Sun Property Group (SPG) has taken a major step to reinforce its commitment to consumer trust by securing Latent Defects Insurance (LDI) from Resilience Insurance for its nearly completed Willoughby development on Sydney’s Lower North Shore.

The boutique project, Aurora, comprising 12 apartments and a ground-floor commercial space, is one of few in the region to adopt the forward-thinking insurance model—offering a point of difference in a competitive market.

For Cameron Johnson, General Manager at Sun Property Group, the decision to adopt LDI was rooted in the company’s long-standing philosophy of maintaining a highly personalised relationship with its end users.

“We’ve always taken ownership over our product,” Johnson said. “Introducing LDI is not just about peace of mind for the buyer—it’s about raising the internal bar. It becomes the baseline for how we do things going forward.”

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While hundreds of developers and builders have taken out an LDI policy from Resilience Insurance, the insurance is still relatively new to Australia. Johnson says he sees significant future potential with LDI nationwide, with both&nbsp;regulatory and market frameworks starting to evolve to support its wider use in class two buildings.

“When we started the Willoughby project, LDI was still just a concept being floated by the Building Commissioner’s office," Johnson says.

"Delays in the construction timeline gave us the unique opportunity to adopt it as the product became more available in late 2023."

That timing aligned with a shift in construction contractors on the project, which opened the door for a more collaborative and considered implementation of the insurance. According to Johnson, Resilience Insurance was proactive and solution-oriented.

“It wasn’t just about us buying a product off the shelf. It was a dialogue—how can we work together to deliver something that meets both of our needs?” he added.

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LDI covers major structural defects for up to 10 years post-completion and offers an alternative to the traditional developer bond held under the Department of Fair Trading’s scheme. SPG prudently factor in a two per cent cost profile for such measures into its feasibility, treating it as “business as usual.”

“What LDI does is show the consumer that we’re front-ending our responsibilities—design, delivery, documentation, execution. That whole chain of custody is assessed and independently reviewed throughout construction. It’s a rubber stamp on quality,” Johnson said.

In a region where no other nearby developments currently carry LDI, the move also creates a market differentiator. While some projects may carry an iCIRT rating, few offer the depth of protection and oversight that LDI provides, especially outside of publicly listed organisations.

Aurora is being brought to market by Henry Burke of McGrath Projects. With the recent cut in interest rates Burke expects that many first home buyers and investors will jump at the chance to buy in Aurora due to its convenient location, fantastic retail amenity, picturesque parks with leafy walks, and excellent transport connections with only one stop to Sydney CBD. He expects a local owner-occupier to secure the standout penthouse which offers 175 sqm of internal space and further 200 sqm of outdoor space.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=109919 project_image_fid=205010]

Johnson says Aurora residents will not only benefit from the first right insurance policy, which means action is taken immediately rather than often long and complicated battles as developers and builders point fingers at each other as to who created the issue, but from how it can benefit the strata communities of the building.

Many buyers, especially first-time apartment owners, have limited understanding of shared infrastructure or the responsibilities of Owners Corporations. LDI adds an important layer of education, structure, and protection.

“People want to move in and enjoy what they’ve bought. But when things go wrong, that’s when emotions and stress levels rise. The insurance policy gives owners a clearer path to resolution—an assured, regulated compensation process. It also helps equip owners and managers with the knowledge they need to maintain the building properly.”

The insurance includes tools such as service penetration matrices and access documentation—going far beyond standard build drawings. Johnson says it’s about delivering not just a home, but a sustainable, manageable asset.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=109919 project_image_fid=343670]

Sun Property Group continues to build on its strong track record across Sydney’s Lower North Shore, with an upcoming major development of its Bowen Street, Chatswood landholdings and additional projects underway in Melbourne. The team recently completed its debut Melbourne apartment project, The Brookville in Toorak, showcasing their commitment to delivering high-quality, design-led communities.

In a region where no other nearby developments currently carry LDI, the move also creates a market differentiator

Joel Robinson

Sun Property Group approaches completion of Willoughby's first apartment development with 10-year Latent Defects Insurance

Renowned developer-builder DASCO has unveiled its much-anticipated new development in the heart of Epping.

The architectural brief for Turner Studio was to “create a community where residents are completely immersed in a paradise for the senses.”

The result is <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/senso-epping-242-244-beecroft-road-epping-nsw-2121">Senso</a>, a series of buildings that have been oriented around an unrepeatable 10,000 sqm-plus site to create a facility-laden, landscape-first precinct, something of which Epping and its surrounds have not seen before.

There are 479 apartments available in a variety of floorplans across the five buildings, a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments in addition to a curated penthouse collection.

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The apartments have been designed to appeal to the owner-occupier market, with generous floorplans, premium materials, and optional upgrades including integrated refrigeration, bespoke joinery, and motorised blinds.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/dasco-australia">DASCO</a>, who builds its own developments, is once again bringing peace of mind to its clients by taking the 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy offered by Resilience Insurance, which protects buyers against any structural or waterproofing issues for 10 years post completion of the building. This insurance can only be taken out by the builder or developer and not by individual apartment owners.

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DASCO is known for creating more than just apartments — they create places where people connect. Senso will have over 4,000 sqm of resort-inspired communal amenity in the form of two rooftop pools, a celestial outdoor cinema, wellness club, sensory walk, and an observation deck, in addition to multiple BBQ and outdoor communal areas on multiple levels, intended to deliver a complete lifestyle offering within the residential environment.

There will be over 800 sqm of retail space on street level, which will likely be run as hospitality venues.

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Located adjacent to the new Epping Town Centre masterplan, and just a five-minute walk from Epping Metro Station, Senso offers seamless access to Macquarie Park, Chatswood and the Sydney CBD. Families who are interested in the large two- and three-bedroom apartments are within proximity to several regarded educational institutions including Macquarie University, James Ruse Agricultural High, and Cheltenham Girls School.

The project also leverages Epping’s growing dining and retail precinct, proximity to Macquarie Centre, and access to natural assets including Terrys Creek walking trails and Boronia Park.

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With a 33-year track record and over 7,000 dwellings delivered, DASCO continues to develop and build; a business model that enables integrated delivery and peace of mind, especially when Senso is backed by Latent Defects Insurance (LDI), providing 10 years of protection for buyers at no additional cost.

The launch of Senso Epping reinforces DASCO’s active pipeline of Sydney-based developments at a time when the market is increasingly focused on owner-occupier appeal, delivery confidence, and long-term quality.

DASCO is partnering on Senso Epping with leading Australian alternative asset management firm Metrics, which has more than $30 billion in assets under management.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134954]

DASCO reveals Senso, Epping’s first resort-style apartment development

Preliminary data by research giant Charter Keck Cramer reveals a 54 per cent decline in Build to Sell apartments across Australia's capital cities, while the Build to Rent boom continues with a 378 per cent increase over the last five years.

Charter Keck Cramer's upcoming National State of the Market Report - Key Metropolitan Areas, scheduled for release in September, will reveal&nbsp;a dramatic transformation in apartment supply patterns across Australia's capital cities between FY2016-2020 and FY2021-2025.

The Build to Sell (BTS) apartment sector has experienced a substantial contraction, with total supply falling by 54 per cent compared to the previous five-year period. The decline represents a reduction of 149,200 apartments across all capital cities.

<img alt="BTS Charter Keck Cramer" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3db2ddf3-e7c0-481f-b8b9-63efb365cb80" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-08-20%20at%2011.26.34%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=bsQl8inhZA7FeiPamnGvw1tse0obBdSd" />

Sydney led the downturn with a decrease of 73,600 apartments, followed by Melbourne (-42,800) and Brisbane (-26,800). Perth and Adelaide also recorded significant declines of 6,400 and 2,400 apartments respectively. Only Gold Coast and Canberra bucked the trend, with modest increases of 500 and 2,300 apartments.

In stark contrast, the Build to Rent (BTR) sector has emerged as a major force in the apartment market, recording a remarkable 378% increase in supply. This growth added 8,590 apartments across the capital cities during FY2021-2025. Melbourne dominated BTR growth with 6,160 additional apartments, while Sydney contributed 2,100 units. Brisbane and Canberra also recorded growth of 800 and 330 apartments respectively. Gold Coast and Perth recorded minor declines, while Adelaide maintained steady levels.

<img alt="BTR CKC" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ca13ffd4-ab93-4828-afd2-4c3dccbd2b51" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-08-20%20at%2011.28.54%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=SXNnpcJuFD36ViWOwF6izBBqcQc3NWao" />

“These preliminary findings indicate a fundamental shift in Australia's apartment development landscape, with traditional Build to Sell models giving way to institutional Build to Rent developments,” said Richard Temlett, Charter Keck Cramer’s National Executive Director of Research.

"This transition reflects changing investor preferences, regulatory environments and housing affordability challenges across major metropolitan areas.”

The complete Charter Keck Cramer National State of the Market Report – Key Metropolitan Areas will provide comprehensive analysis of these trends, their underlying drivers and implications for developers, investors and policymakers when released in September.

Build to Sell apartment supply drops 54% in five years across Australian capital cities

Verso Development Group is seeking to bring over 1,100 apartments to the heart of Brisbane's Toowong, with plans filed for a $1 billion, triple tower development known as Toowong Central.

The landmark urban regeneration project "aims to reshape the core of Brisbane’s inner-west riverside suburb."

Covering over 1.4-hectares across&nbsp;Sherwood Road, High Street, and Jephson Street, Toowong Central has been designed by KHA and will comprise three towers rising 49, 55, and 58 levels.

<img alt="Toowong Central" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="48611e3d-7123-4b99-b2cb-bfa4bc98024f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/amenities.png?VersionId=yKBexB.BgCkq4OET8fHDkWs0d3DjxOKJ" />

According to the Urban Context Report prepared by Urbis, Toowong Central is positioned as a “city-defining precinct reclaiming Toowong as ‘the best destination in the west’,” with a vision to deliver density differently, strengthen Toowong’s identity, and lead subtropical urban design.

There will be a wide range of apartment configurations, from one-bedrooms to five-bedroom penthouses, as well as short-term accomodation offerings. The design prioritises pedestrian permeability, with an activated public realm featuring a central civic plaza, laneways, and street-level retail and dining.

“The central square’s structure, programming, scale and location creates a social anchor - shaped by its edges, flexible for use, and animated by a diversity of experiences throughout the day and into the evening,” the Urban Context Report noted, reinforcing the project's ambition to become a vibrant community destination.

Design excellence was pursued through an international design competition, attracting entries from renowned practices such as UNStudio and BIG. KHA’s winning design distinguished itself with a ceremonial approach to the public realm, integrating terraces, tiered seating, and green infrastructure to promote social interaction and resilience.

The development builds upon two existing approvals: the 25- and 20-storey towers of the Aviary Toowong proposal, and a separate 25- and 24-storey approval at 88 Jephson Street. Consolidation of these fragmented landholdings under a precinct-wide approach allows for increased community value and cohesive urban integration.

Urbis Director Nicholas Stevenson said Toowong Central will bridge the gap in Toowong's current experience, unlocking the potential of the wider precinct.

"Overcoming experiential constraints and leveraging contextual advantages – Toowong Central will redefine Brisbane's inner west.”

<img alt="Toowong Central" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="73f7a702-625d-452d-9df2-30a0863ac1e8" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/master.png?VersionId=TZdh6wxGC_8IIroXpdkZfuhlS8mFZnea" />

Toowong Central’s ambition extends beyond residential and commercial outcomes. Uses under consideration include a world-class hotel, university facilities, a museum, and health and wellness services, reflecting its role as a western gateway to Brisbane’s growing innovation corridor between the CBD and the University of Queensland.

Urbis Managing Partner James Tuma said Brisbane has no greater opportunity to showcase the future of urban living than Toowong – a sustainable, economically vibrant, and people-centric place that embodies the best of Brisbane.

[The plans] gives us a glimpse into our future as a globally relevant, youthful, entrepreneurial, and distinctly subtropical city.”

$1 billion Toowong Central to deliver 1,100 apartments to undersupplied Brisbane market

In <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/runaway-bay-qld-4216">Runaway Bay</a>, new townhouse-scale waterfront residences are rare - but ones built to the standards found on Sovereign Island are almost unheard of.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/ocean-suites-on-jennifer-10-12-jennifer-avenue-runaway-bay-qld-4216">Ocean Suites on Jennifer</a>&nbsp;changes that, delivering a calibre of construction and detailing that places its seven villas well above the typical market offering in this northern Gold Coast pocket.

Ocean Suites on Jennifer will be move-in ready before Christmas this year, giving buyers the chance to spend the summer on the water in one of Runaway Bay’s rare new waterfront residences.&nbsp;

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The development is a collaboration between <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/stuart-osman">Stuart Osman Design</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sand-side-developments">Sand Side Developments</a>, with construction by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/alroe-constructions">Alroe Constructions</a>.

Architect Stuart Osman says the intent from the outset was to create a home people would be drawn to. “When you build anything, the design is to make you want to go hang out in this house,” he says.&nbsp;

Ocean Suites on Jennifer’s design features a front façade softened with planter boxes, rear pool areas, and rooftop decks looking over the water.&nbsp;

Inside, voids and high skylights bring daylight deep into the centre of each home, while ceiling heights of 2.85 metres maintain a strong sense of volume.

Each four-level residence spans 345 to 388 sqm, with layouts accommodating multi-generational living - a ground-floor bedroom suite for older family members and upper levels for the rest of the household. A lift connects all floors.

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For Andrew Erwin, Director at NPA, the project’s appeal lies in both its location and the detail in execution.&nbsp;

"At Ocean Suites, you’ve got a canal-front setting with direct Broadwater access and a level of finish you’d normally only see in the city’s most prestigious addresses. The four-level layouts, the glass-framed living areas, the private pools, even the extended kitchens, every part of it has been designed with the buyer in mind,” he says.

Those buyers have so far been a mix of Gold Coast locals and interstate purchasers, many seeking a lock-up-and-leave holiday home or a downsized residence without sacrificing space for visiting family.&nbsp;

Older households with teenage children are a recurring profile, drawn to layouts that support multi-generational living and the ability to host extended stays.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138718 project_image_fid=214432]

Material selection reinforces the project’s quality-first ethos, with every home appointed to a premium standard. Kitchens and ensuites feature engineered stone surfaces, complemented by prestige oak engineered timber floors, Victorian ash hardwood staircases, and soft loop-pile carpet.

Premium lighting, statement pendants, ceiling fans, and Fujitsu ducted air conditioning elevate both comfort and design. Each residence also includes a suite of high-end appliances as standard - Fisher &amp; Paykel integrated fridges, Bosch ovens, induction cooktops and dishwashers, Vintec wine fridges, and Franke sinks.

Beyond the interiors, residents enjoy an enviable lifestyle with rooftop terraces, private plunge pools, fire pit areas, outdoor showers, smart home automation, laundry chutes, and private pontoons.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138718 project_image_fid=214452]

With no additional upgrade costs, Sand Side Developments underscores its no-shortcuts approach, delivering homes where luxury and amenity come as standard.

Osman adds that the kitchen has been designed as “the main hub of the house” with six metres high skylights above a galley-style layout that “makes it feel bigger, brighter, whiter” and “brings light into the centre of the home.”

Both architect and builder emphasise a shared commitment to delivering the intended design without compromise. “Working with Alroe’s structural team and their construction team, it’s been great to make sure that the look and feel that was originally intended is the result achieved at the end of the project,” Osman says.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138718 project_image_fid=214453]

Outdoor living has been given equal consideration, with rooftop terraces designed for entertaining with a fire pit and bar, and spacious undercover patios featuring private plunge pools.

The marine access is as carefully executed as the homes themselves. An eight-metre gangway leads to a six-metre private pontoon capable of mooring vessels up to 30 feet, just 300 metres by water from the Broadwater.&nbsp;

Even the orientation of each villa has been optimised to capture long views down the canal, across the Broadwater, and south to Main Beach.

With construction in its final stages, just three of the seven villas remain, priced from $3.365 million to $3.695 million.

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Sovereign Island standards come to Runaway Bay with Ocean Suites on Jennifer

Sekisui House

Sekisui House has received development approval for Stage 2 in the company’s $2 billion Sanctuary masterplanned community in Sydney’s Wentworth Point,

Designed by PBD Architects, Stage 2 will comprise of two buildings, Laguna and Glade, which combined will home 171 waterside apartments. Laguna will rise&nbsp;13 levels and will have 101 apartments, while Glade will reach eight storeys and have 70 apartments.

Connecting both buildings will be a 3,150 sqm neighbourhood green, a landscaped public open space featuring a covered communal dining area, waterplay and multiple green break out area.

As part of Stage 2’s delivery, a recreational facility, known as Revive, which will feature an indoor swimming pool, spa, sauna, and gym, will also be completed.&nbsp;

Zac Petrovic, Senior Development Manager – Apartments &amp; Mixed-Use Developments at Sekisui House Australia says Stage 2 has been developed as part of the broader Sanctuary masterplan.

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"Stage 2 has been designed to act as the heart of the Sanctuary community, with the journey through Laguna and Glade effectively connecting all stages," Petrovic says.

"A comprehensive placemaking strategy has also been created to provide residents with desirable recreational amenities and a cohesive, well considered walkable community.

James McCarthy, Director at Turner Studio who designed the wider Sanctuary Park masterplan, says every stage in Sanctuary has been meticulously planned to maximise natural light and capture surrounding waterfront and park views to maximise the context of this unique site.

“Building forms reflect the gentle curves of the Parramatta River, integrating architecture and nature to create a perfect synergy. Natural materials will be used, inspired by the development’s waterfront location. The lower rise building Glade is designed to offer residents an enhanced spatial experience, while the inclusion of a neighbourhood green acts as a place catalyst.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6969 project_image_fid=228633] 
 
Sanctuary’s masterplan spans 9.4 hectares across six stages and will provide a vibrant mixed-use precinct with around 2000 waterfront apartments, retail and other community amenities. The first building stage, the gateway to Sanctuary, was completed in November 2020.

The masterplanned community is located approximately 16 kilometres from Sydney’s CBD. Sanctuary is within a two-minute walk to Sydney Olympic Park Ferry Wharf. Bus, ferry and train (Rhodes) networks directly link with major transport nodes, 45 kilometres of bike paths surround Sydney Olympic Park and over 47 hectares of nature reserves surround the site.

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Designed by PBD Architects, Stage 2 will comprise of two buildings, Laguna and Glade, which combined will home 171 waterside apartments.



First look: Sekisui House secure approval for Sanctuary, Wentworth Point masterplan second stage

Sekisui House Australia has saved the best until last at West Village, their West End redevelopment of the Peter's Ice Cream Factory site.

They've lodged plans for the final tower in the incredibly successful nine-tower project, which they started redeveloping back in 2016. Since then West Village has won more than 40 awards, the most recent being the&nbsp;internationally renowned 2022 ULI APAC Award for Excellence.

Dubbed Callista on Park due to its premier location fronting Mollison Park, the most sculptural and refined offering in the village with north east aspect views, the new building is aiming to capture a different cohort of buyers compared to the more diverse towers that have come before it. The Callista on&nbsp;Park is boutique in nature and will feature just&nbsp;74 apartments,&nbsp;all&nbsp;three and four-bedroom configurations. There will be 34 three-bedroom apartments, each with a multi-purpose room, and 35 four-bedroom units. There will be a single two-bedroom apartment.

An extensive heritage impact statement was prepared for the building given its proximity to the heritage-listed Peters Ice Cream Factory, which sits next door.

<img alt="Callista on Park West Village 2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c2d75589-2367-4d98-a617-d97663a0d7ee" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-10-05%20at%202.34.45%20pm_0.png?VersionId=7kmWeYCIyHJaspxEY67azbkzN2KQxxTR" />

But the designs by FJMT studio&nbsp;responds sensitively to the 1928-built factory, which acts as the focal point of the whole development. That now homes a farmers market, and sits opposite a lawn which hosts&nbsp;the annual Brisbane Ice Cream Festival, pizza and pinot evenings, gardening workshops and fashion events.

"The new podium facade adjacent to the Factory respects the built form, reflecting its human scale and overall proportions," FJMT studio&nbsp;noted in their architectural&nbsp;design submitted as part of the application.

"The materiality of the facade is a response to the natural stone in its immediate landscape context with a warm and earthy palette."

The new building is divided into two distinctly expressed volumes, with a green seam weaving through the facade. With the most impressive views and location in West End, Callista on Park will celebrate its garden character wrapping Mollison park up its façade plateauing on a true sky garden designed by RPS.&nbsp;

"As an extension of the glazed facade, the roof is expressed as a ‘lantern,’ anchoring itself as a beacon down Melbourne St where the open air conservatory sits as a celebration of Brisbane’s subtropical climate," FJMT note.

The roof terrace is a series of generous lush gardens with intimate break out spaces, an infinity pool edge a wellness area and dining areas with stunning views are nestled into the landscape. The open air conservatory with a rich planting palette crowns the top of an unified architectural form.

"A layered and dialectic approach of two contrasting materials is employed with the use of new and light materials for the northern volume and a warmer palette as a sympathetic response to the heritage building and the contemporary Queenslander vernacular for the southern volume,"&nbsp;FJMT&nbsp;state.&nbsp;

“The largely glazed northern volume provides a long perimeter of glazed facade to the most desirable orientation.&nbsp;The taller of the two volumes is characterised by a unified and continuous louvres on the outside, shading the north facing balcony gardens and living spaces.”

<img alt="Callista on Park West Village 2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4d0e1dec-e17b-4751-a3c4-d9a8dfc86ff2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-10-05%20at%202.34.40%20pm.png?VersionId=A.uAEmNhV3atxr5hAex_j0IrOQTy87j3" />

FJMT Studo said each unit is carefully designed to optimise views,&nbsp;natural ventilation, thermal comfort, and refined with its own unique character.

"The apartments are homes centred around generous areas of balconies and gardens, which open up to expansive views of the Brisbane skyline, parklands and river."

The apartments will sit above a strategically designed new childcare centre elevating West Villages offering. Callista on Park is located next door to the recently launched Allere Collection, comprising buildings Uno and Duo and is the final stage in West Village.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114215]

Sekisui recently released seven sustainable apartments in the Allere collection, focused on giving back to the planet.

Residents of apartments in the Sustainability Series will have access to two Tesla vehicles in partnership with OhmieGo.&nbsp;

The new building is divided into two distinctly expressed volumes, with a green seam weaving through the facade

First look exclusive: Sekisui's plans for West Village final tower, Callista on Park

Purchasers have come out in strong numbers for the official public launch of Lumia Lux, which has so far secured over $35 million worth of apartment sales in The Orchards, a lifestyle inspired $1 billion master planned community in Sydney’s Norwest.

38 apartments have been purchased to date, with prices ranging from $650,000 to $2.5 million for a penthouse.

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David Lee, Sales Manager, Developments and Communities at The Orchards at Sekisui House said the public launch result was pleasing for Sekisui and demonstrates that the market is still quite strong for high-quality lifestyle apartments.

“More than fifty percent were local buyers living within a five-kilometre radius from Norwest, as well as investors from across Sydney including Sylvania Waters in the south and Randwick in the east,” he said.

“First home buyers, down sizers selling their larger homes and property investors seeking Norwest’s strong rental returns secured most of the designer apartments. Two beds were the most popular, priced around $830,000 with an average size of 80 sqm.”

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“Feedback from purchasers at Lumia Lux is that they are comparing The Orchards to other projects in Norwest and Castle Hill. They are happy to be securing a premium apartment in The Orchards with Sekisui House, a well-established global brand, as well as the fact that construction has already commenced for Lumia (Stage 3 of the masterplan), which provides peace of mind for purchasers that the project will be completed on time,” he added.

Designed by Turner, Lumia Lux’ comprises 127 apartments featuring 11 one-bedroom, 96 two-bedroom, 17 three-bedroom apartments, along with three four-bedroom penthouses.

“The appetite for lifestyle apartments continues to grow as more and more people seek an active and healthy lifestyle close to home," Lee added.

"The tranquil nature focused environment that The Orchards affords is very appealing and is a place where people want to live, work, and enjoy their lives."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=111509 project_image_fid=191136]

A key feature of Lumia Lux is the outdoor pool and pavilion. This pavilion is appointed with a collection of communal and intimate dining and lounge areas that overlook the pool and linear park. Embracing the natural setting, the pool and pavilion have been designed to embrace the organic forms found in nature.

Lumia means resembling ‘life in a new light’, with an infinity water edge, floating lounges and green landscaped roof further heightening the developments connection to nature.

Prices start from $650,000 for a one-bedroom apartment spanning 62 sqm and over $2.4 million for the four-bedroom penthouse which covers 176 sqm.

Each apartment takes advantage of the district views and green outlooks with large format windows and oversized balconies.

Set on a nature site with a creek and cycle/walkways, The Orchards will feature recreational amenities including a 1.4-hectare public park, playgrounds, break-out green spaces, outdoor lagoon pool, large indoor fitness centre and indoor heated swimming pool.

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Underpinning all aspects of the design is the Japanese concept of ‘satoyama’. This term refers to connecting people through ‘ribbons of green’ and is demonstrated in a lush green spine throughout the estate to enrich the lives of residents.

The Orchards is a master planned community spread across 8.1 hectares, that when complete will comprise 1300 generously proportioned apartments.

Located approximately 31-kilometres north-west of Sydney’s CBD, nestled in Norwest, it is 800-metres from Norwest Metro Train Station and 600-metres from Norwest Marketown and Norwest Business Park.

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38 apartments have been purchased to date, with prices ranging from $650,000 to $2.5 million for a penthouse.

alisonwarters@gmail.com

Sekisui House sell over $35 million worth of apartments in Lumia Lux

The sheer size and clever configuration of Sekisui House Australia&#39;s&nbsp;exclusive penthouse collection in their South Bri​sbane, West Village precinct, puts them&nbsp;among some of the best penthouses the Queensland capital has to offer.

The latest release, crowning the luxury wellness-focused Altura in the vibrant $1.1 billion heritage precinct, will see just two incredible&nbsp;penthouses on level 22, each offering sweeping views back to the CBD, available to buyers.

Altura is the tallest residential offering in the 2.6 hectare masterplan, which Sekisui House Australia began developing&nbsp;in 2016, with the&nbsp;heritage-listed former Peters Ice Cream &amp; Cone factories which lie at the centre of the village.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106960 project_image_fid=170168]

The penthouses designs have been&nbsp;inspired by neuroarchitecture, with an emphasis on interior comfort and biophilic response, and an understanding of the modern family lifestyle.

The most impressive penthouse&nbsp;has an extensive 384 sqm internal floorplate.

Featuring five bedrooms, five living areas, two studies, and a media room. There&#39;s a further 90 sqm of balconies, one off the main open plan kitchen living and dining area, complete with its own outdoor barbecue space, another accessible off two of the bedrooms, and a private third balcony opening from the master bedroom.

<a href="/buildings/altura-west-village-west-end-111-mollison-street-west-end-qld-4101"><img alt="" height="896" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/level22_viewline.jpg" width="1851" /></a> 
The view of the Brisbane skyline from level 22. Image supplied

The master bedroom is more than just a bedroom. It&#39;s more reminiscent of a luxury hotel-style suite. Set quietly at the end of a long corridor away from the main living spaces, the master has its own ensuite with freestanding bath, separate shower, and double vanity, as well as a dressing room-style walk in wardrobe and its own home office room.

That&#39;s one of three dedicated home office areas in the apartment, with carefully located studies&nbsp;dotted throughout.

The kitchen features its own butler&#39;s pantry and luxury stone island benchtops. A second living area is cleverly broken up from the main space by a two-way, floor-to-ceiling fireplace. There&#39;s also four parking spaces that come with the penthouse.

<a href="/buildings/altura-west-village-west-end-111-mollison-street-west-end-qld-4101"><img alt="" height="690" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-02-16_at_12.15.43_pm.png" width="1375" /></a> 
The floorplan of the 384 sqm penthouse. Image supplied

Megan Barron, Project Executive Director of&nbsp;Sales, Marketing and Public Relations at&nbsp;West Village, said the latest penthouse collection is the largest and most impressive release to date.

&ldquo;This really is a rare opportunity to live in a true heritage listed precinct which is just 800m from the Brisbane CBD,&quot; Barron said.

&quot;The extensive balcony space allows families of any size to unwind while watching the sunset over the city and the river.&quot;

Barron said people have been moving to&nbsp; West Village because they want to be surrounded by a vibrant community with a thriving retail and dining precinct on their doorstep.

&quot;Altura residences sold out in record time &ndash; a strong endorsement of our community and the lifestyle West Village offers,&quot; Barron added.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106960 project_image_fid=185878]

West End is tied as the sixth most walkable neighbourhood in Brisbane, boasting a walk score of 88, along with the blue-chip suburbs of Teneriffe and New Farm.&nbsp;West Village boasts a premium walk score of 99, making it one of the most desirable places to live in West End.

The Altura building&nbsp;was designed with a focus&nbsp;on residents&#39;&nbsp;health and wellbeing, with the communal rooftop &#39;Wellness Regeneration Zone&#39; a particular highlight.

Not just a communal rooftop with amenity,&nbsp;Matthew Durning, Principle Landscape Architect at RPS Landscaping, said there&#39;s different elements that relate to the senses, especially in the vegetation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106960 project_image_fid=190673]

&quot;Rosemary and lavender plants heighten the smell as residents move out to the rooftop,&quot; Durning says.

The aim of the rooftop, aptly titled the Wellness Regeneration Zone, was to create a space for residents to unwind both physically and mentally.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106960 project_image_fid=190674]

There will be a&nbsp;fitness infinity pool as well as a heated magnesium plunge pool, a detoxifying sauna,&nbsp;sunken fire pit spaces and an outdoor kitchen.

When construction is completed, forecast for early 2023, there will be weekly rooftop yoga and tai chi classes on the roof, surrounded by the 600 sqm of lush landscaped gardens.

Read more about the benefits of the West Village lifestyle <a href="/news/qld/the-benefits-of-a-west-village-lifestyle-local-offerings-within-walking-distance-in-brisbane-s-west-end">here</a>.

The penthouses in Sekisui House Australia’s latest residential release, Altura, have been carefully designed in collaboration with Smart Design Studio and Nettletontribe, to offer the best in spacious city fringe living.

Sekisui release one of South Brisbane's best penthouses at West Village precinct

Altura West Village, set to be the tallest tower in Sekisui House&#39;s West End, Brisbane masterplan development of a landmark heritage village, has focused on its health and wellbeing of its residents with every design step.

The most impressive is the rooftop, which core principle, according to Matthew Durning, principle landscape architect at RPS Landscaping,&nbsp;is to promote the residents&#39; health and well being.

&quot;There&#39;s different elements that relate to the senses, especially in the vegetation&quot; Durning said.

&quot;Rosemary and lavender plants heighten the smell as residents move out to the rooftop.&quot;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106960 project_image_fid=170168]

The aim of the rooftop, aptly titled the Wellness Regeneration Zone, was to create a space for residents to unwind physically and mentally.

There will be a&nbsp;fitness infinity pool as well as a heated magnesium plunge pool, a detoxifying sauna,&nbsp;sunken fire pit spaces and an outdoor kitchen.

When construction is completed, forecast for late 2022, there will be weekly rooftop yoga and tai chi classes on the roof, surrounded in the 600 sqm of lush landscaped gardens.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106960 project_image_fid=170170]

&quot;[The amenities] are elements that when you come out on to the rooftop, you feel relaxed, and you feel like you&rsquo;ve walked out in to a place that&rsquo;s like no other,&quot; Durning suggested.

&quot;The rooftop will be a new benchmark in Brisbane.&quot; Durning said.&nbsp;

Away from the roof&nbsp;will be a shared electric bike service, exclusive for residents.

Carr Design Managing Director, Chris McCue, said a&nbsp;lot of the interiors are driven by a real connection, a visible connection to nature.

Atlura is West Village&#39;s tallest residential tower at 22 levels, part of the $1.1 billion redevelopment precinct in Brisbane&#39;s West End.

The mixed-use commercial, retail and residential precinct sees the historic Peter&#39;s Ice Cream factory, dating back to the late 1920s, as part of the redevelopment.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=106960]

The aim of the rooftop, aptly titled the Wellness Regeneration Zone, was to create a space for residents to unwind physically and mentally

How Sekisui House's Altura West Village apartments promote health and wellbeing

Even the torrential rain has failed to slow down the booming first home buyer appetite, with over 70 per cent of apartments at Sekisui House&rsquo;s Lumia in Norwest going to first home buyers.

Some first home buyers were taking advantage of the final week of the HomeBuilder&nbsp;incentive&nbsp;with just a week remaining on the government grant.

There were 31 one bedroom apartment sell,, 41 two bedders and three three bedroom apartment sales.

<a href="/new-apartments/the-orchards-aire-baulkham-hills-104-fairway-drive-baulkham-hills-nsw-2153"><img alt="" height="1200" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/lumia_sekisui.jpg" width="1800" /></a>

Most of the sales went to local buyers, with sales ranging between $550,000 up to $1.6 million, with $55 million worth of sales secured.

Lumia, designed by Turner Architects is located in Sekisui House&rsquo;s $1 billion The Orchards masterplanned community in the Sydney suburb of Norwest.

The Orchards sales manager David Lee said the results where phenomenal in extreme weather conditions.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29147]

&quot;Buyer confidence is at an all time high with the Reserve Bank recently indicating that the cash rate will remain steady for three years.

&quot;First home buyers capitalised on one of the final opportunities to take advantage of current government incentives that equate to savings of over $45,000.

&ldquo;Government incentives brought forward the launch of Lumia, intentionally designed with a large range of smaller apartment to accommodate first home buyers.&rdquo;

Lee says The Orchards is one of the most significant residential masterplanned communities to be introduced in New South Wales and is taking urban rejuvenation and luxury living in Norwest to another level.&rdquo;

&nbsp;

Some first home buyers were taking advantage of the final week of the HomeBuilder incentives with just a week remaining on the government grant

First home buyers brave Sydney's torrential rain to snap up apartments in Lumia

Residential property developer and builder Sekisui House is reserving 30 apartments in its next stage of its $1 billion masterplanned Norwest community for front-line workers of first home-buyers.

They've brought forward the launch of stage three, known as Lumia, due to meet&nbsp;strong demand in previous stages from downsizers, young families and first home buyers driven by government incentives.

Lumia is made up of 330 apartments inspired by nature.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29147]

Designed by Turner Architects, stage one of Lumia comprises 203 apartments, a mix of 71 one beds, 118 two beds, 13 three bedroom apartments and a single four bedroom penthouse.

Lumia will sit in the middle of The Orchards community alongside Strangers Creek. Turner Architects director Dan Szway says that Lumia holds a unique position within The Orchards precinct and Norwest.

"It has a strong connection to the natural surrounds whilst enjoying the emerging urban amenity offered by Norwest Business Park and the new Metro Norwest station which are within easy walking distance.

<img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="774" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/lumia_sekisui_2.jpg" width="1200" />

Sekisui House sales manager David Lee says their success in 2020 was primarily due to the government's HomeBuilder Grant as well as the first home buyers grant and full stamp duty exemption.

“These government incentives have brought forward the launch of Lumia, intentionally designed with a large range of smaller apartments which is expected to accommodate first home buyer purchasers," Lee says.

"“Buyer confidence is at an all-time high with the Reserve Bank recently indicating that the cash rate will remain steady for three years.

“The Orchards is one of the most significant residential masterplanned communities to be introduced in New South Wales and is taking urban rejuvenation and luxury living in Norwest to another level.”

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Designed by Turner Architects, stage one of Lumia comprises 203 apartments, a mix of 71 one beds, 118 two beds, 13 three bedroom apartments and a single four bedroom penthouse.



Sekisui House to reserve 30 units for frontline workers or first home buyers in latest The Orchards release in Norwest

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The latest stage of developer Sekisui House's sprawling West Village apartment precinct in inner Brisbane has entered planning.

Earlier this week, plans for dual Plus Architecture-designed apartment towers were lodged. They are the latest proposed additions to the staged development which is permitted to add in excess of 1,200 apartments to the mixed-use precinct, located a mere 1.5 kilometres from Brisbane's CBD.

Covering 111 Boundary Street, the latest application forms Stage 2A of West Village. Expected are 163 apartments across both 15 level towers.

Apartments aside, the renewal project will ultimately also include 18,500 square metres of commercial space, retail arcades and extensive community and public realm uses.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/image27_17.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ground level plan. Image: Plus Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="262" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image27_17.jpg?itok=JlQVjksW" title="Ground level plan. Image: Plus Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Ground level response. Image: Plus Architecture</figcaption></figure>Sekisui House and Plus Architecture have elected to discern both towers heavily by way of the apartment mix.

53 apartments are within the North Tower and 110 dwellings within the South Tower. The discrepancy in numbers can be attributed to the North Tower being positioned at the premium apartment offering; it is slated to include 14 triple and 16 quadruple bedroom apartments.

Conversely the South Tower will be skewed to smaller living spaces, including 18 single and 84 double bedroom apartments. Amenities across both towers include a cinema, dining room, pool and wine cellar.

Four sub-ground levels accommodating 221 car parking spaces will support the towers.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/image25_14.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Model of the overall West Village precinct. Image: Hutchinson Builders"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="351" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image25_14.jpg?itok=4NK9JPi7" title="Model of the overall West Village precinct. Image: Hutchinson Builders" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Model of the overall West Village precinct. Image: Hutchinson Builders</figcaption></figure>The conversion of the former Peters Ice Cream complex is well under way with Hutchinson Builders approaching completion of the first of West Village's stages. 

In addition to 322 apartments, a varied ground plane programme is being created. Hayball, ACME &amp; Co and Netteltontribe banded together to create various aspects of the initial phase, which includes laneway-inspired retail tenancies and community spaces.

Earlier this year it was reported that <a href="https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/national/queensland/public-space-plans-for-west-village-lodged-20180110-p4yydv">green space within the planned precinct had expanded considerably</a>; the green spaces will be in addition to seven residential buildings of between 8 and 22 levels and a capped apartment number of 1250.

The 2.6-hectare site first reached Brisbane City Council's planning channels during April 2015.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/hb-r-westvillage-renders-4-lowres-jpg.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ground level render. Image: Hutchinson Builders"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/hb-r-westvillage-renders-4-lowres-jpg.jpg?itok=-kpgwpMy" title="Ground level render. Image: Hutchinson Builders" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Ground level render. Image: Hutchinson Builders</figcaption></figure>
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silvermb

Plus Architecture lands at Brisbane's West Village 

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Developer Sekisui House has sold two penthouses at its project in Sydney's north-west, The Orchards, in the first-stage sales launch of the Baulkham Hill apartment project on the weekend.
The two top floor penthouses will be 178 square metres, each having four bedrooms.
They sold for $2 million and $2.2 million to the same buyer in the first stage of <a href="https://www.sekisuihouse.com.au/justplanted/" target="_blank">the project</a>, which will comprise 121 apartments across two buildings. 
The Orchards, set 500 metres from a new metro station and 250 metres from Norwest Business Park, has commenced construction on the seven-stage project.
It will yield 1300 apartments when completed in 2018, just prior to the completion of the metro line.
It purchased the Baulkham Hills site from developer Tony Merhi last year for $210 million.
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Sekisui House selling The Orchards, Baulkham Hills

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Sekisui House Australia has appointed Parkview Group to build the first stage of its new masterplanned community The Orchards at Norwest.
Sekisui House Australia CEO and managing director Toru Abe said that Sekisui House was delighted to be working with Parkview Group again, after collaborating on the ‘Savannah’ building at The Address in Wentworth Point.
The first stage is named Imperial, a nod to the area's rich heritage as a citrus growing region.
It will be made up of 121 apartments over two buildings which will feature orchard trees planted on the rooftops.
Parkview Group project manager Anthony Sakkal said Parkview was excited to be involved in such an important project that marries the area’s history and its future.
“Sekisui House is a very thoughtful and measured global developer that always brings a very well-considered approach to every project it develops as well as a commitment to add value, amenity and convenience to future residents,” he said.
Completion of Imperial is slated by 2019.
<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/2017/10/04/TheOrchards2.jpg" alt="" style="font-size: 12.16px;">
The collaboration announcement comes after the launch of the 600 sqm display centre, complete with an immersion room to virtually showcase The Orchards amenity and lifestyle offering.
Designed by The Turner Studios and McGregor Coxall Landscape Architects The Orchards is set to comprise 1300 apartments across its 8.8 hectare site which will also feature an established creek, retained heritage trees and outdoor cinema, music room and rooftop gardens.
The Orchards will also feature a 1.4-hectare public park, playgrounds, breakout green spaces, a community function centre, lagoon pool and a gymnasium with a heated lap pool.
The development is located opposite the 18-hole championship golf course at the Castle Hill Country Club.
It will comprise one, two, three and four bedroom apartments across seven residential buildings, with local downsizers expected to be attracted to the development.
Toru Abe said young families have shown an early interest.
“Initial enquiry has also been strong from young families attracted to safe, community living with plenty of open spaces for children to play and the added convenience of flexi-rooms that allow for adaptable use – whether as another bedroom or home office,” he said.
Sekisui House sales team has also been fielding calls from investors and those working in the Sydney CBD who are aware that Norwest Railway Station – just 500 metres away and currently under construction - is due for completion by the time the first residents at The Orchards start moving in.
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For more information and to register your interest <a href="https://www.the-orchards.com.au" target="_blank">click here</a>.
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