<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

Pitt Street

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

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

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

Oxford Properties Group (&lsquo;Oxford&rsquo;) and Investa today announced they have received development approval from the Independent Planning Commission (IPC) for the first build to rent building in the Sydney CBD, a new residential development above the South entrance of the Sydney Metro Pitt Street Station.

The development will deliver an innovative, sustainable, purpose-built build to rent residential building that will create an unmatched rental experience for residents in the Sydney CBD. The approval is a major milestone for the project and is the first step in Oxford&rsquo;s strategy to create a leading build to rent platform in Australia and to attract co-investment from like-minded and strategic investors. The platform is being created in partnership with Investa, which is Oxford&rsquo;s local operating and development partner for its office portfolio and growing build to rent business.

<img alt="" height="530" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/pitt_st_station.jpg" width="920" />

The 39-storey building will feature 234 residential apartments with extensive on-site amenities, including a wellness floor, rooftop terrace and adjoining communal space, an entire floor dedicated to work from home spaces, a social lounge and up to 682 square metres of retail. The building is targeting a 5 Star Green Star rating, with 30% Basix energy targets and 40% water targets.

Nellie O&rsquo;Keeffe, Project Director at Oxford Properties said, &ldquo;this is an exciting milestone for a truly transformational project. We are working with a world-class project team, which includes leading Australian architects Bates Smart and are committed to delivering a project that sets the bar for purpose-built rental in Sydney.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7758 project_image_fid=79424]

Located on the corner of Pitt and Bathurst streets, the development is ideally positioned to provide a lively city lifestyle to future residents, ranging from young families, to working professionals to downsizers. Seamlessly integrated with the new Pitt Street metro station and well connected to other primary transport hubs, residents will benefit from connectivity to Greater Sydney and close proximity to Hyde Park and some of Sydney&rsquo;s best retail, dining and entertainment attractions, while enjoying the convenience, amenity, flexibility and sense of community this location offers.

Oxford&rsquo;s build to rent pipeline in Australia now includes approximately 1,000 units, following the acquisition of its first build to rent site in Melbourne at 3 McNab Avenue, Footscray, and is targeting more than 5,000 units over the next 10 years.

Oxford&rsquo;s consortium partners, CPB Contractors commenced construction on the metro station in December 2020. The residential development is scheduled to begin in late 2021 and due to be completed in line with metro services in 2024. Oxford anticipates that around 350 jobs will be created through the construction over a 24-month period.

Oxford Properties Group (‘Oxford’) and Investa today announced they have received development approval from the Independent Planning Commission (IPC) for the first build to rent building in the Sydney CBD

jordan_55689

Development approval locked in for Sydney CBD's first build to rent development

The stage two development application for the 50-storey mixed-use redevelopment Sydney&#39;s City Tattersalls Club has been lodged with the City of Sydney council.

The Melbourne-based developer ICD Property is handling&nbsp;the development alongside a consortium led by the Singapore-based First Sponsor Group.

The 50-storey building towering&nbsp;above Pitt Street has been designed by BVN and will home a 101-room hotel and 241 residential apartments, as well as&nbsp;new club facilities including&nbsp;ground floor retail, an upgraded lower bar and grill, new restaurants, a commercial fitness centre and event spaces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=12428]

The base of the tower&nbsp;transitions into a podium, creating a connection between the ground-floor club facilities and the newer tower above.

If given the green light, the project will begin construction in 2022 and be complete in 2026, if the stage two approval is granted by the end of this year.

<a href="/new-apartments/sydney-house-194-204-pitt-street-sydney"><img alt="" height="1197" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/tatts_2.jpg" width="800" /></a>

BVN have designed the tower after winning an international design competition ahead of architecture firms Hassell, Bates Smart, SJB, Candalepas Associates, and DP Architects back in August 2020.

BVN has worked in close collaboration with fjmt studios, the appointed architects for the heritage components of the development who have also been selected to be the Club&rsquo;s interior architect

Matt Khoo, managing director of ICD Property, said the development submission&nbsp;is an extremely exciting milestone for the project and the result of many months of hard work by the entire project team.

&quot;The collaboration between BVN and fjmt has been incredible, particularly during the unusual work conditions we have been facing lately due to COVID-19,&quot; Mr Khoo said.

&quot;Where we would previously have the entire project team spend hours together in hands-on workshops, our whole design team has been innovating its approach and remaining agile through working behind a screen.

&quot;Despite these tough conditions the team has delivered a design that is respectful of the site&rsquo;s heritage components, existing Club, and its members; whilst also producing a beautiful addition to the Sydney skyline and a rich asset for the city that will add significant value to the public through activation on its Pitt Street frontages.&quot;

BVN principal architect Matthew Blair says the three parts of the project &ndash; Club, Hotel and Apartments &ndash; are purposefully articulated in the overall mass of the project, with fenestration informed by the existing exuberant heritage facades.

&quot;They weave together a story of a rich history and an optimistic future for this significant place in the middle of the CBD&rdquo;.

<a href="/new-apartments/sydney-house-194-204-pitt-street-sydney"><img alt="" height="1200" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/tatts_3.jpg" width="800" /></a>

Richard Francis-Jones, design director at fjmt studio, says that home of the City Tattersalls Club will be transformed into a beautiful interconnection of exceptional heritage buildings and landmark heritage interiors with a new and exciting layer of contemporary design.

&quot;This new architectural layer will be like an organic ribbon of movement and light connecting all the great interior rooms of the club while also creating new modern spaces and facilities.

&quot;The new architecture also makes an appearance on Pitt Street infilling between some of the finest heritage facades in our city. This seamless blend of new and heritage represents both the unmatched heritage of the Club and its open, progressive, and innovative vision for the future,&rdquo; said fjmt studio&rsquo;s Design Director Richard Francis- Jones.

If the development&rsquo;s Stage 2 DA is approved, premium apartments will occupy the top floors of the tower offering impressive views over Sydney&rsquo;s CBD and harbour. Residents will also have access to exclusive amenities including several multipurpose rooms and an outdoor deck with BBQ and entertainment rooftop facilities.

Below the residential apartments, hotel conglomerate IHG has recently signed on to operate the upper-upscale hotel which will comprise circa 101 rooms and its own collection of amenities for guests, with its boutique Hotel Indigo brand.

City Tattersalls Club Group chief executive Marcelo Veloz said the significance of this redevelopment to their members and a CBD that is very much in need of reactivating is indescribable.

&quot;Pitt Street has been our Club&rsquo;s home for the last 125 years and this long-awaited redevelopment will allow us to safeguard our next 125 years by upgrading the existing structures and expanding the facilities we have on offer to create even more benefit to our members and the wider community/&quot;

The Melbourne-based developer ICD Property is handling the development alongside a consortium led by the Singapore-based First Sponsor Group.

ICD Property lodge stage two plans for Sydney's City Tattersall redevelopment

<html><body><div class="page" title="Page 1">
<div class="section">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
Following a five-week international design competition, award-winning Australian practice BVN has emerged as the winner to design the redevelopment of Sydney’s iconic 125-year-old City Tattersalls Club, located at 194 – 204 Pitt Street.
BVN’s innovative design was selected as the unanimous winner by a panel of six jurors after several weeks of careful consideration for what would respectfully integrate with the building’s heritage components and further improve Sydney’s city centre.
The winning design was commended for its well-considered podium that creates a sophisticated connection between the ground-floor Club facilities and the new tower above, resulting in a considered, elegant, and holistic overall composition to the project.
The scheme’s superior internal planning resulted in a highly effective floorplan, maximising the views and amenity of the apartments and hotel rooms, whilst drawing natural light deep into the tower’s public and common spaces. The apartment layouts resolve the complex structural requirements for building over the heritage Club whilst making wonderful places to live.
BVN’s proposed 49-storey tower produces a contemporary and calm facade that would add an elegant, landmark structure to Sydney’s iconic city skyline.
In their decision the jury noted the expressed intentions of BVN’s team to collaborate closely with FJMT, the nominated architect underseeing rejuvenation of the heritage components of the building, to ensure a rich integration of the tower with the existing structures below - an essential consideration of the site’s overall redevelopment.
When asked to comment on the winning BVN design, FJMT’s Design Director, Richard Francis-Jones, said, “This is a wonderful vision for the integration of city apartments, hotel, and the unique City Tattersalls Club in a sustainable and inspiring new urban complex. BVN's insightful concept for a tower characterised by lightness, floating above a more solid hotel podium will form a gentle back drop and transition with the landmark heritage buildings of Pitt Street. It is a great concept and we are looking forward to working with BVN to realise a project both of sensitivity and landmark quality.”
The design competition’s full shortlist of competing architects included five of Australia’s most renowned firms; Hassell, Bates Smart, SJB, BVN, Candalepas Associates, as well as leading international architecture practice DP Architects.
The City Tattersalls Club redevelopment is a joint-venture project undertaken by a consortium led by Singapore-based First Sponsor Group Limited and ICD Property – in collaboration with the City Tattersalls Club.
After a successful international design competition, the development group is now working towards finalising design details with BVN in preparation for submission of a Stage 2 DA later this year.
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div></body></html>

j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

BVN wins international design competition for Sydney’s City Tattersalls Club

<html><body>
<div class="page" title="Page 1">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
Oxford Properties Group (‘Oxford’), a leading global real estate investor, developer and manager, announced it has lodged its Development Application (‘DA’) for its 39 storey, build-to-rent residential building, marking a major milestone for the Sydney Metro Pitt Street over station development. 
The building represents the first large scale build-to-rent project in Sydney’s CBD, and is part of Oxford’s wider development plans that also include a 39-storey office building at the Pitt Street north metro station entrance. The build-to-rent project marks the first step in Oxford’s strategy to create, over time, a leading multifamily platform in Australia, with a focus on Sydney and Melbourne.
Key features of the south building revealed in the DA include: 
<ul>
<li>More than 20,000 sqm of gross floor area including residential accommodation and a publicly accessible restaurant;</li>
<li>234 apartments with a range of dwelling sizes and types from one to three-bedroom apartments, all with balconies or terraces;</li>
<li>Three floors of resident amenities including a 20m pool with health and wellness facilities, resident lounge providing space to relax or work from home; and,</li>
<li>Multiple communal outdoor terraces including a dedicated resident rooftop dining room.</li>
</ul>
“We are excited to share our detailed plans for Pitt Street south building with the public for the first time. We have been working closely with our delivery partners and the project’s world-class consultant team, including leading Australian architects Bates Smart, to develop plans for a transformational project that will set the bar for purpose- built rental in Sydney’s CBD. The quality of apartments and extensive amenities will create an unmatched experience for residents,” commented Nellie O’Keeffe, Project Director for Pitt Street over station development at Oxford Properties.
“In line with Sydney Metro’s vision of forming a vibrant hub that will shape the city’s future, the wider Pitt Street project will deliver an enhanced midtown precinct incorporating office, retail and residential with a seamless transfer to public transport. The proposed design for a premium build-to-rent development will elevate this precinct as a landmark project and create a strong sense of place. The successful lodgement of the south building DA is progress towards our timeline to begin construction.”
As detailed within the DA, the design of the south building seeks to create a singular elegant and cohesive form, which brings together the Metro station, retail, residential and amenity uses. Philip Vivian, Director of Bates Smart, commented, “The south building has been designed to strengthen midtown’s historic brick character. Its clustered form reflects the scale of nearby buildings, while the podium sensitively steps to integrate with the historic context. Precast masonry facades reinterpret the colouration of the variegated brickwork of the surrounding buildings. The facade creates a midtown feel, with solidity providing privacy and environmental performance for residents. It’s architecture that is sympathetic to historic and present-day Sydney, and it enhances the city’s urban fabric.”
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="page" title="Page 2">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
Residents of the south building will benefit from Oxford’s institutional ownership that provide longer, more flexible lease terms, security of tenure and homes that are cared for by real estate management professionals.
“At Oxford, we are committed to combining global best practices and the knowledge of our on-the-ground team to deliver projects that positively impact our communities through job creation and that create a vibrant sense of place. Pitt Street metro station is a landmark project for the city and, as the first purpose-built build-to-rent building in the CBD, the south building serves as a major step forward for the residential market in Sydney,” commented Alec Harper, Head of Australia at Oxford Properties.
“The residential market in Australia has been evolving in response to housing affordability, population growth and changing demographic sentiment to home ownership. This is driving demand for professionally managed rental residential accommodation in urban centres. Build-to-rent offers a more affordable and flexible solution than homeownership for many Australians but, through surety of tenure, allows residents to put down long-term roots. As our first project in Australia as lead developer since entering the market in December 2018, it demonstrates our commitment to creating a leading multifamily platform in Australia with a focus on our core markets of Sydney and Melbourne.”
Oxford’s plans for the south building draw on its global experience and track record of delivering landmark projects around the world. Oxford currently owns over 12,000 rental residential apartments globally. It is currently developing build-to-rent communities across London, New York, Toronto, Boston and Washington D.C.
Construction on the south building is expected to begin in 2021 and scheduled to complete in 2023 with Metro services beginning in 2024. During construction, Oxford anticipates that around 350 jobs will be created through the construction of the south building over a 24-month period.
Pitt Street Project Background
Oxford Properties was named lead developer and equity investor for the office and build-to-rent residential buildings above the new Pitt Street metro station, announced by Sydney Metro in September 2019. Oxford’s consortium partners CPB Contractors are responsible for delivery of the station. Oxford is also working closely with Investa Property Group, which it has engaged as Co-Development Manager to assist in delivering the project.
Collectively, the Pitt Street north and south buildings will deliver approximately 65,000 sqm of new space and create a vibrant new commercial and residential hub around Pitt Street, between Park Street and Bathurst Street.
Oxford plans to lodge the DA for the north building, a 39-storey premium office tower and retail plaza on the corner of Pitt and Park Street, in July this year.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/6/3/18_Oxford.jpg" alt="">
</div>
</div>
</div>
</body></html>

DA lodged for build-to-rent-building at Pitt Street south metro station 

<html><body>
A property beloning to the Sydney Mechanics' School of Arts has come onto the market, with price estimates exceeding $50 million.
The 10-storey office tower at 280 Pitt Street covers 4300 square metres.
It is fully leased.
It is one block from Town Hall Railway station, and between the under-construction Pitt Street Sydney Metro North (150 metres) and South stations (50 metres).
There is reportedly also the potential to add an additional four floors or apply a further 2377 square metres, pending approval from the City of Sydney Council.
The building was purchased by the school in 1996, from a trust belonging to the Uniting Church of Australia, for $4.5 million.
</body></html>

wdavis-8cCN98p7xp

Sydney Mechanics’ School of Arts set to sell 10-storey tower

<html><body>
Sydney’s Pitt Street Mall has remained as the world’s 7th most expensive retail precinct, with rents remaining steady at $14,000 sqm, according to the latest rankings from Cushman &amp; Wakefield.
The annual ‘Main Streets across the World’ report, released annually by Cushman and Wakefield, found that Pitt Street Mall has maintained its premium position despite relatively flat rental growth and an ongoing rise in online retail sales.
According to the report, strong foot traffic and the increased demand for experiential shopping is supporting rents and most retailers continue to trade strongly within the precinct, particularly in the high-end luxury category.
Rankings for the Asia Pacific region shows Pitt Street was third most expensive behind Hong Kong’s Causeway Bay and Tokyo’s Ginza district, with Melbourne’s Bourke Street Mall climbing the APAC rankings from 6th to 5th at $7,000 sqm.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/11/15/Rental%20Trends%20APAC.JPG" alt="">
Brisbane’s Queen Street has maintained it's 8th place spot in the APAC region, with retail rents averaging $4,500 sqm.
Matt Hudson, National Director of Retail Leasing, Cushman &amp; Wakefield Australia and New Zealand, said “Australia has firmly maintained its position as host to one of the world’s top ten most expensive retail streets, encouragingly, demand for large stores has been strong."
"A number of key locations are under development and currently seeking large scale flagship tenants, which is providing heightened competition for key shopping malls which do not offer the street or brand exposure of a flagship location.”
“In Sydney, there are also a minimum of 6 new retail precincts under development in and around the CBD, providing opportunity for retailers," noted Mr Hudson.
Michael Di Carlo, Director of Retail Leasing, Cushman &amp; Wakefield Australia and New Zealand, added, “while rents have remained at stable levels, with continued growth in online sales and uncertainty in consumer confidence, there has been a general increase in retailer requests for break clauses and/or shorter leases.
He said, "this is evident in the rise of small businesses opting for ‘try before you buy or lease’ options via pop up retail licenses as well as increased levels of landlord incentives."
Despite a small decline in average rents, Hong Kong’s Causeway Bay area took the number one spot, with a figure of USD$2,671 per square foot/year. 
This is primarily due to a a decline in New York rents which has seen Upper 5th Avenue slip back to second place globally, with average rents at USD$2,250 psf/yr compared with USD$3,000 in the previous 12-month period.
London’s New Bond Street meanwhile is the most expensive European location, in third place globally, with rents broadly flat year-on-year at USD$1,744 psf/yr.
Tokyo’s Ginza is the highest-ranked Asian street, with rents on average costing (USD$1,219 psf/yr).
According to the report, streets in emerging markets in Africa and Latin America account for most of the locations at the other end of the rankings, with rents as low as USD$20-30 psf/yr.
</body></html>

Pitt Street remains world's 7th most expensive retail precinct

<html><body>
Plans for a 49-storey mixed-use development at 194-204 Pitt Street have been lodged with the City of Sydney for review.
The DA, includes plans to protect elements of the heritage-value found in the City Tattersalls Club which has resided on Pitt Street for 123 years.
Architect firm FJMT has released a design (pictured above) which includes the construction of a 4-star boutique hotel with approximately 100 rooms and a residential tower comprising 246 apartments.
City Tattersalls Club CEO Marcelo Veloz said the submission represented a major milestone for the historic Club (pictured below) which, along with ICD Property, had to go back to the drawing board last year after an earlier development application was declined.
<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/2018/10/18/tatter%201.jpg" alt="">
"The development marks ICD Property’s first venture into Sydney after developing successful projects in Melbourne including residential high-rise Eq Tower, ongoing land subdivision community Gen Fyansford in Geelong, as well as 65 Federal Street, a mixed-use tower in Auckland whereby Woods Bagot has just been announced as the winning architect following a design competition process,“ ICD Property’s Deputy Managing Director Matthew Khoo
The activation along the ground floor will be home to modern restaurants and bars.
They noted, "following Concept DA consent, a design excellence competition will follow, in which multiple architect firms will be invited to bring the highest quality of thinking and originality to the project."
The competition jury, comprising members nominated by both the consent authority and ICD Property, will be the ultimate decision makers in selecting the winning scheme for the development.
</body></html>

Plans for 49-Storey Pitt Street Tower Lodged with City of Sydney

<html><body>
There are $100 million-plus hopes for Washington H Soul Pattinson's Pitt Street Mall headquarters which has been listed by JLL.
The head office and pharmacy of the company, now known as WHSP, has operated at 160 Pitt Street since 1885, after it was rebuilt following a fire to the 1870s building.
The company - managed by the family - has evolved into an investment house with $5.5 billion in assets under management.
One of its best-known assets is the Victorian Italianate retail and office building in the heart of Sydney, one of the select properties with prime Pitt Street Mall.
"It unquestionably is a highly unique, super strategic and really a 'one-off' opportunity to secure an absolute prime foothold in Australia's strongest retail strip," said JLL's Simon Rooney, who has been appointed to sell the property with colleague Rob Sewell.
Pitt Street Real Estate Partners is advising WHSP on the divestment.
The property has a gross lettable area of 1290sq m.
"As a result of the high retailer demand for presence along Pitt Street, it now commands some of the highest rents in the world, with recent evidence showing rates of $12,000 to $15,000 per sq m annually," Mr Rooney said.
According to JLL’s Australasian Retail Investments head, Simon Rooney, Pitt Street Mall is the most productive retail in Australia with estimated sales of approximately $1.4 billion or productivity of around $14,000/sqm and exposure to exceptionally high pedestrian traffic with 65,000 visitations a day, which has drawn high profile international retailers to Pitt Street Mall in recent years such as H&amp;M, Zara Home, Topshop, Sephora, Forever 21, Uniqlo and Microsoft.
There are limited options for contiguous space in Midtown. Vacancy has compressed to 6.4 percent - well below the 10 year average of 8.1 percent. 
There is tangible evidence that rents are rising in Midtown.
"Multiple capital sources are subscribers to the Midtown investment thesis and investor expectation of above trend effective rental growth is reflected in under-writing assumptions," Rob Sewell said.
"This was evidenced by the recent sale of Fortius’s 75 percent share in MidCity Centre to Hong Kong based NGI Investments for $320 million, Brookfield’s 50% share in World Square to ISPT for $285 million and the sale of the Telstra Discovery store at 396 George Street for $26.25 million, representing a record sale rate per square metre of lettable area of $262,500,” said Mr Rooney.
</body></html>

Pitt Street

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

The latest real estate & off the plan properties & news, delivered to your inbox.

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

The latest real estate & off the plan properties & news, delivered to your inbox.

Pitt Street

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Have something to contribute?

The latest real estate & off the plan properties & news, delivered to your inbox.

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

The latest real estate & off the plan properties & news, delivered to your inbox.