A landmark former orphanage site in Surrey Hills could be transformed into a new residential community under plans lodged by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/antipodean-land-developments">Antipodean Land Developments</a> that would deliver 76 apartments and townhouses while restoring some of the suburb's most significant heritage buildings.

The burgeoninng Melbourne-based developer has submitted plans for the 9,158 sqm site at 1 Kent Road and 24 Durham Road, home to the former St Joseph's Home for Destitute Children, a historic institutional complex dating back to the late 19th century. The proposal seeks to adaptively reuse several heritage buildings while introducing two new four-storey residential buildings set within extensive landscaped grounds.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a> and Kerstin Thompson Architects, the project has been conceived as a contemporary residential village embedded within a restored heritage precinct. The development team describes the design approach as "The Village in the Garden," with new buildings positioned among mature landscaping by OCULUS and significant heritage structures.

<img alt="First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="44ec8c1b-c0b6-44ae-859e-5811b3e6a023" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29.png?VersionId=p.p1_KFh4iQoV4nisdnPfQBAsWNi7m79" />

The proposal would deliver 76 dwellings comprising a mix of apartments and duplex-style residences, significantly increasing housing supply on one of the largest privately held residential landholdings in Surrey Hills. The development includes 127 car spaces, 24 bicycle spaces and more than 1,000 sqm of communal amenity, with the existing chapel building earmarked for conversion into resident facilities.

According to the planning submission, the project centres on the restoration and adaptive reuse of the site's most significant heritage assets, including the original c.1889 St Joseph's building, the chapel designed by architect Augustus Andrew Fritsch, and the historic brick perimeter walls and entry gates. The proposal also incorporates the retention of other contributory buildings including the former infirmary and school building.

Tract Consultants, in the planning report accompanying the application, said the scheme had been shaped through extensive heritage analysis and design development.

"The shared vision for the Site by the project team has culminated in a scheme which successfully breathes life back into a historic site while delivering upon the objectives of Victoria's Housing Statement in a carefully curated and contextually responsive manner."

<img alt="First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7263b7d8-95ea-400f-9531-6ca7d22c3c33" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%282%29.png?VersionId=4cR1tiWOsDpgxEOwZi5vVFcyvvOsYkIE" />

The proposal is being assessed under Victoria's Significant Residential Development with Affordable Housing pathway. As part of the application, three per cent of the project's residential development cost would be contributed to the Social Housing Growth Fund. The development would also provide a diverse mix of one, two and three-bedroom residences targeting a broader range of buyers than typically found in Surrey Hills' detached housing market.

Sustainability initiatives include an anticipated 66 per cent BESS score, natural cross-ventilation to 80 per cent of apartments, 28 per cent deep soil landscaping and a canopy cover outcome exceeding local planning requirements. The proposal also sets aside more than 1,083 sqm for communal indoor and outdoor resident amenity spaces.

<img alt="First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="33fad46f-fe26-4d0a-acfd-6b776e1c6a3d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Untitled%20design.png?VersionId=D9F6WVSyYCtGvSUmith35LRp6R7PQkw_" />

Planning documents describe the property as one of the largest underutilised residential sites in Surrey Hills, arguing it presents a rare opportunity to introduce "missing middle" housing in an established inner-eastern suburb while preserving and revitalising a significant heritage precinct.

Antipodean Land Developments has built a reputation for design-focused residential projects across Melbourne, particularly in the medium-density sector. Previous developments include Neighbourhood in Brunswick East, delivered with Breathe Architecture, and Balfe Park Lane, designed by Kerstin Thompson Architects.

They've been very active in site acquisition as they build out their future development pipeline. They recently launched Thornubury House, 45 apartments above a mix of commercial, retail, and food and beverage tenancies, and have plans for a boutique project in Fitzroy and another <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/vic/antipodean-plan-apartments-for-deepdenes-missing-middle-on-whitehorse-road">"missing middle" project</a> on Deepdene's Whitehorse Road.

Joel Robinson

First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills

Developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/auyin-property-development">Auyin</a> is the latest to turn to the Victorian Government's Development Facilitation Program in an effort to secure approval for its long-planned, mixed-use project in Elsternwick.

In 2018, Auyin lodged plans with Glen Eira City Council for a 14-storey building, however Council approved a reduced eight-storey scheme. A subsequent VCAT appeal in 2019 upheld the eight-storey height limit.

The project was later amended to nine storeys, but Auyin is now seeking to revive something closer to its original vision. The developer argues that the planning context has evolved significantly over the past decade, particularly within the Elsternwick Activity Centre, where higher-density development has increasingly been encouraged along Glen Huntly Road.

The proposal would transform the 1,239 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/7-12-horne-street-elsternwick-vic-3185">7-15 Horne Street</a>, opposite Elsternwick Railway Station, into a 13-storey residential and retail development designed by CBG Architects, with 40 apartments

The site currently comprises three commercial properties.

<img alt="First look: 13-storey mixed-use tower planned for Elsternwick activity centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5f465dd4-509b-4082-a669-0253b313914b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/elsternwick%20podium.png?VersionId=72frWi0SmQ5AVJ3ARRhX5ILUYObhTm7x" />

The proposed apartment mix comprises 25 two-bedroom and 15 three-bedroom residences above 200 sqm of retail space at ground level. Residents would have access to a 90 sqm wellness facility, a 351 sqm communal indoor and outdoor terrace on the third level, and extensive landscaped areas throughout the development. A publicly accessible 135 sqm plaza would be created on the north-east corner of the site, providing seating, landscaping, and a new gathering space adjoining Horne Street.

The design adopts a four-storey podium that references the finer-grain character of the surrounding streetscape, with the upper tower recessed behind generous setbacks on all boundaries.

<img alt="First look: 13-storey mixed-use tower planned for Elsternwick activity centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e637e763-2abc-4c34-a0aa-5c7ad36fae18" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/elsternwick%20open.png?VersionId=J1AoOpZgTyaF.KeeFSX6lMjEScX8KKRi" />

A key element of the proposal is the reconfiguration and widening of the surrounding laneways. Vehicle access would be retained from Lois Lane, with upgraded pedestrian connections linking Ross Street and Horne Street. The development would provide 58 residential car spaces, two retail car spaces, and 52 bicycle spaces across two basement levels and ground-floor facilities.

Architecturally, the building draws inspiration from the established character of Elsternwick Village. The façade combines dark charcoal brickwork, textured concrete, bronze-toned metal detailing, and extensive planting integrated into podium and tower levels. The design also incorporates a chamfered corner treatment and publicly accessible plaza intended to strengthen pedestrian activity around the station precinct.

Elsternwick's last new development completion was&nbsp;EVA Elsternwick by Pitard late last year. <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/milieu-property">Milieu</a> is working away on its nature-led neighbourhood, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/elsternwick-gardens-by-milieu-8-gordon-street-elsternwick-vic-3185">Elsternwick Gardens</a>, on Gordon Street, with its first stage expected to complete next year.

First look: Auyin seeks mixed-use apartment project in growing Elsternwick Activity Centre

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/otium-parkdale-123-125-como-parade-east-parkdale-vic-3195">Otium Parkdale</a>, the 13-residence boutique development by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/huxtable-property">Huxtable Property</a>, has entered its final stages of delivery, with completion expected within the coming month and more than half of the residences sold.

The Como Parade East project is nearing the finish line at a time when opportunities to purchase new apartments in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parkdale-vic-3195">Parkdale</a> remain exceptionally limited. Fewer than 10 per cent of dwellings in the bayside suburb are apartments, making developments like Otium a relatively rare addition to a market traditionally dominated by detached housing.

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The three-level development comprises 13 residences, including ten two-bedroom apartments and three larger three-bedroom homes, all positioned above a secure basement car park.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/almeida-architects">Almeida Architects</a> with a strong connection to its coastal surroundings, Otium combines red brick, exposed concrete and dark metal detailing with integrated landscaping and greenery. Expansive glazing, generous balconies and terraces have been incorporated throughout the design to maximise natural light and reinforce indoor-outdoor living.

Inside, the residences feature engineered European oak flooring, natural and reconstituted stone benchtops, Bosch kitchen appliances, ducted heating and cooling, lift access and secure entry systems. The larger three-bedroom residences on the upper level have been designed with house-like proportions, while the two-bedroom apartments prioritise functionality, flexibility and low-maintenance living.

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The project is now in its final stages, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/labco">Labco</a> completing the remaining landscaping and external finishing works following the completion of the residences' interiors.

Otium's location within the heart of Parkdale continues to underpin its appeal. Residents will be just steps from local cafés, restaurants, shops and the newly elevated Parkdale Station, while the beach is less than a kilometre away.

With the project tracking ahead of schedule, buyers can currently secure a residence with a five per cent deposit and benefit from settlement terms of up to eight months. The advanced stage of construction also provides buyers with the opportunity to walk through the near-complete residences and experience the quality and finishes firsthand ahead of completion.

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Otium Parkdale enters final month before completion as rare apartment opportunity nears sellout

A new boutique apartment development is entering the market in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/chermside-qld-4032">Chermside</a>, with Brisbane-based developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ausdev">Ausdev</a> bringing 33 residences to a well-connected pocket of Brisbane's north.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/parkdrive-apartments-chermside-25-sammells-drive-chermside-qld-4032">Parkdrive Apartments</a>, at 25 Sammells Drive, will comprise a mix of one- and two-bedroom residences positioned within walking distance of Westfield Chermside, The Prince Charles Hospital, and Bradbury Park.

Established in 1989, Ausdev has a long-standing presence across both development and construction, with Parkdrive Apartments representing its latest residential project in Brisbane's northern suburbs.

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The development has been designed around open-plan living and natural light, with residences featuring stone benchtops, timber cabinetry, BOSCH appliances, and private balconies that extend the living areas outdoors.

Kitchens are positioned as the centrepiece of the homes, incorporating natural material palettes and integrated appliances, while bathrooms have been designed with a focus on functionality and understated finishes.

Residents will have access to a communal barbecue and entertaining area on Level 3, providing shared outdoor space within the development. Secure parking and lift access are also incorporated into the building.

The project will deliver a limited collection of 33 apartments, with one-bedroom residences priced from $749,000.

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Beyond the building itself, the location places residents within easy reach of several of Chermside's key amenities. Bradbury Park is around 350 metres away, while Westfield Chermside is approximately 1.3 kilometres from the site. The Prince Charles Hospital is located within 750 metres, and the Chermside Bus Interchange is around 1.5 kilometres away, providing connections across Brisbane.

Parkdrive Apartments adds to the growing residential pipeline in Chermside, a suburb that continues to evolve as a major retail, healthcare, and transport hub for Brisbane's north.

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Ausdev introduces boutique Parkdrive Apartments to Chermside's growing centre

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/skymark-group">Skymark</a>'s boutique Cronulla development Solis has secured a 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy through Resilience Insurance, providing buyers of the 16-residence building on Ewos Parade with structural and waterproofing protection that extends a decade beyond the building's completion.

Currently under construction and due for completion in late 2027, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/solis-cronulla-8-ewos-parade-cronulla-nsw-2230">Solis</a> is one of a small number of new developments in the Sutherland Shire to carry Resilience LDI coverage, a distinction that carries increasing weight as buyer confidence in the off-the-plan sector continues to be shaped by how developers stand behind their product.

Latent Defects Insurance, which entered the Australian market in 2022 when Resilience Insurance was approved to offer the cover, protects buyers against major structural or waterproofing defects for ten years post-completion. Unlike traditional statutory warranties, it operates as a first-resort policy, if a covered defect arises, the insurer responds directly, without the buyer needing to pursue the builder or developer through a lengthy claims process.

Resilience Insurance CEO Corey Nugent has noted that the product addresses something fundamental to the new apartment market.

"The overarching feedback from prospective buyers in the new development space is that they want more confidence and assurances around the quality of the build," Nugent says.

"Resilience Insurance Latent Defects Insurance not only gives them complete peace of mind for 10 years, but it shows the developer they are buying from is standing by their product."

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For Solis, the Resilience LDI policy adds a meaningful layer of accountability to an already considered project. The development comprises nine two-bedroom and seven three-bedroom residences, including one dual-level three-bedroom apartment, across a five-storey building on Ewos Parade, positioned between Shelly Beach and South Cronulla.

Garden apartments connect directly to private landscaped courtyards, while upper-level homes capture beach views to the east from level four and above.&nbsp;

All 16 residences include at least one balcony or courtyard, and select apartments on the upper floors feature bar areas and secondary flexible living spaces.

Hiba Sander, Managing Director of Skymark, says Solis offers a rare balance, nestled between the quiet beauty of secluded beaches and the lively charm of South Cronulla's esplanade.

"It's a place to choose your pace and live gracefully, seaside'," Sander says.

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The architecture, designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ida-design-group">IDA Design Group</a>'s Michael Trinh, draws from the natural erosion patterns of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/cronulla-nsw-2230">Cronulla</a>'s sandstone headlands, translating the organic forms of the coastline into soft curves, pavilion-style massing, and a material palette chosen for longevity in a salt-tinged environment.&nbsp;

Textured natural stone, soft renders, and timber-look battens reference the tones of the surrounding cliffs, while the building has been oriented to maximise natural light and passive ventilation, with primary living spaces facing north and east to capture morning sun and sea breezes.

"At Solis, our aim was to create architecture that feels quietly confident, grounded in natural materials like stone and timber, and elevated by light and landscape," Trinh says.&nbsp;

"The buildings are designed to sit gently within their coastal surrounds, with expansive glazing and abundant greenery creating a seamless dialogue between inside and out."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370897]

Interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hot-black">Hot Black</a> carry the same material language through to every room. Kitchens feature integrated Gaggenau appliances, sculpted stone benchtops, and Lo &amp; Co joinery, while bathrooms feature natural stone, timber, and brushed metal finishes.&nbsp;

Hot Black Founder and Design Director Sophie Safrin describes the intent as one of considered restraint: "At Solis, every detail has been thoughtfully considered to create a timeless coastal retreat, calm, refined, and effortlessly liveable. From natural finishes to seamless indoor-outdoor flow, Solis offers a quiet elegance that's deeply connected to its surroundings.

The landscape, designed by Julian Brady of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/sitedesignstudios">Site Design Studios</a>, treats green space as an integral part of the resident experience rather than an afterthought.&nbsp;

"Gentle curves and layered native plantings mirror the ebb and flow of the ocean," Julian Brady says, "creating a serene connection between architecture and place."&nbsp;

Coco Republic has provided bespoke furniture packages tailored to the project's coastal palette.

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Skymark has an established track record in the Sutherland Shire, with a portfolio spanning Cronulla, Woolooware and Burraneer that includes Isla, Sylva, Bask, Shells, Sula and Mist. Securing LDI on Solis reflects a broader shift in how the developer is positioning its buildings to buyers, at a time when Resilience Insurance expects the policy to become mandatory in New South Wales by 2028.

Sales at Solis are launching soon through Ray White Projects, with an official event scheduled for 11 June. Enquire for more information.

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Skymark takes out 10-year Resilience Insurance LDI at Solis Cronulla

North Sydney

Aqualand has just released stage two of its North Sydney development, AURA.&nbsp;

The $1 billion luxury mixed-use residential development sits among an area undergoing a huge revitalisation, with plans already underway to deliver public domain works that complement the suburb&rsquo;s new transport, commercial and cultural infrastructure.&nbsp;

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Aqualand&rsquo;s stage two is a new release of one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments range from 55 sqm to 262 sqm, with most featuring north-facing living rooms offering abundant sunlight, west views out to the sunset and district views out to the horizon.

Once known as Australia&rsquo;s largest office precinct outside of a capital city CBD, North Sydney is experiencing a growing demand for larger homes and apartments and is set to transform into a more vibrant and liveable place.

Economist Nerida Conisbee says the transformation will pose an exciting investment opportunity for property investors and owner-occupiers alike as demand for housing in North Sydney explodes over the next five-years.&nbsp;

&ldquo;Given the high level of amenity and proximity to other parts of the city, there is very strong demand for housing in North Sydney, driven by a combination of increasing population growth and the move to apartment living in inner Sydney,&quot; Conisbee says.

&quot;This major transformation will make it an even more attractive, sustainable, and vibrant place for residents, workers and businesses.

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&ldquo;Unit price growth over the past 2 years has been unprecedented, doubling over the past decade and increasing by 12% over the past 12 months. As North Sydney transforms, it will attract more than 6,000 new residents over the next 15 years, with nearly 3,600 new dwellings required to accommodate them.

&ldquo;As empty nesters and downsizers are the main growth category, most will need to be suitable for couples without children and singles. Due to land shortages, almost all will need to be medium to high density.&quot;

AURA by Aqualand, featuring architectural design by award-winning firm Woods Bagot and interiors by Richards Stanisich, will offer residents extensive&nbsp;views,&nbsp;leafy surrounds and unmatched urban convenience.

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Aqualand&#39;s stage two release features apartments&nbsp;aligned with a modern&nbsp;lifestyle, with residences offering&nbsp;a multi-functional room that can be used to create a second living area, home office or guest room. Select apartments will also enjoy sunlit, glazed studies.

Residents will have a choice between three&nbsp;colour schemes, with Dark, Mid and Light.&nbsp;Spaces are flexible and generous, allowing for greater lifestyle flexibility and&nbsp;the seamless balance between living and working from home. Each AURA residence is unique in planning and proportion, offering different models and solutions to balancing work and home life in the same space. Marble benchtops anchor kitchen spaces that balance form and function, with touches of rich oak and dark bronze adding artistic luxury, while the bathrooms feature marble flooring and bronze powder-coated, framed mirrors.

AURA by Aqualand features a range of community amenities, including an expansive pool and gym, sun deck and community centre, reserved for residents&rsquo; private use.

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High-end dining and entertaining is only moments from the apartments, with&nbsp;Aqualand&rsquo;s hospitality arm, Etymon Projects, also curating and managing AURA&rsquo;s multi-level hospitality precinct, which is set to home a providore, bakery, diner, and contemporary Japanese eatery.

Further afield, the new North Sydney metro station is a short stroll from AURA, giving residents convenient access to the rest of Sydney.

Etymon Projects will also deliver&nbsp;24/7 concierge services to AURA residents. Customised to AURA residents&#39; lifestyles, services will include everything you&rsquo;d expect from a luxury concierge, including home management and event planning, welcoming guests, making dining reservations, and planning itineraries.

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The $1 billion luxury mixed-use residential development sits among an area undergoing a huge revitalisation, with plans already underway to deliver public domain works that complement the suburb’s new transport, commercial and cultural infrastructure. 



alisonwarters@gmail.com

Growing demand for larger apartments in North Sydney sees Aqualand launch stage two of AURA

Aura by Aqualand, a multi-billion dollar transformation of North Sydney, introduces a new way of living in this new CBD precinct.

An ideal location for the next generation of homeowners, businesses and visitors, North Sydney hugs the Sydney Harbour and the city&rsquo;s heartland precincts.

Situated at Walker Street, Aura enjoys a position in close proximity to leading schools, beautiful walks and cultural icons.

Aqualand calls this a &ldquo;new era&rdquo; for North Sydney, with plans for the area visionary in their scale.

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This includes 19 key projects in the area delivered by government and private investment, representing an addition of more than 17,000sqm of new parks and plazas.

&ldquo;These visionary new public spaces reveal a dynamic cosmopolitan lifestyle woven into lush greenery and sun-lit corridors&rdquo;, Aqualand Australia note.

Designed by Woods Bagot and Richards Stanisch, Aura will deliver a 28-level tower which will comprise a mix of 386 luxury residences, retails, dining precinct, and commercial spaces.

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Extensive resident amenities are also on offer, including pool and gym, dining and entertaining area and outdoor barbecue facilities.

Aqualand&#39;s recently launched hospitality arm, Etymon Projects, has also been engaged on the project to manage a providore, artisan bakery and a contemporary Japanese eatery.

Residents will benefit from decade-long plans designed to transform North Sydney, including a large investment in green spaces and entertainment precincts, and a new pedestrian space on Miller Street. &nbsp;

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Between Berry Street and the Pacific Highway, the closure of Miller Street gives room for a 7,450sqm public plaza outside the Victoria Cross metro station.

Other transformations include the conversion of the tramway viaduct to create a large active recreation space and an upgrade to Primrose Park.

This includes four new tennis courts, a barbeque area and a children&rsquo;s playground, while the city will also see new laneways running between buildings and vibrant cafes.

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Situated at Walker Street, Aura enjoys a position in close proximity to leading schools, beautiful walks and cultural icons

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How Aura by Aqualand takes advantage of the transformation of North Sydney 

Sydney developers are building office and residential towers as the North Sydney CBD prepares for the opening of its new Metro station

The new wave in development is set to pivot the precinct into a key apartment hub for the first time.

Aqualand&rsquo;s $1bn development, Aura has seen strong sales since its launch last December.

Leveraging off the success of nearby Blue at Milsons Point, Aqualand is building a 386-apartment tower on its 168 Walker St site, located near North Sydney Oval.

It&#39;s a Woods Bagot design, with interiors by Richards Stanisich.

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Its three bedroom apartments were the most popular among buyers, starting at $3 million with owner occupiers and a sprinkling of investors.

Melbourne-based Cbus Property is advancing its project plans, having partnered with Neil Werrett&rsquo;s Galileo on East Walker St, North Sydney.

The 4000sq m amalgamation of seven residential sites is located within North Sydney Council&rsquo;s Ward Street Precinct, a masterplan initiative intended to stimulate the northern end of North Sydney&rsquo;s CBD.

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The site at 173-179 Walker Street and 11-17 Hampden Street, North Sydney is among the opportunities emerging from the decision to proceed with Victoria Cross Metro station, which opens in 2024.

Cbus plan to develop high-end owner-occupier residences with views across the harbour.

FJMT Studio has been appointed to design the project which pending approval, will see demolition and excavation next year.

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Its construction is anticipated to commence in 2023 with completion in 2026.

Cbus and Galileo purchased the site for around $150 million from property developer Avenor, which had spent several years amalgamating the site.

The site include five residential flat buildings each of three to four storeys and two single dwelling houses.

The Avenor development application indicated increased residential densities would increase the demand for retail and commercial services, increasing the economic viability and vibrancy of North Sydney. The planning proposal was initially assessed by the Sydney North Planning Panel in 2017/2018 and deemed by the panel to have strategic merit.

Developers took a look at the 167-room The Rydges North Sydney Hotel, which was listed for sale at 54 McLaren St, but yet to find a buyer.

The hotel occupies a 2549sq m freehold site in North Sydney.

The Sydney Metro rail development will see the commute from Victoria Cross Station in North Sydney to Barangaroo in Sydney&rsquo;s CBD just three minutes.

The fresh wave of office projects in North Sydney has seen Sydney&#39;s fast-growing second CBD set accommodate a further 20,000 workers by 2036.

Heavy government and private investment in North Sydney is planned with 19 key projects that will see over 17,000sqm of new parks and plazas, creating a new network of laneways, and improving pedestrian safety and amenity.

The initial $3.2 billion wave of office development included Suntech REIT&rsquo;s 177 Pacific Highway, Winten Property Group&rsquo;s 1 Denison Street and Dexus&rsquo; 100 Mount Street towers.

Now a further $2.9 billion of projects include Lendlease&rsquo;s Victoria Cross tower and Billbergia&rsquo;s office-hotel development at 88 Walker.

It has been noted strata dwellings within the North Sydney LGA provide a more affordable option for its residents and key workers.&nbsp;

The Avenor application noted the median strata price was 109% lower than the median price of non-strata dwellings in the LGA.

The Department of Planning and Environment (DP&amp;E) project the need for an additional 11,450 dwelling for the LGA over the next 20 years from 2016, equating to a target of 573 new dwellings per annum in the LGA.

Of this growth in households, 51% or 5,350 households is attributed to lone person households, while 23% and 12% is attributed to couples without dependents and couples without dependents, respectively.

Aqualand’s $1bn development, Aura has seen strong sales since its launch last year


jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

North Sydney's CBD renewal will see pivot to apartments as Metro station nears

Demand has soared at AURA, Aqualand's $1 billion North Sydney mixed-use tower, with 70 per cent of the first stage already sold.

Local downsizers have been the keenest of buyers so far in the luxury tower, with three-bedroom apartments priced from $3 million proving the most popular as house prices skyrocket across the state.

Two of the sub penthouses sold for $8 million and $8.15 million, with one of the penthouses selling to a local Mosman downsizer.

&nbsp;

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The attraction for the majority of buyers was the mixed of being in a leafy residential location, near North Sydney Oval, while also being aware of all of the transformation of the suburb with extensive investment planned.

Heavy government and private investment in North Sydney has been laid out,&nbsp;with 19 key projects to reinforce Miller Street as the civic spine of North Sydney, delivering over 17,000 sqm of new parks and plazas, creating a new network of laneways, and improving pedestrian safety and amenity.

The closure of Miller Street to cars will open a 7,450 sqm public plaza outside the Metro Station and a new smaller plaza outside the post office.

Plans are in place to turn the tramway viaduct into a large active recreation space and new laneways running between buildings and spaces will create hidden pockets of North Sydney, with&nbsp;new cafes and bars and walking trails.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=181068]

The new Sydney Metro Victoria Cross station, adjacent to AURA, adds another transportation option to the number of trains, buses, ferries, pedestrian and cycling paths at its doorstep, in addition to the freeways in each direction.

Barangaroo is accessible by train in just three minutes.

AURA, at 168 Walker Street, has been designed by award-winning architects Woods Bagot and Richards Stanisich with views overlooking Sydney Harbour, Sydney CBD and North Sydney Oval top of the design thinking.

Apartments feature a simple&nbsp;palette of white marble as a backdrop for the of natural light that comes in through floor-to-ceiling windows, augmented by mirrored surfaces, glazed walls and translucent screens. Residents can choose from three&nbsp;colour schemes—dark, mid, and light.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=181048]

Marble benchtops anchor kitchen spaces, while marble flooring sits below tall mirrors with dark bronze powder-coated framing in the bathrooms.&nbsp;The bathrooms&nbsp;also feature&nbsp;highest standard in materials—from toughened fluted glass to premium tiling and marble.

All apartments offer an open space living to winter gardens, while apartments feature a multi-functional room that facilitates use as a secondary living area, an office, or bedroom.

Aqualand has also just launched its new hospitality arm, Etymon Projects, incorporating a dedicated, world-class concierge service designed to create a 360-degree lifestyle development offering with exceptional service.

Aqualand’s vision is to bring the 5-star hotel experience to its developments by combining traditional concierge services with lifestyle management for the first time.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=181066]

The new service takes its lead from New York, China, Singapore and Hong Kong luxury apartment living, where applying hotel services and a hospitality ethos to homes isn’t new. In addition,&nbsp;Etymon Project’s next-level The Club will custom-fit its services to fit individual lifestyles.

Options will include Home Management (grocery put away, coordinating tradespeople, watering plants and vehicle maintenance) and Home Event Planning (dinner parties, children’s birthdays and more).

Etymon Projects will also manage a providore, artisan bakery, casual diner and a contemporary Japanese eatery in AURA’s vibrant culinary precinct, acting as an extension to residents&nbsp;apartments and a social anchor for the local community.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=30959]

The attraction for the majority of buyers was the mixed of being in a leafy residential location, near North Sydney Oval, while also being aware of all of the transformation of the suburb with extensive investment planned

Downsizer's drive stage one of Aqualand's $1 billion North Sydney apartment tower AURA to 70% sold

The $1 billion mixed-use development, AURA by Aqualand, is lined up to be the focal point of the transformation of North Sydney.

AURA, which will comprise a mix of&nbsp;386 luxury residences, retails, dining precinct, and commercial spaces at 168 Walker Street, will give residents&nbsp;gun barrel panoramic views of the&nbsp;Sydney Harbour Bridge, Luna Park, and the Sydney Opera House.

Award-winning architects from Woods Bagot and Richards Stanisch have combined to create the 28-level tower and apartments, which for off the plan buyers will be available in three different colour schemes;&nbsp;dark, mid, or light.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=181044]

The highest standard in materials will be used throughout, from toughened fluted glass to premium tiling and marble.

Each apartment will open to a balcony with winter gardens. They have been designed to offer different floorplans and flexible solutions to balance working and living at home.

There will be extensive resident amenity, including a&nbsp;ground level pool and gym, a dining and entertaining area on level nine, and outdoor barbecue facilities, a sun deck, and dining rooms on the top level.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=181059]

AURA residents will also benefit from Aqualand's recently launched hospitality arm, Etymon Projects, which incorporates a dedicated concierge service&nbsp;designed to create a 360-degree lifestyle development offering with exceptional service.&nbsp;

Aqualand’s vision is to bring the 5-star hotel experience to its developments by combining traditional concierge services with lifestyle management for the first time.

The new service takes its lead from New York, China, Singapore and Hong Kong luxury apartment living, where applying hotel services and a hospitality ethos to homes isn’t new.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=181045]

Etymon Project’s next-level The Club will custom-fit its services to fit individual lifestyles perfectly. Options will include Home Management (grocery put away, coordinating tradespeople, watering plants and vehicle maintenance) and Home Event Planning (dinner parties, children’s birthdays and more).

Etymon Projects will also manage a providore, artisan bakery, casual diner and a contemporary Japanese eatery in&nbsp;AURA’s vibrant culinary precinct, acting as an extension to residents' apartments and a social anchor for the local community.

Buyers only need to look to Aqualand's most recent successful mixed-use precinct at Central Barangaroo, where the developer was in charge of delivering the&nbsp;residential, commercial, and public spaces.

Aqualand, led by founder and managing director, Jin Lin, has also recently completed the $420 million&nbsp;Blue at Lavender Bay, the luxury apartment tower with 130 apartments, as well as The Revy on Darling Island.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=181068]

"The vision for AURA is simple enough, but ambitiously bold," Lin says.

"We see this as a once-in-a-generation development, shaping the future of North Sydney and modern luxury living in Australia."

Aqualand's head of sales and marketing, Alex Adams, says there are two ways to create a dream home.

"[You can] build an average product and hope that people will love it, or you can design something that's iconic and special, that jusut doesn't compare to anything that has ever existed before", Adams says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=181055]

"Aura is the latter, an heirloom we hope our home owners will keep within their families for generations.

The first stage of apartments are set to be released to the market, starting from $995,000. There will be 102 apartments in the release, a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments.

AURA is expected to be the centrepiece of the ever evolving North Sydney precinct, which is expected to become Sydney's second CBD hub with the amount of plans and infrastructure in the pipeline.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=181063]

The closing of Miller Street to cars and&nbsp;the massive investment in green spaces and entertainment precincts is expected to increase its attractiveness to future residents.

There are 19 key projects currently reincofrcing Miller Street as its civic spine. Plans are underway for over 17,000 sqm of new parks, plazas, and laneway networks. There's also plans for a&nbsp;Warringah Land Bridge will connect North Sydney with the other side of the freeway, and plans to turn the tramway viaduct into a large active recreation space.

The new Sydney Metro Victoria Cross station will sit adjacent to AURA.

Some 80,000 workers are expected in North Sydney by 2036.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=30959]

"The vision for AURA is simple enough, but ambitiously bold," Aqualand founder and managing director Jin Lin says.



"A once-in-a-generation development" - Sales set to launch at Aqualand's luxury North Sydney apartment tower, AURA 

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Media, marketing and creative agencies are flocking to North Sydney to take advantage of the newly developed commercial office space.
Colliers International has leased seven suites at 150 Pacific Highway in North Sydney, ranging from 60-100 sqm each.
Companies Pictura Creative, Mobius, Intergrid and FINAO are just some of the tenants that leased the space with rents ranging from $650 to $680 sqm gross per sqm per annum.
“All seven suites were leased within a six-month period highlighting the demand in North Sydney for creative, modern and bright office space,” said Jay Horrell, Executive, Office Leasing at Colliers International.
“In line with the growing importance of staff retention and wellbeing, we are seeing a greater number of tenants seeking creative workspace offering a more appealing environment for staff”
150 Pacific Highway is a brand-new building with onsite end of trip facilities and each suite has floor to ceiling windows, polished concrete flooring and a three metre plus ceiling height.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/3/27/3_North%20Sydney%20PH.jpg" alt="">
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Seven suites leased at 150 Pacific Highway

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A North Sydney studio apartment has sold for $390,000 at recent auction.
The unit, at 13/106 High Street, features an L-shaped layout that incorporates a bed area and kitchen. 
It has a single bathroom, a security intercom, lift access, gas hot water, and a shared laundry.
It previously traded in 1985, when it sold for for $39,500.
The median unit price in North Sydney is $802,500.
John McManus and Hamish Gibbs, from McGrath Willoughby, listed the property.
 
 
 
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North Sydney studio sells for under $400,000

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Investors in North Sydney remain predominately offshore, with cross-border purchasers accounting for more than two thirds of total investments this year to date, according to the latest report from CI Australia on the North Sydney market.
They found that of the $1.53B invested into commercial assets in the North Sydney CBD last year, Canadian funds represented the largest portion of investment by dollar volume, followed closely by investors in Hong Kong and Singapore.
An influx of coworking spaces can be observed in North Sydney over the last few months, with the expansion of companies such as WeWork &amp; Regus, an additional 7,000 sqm has entered the market, bringing the total up to 23,700 sqm.
The introduction of coworking would likely have the largest impact on the smaller end of the market, with vacancy of secondary suites already rising over the last few months. In the long run, these spaces may even assist in fostering healthy competition, leading to increased flexibility and shorter terms for tech tenants.
CI said, "boosted by the low-interest rate environment, prime yields on commercial real estate in North Sydney are currently at an all time low."
"Recent transactions have seen fully-leased yields in the low 4% range - levels on par with those observed in the Sydney CBD."
"Following substantial growth in rents over the last 3 year, rental levels are now tending towards stability and will continue to increase with the rates applicable to annual review," they noted
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North Sydney office market yields are at all time lows: CI Australia

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The Ascott Limited, a Singapore-based subsidiary of CapitaLand, is investing $202 million in a freehold serviced residence in the Central Business District of North Sydney, through a global fund with Qatar Investment Authority (QIA).
The residence is part of a 48-storey integrated development which also has office and retail components.
The complex will be named Citadines Walker North Sydney.
It will be the tallest tower in North Sydney upon its completion in 2021. 
The Singapore-based company further announced the acquisition and the signing of 13 other properties under franchise and management contracts at the grand opening of La Clef Champs-Élysées Paris in France.
These 14 new properties offer more than 2,200 units.
"This latest acquisition in Australia is in line with our strategy of growing our fund management portfolio through private equity funds, joint ventures and listed hospitality trusts – all of which provide a core asset base for our asset management business,’ said Ascott’s Chief Executive Officer, Kevin Goh.
With this latest acquisition in Australia, as well as the signing of 13 management and franchise contracts across China, France, Indonesia, Kenya and Vietnam, Ascott has achieved a purported $10 billion in asset value.
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Ascott acquires $202 million North Sydney development

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Nine has increased the office space they are leasing in 1 Denison, securing a 25,000 sqm lease for 12 years, which sees it set to share offices with their Fairfax colleagues.
The landmark $1.2 billion commercial office building is the tallest tower in North Sydney.
Its original lease has been increased from 18,500 sqm with the goal of bringing together all of its key Sydney divisions into one office.
The new lease comprises a ground floor reception and studio plus 13 floors from level G to nine in the low-rise and 19 to 22 in the mid-rise with floor plates ranging from 1,650 sqm to 2,517 sqm.
Nine will soon commence their fit-out, designed by Bates Smart Architects and will stage their relocation from the second half of 2020.
Print journalists from the Pyrmont-based mastheads such as The Australian Financial Review and The Sydney Morning Herald will be moving to the site, in with the television operations.
Fairfax has been at Pyrmont since 2006 when former chairman Ron Walker negotiated a deal to take the Darling Island Road space.
Scott Soutar, Nine’s Group Head of Property said Nine was "very pleased" to extend their space.
"We have been very impressed with the design and innovation proposed for 1 Denison and eagerly anticipate the completion of the project which for us will facilitate, for the first time, bringing together our broadcast and publishing businesses under one roof.”
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/8/6/1%20Denison%20-%202.JPG" alt="">
1 Denison has a net lettable area of 61,600 sqm across 39 storeys and is expected to achieve a minimum 5 Star Green Star rating from the Green Building Council of Australia as well as 5 Star NABERS rating and Silver WELLS rating.
It is positioned in the new heart of North Sydney and is located between the new Victoria Cross Metro station and North Sydney Train Station.
Multiplex is currently constructing the project with completion expected by the second half of 2020.
Mark Lacey, Regional Director at CBRE acted for Winten and Simon Crouch, while Head of Tenant Advisory at Colliers International represented Nine in the transaction.
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