A wave of investment, renewal and precinct growth continues to shape the northern edge of Macquarie Park, where daily life is supported by a rare combination of university activity, corporate employment, major retail, and expansive green corridors. It’s this convergence of amenity and connectivity underpins the setting for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a>’s <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/la-vera-94-talavera-road-macquarie-park-nsw-2113">La Vera</a>, which has now topped out and is tracking toward completion in mid-2026.

Within this pocket of the precinct, residents move easily between the area’s key anchors. Macquarie Centre, home to more than 360 retailers, fresh food offerings, dining and entertainment, sits at the heart of local convenience and functions as a major transport interchange. The Metro, T1 rail line and extensive bus network place much of Sydney within quick reach, while surrounding arterial links support direct access to neighbouring districts.

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Green space remains a defining feature of the immediate environment. Lane Cove National Park stretches along the northern boundary of the precinct, offering bushland trails, cycling routes and quiet riverfront pockets. Shrimptons Creek and the campus grounds of Macquarie University extend these recreational networks, softening the urban setting and creating a daily connection to nature that informs the project’s architectural response.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">Cox Architecture</a> have shaped La Vera around these contrasts. The building’s northern elevation adopts an organic, curvilinear form that mirrors the natural topography of the national park. Three sculpted forms soften the tower’s profile and encourage a stronger transition between indoor living areas, balconies and the broader landscape.

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Cox Director Felipe Miranda says the building’s outlook played a central role in the design process.

“The vision for the project was to conceive a building that adopted an organic and curvilinear form to the northern portion that faces the Lane Cove National Park… The residents that reside in the northern portion of the building benefit by having beautifully crafted curved balconies that speak to the natural context and heighten the relationship of their internal living spaces to the external balconies,” Felipe Miranda of Cox Architecture said.

Toward the city-facing side, the design shifts to a more urban expression. A gridded facade and extensive glazing capture CBD views, creating a dual strategy that blends ecological outlooks with metropolitan orientation.

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La Vera delivers 169 residences across one- to four-bedroom layouts, reflecting the needs of young families, downsizers, first-home buyers and investors seeking long-term certainty within a high-amenity location. From the project, residents can walk to Macquarie University, Macquarie Hospital and nearby corporate offices, reach national park trails within minutes, and enjoy retail and dining without relying on a car.

The project is delivered by Urban Property Group, a 4.5-star iCIRT-rated developer-builder with more than three decades of experience. The company has become a leader in adopting 10-Year Latent Defects Insurance (LDI), first introduced on its Parq Bexley development and now embedded into its pipeline.

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La Vera is the first development in Macquarie Park approved to offer this 10-year LDI policy, adding another layer of protection for purchasers and reinforcing the transparency of the construction process.

Urban Property Group CEO Patrick Elias says this assurance has become increasingly important for buyers navigating the off-the-plan market.

“Consumers are a lot more weary and a lot more concerned in buying off the plan than they ever have been… Having LDI is a tool to portray the confidence that we have in our product, and a confidence we want buyers to share,” Urban Property Group CEO Patrick Elias said.

Urban Property Group's in-house construction team is forecasting a mid-2026 completion, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/home789">HOME789</a> appointed as the project marketer.

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Staff Writer

La Vera delivers a nature-connected address within Macquarie Park’s core

<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;

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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."

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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.

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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.

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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

Crows Nest

Drawing on the success of revered Sydney projects such as Advanx and Advanx Eastin, Rushcutters Bay, and Whitton Lane and Vue in Bondi Junction, Lindsay Bennelong Developments has brought together a team of award-winning leaders in their respective fields to collaboratively bring together their inspiring vision for their latest residential release.

Multi-award winning Australian architecture firm, Allen Jack+Cottier designed both the exterior and interior of Delano, which comprises three boutique low-rise buildings that&nbsp;gradually transition in scale and height from the nearby residential area, to the lively and energetic Crows Nest town centre.

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Set amid private landscaped gardens, Delano offers a collection of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, some with studies, along with seven townhomes fronting Hayberry Lane. The distinct curvature and detail of the façade, with its contrasting tones of steel and face brickwork, adds to the project's timeless design that ties in with the surrounding context, whilst still maintaining a contemporary feel.

The apartments and townhomes boast of Art Deco-inspired elements that are seamlessly woven into the design, with natural stone, metallic touches, and decorative flourishes to create a sense of harmony and refinement throughout the spaces.

The kitchens form the heart of each home, with top-quality Miele appliances, natural stone benchtops and splashbacks, balanced by cabinetry in complimenting tones. The living areas, with their generous free-flowing spaces and floor-to-ceiling glass, are oriented to capture sunlight, creating the perfect environment in which to entertain, while the bedrooms feature plush broadloom carpets, adding to the apartments' luxurious feel.

The bathrooms are characterised by clean lines, uncluttered spaces and considered finishes. High quality porcelain tiles run floor to ceiling, complemented by Studio Bagno vanity basins and Astrawalker brushed platinum tapware. Thoughtful details such as finger-tile mosaic feature walls, natural stone vanity tops, and tall cabinets featuring textured scalloped door panels add depth and contrast to the spaces.

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The seven three-storey three-bedroom townhomes, set behind landscaped private front gardens, feature free-flowing living areas encompassed by marble island kitchens, while the upper level is devoted to a secluded master suite opening to a private balcony. The rear courtyards open to a communal garden, which provides ambient additional space for alfresco entertaining.&nbsp;

With teams across Australia, China and South East Asia, Place Design Group handled the landscape architecture across the project , which at the heart of Delano, provides a green backdrop to the residences, with manicured lawns, jacaranda trees, for which the area is renowned for, as well shady pergola seating areas and barbecue stations scattered around.

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alisonwarters@gmail.com

Delano apartments pay homage to their Crows Nest context 

The&nbsp;Peter Campbell-led development group, Lindsay Bennelong is one step closer to bringing their Crows Nest development, Delano to fruition, appointing a builder to the project.&nbsp;

The group has sought the work of Bondi-based construction company, Ultra Building Co, with the group behind a number of residential and commercial developments across the Eastern Suburbs, including the 1788 Residences and North Shore in Double Bay, as well as The Balmoral Collection in Mosman.

Located on the fringe of Crows Nest village, Delano pays homage to the Art Deco architecture that is prolific in the area while showcasing contemporary innovation.

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The development features three boutique buildings set amidst landscaped gardens, consisting of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, as well as an exclusive collection of just seven townhomes.

Celebrated architecture firm, AJC Architects has taken charge of the project's design, which features&nbsp;timeless aesthetics that are brought to life through the use of robust and enduring materials such as steel and face brickwork.

The buildings are distinctly characterised in response to their street frontage and local heritage items, with stepped forms and landscaped terraces that avoid overshadowing while offering a transition between the nearby commercial centre and conservation neighbourhood.

The development's centrepiece is a five-storey tower that steps down to three-storeys along Falcon Street, with the three-storey townhouses fronting Hayberry Lane.

All the residences are optimised for natural light and cross-ventilation and feature energy and water-efficient fixtures and fittings. The communal lobbies and corridors are naturally ventilated and lit, and there is bicycle parking for residents and visitors.

Herringbone engineered timber floors, plush broadloom carpet, and deluxe Miele kitchens, with natural stone benchtops and integrated fridges, are just some of the features residents can expect to enjoy, while the spacious balconies, rooftop terraces, or private courtyard gardens will offer a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living.&nbsp;

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Upper-level apartments will benefit from leafy views over North Sydney or Mosman, while a communal grassed lawn and gardens with seating and barbecue areas provide the perfect outdoor space for relaxation.

Sustainability was another key consideration throughout the design process, with site-wide water harvesting systems in place along with a reuse system.&nbsp;

Residents of Delano will enjoy a short five-minute stroll to the forthcoming Crows Nest Metro Station, which is due to open in 2024, the same time Delano is due for completion.&nbsp;

They'll also be just a 400 metre walk to Woolworths and just three-minutes from Crows Nest Village's lively cosmopolitan culinary scene.

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Builder appointed to Lindsay Bennelong Crows Nest development, Delano

Australian developer Third.i, and real estate private equity group Phoenix Property Investors have further expanded their partnership in Sydney, acquiring the last two of Sydney Metro’s Crows Nest over station development sites in the Lower North Shore.

The joint venture acquired the site via Private Treaty with Sydney Metro and the NSW Government, with the deal negotiated by&nbsp;Third.i’s Head of Acquisitions, Florian Caillon, and Sydney Metro’s commercial team.

The Crows Nest over station development is situated over the new Crows Nest Metro Station, which is due to be operational by 2024. As one of six new stations planned for the Sydney Metro City and Southwest regions, the new developments will extend the Metro Rail from Chatswood, under the Sydney Harbour and through the Sydney CBD to Bankstown.

The concept proposal for both over station developments was approved by the Minister for Planning and Public Spaces in December 2020, with the first site, referred to as Lot A, set to deliver an innovative commercial and retail development above the station, with plans to have health and wellness at the forefront of design.

The second site, Lot B, will deliver a mixed-use site consisting of ground floor retail with an overhead residential offering, helping Crows Nest secure its place as one of the best areas to live, work and play on Sydney’s Lower North Shore.

Co-founder &amp; Director of Acquisitions at Third.i, Bob Huxley said the project will be a legacy development for Third.i and will add significant value to the Crows Nest community.

“Third.i is extremely excited to commence a relationship with Sydney Metro and the NSW Government and work with them to deliver what will be an outstanding, market-leading project for the Sydney region,” said Huxley.

“We have an established network of retail operators, and have already had a number of world class businesses express an interest in pre-committing to space at the Crows Nest over station development, which is just incredible. It really demonstrates the demand and need for this type of development in Sydney’s Lower North Shore."

With the acquisition bringing Third.i's overall project pipeline to over $4 billion across Australia and the UK, the project will also mark the fifth joint venture for Third.i and Phoenix Property Investors.

Trent Winduss, Head of Australia at Phoenix Property Investors, said they were excited to continue their strong track record with Third.i, which has proven success especially across Sydney's North Shore.&nbsp;

“This includes the selling out of the major residential project Balfour Place in Lindfield as well as the sale of the Blue &amp; William commercial precinct in North Sydney to Lendlease that was acquired by Keppel REIT," Winduss concluded.&nbsp;

Read more on residences set for above new Sydney Metro stations:

<a href="/news/nsw/first-look-designs-revealed-for-towers-above-parramatta-metro-station">First look: Designs revealed for towers above Parramatta Metro Station</a>

<a href="/news/nsw/first-look-towers-planned-above-new-sydney-olympic-park-metro-station">First look: Towers planned above new Sydney Olympic Park Metro Station</a> 
&nbsp;

Third.i and Phoenix Property Investors team up for Crows Nest over-station development

The former North Shore Gas Co. Office building is set to be conserved and readapted in Crows Nest.

The Double Bay-based developer&nbsp;PDS has filled plans for a $55 million project which will comprise a 14-level mixed-use building, with a two-storey commercial podium.

<a href="/new-apartments/290-pacific-highway-crows-nest"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-07-11_at_8.33.10_pm.png" width="822" /></a> 
Render of the proposed Pacific Highway mixed-use development in Crows Nest. Credit: Fuse Architecture

There will be 61 three and four-bedroom apartments planned on the&nbsp;290 Pacific Highway site, just up the road from PDS&#39;s The Wentworth.

The recently amalgamated lot has a primary frontage to the Pacific Highway with a rear address to Sinclair Street.

It is currently occupied by the local heritage listed Former North Shore Gas Co Office building and an existing two storey commercial building, with the latter secluded to be demolished in the process.

LFA Pacific prepared the urban design report for PDS, who engaged Fuse Architects to design the plans.

<a href="/new-apartments/290-pacific-highway-crows-nest"><img alt="" height="1102" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-07-11_at_8.33.16_pm.png" width="820" /></a>

Render of the proposed Pacific Highway mixed-use development in Crows Nest. Credit: Fuse Architecture

&ldquo;The development proposal seeks to retain, conserve and adaptively re-use the Former Gas Company building as part of a new mixed-use building with a ground floor commercial podium and residential uses above,&rdquo; LFA said in their urban design report.

The site is situated in an urban block bound by Shirley Street to the north, Bruce Street to the south, the Pacific Highway to the east and Sinclair Street to the west.

The block forms part of the Five Ways intersection, where Pacific Highway, Shirley Road, Willoughby Road and Falcon Street converge, creating a local landmark that defines the southern gateway to the St Leonards, Crows Nest Precinct.

The site at 290 Pacific Highway, Crows Nest in the North Sydney Local Government Area is 1.5km north of North Sydney CBD, 850m south of St Leonards strategic centre and immediately south of Crows Nest Village

<a href="/new-apartments/290-pacific-highway-crows-nest"><img alt="" height="1318" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-07-11_at_8.34.04_pm.png" width="1960" /></a> 
Render of the proposed Pacific Highway mixed-use development in Crows Nest. Credit: Fuse Architecture

The site is approximately one kilometre from major public open space such as Brennan Park and Newlands Park, St Leonards Park, and St Thomas Rest. Smaller pocket parks such as the Hume Street Park, Ernest Place Park, and Sophia Street Park are located east of Pacific Highway, while Morton Lane Road Reserve off Sinclair Street is a landscaped walkway.

The design involves the reinstatement of key materials such as exterior masonry, terracotta tiles, pressed metal, stainless steel, and glass panelling.

<a href="/new-apartments/290-pacific-highway-crows-nest"><img alt="" height="1204" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-07-11_at_8.33.26_pm.png" width="970" /></a> 
Render of the proposed Pacific Highway mixed-use development in Crows Nest. Credit: Fuse Architecture

Glass is used for the remainder of the facade with a textured glass awning and pressed metal soffit to match the existing heritage pressed metal soffit pattern.

The existing facade is provided with powder coated metal profiles to match the existing awning and fluted glass as a key design motif for the front elevation where a curtain wall is proposed to the remainder of Pacific Highway frontage.

Incorporating a muted palette and lightweight materials, the upper residential levels highlight the heritage item, while inverted, fluted glass is used as a contemporary adaptation of the scalloped heritage facade.

There will be 61 three and four-bedroom apartments planned on the 290 Pacific Highway site, just up the road from PDS's The Wentworth


$55 million Crows Nest apartments to target the owner-occupier

The Sydney-based developer Abadeen Group has teamed up with the APAC-focused private equity real estate investment group Phoenix Property Investors to create a string of boutique residential apartment projects in Sydney over the next five years.

The $250 million investment will see between 15-20 projects delivered, with over $1 billion in gross revenue forecasted.

The sites will yield between 10 to 50 apartments, located in&nbsp;established and desirable neighbourhoods within 10km of the CBD, and targeting an average of $100m in gross revenue when completed.

Abadeen’s Executive Director, Joseph Tack, said the Residential Development Platform is the culmination of a three-year strategic plan to build a pipeline of prime infill sites to deliver high quality bespoke projects to owner occupier customers.

"The relationship with Phoenix enables us to source high quality opportunities in a competitive environment, with a focus on amalgamations and sourcing off m​arket transactions.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108800 project_image_fid=179486]

"Our latest acquisition involved the direct approach and amalgamation of 21 strata lots across three buildings, which has taken over seven months to negotiate”.

Trent Winduss, Director and Head of Australian investments in Phoenix’s Sydney office, said the partnership with Abadeen&nbsp;is the realization of a long-considered investment thesis to build a scalable residential development business targeting boutique, quality and desirable apartment living for owner-occupiers in highly sought-after neighbourhoods in Sydney.

"We believe Abadeen is the right partner in helping to realize that thesis given its depth of development experience, vertically integrated project and development management expertise and first-class marketing acumen”.

Since formalising the venture in June, the partnership is off to a rapid start with five active projects and a sixth recently secured located in Crow’s Nest, Naremburn, Cremorne, Mosman and Neutral Bay which have a combined projected gross revenue in excess of $300m.

Development&nbsp;approvals have been obtained by Abadeen for the Crows Nest and Neutral Bay projects, branded ‘KOYO’ and ‘ENSO’ respectively and designed by acclaimed architects Koichi Takada.

KOYO comprises 27 predominantly three-bedroom apartments in a cul de sac setting and is now selling through CBRE Residential Projects.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108800 project_image_fid=179484]

ENSO offers nine&nbsp;residences on Grosvenor St in the heart of Neutral Bay village, with both projects aimed towards the down sizer market with luxury finishes and extensive local amenities within walking distance.

A development&nbsp;application has been lodged for the 58-unit planned project in Naremburn, designed by Rothelowman, and will include a wider range of apartment sizes including product for first time buyers. A pre-sale campaign is expected to commence early next year.

The joint venture has acquired a further three projects in the Lower North Shore demonstrating confidence in that market for sites which have the required attributes.

Contracts have been exchanged to acquire an asset at Clifford St, Mosman to create 30 apartments and associated retail space on a site acquired from the State Government, and a corner site at 2 Sutherland St Cremorne to develop 14 predominantly three-bedroom residences which offers Bay views to the North and over Cammeray Golf Club to the West. Contracts have been recently exchanged on a sixth asset located in Neutral Bay which is yet to be disclosed.

The $250 million investment will see between 15-20 projects delivered, with over $1 billion in gross revenue forecasted

Abadeen partner with Phoenix to delivery luxury apartment pipeline for Sydney

The forward-thinking architect Koichi Takada has been&nbsp;one of the hottest commodities&nbsp;on the residential design circuit for over a decade in Australia.

His firm, Koichi Takada Architects, whose approach is to&nbsp;create&nbsp;organically inspired places so the world can reconnect with a more natural, intuitive and conscious future, has been behind some of the most impressive buildings across Australia.

They&#39;ve designed&nbsp;the luxury Crown Group projects Skye in North Sydney, Waterfall by Crown in Waterloo and Infinity by Crown at Green Square, as well as the award-winning mixed use Crown development Arc in the Sydney CBD.

The team was also engaged by FORME, the Brisbane-based developer, to create Norfolk at Burleigh Heads, one of the Gold Coast&#39;s most expensive projects in the last few years. Recently completed, that netted an average sale price of around $4 million for its 15 apartments, including a record $9&nbsp;million penthouse sale. That sold 90 per cent of its apartments within two months of its launch.

The Sydney developer, Abadeen Group, founded and led by the long-time CBRE Residential Projects Chairman&nbsp;Justin Brown, have had Takada work on two of their upcoming developments, the most anticipated being Koyo,&nbsp;a boutique collection of 27 apartments in the heart of Crows Nest.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108800 project_image_fid=179476]

Koyo, a Japanese terms which refers to the changing colours of the leaves in autumn, has been geared toward the owner-occupier, with its generously-sized living and outdoor areas.

Takada said he was inspired by the parks and the deciduous trees in the area.

&quot;We really&nbsp;wanted to bring that external element of nature into the internal space&quot;, Takada said.

There will be 18-three bedroom apartments, predominantly&nbsp;located at each corner of the development to have the larger outdoor spaces, as well as seven two-bedroom apartments and two-one bedroom apartments. They all have parking, and a number have an additional study or courtyard.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108800 project_image_fid=179475]

There was a big focus to bring the outdoor in in the&nbsp;10 courtyard apartments, which will feature leafy outdoor areas. The apartments have been designed to take advantage of cross ventilation and to take in as much natural light as possible.

Abadeen are offering buyers to upgrade the apartments with a number of exclusive options, which can include adding a built-in bar, a timber-crafted study nook, or the addition of&nbsp;a fireplace in the living room.

Justin Brown, who founded Abadeen over two decades ago,&nbsp;expects the North Shore owner-occupier market to be the dominant buyer, tapping in to the booing downsizer market.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108800 project_image_fid=179488]

&quot;The location of Koyo is almost the epicentre of so many different areas&quot;, Brown says.

&quot;It is equidistant to North Sydney, Cammeray and Neutral Bay.

&quot;There&#39;s a lot of growth&nbsp;happening in North Sydney from a commercial perspective and with the new Metro trains - we really believe it&rsquo;s going to be such a key location for people who wanted to be close to work.

&quot;Koyo is also&nbsp;surrounded by a number of schools, which will open the door for families with school aged children to be interested in the larger three bedroom apartments.&quot;

Completion is expected in early 2023, with the North Sydney Council recently giving the green light to the development.

Abadeen are also developing Koyo&#39;s sister project, Enso, located in Neutral Bay, with just the nine apartments in the boutique block. That&#39;s due for launch later this year.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=108800]

Koyo, a Japanese terms which refers to the changing colours of the leaves in autumn, has been geared toward the owner-occupier, with its generously-sized living and outdoor areas

Abadeen Group launch Koichi Takada-designed Koyo apartments at Crows Nest

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A wide-fronted Victorian terrace in Crows Nest, NSW has been sold for $3.45 million.
The four bedroom, two bathroom home is situated at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-crows+nest-133191066" target="_blank">74 Burlington Street</a>. 
It comes with open living zone, entertaining deck, marble crafted kitchen and private level lawn surrounded by landscaped garden. 
Other features include integrated home sound system, hardwood floors, alarm system and double garage. 
It is moments to quality schools, parks and the future Metro station. 
Peter Chauncy and Debbie Chadwick of McGrath Crows Nest sold the property. 
The house was last sold in 2007 for $1 million. 
 
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Crows Nest Victorian terrace sold for $3.45 million

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<div>A unit block in Crows Nest has sold under the hammer for $4.3 million which was $500,000 above the reserve price.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The CBRE marketing campaign fielded 455 enquiries, 104 inspections and 72 contract requests. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>There were 13 registered parties when <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-unitblock-nsw-crows+nest-126537910" target="_blank">50 Falcon Street</a> sold to a local buyer on a yield of 2.6 percent. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>The building comprises four, two-bedroom apartments, each with an accompanying study, laundry, and provides four onsite car spaces with rear lane access.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The total land size is 518sqm. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>The property will also benefit from the future Crows Nest metro station, which will be situated within 600 metres of the site. </div>
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Unit block in Sydney's Crows Nest sells for $4.3 million 

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Following his $4.2 million purchase in Cremorne, Balnaves Foundation boss Hamish Balnaves has listed his now redundant Crows Nest home.
The price guidance is $2,475,000 to $2,700,000.
Balnaves, who runs the Balnaves Foundation, paid $1,355,000 for the three bedroom home in 2007. 
Merging classic and contemporary, the freestanding home on 310 sqm had been a $725 a week rental in recent times.
The home comes with loft space and a garden edged courtyard with built-in barbecue.
McGrath Neutral Bay agent Alex Myers suggested in the listed there is potential to build a second floor.
Balnaves and wife Marta have upgraded, recently settling on a four bedroom Cremorne home with entertaining terrace overlooking a pool and courtyard.
The Balnaves Foundation has provided a huge range of monetary support to medical research, the arts and theatre, particularly indigenous projects.
<div class="attributePanel">This article first appeared in the Sunday Telegraph.</div>
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