alt="First look: Stockland and Homes NSW unveil plans for 3,300-home Waterloo South renewal" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="867520cb-6e07-4204-885e-53793ac88066" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Waterloo%20public%20a.png?VersionId=lgSI85Q23xBLYLC9NcWKuWZY2HfP4zQ3" />

Stockland Managing Director and CEO Tarun Gupta said the project had been shaped around long-term liveability and community infrastructure.

“As delivery partner, Stockland is proud to be working with the NSW Government on the renewal of Waterloo South – a significant project with community at its heart,” Gupta said.&nbsp;

The planning documents place strong emphasis on “Designing with Country,” recognising the site’s location on Gadigal land. The masterplan incorporates new east-west pedestrian links, activated streetscapes, rooftop communal spaces, retail frontages, and landscaped public areas intended to improve permeability and community connection throughout the estate.&nbsp;

The proposal also seeks to establish a more flexible planning framework for future detailed SSDAs, including updated provisions for educational uses, creative industries, rooftop communal areas, and active frontages. A minimum seven per cent of residential floor space will be delivered as affordable housing managed in perpetuity by community housing provider City West Housing.&nbsp;

The Social Impact Assessment prepared by Urbis describes the renewal as one of Australia’s most significant public housing transformations, identifying substantial long-term positive impacts associated with housing supply, accessibility, public domain improvements, and community infrastructure.&nbsp;

Stockland and Homes NSW have already commenced the first stage of resident relocations, with some tenants moved into newly completed homes at Waterloo Metro Quarter and the Boronia development nearby.

First look: Stockland, NSW Gov, unveils plans for 3,300-home Waterloo South renewal

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/smith-by-valli-collingwood-224-228-smith-street-collingwood-vic-3066">Smith Collingwood</a> is a new boutique apartment development bringing a refined, design-led approach to one of Melbourne’s most established inner-city neighbourhoods.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/pandolfini-architects">Pandolfini Architects</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/lisa-buxton-interiors">Lisa Buxton</a>, Smith by Valli sits on iconic Smith Street and comprises just 22 residences tailored toward owner-occupiers seeking a more considered style of apartment living.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140747 project_image_fid=367540]

The design of Smith focuses on a north-facing orientation across all residences, a relatively uncommon feature in dense inner-Melbourne settings. Each apartment has been planned to maximise natural light and outlook, alongside a material palette defined by warm tones, custom joinery, and a full suite of Gaggenau appliances.

The development comprises a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, with pricing currently ranging from just under $1 million to around $4.85 million for the premium penthouse-level residences, reflecting growing demand for luxury owner-occupier product in Melbourne’s inner urban market.

Residents will also have access to a private rooftop garden designed as an elevated retreat above the city, &nbsp;featuring curated landscaping, veggie boxes, intimate seating areas and spaces for relaxed gatherings. Sustainability has also been integrated into the project through a 7-star energy rating and two secure bicycle facilities for every residence.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140747 project_image_fid=367529]

Smith by Valli sits in the heart of one of Melbourne’s most established retail and hospitality strips, within walking distance of venues such as Falco Bakery, Carnation Canteen and Alimentari, alongside parks and everyday services. With a Walk Score of 99, the location reinforces the project’s positioning toward buyers prioritising walkability and access over car dependency.

With only a limited number of residences, Smith reflects growing demand for smaller, highly curated apartment developments that prioritise design quality, liveability, and connection to neighbourhood character.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=140747]

Smith by Valli delivers design-led apartments to Melbourne’s inner north

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.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/C32BWkB5--c" title="YouTube video player" width="660"></iframe>

<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?

Japan&rsquo;s largest property developer Mitsui Fudosan has made its first foray into Australia by investing in Midtown MacPark, Frasers Property&rsquo;s urban renewal project on Sydney&rsquo;s North Shore.

The investment is in the $232 million MAC Residences apartment project, the first phase of the Midtown MacPark master-planned community in the Macquarie Park precinct.

It will have a mix of studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments and penthouses.

Around 91 percent of the 24 storey MAC Residences has been sold from $459,500 to $1,800,000, with sales since late 2020.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29969 project_image_fid=159035]

It is scheduled for completion in late 2023.

The Bates Smart-designed building is located on Herring Road and Epping Road.

MAC Residences is the first building in the $2.1 billion Midtown MacPark community to be developed in stages over the next 10 to 12 years.

Frasers Property is working with the NSW Government to deliver the $2.1 billion Midtown MacPark masterplanned mixed tenure community, which will integrate 3,300 apartments with a range of community facilities including a proposed school and childcare, a new central park, pocket parks and playgrounds, a community centre, pool and gym.

It will comprise 269 units located 550 metres from from the Macquarie University campus and metro station.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29969 project_image_fid=159036]

Midtown MacPark will adjoin with Macquarie Exchange, a business park joint venture between Frasers and Winten Property Group.&nbsp;

Mitsui and Frasers partner on an integrated logistics park in Bangkok.

&ldquo;We&rsquo;re pleased to again partner with Mitsui Fudosan on the MAC Residences development at Midtown MacPark, where we&rsquo;re applying our place-making and community development expertise to create Sydney&rsquo;s next great urban neighbourhood,&rdquo; said Mark Gleeson, executive general manager of investment and capital transactions at Frasers Property Australia.

The Sydney venture is Mitsui&rsquo;s first investment after setting up its Australian office in 2019.

It is Mitsui’s first investment after setting up its Australian arm in 2019

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Japanese developer invests in Fraser's Midtown MacPark apartment project

The demand for apartments at&nbsp;Iris Capital&rsquo;s $350 million Queensgate project in Potts Point has continued, with nearly half of the apartments accounted for following its launch just one month ago.

There were a further&nbsp;$20 million in sales during Sydney&rsquo;s traditionally quiet holiday period, taking the total sales tally to over $121 million.

Not often do interstate buyers head to Sydney, with the trend often the other way around, but the latest buying spree saw&nbsp;high-net-worth individuals from Brisbane and the Gold Coast secure apartments.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5570 project_image_fid=180676]

Among the recent sales was a one-bedroom apartment without a carpark for $2.2 million, while two-bedroom apartments have sold for between $4 million and $6 million.

Queensgate&nbsp;will deliver a collection of five buildings; Sovereign, Regent, Monarch, Consort and Empress, all featuring individual designs and their own lobby. Exclusivity is maintained throughout with no more than 10 apartments in each structure, with just 48 in total.

Iris Capital&rsquo;s vision for the 18-32 Darlinghurst Road site, which will see the historic fa&ccedil;ade of The Bourbon Hotel retained, has been described as an architectural reawakening for Potts Point.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5570 project_image_fid=180674]

&ldquo;Local buyers were among the first to take a foothold after the official launch, but now we&rsquo;re seeing buyers from all over Australia converging on Queensgate, with many from Brisbane and the Gold Coast snapping up apartments during the holiday period,&rdquo; Iris Capital CEO Sam Arnaout said.

&ldquo;Queensgate undoubtedly represents a strategic acquisition for many buyers looking to secure a position in this dynamic urban precinct.&rdquo;

Total sales to date now account for 23 of the 48 apartments available at Queensgate, which offers one, two and three-bedroom layouts.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5570 project_image_fid=185762]

Each of the five buildings within the development has its own penthouse, some with a private rooftop swimming pool. One of the penthouses has already sold for $16 million.

Queensgate will further enhance the existing Potts Point dining and entertainment scene with its own collection of bars, restaurants, bakeries and cafes along the ground floor.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=5570]

Total sales at Queensgate have now surpassed $121 million, just a month since the project’s release.

Iris Capital's Queensgate, Potts Point apartment development, approaches 50% sold

With Sydney&#39;s luxury market proving resilient, many buyers are seeing the benefit of downsizing to a high-end apartment development at an affordable price.

Sydney luxury real estate prices are expected to surge by nine per cent this year, according to Knight Frank&rsquo;s Prime Global Forecast.

With many making the move to the unit market as a result of growing housing prices, buying from a developer with a track record and long-term commitment to delivering quality projects has become all the more important for aspiring investors.

Below are four of the best downsizer developers delivering residences in NSW that you should keep an eye on in 2022.

<h2>1. Fortis</h2>

Inspired by a shared passion for excellence, Fortis has continued to grow its portfolio under the instruction of Patrick Keenan, Dan Gallen and Charles Mellick, since its inception in 2016.

Partnering exclusively with leading architects, designers and builders, Fortis boasts a portfolio exceeding $276&nbsp;million in successfully completed projects.

The group recently launched their latest NSW development in Neutral Bay, set to reach completion in late this year. &nbsp;

Nestled at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac, Colindia boasts seven residences with expansive terraces, panoramic views and minutes from popular restaurants, caf&eacute;s and bars.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=90627 project_image_fid=188114]

Designed by PBD Architects, the development comprises six half-floor residences crowned by a full-floor penthouse, while more than 40 per cent of the site features landscaped gardens.

Fortis&rsquo; new developments due for completion in the coming years have been valued at over $2.2&nbsp;billion.

This year Fortis will launch their Mona Rd, Darling Point project, as well as their first apartment development in the blue chip suburb, Point Piper.

<h2>2. Sun Property Group (SPG)</h2>

Launched in 2010, Sun Property Group has spent over 10 years producing and delivering quality residential and mixed-use property developments across Sydney.

Led by Wayne Sun, the company has primarily focused on Sydney&rsquo;s affluent Lower North Shore area.

Currently the team at SPG, who has also just ventured in to the luxury Melbourne apartment market, are selling The Ashton, a collection&nbsp;of just 13&nbsp;apartments on Mosman&#39;s Spit Road.

Designed by A+ Design Group, Ashton was the winner of the Sydney Design Awards 2020. It was named after the artist and teacher Julian Ashton and&nbsp;features Hamptons-inspired interiors, rooftop gardens and ground-floor commercial space.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29139 project_image_fid=82420]

Two of SPG&#39;s most recent projects heading in to 2022 are Bala in Neutral Bay and&nbsp;Aurora in Willoughby.

Bala, which comprises 19 two and three-bedroom apartments&nbsp;in Neutral Bay, was another winner for SPG in the 2020 Sydney Design Awards.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=9801 project_image_fid=82431]

<h2>3. Abadeen Group</h2>

The Sydney developer, Abadeen Group, founded and led by the long-time CBRE Residential Projects chairman Justin Brown, is one to watch for 2022.

Founded over two decades ago, the development group has an established track record with over $1 billion in projects.

A recent partnership with the private equity real estate investment group Phoenix Property Investors will see them deliver&nbsp;a string of boutique residential apartment projects in Sydney over the next five years.

Among its current projects is Koyo, a Koichi Takada-designed development in Crows Nest, and its sister project, Enso, located in Neutral Bay slated for completion in 2022.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=109005 project_image_fid=186099]

A boutique collection of 27 apartments in the heart of Crows Nest, Koyo will deliver 18 three-bedroom apartments, seven two-bedroom apartments and two one-bedroom apartments.

The development group will see 31 apartments and five restored historic terraces completed at its Brighton Le Sands project, Seychelles.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=109005 project_image_fid=186099]

<h2>4. Dare Property Group</h2>

Another downsizer developer that investors and buyers should watch this year is Dare Property Group, led by the prolific Sydney developer&nbsp;Danny Avidan.

&ldquo;Dare Property Group was created to fill what I saw as a glaring gap in Sydney&rsquo;s prestige real-estate market. At the time I left the fashion industry after 25 years, the words &lsquo;designer&rsquo; and &lsquo;off-plan&rsquo; had not truly been recognised. I intended to change that&rdquo;, Avidan said.

Since it was established in 2019, Dare has grown to one of the most visionary property development brands in Sydney, with previous developments including The Carlton at Vaucluse and Bronte Place.

The luxury eastern suburbs development, Kalypso Tamarama, is slated for completion this year.

The most anticipated development by Dare in 2022 will be the&nbsp;Piper House collaboration with&nbsp;Fortis, which will offer 20 homes on a 2,000 sqm site in the blue chip Point Piper.

Piper, which stands on the northern side of New South Head Road and wraps around leafy Wunulla Road, will be available for purchase this year.

Sydney luxury real estate prices are expected to surge by nine per cent this year, according to Knight Frank’s Prime Global Forecast

max.kwok_55688

Top four downsizer developers in NSW that buyers should watch in 2022

The landmark Sydney CBD watering hole, the Shelbourne Hotel,&nbsp;is set to look a little different.

The hotel at 200-202 Sussex Street, affectionately known by locals as &quot;The Shelly&quot; since its construction in 1902, looks like it will undergo a huge redevelopment, which will see a tower built above the current building and&nbsp;its heri​tage facade restored.

Turner Studio has put together the concept plans, which will also see the currently hotel reconfigured. Above&nbsp;is&nbsp;set to be 42 apartments, a mix of 17 one-bedroom apartments, 21 two-bedders and just four three-bedroom apartments.

There will be around 5,700 sqm of residential floor area across the tower, and 830 sqm of non-residential, which will be either offices or retail.

The submission was prepared on behalf of Towncorp Pty Ltd, directed by the Shelbourne&#39;s owners, the Powell family.

<a href="/new-apartments/sydney-nsw"><img alt="" height="828" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/shelbourne_hotel_2.jpg" width="1200" /></a> 
The proposed tower, to the left of the PWC building. Image credit: Turner Studio

&quot;There is a significant opportunity to re-establish the Hotel&rsquo;s connection to the public domain; retain and celebrate the heritage character of the Hotel; and create a slender tower addition that will contribute to the architectural diversity within the CBD skyline,&quot;&nbsp;a report by urban solutions company Ethos Urban noted.

&quot;The Shelbourne Hotel was built in 1902 and at the time was a key landmark adjacent to Pyrmont Bridge at the western gateway to the city.

&quot;Overtime, the Hotel and the surrounding area&rsquo;s legibility, connectivity to public domain and the Pyrmont Bridge has diminished.

&quot;The redevelopment has the potential to re-establish the Hotel&rsquo;s relationship and connections with the street and wider public domain and reactivate the immediate area in a manner that compliments the future Cockle Bay redevelopment, celebrates the site&rsquo;s heritage and creates a slender gateway tower at the corner of Sussex Street and Market Street.

&quot;Redevelopment will bring new life to an aged asset.&quot;

"Overtime, the Hotel and the surrounding area’s legibility, connectivity to public domain and the Pyrmont Bridge has diminished," a report submission noted.

Sydney's Shelbourne Hotel gets concept plan for mixed-use apartment, retail and commercial tower

The prominent Sydney developer, TOGA, has lodged plans for their next residential apartment development.

They&#39;ll be developing for the first time in Kensington, where they&#39;ve submitted a development application for 142 apartments above a mix of commercial and retail at street level. The expectation is approval and sales launch will occur around April time.

Turner Studio has designed the $59 million project at 137-151 Anzac Parade, having handled TOGA&#39;s popular mixed-use Marrickville precinct, Wicks Place, which is around 50 per cent sold.

<img alt="" height="843" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/toga_kensington_2.jpg" width="1200" />

TOGA&#39;s GM of sales, Anthony Falas, says the Kensington development is&nbsp;targeting the higher end owner-occupier.

&quot;The two-bedders are 80, 85 sqm, at the larger end of the scale for a typical two-bedroom apartments,&quot; Falas told Urban.

&quot;We&#39;ve dedicated over 75 per cent of the building to the two and three-bedroom product, offering something that is rare for&nbsp;the area&quot;

Falas added that TOGA wanted to cater for a different market than the area is used to, going away from the more common developments which are targeted at the&nbsp;student accomodation given the proximity to the UNSW Randwick Campus.

TOGA are also offering a range of unique apartments in the project. The SoHo apartments, spread across two levels, give owners the opportunity to have a separate work from home space downstairs, with a studio-style apartment upstairs, accessed by an external staircase.

Falas suggests there may well be buyers of those apartments who will lease out the ground level office space.

Turner Studio Director Kevin Driver, who directed the development application design and documentation, noted in the application that the proposed development will provide a built environment suited to the context that responds to the desired future characteristics of the area, while taking cues from the existing context in terms of streetscape, material and landscaping.

<img alt="" height="826" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/toga_kensington_3.jpg" width="1200" />

&quot;This will be achieved by well-designed building and public realm offering good amenity for the resident population and the visitors to the site,&quot; Driver said.

&quot;By integrating and responding to features unique to its locality the development will provide a higher quality of contextually relevant spatial experience.

&quot;The context is undergoing change following the emergence of the Kensington and Kingsford Town Centres Development Control Plan.&quot;

The development will feature&nbsp;rooftop communal open space with an&nbsp;outdoor dining barbecue area, flexible activity zones, a study and recreation area,&nbsp;and communal gardens, all with the aim to improve wellness of the residents.

There will be further communal open space at street level, with a future laneway proposed.

Turner advise that&nbsp;apartment layouts have been developed to maximise the number of north, west and east facing living spaces to ensure each building meets solar access requirements.

<img alt="" height="905" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/toga_kensington_4.jpg" width="1200" />

Some&nbsp;20 per cent&nbsp;of the apartments will be adaptable&nbsp;in order to provide variety to potential purchasers.

&quot;The site and its environs are undergoing change from a lower-scale residential suburb/retail strip to a higher density residential/mixed-use precinct, incorporating new open space and laneways,&quot; Driver added.

&quot;The architecture and materiality of the proposal draws on the local vernacular, while responding to precinct.

&quot;The architectural design intent and principles are based on a series of articulated volumes to both Anzac Parade and the future laneway to the west. These are given a series of familial characterisations through the use of brick frames/blades and expressed slab edges.&quot;

FAST FACTS:

- 142 apartments

- 19 one beds

- 78 two beds

- 31 three beds

- 14 SOHO apartments

- 691 sqm of commercial, 724 sqm of retail

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

TOGA lodge Kensington apartment plans

The Sydney developer, CBD Core, is continuing its&nbsp;residential development&nbsp;in the popular Hills District suburb of Castle Hill, in the booming North West Sydney growth corridor.

Having recently completed Oriel Castle Hill, one of the most impressive developments in the area, the long standing developer&nbsp;is&nbsp;set to create another two residential apartments buildings at 19 Ashford Avenue.

The low-rise towers, dubbed Ashford and Partridge&nbsp;for their locations&nbsp;fronting&nbsp;Ashford Avenue and Partridge Avenue, will rise six levels and home&nbsp;67 apartments within the new Showground Station precinct at Castle Hill, which&nbsp;is currently experiencing substantial urban change from the existing single-family dwellings of suburban character.

The project will be a mix of&nbsp;two studio apartments, 11 one-bedroom apartments, 39 two-bedders, 15 three-bedroom apartments.

LFA Pacific, who are the architecture team behind the design, noted in their design statement that the proposed development will create dwelling choice and opportunities for families in the surrounding suburbs, as family needs change. The studios and one-bedroom apartments will provide an affordable entry in to the housing market.

<a href="/new-apartments/argo-castle-hill-19-ashford-avenue-castle-hill-nsw-2154"><img alt="" height="780" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/castle_hill_2.jpg" width="1200" /></a>

LFA suggested&nbsp;the development will contribute to the desired future character of the precinct which is defined as &#39;to become an attractive and well-connected neighbourhood that achieves housing targets, creates vibrant, safe and desirable places, reinforces the garden shire character and lifestyle and is supported by necessary infrastructure&#39;.

The communal&nbsp;open space in the central courtyard will provide passive and active recreational opportunities, with a swimming pool, fitness and play areas, and outdoor barbecue space.

CBD Core design and build for their demographic, which is predominantly locals who live within a five kilometre radius.

&quot;We have everyone from retirees, downsizers, young families and singles interested in our projects,&quot; a spokesperson for the CBD Core team told Urban.

&quot;We keep projects small in size in comparison to some of the towers that are popping up around the area, and we listen to the community and buyer feedback when creating our developments.&quot;

CBD Core&#39;s most recent project, Oriel Castle Hill, a $75 million collection of 78&nbsp;apartments, completed last year.&nbsp;CBD Core describe Oriel as more of a hotel than a residential apartment block.

<a href="/new-apartments/oriel-33-dawes-avenue-castle-hill"><img alt="" height="814" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/oriel_1.jpg" width="1200" /></a>

&quot;It&#39;s a hotel without the concierge,&quot; CBD Core say. &quot;When we pop in, we see the residents walking around in their robes.&quot;

A testament to the quality of the build of Oriel and the reputation of CBD Core, Oriel only has one apartment remaining, with the majority of sales&nbsp;secured during a COVID-hit stop-start year in the property industry.

Their next project, set to launch in April, will be Astrid, a block of 94 apartments just behind Oriel.

Astrid will feature&nbsp;extensive work from home facilities, with a conscious effort to create both indoor and outdoor communal spaces, outside of the apartments so those working from home have the option to still be away from where they reside. Residents will also have access to the a gym, swimming pool, and a rooftop with barbecues and seating spaces.

&quot;Oriel was&nbsp;the&nbsp;first apartment building complex in the Showground Station Precinct to be approved, so we need to continue to improve on that high bar we&#39;ve already set ourselves,&quot; CBD Core said.

Having recently completed Oriel Castle Hill, the long standing developer is set to create another two residential apartments buildings at 19 Ashford Avenue.

CBD Core bulk up 2022 Castle Hill apartment pipeline with latest plans

Harry Trig​uboff&#39;s apartment giant, Meriton, has submitted its first New South Wales development plans for 2022.

They&#39;re set to develop again in Epping, seven years after completing&nbsp;Eppi​ng Park, their largest northern district project with 800 apartments across the 17 building precinct.

Meriton secured the Cambridge Office Park at&nbsp;37-41 Oxford Street, Epping, from the Goo​dman Group, who themselves had plans&nbsp;by&nbsp;Cande​lapas to redevelop the vast 4,970 sqm site which also homes a tennis court

Having settled on the site last year, Meriton had Nicholas Bandounas, principal of urban design at Scott Carver who is also designing part of the Australian War Memorial,&nbsp;put together plans for a 30-level mixed-use tower with a six-level basement.

The biggest amend to the DA was to include a childcare centre on the lower levels.

<img alt="" height="1186" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/37-41_oxford_st_epping.jpg" width="836" /> 
The proposed plans for the tower. Image credit: Scott Carver

The two-level commercial podium will comprise a retail space, a 60 children centre-based child care facility, and commercial office space.

Set privately for residents use on the ground level is a lap pool and spa and an 80 sqm gym, surrounded by lush landscaping.

Above will be 211 apartments, a mix of 43 one-bedroom plus study apartments, 124 two-bedroom units, 42 three-bedroom apartments and just two four-bedders.

&quot;All apartments have been designed with consideration for a high level of comfort for the residents through privacy, solar access, visual outlook, and natural cross ventilation,&quot;&nbsp;Bandounas noted in the design statement submitted to the local council.

&quot;Internal layouts have been designed to maximise living spaces and to create generous open plan layouts. All units have been provided with a private open space off the main living areas, providing access to natural light and ventilation.&quot;

The plans are a continuation&nbsp;of further development of Epping&#39;s Oxford Street, with a recently completed 22-level mixed-use building to the south and a proposal with the Parramatta Council for a 15-level mixed-use tower to the north.

&quot;Epping Town Centre is an area that is currently undergoing a transformation as a result of significant infrastructure investment with the planned Sydney Metro Northwest,&quot; Bandounas added.

&quot;The proposal seeks to be a precedent for future development in the area.

&quot;The development will help define a new context which is envisioned for the area and within which other residential development of a similar scale and height will be built. The proposed seeks to make a positive contribution to the current and future character of the area and to set the standard for future high-density residential building developments.&quot;

Meriton is set to develop again in Epping, seven years after completing Epping Park, their largest northern district project with 800 apartments across the 17 building precinct.



Meriton set for new Epping apartment tower

The well-known Sydney property investor and developer, Vaughan Blank, has submitted $9.4 million plans to transform the old Westpac building&nbsp;on Bondi Beach&#39;s exclusive Hall Street in to a mixed-use precinct.

He&#39;ll be creating a new shop-top housing building, with retail premises on the ground floor of 26-32 Hall Street, and 15 apartments above.

BANG Architecture handled the design of the building, just a stones throw from the famous sand, which Blank bought for $17 million earlier this year.

Architect Wieger Meijer, who heads up BANG, said in the design statement submitted to Waverley Council, that&nbsp;Bondi Beach has seen some impressive developments come to fruition in the past decade.

<a href="/new-apartments/26-32-hall-street-bondi-beach">To track the development, enquire here.</a>

<img alt="" height="784" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/hall_st_bondi_beach_2.jpg" width="1200" />

&quot;The desired future character can be seen by the overall high design standards, which on its turn has improved the face of Bondi significantly,&quot;&nbsp;Meijer said.

&quot;The trend of these high design standards have been a key driver in the design process of the proposed development at 26-32 Hall Street.&quot;

Meijer described the overall style as &quot;eclectic&quot;, however noted that&nbsp;all developments are tied together with an overall Australian Beach style which has influenced them.

<a href="/new-apartments/26-32-hall-street-bondi-beach">To track the development, enquire here.</a>

<img alt="" height="861" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/hall_st._bondi_beach.jpg" width="1200" />

&quot;The introduction of the proposal adds to the developing image of Bondi and adds a lifestyle component to it,&quot; Meijer added.

The development, which sits next to the former post office building which has also been converted to apartments, will comprise six one-bedroom apartments, two two-bedroom apartments and seven three-bedroom apartments.

Meijer says the proposal also reflects current market demands in relation to typologies and living patterns currently established in the local area.

<a href="/new-apartments/26-32-hall-street-bondi-beach">To track the development, enquire here.</a>

Vaughan Blank has been a keen investor&nbsp;in Sydney&#39; eastern suburbs apartment market for a number of years, having previously spent over $33 million on a block of Art Deco flats in Edgecliff in 2017, which at the time was highest price paid at auction for a residential property in Australia.

Blank has adjoining future developments sites on the Bondi&#39;s O&#39;Brien Street.&nbsp;

Earlier this year $8 million plans were submitted for a <a href="/news/nsw/new-apartments-heading-to-bondi-beachs-hall-street">new&nbsp;arcade precinct and apartment development</a> just up the road across&nbsp;31, 35 and 37 Hall Street.

Behind the heritage building and facade which will remain at the street front will be a new arcade and 25 apartments, designed by&nbsp;Brian Meyerson, of the&nbsp;Surry Hills-based&nbsp;MHNDU.

Vaughan Blank set for apartment development on Bondi Beach's Hall Street

The Melbourne-based developer, ICD Property, are readying a second mixed-use hotel and apartment tower in the Sydney CBD.

The project at 372 Pitt Street, toward the Haymarket end of Pitt Street near World Square, will be&nbsp;a joint venture between ICD and&nbsp;Belingbak, who appear to be a development arm of new investment firm Belingbak Capital Partners.

Woods Bagot has put together the plans for a 54-level tower,&nbsp;subject to change as the stakeholders continue to work through the architectural design and optimisation process.

<a href="/new-apartments/sydney-nsw">To track this development and be updated on its next stage, enquire here.</a>

<img alt="" height="865" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/icd_pitt_st_sydney_main.jpg" width="1200" />

The&nbsp;project put forward to council, currently valued at around $156 million,&nbsp;is expected to see&nbsp;just a small collection of just 28 apartments, which at the moment start from about level 40, up to the top of the tower. Current plans are for just two apartments per floor from&nbsp;levels 40 to 52,&nbsp;a mix of two and three-bedroom units.

The top two levels are set to&nbsp;home two full-floor, four bedroom penthouses.

There&#39;s expected to be around 288 hotel rooms, running at nine per floor from level seven to 38.

<a href="/new-apartments/sydney-nsw">To track this development and be updated on its next stage, enquire here.</a>

Residents&nbsp;will have access to the extensive amenity which comes in the mixed-use hotel/apartment concept, with a gym, function room and cinema located on level four, a restaurant and bar&nbsp;with a full width terrace on level three, and a ground floor cafe.

&quot;372 Pitt St will be a monumental addition to Sydney, one that blurs the distinction between personal life and leisure as we strive to bring a first to market hotel and hospitality offering to Sydney &ndash; that is inspired by the diversity of people, local character and originality of the streets and scenes that surround us,&quot; the submission to the City of Sydney Council read.

<img alt="" height="1525" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/icd_main.jpg" width="1200" />

&quot;The team&#39;s vision will bring to Sydney a hotel offering with global character and attraction.

&quot;The new hotel through design, brand, and operation will be a catalyst for the precinct delivering quality architecture, urban activation, social and accommodation opportunities and increased job creation.

&quot;It will provide for the increasing tech community at Central and continue to grow the active centre of the CBD towards the south.

&quot;Our proposal is a unique opportunity for increased city amenity and global identity.&quot;

<img alt="" height="1558" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/icd_2.jpg" width="1200" />

ICD, led by Matt Khoo, are working on another mixed-use hotel apartment development <a href="/news/nsw/sydneys-city-tattersall-redevelopment-gets-sign-off-for-apartment-and-hotel-project">just up the road at the popular City Tattersall Club</a>.

That will see the scales tipped toward apartments over the hotel room component, with 241 apartments and 101 hotel rooms to be developed at the 194-204 Pitt Street address.

The 50-storey tower is another joint venture, this one&nbsp;alongside the Singapore-listed First Sponsor. Late last year the project, designed by BVN Architecture with fjmt studio overseeing all heritage designs, received the green light from the&nbsp;Central Sydney Planning Committee.

Woods Bagot has put together the plans for a 54-level tower, subject to change as the stakeholders continue to work through the architectural design and optimisation process

ICD Property plan another Sydney CBD mixed-use hotel and apartment tower

The leading western Sydney developer ALAND is set to deliver an $800 million masterplanned&nbsp;precinct in Merrylands, in Sydney&rsquo;s west.

ALAND&nbsp;has purchased the project &ndash; formerly known as The Opera &ndash; for $75m. It was one of eight development sites up for sale when a receiver was appointed to some parts of the Dyldam Group in January.

The first Stage of the 2.5 hectare&nbsp;development site at 224-240 Pitt Street is currently being rebranded and is scheduled to be released by&nbsp;ALAND&nbsp;in early 2022.

Ryan Lane, ALAND&#39;s&nbsp;Head of Development, described the site&nbsp;as a fantastic acquisition.

&ldquo;In terms of location, you couldn&rsquo;t find better with the site being within strolling distance to a major retail hub and train station, as well as being moments to the beautiful Holroyd Gardens with playgrounds, bike tracks and picnic areas and only a few minutes&rsquo; drive to Parramatta&rsquo;s CBD,&rdquo; Lane said.

The precinct will deliver around 1200 residential apartments set across multiple buildings with a rooftop pool and gardens. The project was unveiled by the Dyldam Group in 2018 but only minor earthworks have been undertaken on the site to date.&nbsp;

The first stage already has approval for 365 apartments set across three buildings and will include approximately 2600 sqm of retail and commercial space, plus basement car park.&nbsp; It will comprise 17 studios, 98 one-bedroom apartments, 219&nbsp;two-bedders,&nbsp;and 31&nbsp;three-bedroom units.

The first stage will include a ground floor central communal space plus two rooftop areas with pool, terrace, barbecue with picnic/seating area. &nbsp;It will be surrounded by generous planting including a communal vegetable and herb garden.

ALAND are expected to appeal to a range of buyers including families.

The first Stage of the 2.5 hectare development site at 224-240 Pitt Street is currently being rebranded and is scheduled to be released by ALAND in early 2022

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