<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/aura-by-aqualand-north-sydney-168-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">AURA</a>&nbsp;doesn’t just rise over North Sydney, it redefines it. Now in its final release, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/aqualand-australia">Aqualand</a>’s $1 billion architectural statement is not just complete, but already reshaping the way people live, connect and dine in this rapidly evolving harbourside CBD.

Positioned beside the new Victoria Cross Metro Station and boasting panoramic views across Sydney Harbour, Aura’s 386 residences crown a mixed-use precinct designed with unapologetic ambition. The curvaceous sandstone-inspired form by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a>, paired with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/richards-stanisich">Richard Stanisich</a>’s understated interiors, sets a design tone that’s both monumental and intimate.

At its peak, literally, the two penthouses so spectacular they command their own names; La Davina and Il Magnate. The residents are spread across the&nbsp;entire top floor, offering what many consider the most refined residences ever built in North Sydney. Designed by Richard and Kirsten Stanisich, each four-bedroom home is meticulously crafted to evoke calm, space, and permanence.&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/VB70993aG-I?si=adRBlXQliYmYvaSz" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

The kitchens are fully wrapped in natural stone, with integrated Gaggenau appliances, Sub-Zero fridges, concealed sculleries, and even a zip hydro tap delivering boiling, chilled and sparkling water on demand. A linear stone fireplace anchors the open-plan living space, dividing lounge and dining zones with quiet sophistication.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=292861]

The master suite, meanwhile, feels more like a private retreat, complete with a custom stone makeup vanity, walk-through dressing area, and spa-inspired ensuite with heated stone floors, a freestanding Villeroy &amp; Boch tub, and timber veneer joinery throughout.

Kirsten Stanisich, Director of Richards Stanisich, said the penthouses offer incredible scale reflective of a single residence.&nbsp;

“We sought inspiration for these remarkable residences from the classic top-floor Parisian apartment," Stanisich said.

"We looked at what made these French apartments so elegant and found it really came down to their scale. It was ultimately this generosity of space that we used for the AURA penthouses, where we’ve designed considered rooms with deep large-scale proportions."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=310337]

Everyday living at Aura feels no less elevated. A dedicated 24-hour concierge, Technogym fitness centre, sky dining terraces, and a resort-style pool serve a lifestyle designed to rival luxury hotels.

At street level, Aqualand’s own hospitality arm, Etymon Projects, curates a precinct of LA-style bistros, Japanese fine dining, and local wine bars, all seamlessly integrated into the building’s sculptural podium.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=310337]

This final chapter, aptly dubbed The Finale, is more than a sales phase, it’s an invitation to two of the most exclusive apartments ever to be built in North Sydney.

With limited residences remaining, buyers can access curated incentives including stamp duty rebates, rental guarantees, legal fee coverage, and even $20,000 towards dining within the precinct.

From generous one-bedders to The Icons, two singular penthouses priced well into prestige territory, Aura’s offerings reflect a scale and calibre rarely seen in urban Sydney. And with move-in now immediate, this is no longer a promise of future luxury. It’s happening.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=30959]

Staff Writer

Aqualand unveils penthouse collection at AURA By Aqualand in North Sydney

There’s no sign of the development wave that began several years ago slowing along Old Burleigh Road.

Around 10 new apartment developments are either underway or preparing to launch along the 800-metre strip stretching from the southern edge of Surfers Paradise towards the heart of Broadbeach, collectively adding just shy of 1,000 new apartments to the beachfront corridor.

The latest plans propose a further 30 apartments to replace an original six-unit walk-up on a 658 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/20a-old-burleigh-road-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">20A Old Burleigh Road</a>. The 14-storey building has been designed by Ferro Chow Architecture, which recently joined the Elevation Architecture Group.

The developer behind the project is Geoffrey Booth, whose Future Liv In has focused on delivering rental accommodation across regional Australia.

<img alt="Old Burleigh Road" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="99d393e7-d404-43bc-80cb-6255c39b83d6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-01-05%20at%2012.28.44%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=ZFT8F3mOny4M4ut.kFF3woC9WH9oR5gT" />

The Old Burleigh Road development will comprise 18 two-bedroom apartments, 10 three-bedroom apartments, and a single four-bedroom residence occupying the entirety of level 12. Above, the building will be crowned by a two-storey penthouse with its own private lift, several multi-purpose rooms, and two rooftop terraces — one featuring a puppy lawn and spa, the other offering a private swimming pool, sunset deck, and built-in barbecue.

Resident amenities will be located on the second level and include a pool with adjoining spa, cabana, and pool deck, along with an indoor residents’ lounge featuring a bar and an alfresco barbecue kitchen.

In the architectural statement submitted by Elevation Architecture, the project is referred to as “UMI”, which the firm says has been “inspired by the majestic hinterlands and shaped by the coastal climate”.

“It is an exemplar of how community living can still feel at one with nature, breathable, and deeply connected in place,” the architects noted.

They added that the site benefits from established building separation to adjoining towers, helping to maintain privacy, sunlight, and residential amenity, while still offering direct beach access within an urban setting.

“Drawing inspiration from the Gold Coast hinterlands and the region’s natural landscape, the podium and tower detail highlights the contrasting elements of treetop green and cliff-face peach. The vibrant texture and materiality shaped by time has a richness in depth and character.”

<img alt="Old Burleigh Road" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b3d6c923-a0ab-4d74-86da-177313447e8e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-01-05%20at%2012.28.38%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=i2fygmoVQM6hWpbATTAW_yTitoMTrnI1" />

Old Burleigh Road has become a hotspot for developers, with the three-tower Jewel development kickstarting a wave of projects up and down the strip when it was completed in 2020.

Currently under construction and approaching completion is <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/faro-broadbeach-123-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">FARO Broadbeach</a> by 5Point and Bottega, 21 large-scale half- and full-floor apartments. 5Point is also behind the recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/lumara-108-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">Lumara</a>, another 37 apartments to add to the pipeline.

Luxury builder GRAYA is progressing construction on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/enclave-by-graya-118-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">Enclave</a>, its first Gold Coast tower, while Polycell remains the most active developer on the street. They are preparing to launch <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/sandpiper-broadbeach-155-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">Sandpiper</a>, a 50-storey redevelopment of the former Sandpiper Holiday Resort that will deliver around 200 apartments alongside extensive resident amenity. The group also has another 130-apartment project approved nearby, as does <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/dvb-approved-for-second-broadbeach-apartment-development">Dean Gallagher’s DVB Projects</a>.

Joel Robinson

First look: Old Burleigh Road apartment development wave continues

Sunshine Coast developer Habitat Development Group continues to position itself as one of the region’s largest new apartment developers.

Its latest project is in Maroochydore, where it is currently delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-millwell-2-millwell-road-east-maroochydore-qld-4558">The Millwell</a>. Adjacent to the new 53-hectare Maroochydore City Centre project, Habitat is planning a further 180 apartments on a 3,468 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/132-136-aerodrome-road-maroochydore-qld-4558">132–136 Aerodrome Road</a>. The site was purchased with approval for a smaller 13-storey, 103-unit building.

Habitat will demolish the two existing retail centres, currently home to the Salvation Army Family Store and Neighbours Aid, and replace them with an 18-storey building featuring the significant rooftop amenities that have become a hallmark of Habitat developments in recent years. The rooftop will include both indoor and outdoor spaces, anchored by an infinity swimming pool.

<img alt="Maroochydore" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ad434d07-666b-4614-b33e-530ad6a2d261" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-01-05%20at%2010.12.33%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=7pyLsPWKQuwv0us3_v.9DmbzEc2VZe9Z" />

There will be a mix of one- to four-bedroom apartments.

The Development Assessment Report, submitted to the Sunshine Coast Council, says the proposal&nbsp;is not speculative, but a response to both zoning intent and demonstrated housing need.

“The proposed development represents an appropriate and logical intensification of the site, consistent with the planning framework and the intended urban outcomes for the locality.”

Across the Sunshine Coast, councils are increasingly scrutinising not just height or yield, but whether new projects genuinely align with the long-term structure plans underpinning growth corridors. The&nbsp;ASTP Planning Report&nbsp;reinforces the approach, noting that the project has been shaped around site responsiveness rather than generic typology.

“The development has been designed to respond to the physical constraints and opportunities of the site, while delivering a high-quality residential outcome that integrates with the existing and emerging urban context.”

<img alt="Habitat" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3a03fc54-4ca5-4868-88d0-eeced70604e2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-01-05%20at%2010.12.28%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=1pkK3lJrrZjkghTLBReM2zatcas4Nc4B" />

In mid-2025, Habitat, a developer that also builds its own projects, commenced construction on The Millwell, located just over one kilometre from the new proposal. The Millwell will comprise more than 200 apartments across two eight-storey buildings.

Habitat also has two projects on Lake Kawana in Birtinya: <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/st-clair-birtinya-930-931-waterside-retreat-birtinya-qld-4575">St Clair</a>, a 200-unit, two-building development launched last year and set to welcome buyers this year; and Esperance, a 175-apartment project currently progressing through the development approval process.

First look: Habitat continues to bolster Sunshine Coast apartment pipeline with Maroochydore development plans

John Camilleri, the breeder of legendary racehorse Winx, is set to deliver a landmark two-tower beachfront development that would redefine the Surfers Paradise skyline.

Camilleri, who spent around $100 million acquiring development sites across the Gold Coast in 2025, has lodged plans for two new towers on the dress-circle stretch of Garfield Terrace, just two days before Christmas.

In assembling the site, Camilleri's Celestino Developments has effectively acquired the 71 Garfield project by Iris Capital and AALTO by Weiya Holdings, creating an unrivalled <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/63-79-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">4,000 sqm beachfront holding along Garfield Terrace</a>.

The proposal comprises two residential towers of 55 and 48 storeys, linked by a dramatic skybridge which will home “exclusive VIP and wellness amenities.”

In total, the development would deliver 275 two-, three- and four-bedroom apartments across the two towers, rising above a shared landscaped podium that incorporates a central green space and a beachfront swimming pool stretching more than 90 metres.

<img alt="DBI" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="097900f3-6bef-4919-b168-b08f2f762876" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-30%20at%209.37.58%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=et0SpmcvaPPVrexI_zWi46BVFtZBxAzx" />

Architecture firm DBI, in documents submitted to Gold Coast City Council, said the project at 63–79 Garfield Terrace would “establish a new benchmark for beachfront residential living on the Gold Coast.”

"The project occupies a rare, uninterrupted oceanfront site and has been shaped by a design philosophy that merges architectural elegance with environmental responsiveness and a carefully curated lifestyle experience. Together, the 48-storey North Tower and 55-storey South Tower form a distinctive twin-tower composition whose dynamic silhouette will make a significant contribution to the Surfers Paradise skyline."

DBI said the architectural language draws inspiration from the fluidity and movement of the coastal landscape.

"Each tower is defined by organic, curving forms and continuous balcony ribbons that wrap the buildings, providing deep shading, enhancing environmental performance, and reinforcing the rhythmic, sculptural expression of the façade. These balcony forms also reduce the apparent mass of the towers while maintaining strong visual continuity from podium to summit. Sculpted reflective downturns run along the western spine of both towers, shifting and lifting as they extend upwards to frame service zones and open eastward to maximise ocean views."

<img alt="Garfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a2a00ce3-a0e9-45d6-b4b5-b7baed592ac5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-30%20at%209.53.40%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=DnruWV1dhLrtXOeElwekyd7vPq2gw55t" />

The project’s most striking feature is the skybridge at level 45, which will house executive lounges, formal dining spaces, wellness facilities and panoramic ocean-facing views.

“The skybridge enhances the identity of the development, promotes social interaction, and delivers a lifestyle experience not found elsewhere on the Gold Coast,” DBI added.

The podium will host an extensive suite of recreational amenities, including resident lounges, private dining rooms, a large open green lawn, and the signature 90-metre pool stretching along the beachfront. The pool is divided into lap, lounge and children’s zones.

The southern end of the podium will accommodate additional wellness facilities, including a gymnasium, plunge pools, treatment rooms and a dedicated yoga lawn.

<img alt="Garfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ee1b4f25-231f-4804-83b1-a573a1481962" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-30%20at%209.55.47%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=zObzIA3D5w7EwqPsHjr2pKrA4vbB28zL" />

There will be 127 apartments in the North Tower and 148 in the South Tower, including multiple penthouses, while the Enderley Avenue and Oceanway frontages will be activated by a series of food and beverage tenancies.

Camilleri emerged as the most active site acquirer on the Gold Coast in 2025. He spent just over $30 million acquiring Pacific Point, a 10-level Surfers Paradise apartment block and an adjoining three-level duplex, from fellow racing identity and Aquis billionaire Tony Fung. Plans are now underway for a 93-apartment, 40-storey tower on the 1,682 sqm site.

He also paid $53.65 million for the 1,500 sqm Garfield Terrace site previously marketed as AALTO by Weiya Holdings, before acquiring the adjoining parcel from hotel billionaire Sam Arnaout’s Iris Capital, the developer behind V&amp;A Broadbeach.

First look exclusive: Billionaire Winx breeder’s bold two-tower Surfers Paradise play with 45th-storey skybridge

The Melbourne-based HLA Group is the latest developer to expand into South East Queensland, lodging plans for a unique mixed-use short-term accomodation and apartment building in Taringa, with the building design inspired by the Glasswing Butterfly.

The development application for 10 Morrow Street seeks approval for a total of 232 dwellings, comprising 116 residential apartments and 116 short-stay accommodation units. The build-to-sell residential component is made up of 31 one-bedroom apartments, 67 two-bedroom apartments, 17 three-bedroom apartments, and a single four-bedroom apartment, offering a diverse mix aimed at singles, couples, families, and downsizers.

<img alt="Taringa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="33913cd4-9839-4456-b325-d35b3f8b4694" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-23%20at%203.40.26%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=sLvc7jUrYzDwqPDZBPrXTosKHDSp.qrt" />

Designed by Ellivo Architects, the tower takes strong inspiration from nature, with the architectural language driven by one of Queensland’s most delicate species. As described in the planning documents submitted to Brisbane City Council, Ellivo Architects state the design is “inspired by the elegance of the Glasswing butterfly," and mirrors the graceful sweep of its wings, a form that feels light, fluid, and alive.

“Lush subtropical greenery is throughtfull woven throughout, transforming the building into a sanctuary in the heart of the city.”

The proposal positions the building as more than a conventional residential tower, with Ellivo Architects describing 10 Morrow Street as “an urban oasis that blends short term accomodation with residential living. A destination for rest, relaxation, and renewal.”

<img alt="Taringa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="84e9a0ff-464e-4973-bffe-5d5a8fe9f087" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-23%20at%203.40.32%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=dhX9eVgUaQE2TvCzJPhF8N8_hzYSKpyK" />

Formally, the building’s massing and floorplate are directly shaped by its butterfly inspiration. Ellivo explain that, “adopting the wings of the Glasswing Butterfly, the tower's plan is divided into four distinct quadrants, each shaped to mirror the wing's segmented geometry and taking the slender ‘veins’ up the facade of the tower.”

"This approach results in a sculpted tower form with articulated façades and a strong vertical expression."

<img alt="Taringa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5947011d-ff6c-4a57-bdc1-9072a472a79c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-23%20at%203.40.29%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=nnGqd4WCZM8AOJZY.c3u49BO4LurKRhb" />

The Assessment Report by Human Habitats said the 19-storey tower capitalises on its strategic connectivity and prominence at the entrance of Taringa Village and adjoining the Taringa Station.

"The proposal offers a significant revitalisation of the subject site that integrates architectural excellence, innovation, and sustainable design to directly address long-standing connectivity and safety challenges, housing supply , and diversity together with enhanced streetscape activation and convenient access to major transport corridors."

HLA Group Australia is registered to South Yarra and is currently delivering Adamson No.5, just 15 luxury apartments that start from around $2 million.&nbsp;

The Butterfly Effect: Glasswing butterfly inspires Taringa apartment development

Affordable

<html><body>
OPINION

The exodus to an affordable lifestyle has become the dominant trend in Australian real estate across the nation. 

But many people believe - mistakenly – that this means that Australians are moving en-masse to the beach. 

This speaks to a fundamental misunderstanding of what is meant by the term “lifestyle”.

The reality is that the “lifestyle” means different things to different people – and, as a consequence, Australians are not just moving to the coast. 

Australians are moving in large numbers from the largest cities to some of the smaller capital cities and also to regional areas inland.

Brisbane, Hobart, Darwin, Adelaide – our smaller capital cities are gaining population from this trend, as are inland regional centres like Orange, Tamworth, Goulburn, Wagga Wagga, Mudgee, Toowoomba, Gympie, Ballarat, Bendigo and Mildura.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=90553]

So while coastal locations like the Central Coast in New South Wales and the Sunshine Coast in Queensland have been major beneficiaries, many of the locations getting the biggest uplift are hours away from the nearest beach.

The Exodus to Affordable Lifestyle trend really started with people moving from Melbourne to regional centres in Victoria. This trend has been under way for at least the past 3-4 years.

Many of the suburbs of Ballarat have had double-digit growth in their median house prices in the past year, with Soldiers Hill up 18% and Buninyong rising 22%. Virtually every suburb of Bendigo has grown more than 10% in the past year, with many of them rising by between 15% and 20%.

Several hours from Melbourne, Warrnambool is up 13% in 12 months, Shepparton has grown 11% and Mildura is up 10%.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5559]

The trend is also seen large numbers of Sydney residents moving to regional areas of New South Wales and to other parts of Australia.

In various parts of regional NSW, median house prices have risen 13% in Orange, 20% in Bowral, 12% in Parkes,11% in Mudgee and above 15% in some suburbs of Wagga Wagga.

All these places have rising prices on the back of a big uplift in sales activity, boosted by demand from major cities.

The population data shows that Sydney has been losing population to internal migration for the past 10 years and that Melbourne has also been losing population through people moving to other parts Australia for at least the past three years.

Clearly, in many cases, the relocation of people has not been to the coast but to regional cities and towns inland.

This is because “lifestyle” can mean living in a town where there is a strong sense of community or living in a place where there are no traffic lights and you can get a park in the main street.

People value the safety and security available in regional centres. These places are often seen as good places to raise a family. Many regional centres have good schools, including private schools, and all the facilities and amenities that families need to lead comfortable and fulfilling lives.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=32227]

I live in a hill change town in Queensland where the median house price has risen 22% in the past year, because it’s a perfect fit the Exodus to Affordable Lifestyle trend.

This location is not about beaches, although they’re only 30 minutes away. It’s about green hills, clean air, a strong sense of community, safety, access to good schools and ease of parking (although it’s getting harder). There are no traffic lights in this town.

It’s a strong area for arts and crafts, has a great music scene and there are lots of good places to eat. I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else. Lifestyle.

And I work from a home office. As a researcher and writer, I have no need to be in the big, expensive, congested capital cities, apart from the occasional visit to meet clients or speak at a seminar.

Terry Ryder is the founder of hotspotting.com.au

ryder@hotspotting.com.au

twitter.com/hotspotting
</body></html>

terryryder

Exodus to affordable lifestyle not just moving to the beach: Hotspotting's Terry Ryder

Whether your&nbsp;children have moved out or you&#39;re wanting to save money, downsizing provides a great option for couples of all ages &ndash; but downsizing doesn&#39;t have to mean downgrading.&nbsp;

With Sydney&#39;s luxury market proving resilient following the coronavirus pandemic, many buyers are seeing the benefit of investing in a high-end development at affordable prices.&nbsp;

Below&nbsp;are nine of the best downsizer apartments on the market in Sydney to help you on your journey towards finding a new home.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

1. <a href="/buildings/polo-collection-55-rothschild-avenue-rosebery">Polo Collection</a>, Rosebery 
Address: 55 Rothschild Avenue, Rosebery NSW 2018 
One-bedroom apartments from $710,000

<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="/buildings/polo-collection-55-rothschild-avenue-rosebery" rel="gallery-all" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/polo_collection.jpg?itok=KAk-HRy4" width="580" /></a>

Meriton&rsquo;s Polo Collection offers downsizers the chance to remain close to the CBD and enjoy luxury living in a brand new architecturally designed apartment.

Comprising 275 luxury apartments across four buildings, the development offers dynamic and elegant living, green vistas and floor-to-ceiling glass windows, designed by SJB Architects.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7588]

2. <a href="/buildings/alex-collective-alexandria-163-173-mcevoy-street-alexandria-nsw-2015">Alex Collective</a>, Alexandria 
Address: 163-173 McEvoy Street, Alexandria NSW 2015 
One-bedroom apartments from $750,000

<a href="/buildings/alex-collective-alexandria-163-173-mcevoy-street-alexandria-nsw-2015"><img alt="" height="2160" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/alexcollec.jpeg" width="3189" /></a>

In the neighbouring suburb of Alexandria, 163 apartments in one, two and three-bedroom configurations are set to be delivered by Ceerose, boasting floor-to-ceiling storage, bay windows and a balcony fringed by greenery.

Tastefully designed by Andrew Burns Architecture, Alex Collective features concrete-inspired stone benchtops, sandstone-toned joinery and integrated black glass ovens, bringing a warm and contemporary aesthetic with an industrial edge.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29785]

3. <a href="/buildings/cornerstone-717-727-canterbury-road-belmore">Cornerstone</a>, Belmore 
Address: 717-727 Canterbury Road, Belmore NSW 2192 
Two-bedroom apartments from $655,000

<a href="/buildings/cornerstone-717-727-canterbury-road-belmore"><img alt="" height="800" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/cornerstone.jpg" width="1200" /></a>

Whilst further from the offerings of the CBD, Sydney&rsquo;s inner-south-west provides the ideal downsizer location, boasting a tight-knit community and, soon, the proposed Belmore metro station.

Delivered by ALAND, Cornerstone features high ceilings, open-plan kitchens, alfresco dining areas and recessed balconies. Ground floor retail space and local parkland activate the residence.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=9188]

4. <a href="/buildings/lighthouse-9-17-howard-avenue-dee-why">Lighthouse</a>, Dee Why 
Address: 9-17 Howard Avenue, Dee Why NSW 2099 
Two-bedroom apartments from $935,000

<a href="/buildings/lighthouse-9-17-howard-avenue-dee-why"><img alt="" height="474" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/lighthouse.jpg" width="1024" /></a>

Situated in Dee Why&rsquo;s new retail hub, Meriton&rsquo;s Lighthouse development offers the tallest towers in the Northern Beaches suburb.

Complete and ready to move in, the development is built over four buildings and offers views of the ocean, beach and lagoon. Downsizers or retirees will enjoy the convenience of this development, located nearby ocean shores and within 35 minutes to Sydney&rsquo;s CBD.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6337]

5. <a href="/new-apartments/trilogy-112-talavera-road-macquarie-park">Destination</a>, Macquarie Park 
Address: 114 Talavera Road, Macquarie Park NSW 2113 
One-bedroom apartments from $600,000

<a href="/new-apartments/trilogy-112-talavera-road-macquarie-park"><img alt="" height="800" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/destination.jpg" width="1920" /></a>

Located within NSW&rsquo;s second largest business district, Destination offers lots of opportunity to downsizers hoping to take advantage of Macquarie Park&rsquo;s competitive advantages, including its proximity to Macquarie University.

Delivered by Meriton and designed by DKO Architecture, Destination offers serene garden terraces, timeless design and views from every angle.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8669]

6. <a href="/buildings/moseley-17-21-moseley-street-carlingford">Moseley</a>, Carlingford 
Address: 17-21 Moseley Street, Carlingford NSW 2118 
Two-bedroom apartments from $752,900

<a href="/buildings/moseley-17-21-moseley-street-carlingford"><img alt="" height="900" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/moseley.jpg" width="1200" /></a>

Still located in the City of Ryde, and close-by Epping Station is the affordable Moseley project by H&amp;T Group. The 41 one, two and three-bedroom apartments match the needs of families, downsizers and young professionals with contemporary design, modern silhouettes and amenities.

The apartment offers private storage, a gym, communal entertaining areas and an electric charging dock.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=25486]

7. Elle, Waitara 
Address: 53 Balmoral Street, Waitara NSW 2077 
Two-bedroom apartments from $749,000

<img alt="" height="900" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/elle_.jpg" width="1200" />

Located on Sydney&rsquo;s Upper North Shore, Elle provides a prime location for downsizers to enjoy the convenience and style of elite suburban living.

The new residential community boasts free-flowing contemporary living options and landscaped garden space, delivered by Developcorp. Elle is minutes to public transport, quality private schools and Hornsby shops.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29140]

8. <a href="/buildings/park-avenue-waitara-16-20-park-avenue-waitara">Park Avenue</a>, Waitara 
Address: 16-20 Park Avenue, Waitara NSW 2077 
Two-bedroom apartments from $649,000

<a href="/buildings/park-avenue-waitara-16-20-park-avenue-waitara"><img alt="" height="900" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/park_av.jpg" width="1200" /></a>

Also located in the fast-growing is Park Avenue, offering one and two-bedroom configurations, ideal for investors or downsizers. The spacious residence is located in proximity to Hornsby&rsquo;s amenities.

The residences offer practical layouts, balconies, spacious bedrooms and the relaxed lifestyle of the Upper North Shore community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29538]

9. <a href="/new-townhouses/collection-rouse-hill-49-terry-road-rouse-hill">Collection</a>, Rouse Hill 
Address: 49 Terry Road, Rouse Hill NSW 2155 
One-bedroom apartments from $399,000

<a href="/new-townhouses/collection-rouse-hill-49-terry-road-rouse-hill"><img alt="" height="548" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/rouse-hill-1.jpg" width="987" /></a>

Downsizing doesn&rsquo;t have to mean smaller either. Collection provides 311 residences in one, two and three-bedroom configurations in Sydney&rsquo;s growing north-west region.

Designed by DKO Architecture, the master-planned offers spacious open-plan layouts, generous entertainer balconies and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape and Berowra Valley National Park.

Rouse Hill&rsquo;s town centre boasts an abundance of amenities and retail offerings, as well as a new metro station that connects residents to Castle Hill, Chatswood and Sydney&rsquo;s CBD.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6284]

Here are nine apartments on the market in Sydney to match the needs of downsizing couples

max.kwok_55688

Nine of the best downsizer apartments on the market in Sydney

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The Melbourne unit market continued to shrug off the worst of the 2020 COVID impact on property, recording 0.6 per cent gains over December, according to data analytics firm CoreLogic.

It followed from 0.1 per cent gains in October and <a href="/news/melbourne-apartment-values-outperform-houses-in-november-corelogic">0.7 per cent gains in November</a> to be 1.4 per cent up over the quarter. The quarterly performance saw apartments offset any early year losses to be flat over the calendar year.

The unit market comfortably outperformed the housing market over 2020, with houses contracting two per cent, CoreLogic's data found.

The unit median rose to $576,905 over December, now higher than July levels.

Urban has taken a look at five apartments blocks to secure under the median apartment value.

<h2><a href="/buildings/canvas-272-barkly-street-brunswick">Canvas, Brunswick</a></h2>

Address: 272 Barkly Street, Brunswick, VIC 3056

<img alt="" height="887" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/canvas_brunswick.jpg" width="1200">

Canvas, the Brunswick development by ID Land, has one bedroom apartments starting from $480,000, well below Melbourne's median apartment price. The facade of the Rothelowman-designed block pays homage to Brunswick’s industrial past. Formed by concrete construction and urban design principles, the visual grid spans the building, framing each apartment. It will feature 62 one, two and three bedroom residences with interiors by Hecker Guthrie, expected to be completed in 2022.

Their two beds start from $680,000.

<h2><a href="/buildings/parkhill-apartments-west-melbourne-408-spencer-street-west-melbourne">Parkhill Apartments, West Melbourne</a></h2>

Address: 408 Spencer Street, West Melbourne VIC 3003

<img alt="" height="793" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/parkhill_west_melbourne.jpg" width="1200">

Parkhill Apartments in West Melbourne are offering one bedrooms starting from $479,000, developed by the award-winning Central Equity. Early buyers will have the chance to save $430,000 on stamp duty.

Parkhill Apartments has a range of one and two bedroom apartments with 6.5 Star energy ratings. There's a rooftop gym for residents and a rooftop garden with outdoor seating and barbecue areas.

<h2><a href="/buildings/hawthorn-park-33-camberwell-road-hawthorn-east">Hawthorn Park, Hawthorn East</a></h2>

Address: 33 Camberwell Road, Hawthorn East VIC 3123

<img alt="" height="808" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/hawthorn.jpg" width="1200">

Just over the rising median is Hawthorn Park, where developer Dahua Group is offering its one beds in from $609,000. The Camberwell Road development, estimated to be completed earlier this year, comprises 368 residences spread across seven floors and five buildings. Another designed by architect Rothelowman, Hawthorn Park features a fully-equipped gym with yoga and meditation studio, massage suites, a sky boardwalk, sky lounge, garden pavilion and a swimming pool.
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Melbourne's unit median now sits at $576,905 after seeing a 0.6 per cent rise in unit values over December.

Melbourne unit values rise 0.6 per cent in December: What you can buy for the new median

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GUEST OBSERVER 
The outer west remains one of Melbourne’s most affordable pockets to buy property. And with interest rates at record lows, we have seen many buyers dip their toes into the market this autumn.
The reduction of the cash rate by the Reserve Bank often impacts the price-sensitive segments of the market, and this has certainly been the case in Melbourne’s west.
While renting has traditionally been the norm in Melton, residents are now considering entering the market for the first time. The median house price across Melbourne sits at $688,000, but in Melton you can still get a three bedroom family home for a median house price of <a href="https://www.hockingstuart.com.au/recentlysold/26_BARRIES_ROAD_MELTON_VIC_3337_SOLD" target="_blank">$226,000</a>.
As such, young families and couples renting a large family home are realising mortgage repayments in the current economic climate is similar to that of weekly rental payments.
That’s why this quarter we’ve seen a flurry of activity from the younger, family orientated segment of the market who now realise that the Great Australian Dream might actually be in reach.
The affordability factor is no doubt drawing people from greater Melbourne to the outer west. In fact, <a href="https://www.melton.vic.gov.au/Council/About_the_City/Demographics/Growth_Statistics" target="_blank">City of Melton statistics</a> show that between 2001 and 2014 the estimated residential population of Melton more than doubled, and in 2013, the region had the fifth fastest population growth in Victoria (4.3%).
Population projections also indicate that Melton’s population will be more than 315,908 by 2036, which is almost the size of our nation’s capital Canberra. If Melbourne’s house prices grow as much as they did in the first quarter of this year (11.1%), then we expect to see a rise in demand for the outer suburbs where buyers can have space and value for money.
Another drawcard for families relocating to the west is the vast improvements to amenities and infrastructure in the area. For instance, the Council of Melton has recently completed new state of the art five-green-star accredited library and learning facility, as well as the Taylors Hill Youth and Community Centre.
The likes of Palmerston Street, Brooklyn road and Greigs Road are also undergoing refurbishments to ease traffic in the area. The countless number of amenities and infrastructure improvements make Melton a more desirable place for families to live in. 
The perfect combination of population growth, improvements to infrastructure, good borrowing conditions, low vacancy rates and low median house prices have also attracted savvy investors to Melton. Vacancy rates are notably low in Melton – sitting around 2.2%.
Investors therefore are privy to a low risk investment with low upfront capital. And if the rental returns are good enough, some can even positively gear their investment.
The Reserve Bank just cut interest rates to a record low of two per cent, and this will continue to drive interest into the outer west from first home buyers and young families. We will even start to see the dial quickly shift from renters to buyers in suburbs like Melton as these savvy buyers realise the benefits the area brings.
Julian Conte is director of hockingstuart Melton. He can be contacted <a href="https://www.hockingstuart.com.au/?pagecall=staffMember&amp;staffID=96340" target="_blank">here</a>.
 
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