<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/s-p-setia">SP Setia</a> has lodged plans for a $750 million, three-tower mixed-use precinct that would complete the long-running redevelopment of Carlton's former Carlton United Breweries site.

The proposal at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/185-195-queensberry-street-carlton-vic-3053">46-78 Bouverie Street and 185-195 Queensberry Street</a> spans a 6,468 sqm site, the last remaining undeveloped parcels within the former brewery's 2007 masterplan.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, the development will comprise two purpose-built student accommodation towers and a third build-to-sell apartment tower above a shared commercial podium and basement.

Across the three towers, SP Setia is proposing 606 build-to-sell apartments and 1,499 student accommodation units containing 2,009 beds.

The apartments will sit in the tallest tower, which will rise nearly 200m and 55 storeys. It will become&nbsp;one of the more substantial new build-to-sell apartment projects at the northern edge of Melbourne's CBD.

The apartment mix is weighted toward smaller inner-city product, with 188 studios, 206 one-bedroom apartments, 192 two-bedroom apartments and 20 three-bedroom apartments

<img alt="First look: SP Setia plans three-tower finale for Carlton’s former CUB precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8271bc87-1b0a-41b7-ac73-a425ee375261" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/3_2.png?VersionId=G4lw23o90B1boX4k4dj7rdz2ZEajS9wy" />

Part of the precinct will be a large-scale&nbsp;3,684 sqm supermarket and a further 2,198 sqm of speciality retail, creating close to 5,900 sqm of new commercial space within the precinct.

But one of the biggest components of the proposal is what sits between the buildings.

Around 4,650 sqm, or roughly 72 per cent of the site, will be publicly accessible open space, incorporating plazas, pedestrian connections, landscaped laneways and retail spill-out areas.

The ground plane is intended to finally complete pedestrian connections envisaged when the CUB masterplan was first approved nearly two decades ago, stitching together Victoria Street, Queensberry Street, Bouverie Street and Swanston Street through the former brewery precinct.

Urbis said the development would "complete the CUB precinct", with the public realm providing important north-south and east-west connections through what is currently the final undeveloped portion of the masterplanned site.

SP Setia is also exploring a new linear park within the Bouverie Street road reserve, with the concept to be developed further with the City of Melbourne through the planning process.

The proposal is being pursued through the Victorian Government's Development Facilitation Program under Clause 53.23 for significant residential development with affordable housing.

The planning report acknowledges the proposed heights exceed those contemplated under the original Comprehensive Development Plan and masterplan, but argues the built-form context has changed considerably over the past two decades.

Urbis said the three towers would instead create a stepped transition between Carlton and the Hoddle Grid, rising progressively from the 94.1-metre Tower One along the Queensberry Street edge to the 199.44-metre Tower Three closer to the established CBD-scale buildings to the south.

<img alt="SP Setia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e885a07a-592c-40fc-bf82-e6dbaf32da54" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.52.24%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=7s_ErUkSKAdY1mAWp3GRZgMNCGtwhk5m" />

SP Setia plans to deliver the development across three stages.

Stage One would deliver the basement, podium and retail areas for the entire precinct alongside the first student tower. Tower Two would follow in Stage Two, before the 606-apartment Tower Three is delivered as the final stage.

If approved and delivered, the project would close out a redevelopment process that has been underway since the former brewery masterplan was approved in 2007, adding more than 2,600 student beds and apartments to a precinct already home to Swanston Central, the Barak Building, RMIT Design Hub and several large student accommodation developments.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Joel Robinson

SP Setia plans three-tower finale for Carlton’s former CUB precinct

Melbourne developer Lowe Living is seeking to add to its growing bayside apartment pipeline, filing plans for a boutique eight-residence development in tightly held Middle Park.

Lowe Living, which has built much of its development portfolio across Melbourne's affluent bayside and south-east suburbs, is behind the plans for the 730 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/123-125-erskine-street-middle-park-vic-3206">123-125 Erskine Street</a>, just off Armstrong Street and within the Armstrong Street Neighbourhood Activity Centre.

The developer is seeking approval for a five-storey residential building above two basement levels, with just eight large-format apartments and 18 car spaces.

“This is a deliberately very different proposition for us,"&nbsp;Tim Lowe, Co-Founder of Lowe Living, said.

"Eight residences is exceptionally boutique, but that's precisely what this site calls for.

“There is a strong community in Middle Park and the surrounding suburbs who have spent decades building a life here. They no longer want the maintenance of a large period home, but they aren't prepared to compromise on space, quality or location. We think there is a real opportunity to capture that hyper local market. A site like this rarely comes to market.”

<img alt="Lowe " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="875fe572-0f14-4d90-9e11-55b28dd07731" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.42.49%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=GDNQRv9BfpR9r1zkZ5UDyUM4ZvpIksut" />

The low-density proposal has been designed by Cera Stribley and is being progressed through the Victorian Government's Great Design Fast Track pathway, having already secured eligibility from the Minister for Planning.

The Office of the Victorian Government Architect supported its eligibility after finding the proposal demonstrated consistency with the program's seven design principles, while the project's financial feasibility has also been independently confirmed by Invest Victoria.

The project is targeting the downsizer market, with the planning documents describing the homes as larger-format residences and noting the two penthouses could otherwise have been configured as four separate apartments.

<img alt="Lowe 2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="60ab0987-2da6-4175-adac-315dcf6053c6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.43.15%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=bOCPH0B2MFwlmaRW.TTCF9TzyifgVoQI" />

The site has dual frontage to Erskine Street and Canterbury Place and currently comprises a collection of commercial buildings used as offices, including a former heritage bakehouse, a former stable, a later gabled addition and a central courtyard.

It sits within the Commercial 1 Zone and the Armstrong Street Commercial Precinct heritage overlay, with the existing property classified as a contributory heritage place.

Heritage has subsequently played a significant role in Cera Stribley's design.

The front section of the former bakehouse facing Erskine Street will be retained, including its return walls, street-facing hipped roof and chimneys, while the Erskine Street façade and part of the western return wall of the former stable will also be incorporated into the new development.

Levels four and five will be set back five metres from the retained stable façade, while bricks removed through demolition are proposed to be salvaged and reused within the new building where possible.

<img alt="Lowe 3" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e97927a9-a2de-4a0f-83b6-65451238abfa" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.43.06%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=VR44AChLrX9q1XPB9GvVQV.ALXXbe4gC" />

Rather than presenting as a single five-storey building to Erskine Street, Cera Stribley has broken the development into a series of distinct forms.

A three-storey infill element will sit between the retained bakehouse and stable façades, with the upper levels recessed behind the heritage fabric. Canterbury Place will similarly feature two three-storey podium forms, separated by a central pedestrian accessway, before the upper two levels step back from the street.

A pedestrian through-link will run through the centre of the project between Erskine Street and Canterbury Place, creating entrances from both sides of the site and introducing landscaping and communal areas through the ground plane.

Landscape architect Acre has designed planting across the ground level, private terraces and upper levels, including a feature canopy tree at level three and integrated planting and arbours across the level four terraces. Five existing Erskine Street trees are proposed to be retained.

Sustainability is also a significant component of the Great Design Fast Track application. The apartments are targeting an average eight-star NatHERS rating, with no residence below 6.5 stars, while the project has achieved a 75 per cent BESS score. Seven of the eight apartments are designed for cross-ventilation, with the remaining residence using mechanically assisted natural ventilation.

The plans also incorporate an 8kWp rooftop solar system, a 5,000-litre rainwater tank and infrastructure allowing future electric vehicle charging for every residence.

Lowe has a strong portfolio across Melbourne's blue-chip suburbs. They recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/jardin-house-by-lowe-living-camberwell-335-camberwell-road-camberwell-vic-3124">Jardin House by Lowe Living</a> in Camberwell, their first development in the Stonnington LGA.

Lowe Living unveils Middle Park apartment development

Article summary

<ul data-end="888" data-start="289">
	<li data-end="442" data-section-id="8tsh6o" data-start="289">DVB Projects is preparing to launch its second Gold Coast apartment development, with demolition now underway at 137 Old Burleigh Road, Broadbeach.</li>
	<li data-end="573" data-section-id="1nyxl3e" data-start="443">The 34-level tower will comprise just 49 ultra-luxury residences, including half-floor, full-floor and penthouse apartments.</li>
	<li data-end="717" data-section-id="oiyimj" data-start="574">The launch follows strong demand at DVB's nearby Sea Glass project, which is more than 50 per cent sold and currently under construction.</li>
	<li data-end="888" data-section-id="epk9o9" data-start="718">The development adds to the transformation of Old Burleigh Road, with premium beachfront apartment projects continuing to reshape the tightly held Broadbeach strip.</li>
</ul>

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/dvb-projects">DVB Projects</a> is preparing to launch its second Gold Coast apartment development, with demolition now underway on the Broadbeach site as the Sydney developer moves closer to bringing the ultra-luxury project to market.

The 34-level tower at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/137-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">137 Old Burleigh Road</a> will comprise just 49 residences, ranging from half-floor apartments through to full-floor homes and a penthouse. The launch follows the strong sales performance of DVB's nearby Sea Glass development. More than half of the apartments at Sea Glass, on the other side of Broadbeach, have been snapped up, well ahead of its late 2027 completion

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2944b4be-c84e-4b54-8dc1-c712e76704c0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/E02_Exterior_Street%20Level%20Entrance.jpg?VersionId=YoNig7pRdrE3HCue7sUj78LzJteeQf3H" />

The start of demolition at 137 Old Burleigh Road signals DVB Projects’ underlying confidence in the Gold Coast’s luxury beachside apartment sector.

“We see the Gold Coast as one of the most compelling lifestyle markets in Australia, particularly at the premium end where demand continues to deepen,” said Dean Brown, Managing Director of DVB.&nbsp;

“This project has been carefully designed to respond to that demand - delivering large-format residences with a level of quality, privacy and amenity that is still relatively rare in the apartment market on the beachside."

Brown says the site itself is "exceptional."

"Old Burleigh Road is one of the most tightly held beachfront strips, and opportunities to deliver a project of this scale and calibre in this location are extremely limited.”

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="398f377a-c037-455e-9250-0c5e0d84c35b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/I12_FF%20Balcony.jpg?VersionId=NwOiRWGMubR1c8wthuEfggklcja7al9." />

The project will comprise 40 half-floor residences of approximately 260 sqm, alongside eight full-floor residences spanning around 524 sqm.

A single penthouse will crown the building, featuring a private pool, barbecue area, indoor gym and dedicated entertaining spaces.

Residents will have access to a resort-style suite of amenities, including a 20-metre pool with daybeds, a gymnasium, hot and cold plunge pools, a sauna, and private residents’ lounge and dining facilities.

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d1642bb0-9a66-4427-a022-dfc0988c6287" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/A02_Pool%20to%20View.jpg?VersionId=c0IXPyn_Gp_Kn3XCwzMrqIVkAdCEwVXP" />

Sales agent Todd Matheson, of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/pezet-matheson">Pezet Matheson</a>, which is marketing both 137 Old Burleigh Road and Sea Glass, said 137 Old Burleigh Road would address a clear gap in the market for genuine luxury products.

“There are very few opportunities on the Gold Coast where buyers can secure a residence of this size and quality in a new building,” Matheson said.

“What we’re seeing is a growing cohort of downsizers and interstate buyers who still want space - they’re not willing to compromise on living area, entertaining or finishes.

“This project has been designed with that buyer in mind. It offers the scale of a home, combined with the convenience and security of apartment living, in one of the coast’s most desirable positions.”

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="59aae0ca-5639-4320-8aca-d0bf60f48e43" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/E01_Exterior%20Hero.jpg?VersionId=DS8Zfy2WtgUEtdfe0TEUuf1W1GfcZq8S" />

Located on a 1,156 sqm site one block from the beachfront, the development will replace an ageing walk-up building and is expected to contribute to the ongoing transformation of the Old Burleigh Road strip into one of the Gold Coast’s most prestigious residential corridors.

With the development moving into the delivery phase, 137 Old Burleigh Road is slated to hit the market later this year.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145141]

DVB Projects to launch second Broadbeach apartment tower as demolition commences

<a data-end="327" data-is-only-node="" data-start="250" href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/norus-projects" rel="noopener" target="_new">Norus Developments</a> has lodged plans for a new apartment development in Clayton that would add further momentum to the suburb's emerging Green Street corridor.

Plans have been lodged for the consolidated site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/1359-1365-centre-road-clayton-vic-3168">1359-1365 Centre Road</a>, where Norus is seeking approval for 218 apartments across a 12-storey apartment building designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/life-architecture-and-urban-design">Life Architecture</a>.

The proposal sits within the Clayton Major Activity Centre at the threshold of the planned Green Street corridor, a landscaped pedestrian connection intended to improve links through the precinct towards Clayton Railway Station.

The development would replace the site's existing collection of low-scale residential and commercial buildings with a single consolidated building, introducing significantly greater housing density to this part of Centre Road.

A retail tenancy is proposed at ground level to activate the Centre Road frontage, accompanied by transparent street interfaces and landscaping intended to create a more pedestrian-focused edge to the development.

<img alt="First look: Norus Developments plans landscape-led apartment project for Clayton’s emerging Green Street" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0a5a763a-d9e9-4253-af2f-88008de27ebf" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Clayton%20a.png?VersionId=S2WJJbat1XVkZwB9SnYtygirXgWHiklX" />

The building has been designed with stepped massing and upper-level setbacks to manage its transition towards surrounding residential properties. The planning report describes the approach as one that integrates the building into the landscape rather than treating landscaping as a secondary element.

"A strong landscape and public realm strategy underpins the proposal," Urbis states in the planning report.

"Public benefits include an affordable housing contribution, a new pocket park, generous landscaped setbacks, deep soil planting and integrated Water Sensitive Urban Design."

The report adds that these elements are intended to create "a permeable, pedestrian-focused ground plane that enhances walkability, supports urban cooling and reinforces the emerging Green Street character."

Biophilic and passive design principles extend through the residential levels, with planting, daylight, natural ventilation and views towards landscaped areas forming part of the amenity strategy.

Parking would be concentrated away from the public realm, with 145 car spaces proposed from the rear laneway rather than dominating the Centre Road frontage.

The proposal follows an extensive pre-application process with the City of Monash. Three formal meetings were held between the project team and Council from December 2025 to March 2026, with the scheme evolving through several concept iterations before the current design was lodged.

The project arrives as Clayton prepares for substantial change around its established activity centre and the wider Suburban Rail Loop precinct. Its position on Centre Road places the development within an existing concentration of shops, services and public transport, while the Green Street connection is intended to strengthen pedestrian access towards Clayton Railway Station.

First look: Norus plans landscape-led apartment project for Clayton’s emerging Green Street

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gardner-vaughan-group">Gardner Vaughan Group</a> has officially commenced construction on Bronze on Chevron, celebrating the sod turning of its first-ever Gold Coast development and marking a significant milestone in the company's continued expansion across South East Queensland.&nbsp;

Following the successful delivery of premium residential developments throughout Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bronze-on-chevron-8-mawarra-street-chevron-island-qld-4217">Bronze on Chevron</a> represents Gardner Vaughan Group's entry into the Gold Coast market. Bronze will deliver 119 one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments above two ground-level retail tenancies.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107520 project_image_fid=367193]

The recent sod turning ceremony was attended by Deputy Mayor Mark Hammel, President of the Surfers Paradise Surf Life Saving Club, Cassandra Sedgman, project consultants, purchasers, project partners and invited guests to celebrate the commencement of construction.&nbsp;

Gardner Vaughan Group Chief Executive Officer Simon Betteridge said Bronze on Chevron represented an exciting new chapter for the business.&nbsp;

"We've spent almost four decades building homes that respond to the way people want to live, and we're excited to bring that experience to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/chevron-island-qld-4217">Chevron Island</a>," Betteridge said.

"Bronze on Chevron is particularly significant because it marks Gardner Vaughan Group's first development on the Gold Coast following many successful projects across Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107520 project_image_fid=367183]

Betteridge said the ground breaking is a proud moment for the&nbsp;team and their purchasers, who can now see their future homes beginning to take shape.&nbsp;

"As both developer and builder, we're able to oversee every aspect of the project from design through to construction, ensuring the quality and attention to detail Gardner Vaughan Group has become renowned for."&nbsp;

Designed by acclaimed architectural practice <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cottee-parker-architects">Cottee Parker</a>, Bronze on Chevron has been thoughtfully designed to complement Chevron Island's evolving streetscape while embracing its relaxed coastal lifestyle.

The development will offer generous residences with refined interiors, premium finishes and resort-style amenities, with completion anticipated in early 2029.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=107520]

The development will offer generous residences with refined interiors, premium finishes and resort-style amenities, with completion anticipated in early 2029

Gardner Vaughan Group breaks ground on first Gold Coast development, Bronze on Chevron

Sydney off the plan apartments

As a developer who has been one of the biggest contributors to the Sydney housing market for over two decades, it would be easy for ALAND Founder Andrew Hrsto to rest on his laurels. Founded in 2002 by Hrsto from his kitchen table, ALAND has delivered over 4,000 apartments in the last 22 years, predominantly focused around Sydney’s west, with a further 1,300 currently under construction.

But there’s no slowing down for Hrsto, who remains as hands-on in the business as he was two decades ago, when it was just him and a small team of two — who are still part of ALAND today. Now, with over 6,000 apartments in planning and 200 employees across the development and construction sectors, ALAND’s workforce is only expected to grow as the company looks to venture into different market segments.

“First and foremost, our whole company ethos is to look after people,” Hrsto says, referring to both his staff and the buyers of ALAND apartments. “The obligation is to the buyers, and that has been the foundation of our business from day one. We knew if we did that, then every other element would fall into place.”

Catching up with Andrew recently, he shared a story of a founder who isn’t just “on the tools” metaphorically, but literally. His daily routine involves speaking with local councils, engaging with the community, interacting with apartment buyers, and occasionally donning a hard hat on site. “We’re a community-focused developer,” Andrew says. “It was never in our DNA to be anything different. It wouldn’t make sense to us to build something that wasn’t in line with what the community wanted.”

After five years in planning and project management, Hrsto decided to take the leap. “It was in the late 2000s that we went full end-to-end, handling both development and construction,” Andrew says. They soon expanded their scope, bringing building management into the fold.

“When we develop, we’re in that building for life,” Andrew adds. ALAND is well known for delivering more than just buildings — it creates precinct-style communities. “We started developing multi-stage projects just before COVID, and that allowed us to plan the whole process. It gave us more room to work with, considering the size of the development site. It enabled us to look beyond just a building and create a community that serves not only our future residents but the whole local area.” This approach is evident in their multi-stage masterplan for Gladstone Village, where ALAND is delivering over 1,000 apartments to Merrylands, just outside Parramatta.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7642 project_image_fid=283648]

In addition to three buildings offering a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, Gladstone Village features significant public amenities: a large grass park, an outdoor gym, a kids’ playground with a water play zone, a games area with table tennis tables, a life-sized chess board, and barbecue and alfresco facilities. Residents will also have private access to a rooftop pool, yoga lawns, outdoor cinemas, and a private forest walkway with a dedicated pet zone.

“Gladstone Village really typifies what we want to achieve and are continuing to execute in 2025,” Andrew says. “While we’re building homes for Western Sydney, there’s more to development nowadays. You have to contribute to the wider public, and that’s what we try to do with every masterplan we put our name to.” Nearby, ALAND will soon launch Queen Square, on its prime gateway site in Campbelltown.

The abandoned Brands on Sale outlet at 22-32 Queen Street will become a new community with around 558 apartments across five buildings. The two-hectare site will also comprise an Eat Street with retail and hospitality spaces and over 4,000 sqm of publicly accessible space, including a two-level community building with an auditorium, kiosk, and multi-purpose spaces.

<img alt="ALAND" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2cf8c06c-065d-4c1e-a94b-7b0e3cc3e4a6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-02-20%20at%2010.47.24%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=o9vRFRY0cmHdHDS5nJDBPEr1xI107X9d" />

Many developers stick to what they know, sticking to safer, more familiar paths. Hrsto, however, has a different approach. In 2022, Andrew and the team stepped out of their comfort zone, acquiring a prime development site in Gosford, the gateway suburb to the Central Coast. For a developer that had exclusively focused on Sydney’s western suburbs, this was a significant jump—not just geographically, but also in the execution of a new type of development. “We were probably biting off more than we could chew,” Andrew jokes.

Hrsto explained that they approached the Gosford project somewhat blindly, as the approved plans included a hotel component—an area ALAND hadn’t previously ventured into. But Andrew and his team returned to the company’s core values: if they did right by the buyer and the community, the rest would fall into place.

“Gosford proved to be a really interesting test for us as a business, pushing us to branch out and take on something we hadn’t done before, in a region we hadn’t developed in,” Andrew says. Fast forward two years from site acquisition, and the two-tower development, Archibald by ALAND, is nearing completion. With 99% of the apartments already sold, the project is one of the best-selling apartment developments the Central Coast has ever seen.

<a href="/new-apartments/archibald-by-aland-gosford-108-donnison-street-gosford-nsw-2250">Archibald by ALAND</a>&nbsp;includes 327 apartments and a 130-room hotel to be run by IHG VOCO, as well as ground-floor hospitality and a rooftop area. During the development and construction phase, Hrsto has also established another new capability for ALAND: an internal hotel management arm.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134670 project_image_fid=215487]

“A mixed-use hotel and apartment development is now very much something we can run end-to-end, and manage both components of the development well into the future,” Andrew says. Having seen such success in their first Gosford project, they are now moving ahead with their second: Amalfi by ALAND, on Mann Street, which will feature 506 apartments and 9,530 sqm of retail space.

ALAND’s 2025 development pipeline is as robust as ever, with the diversified developer planning projects across traditional build-to-sell, build-to-rent, co-living, student accommodation, hotel, and hospitality sectors. “2025 is shaping up to be a massive year for us,” Andrew says. “We’re taking on new challenges, pushing the boundaries, diversifying our offering, and delivering projects that set a new standard in the industry. I’m excited to see the hard work of our team come to life, and to continue contributing to the communities we serve.”

Inside the success story of ALAND, one of Sydney’s most prolific apartment developers

Over the past decade, <a href="/developers/princeton">Princeton Financial Services</a> has been working quietly behind the scenes as a very successful, fully integrated fund management, lending and development business.

But in recent years, with a trophy penthouse in <a href="https://eurangibondibeach.com.au/">Eurangi</a> Bondi Beach approaching completion, Princeton is establishing itself as a more recognised name in the new residential development market.

Established in 2012 by current directors George Gadallah and Craig Anderson, Princeton's journey began four years earlier, after the 2008 global financial crisis shook the world.

Gadallah, an executive at St George Bank at the time, had a lightbulb moment.

"The GFC eradicated the non-bank lending sector altogether," Gadallah recently told Urban.

"At the same time, capital was reduced by the banks, who now considered lending to the development sector as a risk, so they largely exited the sector. The big banks were focusing on buying regional banks, as Westpac did with St George, and the monopoly of the Big Four as we know it now started to form."

In 2012, Gadallah and Anderson launched a Commercial Real Estate Debt (CRED) fund, a segment with no competition. It was, in fact, one of the first CRED funds since the GFC.

"We took the learnings from what had come before and deployed them in a sustainable business model," Gadallah says.

Fast-forward eight years, and the market became crowded. Gadallah had worked through development cycles since the mid-1990s and identified an opportunity to pivot into residential development.

They acquired development sites across a wide range of Sydney metro suburbs, from Campbell Parade on the dress circle <a href="https://eurangibondibeach.com.au/">Bondi Beach</a> to a warehouse in Balmain that will be one of the last warehouse conversions in the Balmain village.

Gadallah says every development Princeton delivers will be of a standard that is well above its peers in its respective market.

"We're taking the same level of finish from our $20 million Bondi Beach penthouse to areas that haven't had that level of quality before," Gadallah said.

"We engage some of the country's best architects and interior designers, creating bespoke buildings in areas they've never really designed anything in before. This is the unique offering we want to take to different suburbs across Sydney."

While understanding the drivers in the property industry, Princeton has been an early adopter of Resilience Latent Defects Insurance. This new policy protects buyers from structural defects on new apartment buildings for up to 10 years.

"We are committed to providing certainty to our purchasers by utilising the best-in-class products that provide peace of mind and warranties for any defects," Gadallah says.

Princeton's current portfolio includes the luxury Eurangi in <a href="https://eurangibondibeach.com.au/">Bondi Beach</a>, The Llewellyn Series in Balmain, a unique collection of warehouse homes, <a href="/new-apartments/marque-rockdale-602-608-princes-highway-rockdale">Marque&nbsp;</a><a href="/developments/rockdale-nsw-2216">Rockdale</a>, 58 apartments with LDI, and Sydney Park Terraces, a recently completed set of only eight bespoke terraces in <a href="https://www.sydneyparkterraces.com.au/">St Peters</a>.

Princeton is also due to launch two other projects to market in the second half of this year.

On Princeton's geographic spread of new development, Gadallah says they won't be tied to developing in one location.

“We focus on developing unique assets in high demand, high amenity locations. If a site and our unique lending metrics fit that criteria, we’ll look at it.”

Princeton's decade-long evolution from commercial fund to luxury off the plan apartment developer

TOGA has been a synonymous name in Sydney’s new development industry since its founding in the early 1960s. As one of the city’s most notable builder-developers, the company has left its mark with landmark projects across the Eastern Suburbs and all the way to Macquarie Park. A key philosophy for <a href="/developers/toga-group">TOGA</a> is fostering a sense of community within its apartment developments.

"We focus on bringing residents together, creating more than just a place to live," says Tony Falas, TOGA's Executive General Manager – Sales &amp; Property Management. “As a developer, TOGA puts a major emphasis on convenience."

"We actively seek opportunities that not only allow us to benefit from surrounding amenities, but also to create new ones that serve both the wider community and our residents, providing them with ultimate doorstep convenience. Our aim is for buyers to proudly say, ‘We live above it’ when referring to the popular restaurants or cafes below."

A prime example of TOGA’s approach is its recently completed Surry Hills mixed-use precinct, <a href="/buildings/surry-hills-village-redfern-6-14-baptist-street-redfern-nsw-2016">Surry Hills Village</a> (SHV).

[smartcode_project:default project_id=9302 project_image_fid=306319]

The retail and dining precinct, Wunderlich Lane, on the ground level has already become one of the talk-of-the-town spots. TOGA handpicked the hospitality tenants for this destination at the corner of Crown Street, where Surry Hills meets Redfern. Among the standout venues are Regina La Pizzeria by the Lumi Dining Group, Island Radio by House Made Hospitality, and Olympus Dining—owned by the same team behind the renowned Apollo restaurants in Potts Point.

“We took a lot of inspiration from Boheme Bondi when planning SHV,” Falas says. “At Boheme, residents take the lift directly down to Harris Farm and Lulu. I’m sure those living at SHV are already enjoying the vibrant offerings at Wunderlich Lane—some of the best food and hospitality Sydney has to offer, right on their doorstep.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=9302 project_image_fid=306320]

There are only 122 apartments and townhouses in SHV, and most were snapped up quickly when the project first launched. Only a handful remain, with the penthouse recently selling for $7.375 million—one of the highest sales in the Surry Hills/Redfern area.

While SHV is a rare, once-in-a-decade opportunity—due to its unique size and location—TOGA’s placemaking efforts continue to be evident in its other developments across Sydney. The developer is currently working on The Kensington, located on Anzac Parade, where apartments sit above seven planned hospitality venues and retail stores, directly across from a light rail stop and within walking distance to the growing UNSW and Randwick health precinct.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110959 project_image_fid=307651]

“The site where The Kensington sits is more suited to a traditional shop-top housing development,” Falas says. “But with seven retail spaces, we’re giving back a lot of space, offering a diverse mix of amenities that residents will love.”

TOGA is selective in choosing retail tenants, often opting to lease spaces to hospitality operators rather than sell them.

"By retaining control of the retail offerings, we can ensure that our buyers have access to high-quality services,” says Falas. "We’re not interested in tacky convenience stores or laundromats; that doesn't elevate the living experience for our residents."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110959 project_image_fid=307654]

<a href="/new-apartments/the-kensington-147-151-anzac-parade-kensington">The Kensington</a>, being built by the iCIRT-rated DASCO, will feature 142 one, two, and three-bedroom apartments—particularly popular with those in the medical and academic fields due to its proximity to Randwick's health precinct and UNSW. Investors are also eyeing the apartments, knowing they’ll likely attract quality tenants from these sectors and see strong capital growth in a limited supply area.

Another development currently under construction is <a href="/new-apartments/macquarie-rise-122-herring-road-macquarie-park">Macquarie Rise</a> in <a href="/developments/macquarie-park-nsw-2113">Macquarie Park</a>, where TOGA has once again pushed boundaries with an activated ground plane that blends nature and landscaping with more doorstep amenities.

“We’re creating a Macquarie Rise Village—a village green at the base of three towers that will combine nature with increased convenience,” Falas explains. “There will be several retail spaces, handpicked by TOGA, as well as a softening of the streetscape on Herring Road with extensive lawns and alfresco spaces.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=89243 project_image_fid=242695]

With higher density compared to developments like SHV and The Kensington, Macquarie Rise is designed to offer an exclusive community experience. Club Rise will feature a heated pool set amid lush landscaping, a gym with a yoga room, a resident lounge with communal dining areas, a karaoke room, and a bookable private dining room.

TOGA’s community-building approach has expanded to <a href="/developments/marrickville-nsw-2204">Marrickville</a>, where they’ve recently completed <a href="/buildings/wicks-place-marrickville-186-victoria-road-marrickville-nsw-2204">Wicks Place</a>—a development of 272 apartments above a cafe-centric precinct and a new green park, both of which are key features of the inner west’s culture.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27691 project_image_fid=308947]

Only a few one and two-bedroom apartments remain in the building, which is located in the Victoria Road Precinct. This area was recently rezoned by the Inner West Council, and several developers are now planning large mixed-use projects that will continue to transform the once industrial zone into a more vibrant community, comparable to the neighbouring Newtown.

A prime example of TOGA’s philosophy of building communities is its recently completed Surry Hills mixed-use precinct, Surry Hills Village



TOGA's vision for building vibrant new community precincts across Sydney

When the development team at Scion was offered the opportunity to acquire an apartment project in Lane Cove North that was half-built, they had to be sure they knew what they were getting in for.

It was the first time the developer, which has its own building arm, was taking over a building that had already commenced construction.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136108 project_image_fid=303412]

Their minds were set at ease instantly when they were told the development had Latent Defects Insurance and had undergone the technical inspection service program by reputable industry experts since commencement. Sebastian Jabbour, Director of Operations at Scion, says it gave the team confidence to take on the project.

“Because we weren’t the developer who had brought on Latent Defects Insurance, we weren’t fully aware of all the benefits that came with LDI,” Jabbour says.

“It was remarkable how thorough the building inspections by the Technical Inspection Service were. It meant we had a third party ratifying the part of the build process we weren’t a part of - which was really the driver in us getting involved in the project.”

Scion is approaching completion of The Sterling, the first development in Lane Cove North with LDI. The 50 one, two and three-bedroom apartments which start from $750,000.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136108 project_image_fid=303417]

Jabbour says he was also surprised as to how much impact it had on buyers, a sentiment echoed by Mark Bernberg, Ray White Projects Western Sydney Managing Director.

“We’ve got purchases who are literally buying because of LDI,” Bernberg says.

Scion’s experience with Latent Defects Insurance has seen them take it out on their upcoming new development, Chatham West Ryde, which will also be the first new apartment project in West Ryde with LDI.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=136108]

Sebastian Jabbour says he was also surprised as to how much impact it had on buyers, a sentiment echoed by Mark Bernberg, Ray White Projects Western Sydney Managing Director.

Sterling success: How LDI boosted confidence for Scion and its buyers in Lane Cove North

When builder-developer GWH gets into the planning phase of its next apartment development, they always look for ways to elevate the lifestyle of their residents as much as possible.

<a href="/new-apartments/era-newcastle-124-126-bull-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">ERA Newcastle</a>, their latest tower, is no different.

They partnered with the renowned architecture firm <a href="/architects/fk-australia">FK Australia</a>, the team behind some of Australia's tallest and most impressive buildings, to offer residents more than just four walls, but a lifestyle that enhances everyday living.

They focused on the three R's: Rest, Relax, Rejuvenate.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=309978]

This commitment is clear with over 2,000 square metres of exclusive resident facilities at the new development in Newcastle West, which consists of two towers with a total of 281 apartments.

Shared amenities across the two towers include a central swimming pool atop the podium level, surrounded by lounge areas, barbecues, and alfresco dining, all set amid extensive landscaping.

Adjacent to the pool area, there will be a fully equipped gym with a dedicated fitness studio for classes and yoga, as well as a dry sauna.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=309976]

While the focus was on the "three R's," another key pillar in the lifestyle push was community.

Each tower features its own private rooftop terrace, designed to foster a sense of community and engagement among residents. These all-weather function areas include alfresco spaces, barbecue facilities, and private seating nooks. Each rooftop offers panoramic views across Newcastle’s harbour, coastline, and city skyline.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=309977]

<a href="/developers/gwh">GWH</a> has already begun construction on ERA Newcastle through its in-house construction arm, GWH Build, with completion expected in late 2027.

The mix of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments has already attracted interest from a variety of demographics, including first home buyers and investors drawn to the one-bedroom apartments, as well as local downsizers and rightsizers leaning towards the larger three-bedroom apartments.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135096]

While the focus was on the "three R's," another key pillar in the lifestyle push was entertainment

Rest, Relax, Rejuvenate: GWH's commitment to well-being at ERA Newcastle apartments

Aqualand has received the green light to progress its new living and lifestyle precinct at Central Barangaroo.

Approval of the Modification 9 Concept Proposal by the NSW Minister for Planning and Public Spaces clears the way for Aqualand to create a vibrant new destination at the heart of Barangaroo.

The five-hectare site will include residential, retail, hospitality and community uses, alongside a new metro entry and over two hectares of public open space and parkland, all complementing Barangaroo South and Barangaroo Reserve.

More than 50 new retail destinations will play an important role activating the precinct, with a mix of lifestyle, luxury, wellness, and food &amp; beverage venues, as well as a 270-metre long, eight-metre-wide boulevard running north-south connecting Hickson Park to Nawi Cove. Together with Harbour Park, more than 50 per cent of Central Barangaroo will be public open spaces and parkland.

<img alt="Aqualand Barangaroo" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="867c8f5b-1e1b-4c4c-b961-c5f37789ef8d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-02-17%20at%208.55.01%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=BXrBZSIqUMdDExh3WQKAFySDba3aOjR8" />

Central Barangaroo will inject a major boost to the NSW economy, generating $2.26 billion in economic activity during construction, and once completed, a further $134.1 million each year.&nbsp;It will create 12,360 jobs (direct and indirect FTE) during construction, and 581 direct jobs each year once completed. In addition, Aqualand will deliver one of the largest public benefit packages in NSW history, with over $220 million invested in cultural facilities, parkland, public domain, and a second Metro station entry.

“We know how important Barangaroo is to all of Sydney and we are honoured to partner with the NSW Government to deliver this critical and final piece of the city’s largest urban renewal project," Jin Lin, Aqualand Managing Director, said.

“We are committed to creating a world-class precinct that will complement the quality of Barangaroo South and Barangaroo Reserve and elevate the completed Barangaroo precinct to a new standard of excellence.”

Aqualand will now prepare and lodge detailed development applications for the buildings and public domain. Subject to planning approvals, construction is anticipated to commence in late 2025 with the first stage expected to be completed around 2030

Aqualand will now prepare and lodge detailed development applications for the buildings and public domain

Central Barangaroo development takes big step with concept proposal approval

When the opportunity arose to secure a parkside development site in Carlingford on the outskirts of Parramatta, developer Mark Bainey jumped at the chance.

Bainey, who runs&nbsp;<a href="/developers/capio-property-group">Capio Property Group</a>, had been looking around Carlingford for the best part of a decade but hadn't found the right site. That was until a 5,000 sqm block fronting both Moseley and Donald Streets on Harold West Reserve came up for sale.

“<a href="/developments/carlingford-nsw-2118">Carlingford</a> boasts a prime central location that provides exceptional amenities,” Bainey says.

“Residents can enjoy top-tier education, a diverse shopping experience, and seamless transport connections, all just steps away from their front door.”

Capio is now selling apartments in the new project, <a href="/new-apartments/blossom-carlingford-25-31-donald-street-carlingford-nsw-2118">Blossom</a>, the only new development in Carlingford backed by the 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy by Resilience Insurance, the most comprehensive insurance apartment buyers can ask for, and not have to pay for.

The policy covers buyers from any structural,&nbsp;waterproofing, or weatherproofing issues, as well as any problems with MEPS (mechanical, electrical or plumbing systems).

“LDI provides future residents with the confidence to purchase, knowing their investment is protected—not only by our rigorous construction standards, but by an industry-leading and well-recognised insurance policy,” Bainey says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=148093 project_image_fid=319996]

There are just 46 one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments in Blossom, designed exclusively for the owner-occupier by&nbsp;<a href="/architects/dko-architecture">DKO Architecture</a>.

The apartments have been crafted to maximise natural light, featuring north-facing orientations, open-plan living areas, and floor-to-ceiling glass doors that lead to private balconies.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=148093 project_image_fid=319997]

The apartments have been a popular choice with local families, with a 1,500 sqm private park as part of the development, as well as an onsite childcare on the ground level. Blossom will also feature a&nbsp;dedicated dog park with a wash station, and both indoor and outdoor gyms with wellness areas - all reflecting Capio’s vision of a liveable, community-focused environment.

"These features have been intentionally integrated to enhance the living experience for buyers who appreciate quality and convenience," Bainey says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=148093 project_image_fid=319988]

On top of the rare prospect of living on a park, residents will also be just 600 metres from the new&nbsp;Carlingford rail stop, on the newly constructed Parramatta light rail network.

Construction of Blossom is already underway, with completion expected by mid-2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=148093]

On top of the rare prospect of living on a park, residents will also be just 800 metres from the new Carlingford rail stop, on the newly constructed Parramatta light rail network.

Capio to bring family-friendly, parkside living to Carlingford

With interest rate cuts on the horizon, certain Sydney suburbs are poised for the strongest gains in property values.

Research by property data analytics firm, CoreLogic, shows that higher-priced markets, particularly those with a high concentration of investors, tend to be the most responsive to cash rate reductions.

<a href="/developments/chatswood-nsw-2067">Chatswood</a> and <a href="/developments/lane-cove-nsw-2066">Lane Cove</a> are projected to see a significant uplift of over 16 per cent if the RBA cuts the official cash rate by one percentage point (or four 25 basis point cuts).

The forecasted price growth bodes for those soon to settle at Sterling in <a href="/developments/lane-cove-north-nsw-2066">Lane Cove North</a> by builder-developer <a href="/developers/scion">Scion</a>.

Approaching completion, <a href="/new-apartments/sterling-lane-cove-north-2-merinda-street-lane-cove-north-nsw-2066">Sterling</a> comprises just 50 one, two and three-bedroom apartments set amid nature but within close proximity to key commercial retail hubs like Chatswood and&nbsp;<a href="/developments/macquarie-park-nsw-2113">Macquarie Park</a>.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136108 project_image_fid=303417]

In Chatswood, another suburb that is benefitting from the extended Sydney Metro, Melbourne-based developer Goldfields is into construction at <a href="/new-apartments/the-bryson-of-chatswood-871-877-pacific-highway-chatswood">The Bryson</a>, one of the first developments approved under the new&nbsp;Chatswood&nbsp;CBD Planning and Urban Design Strategy.

The 70 one, two and three-bedroom apartments spread across a 26-level Make Architects-designed building just 550 metres from the Chatswood Metro Station.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=21170 project_image_fid=210274]

The Eastern Suburbs, one of Sydney’s most prestigious residential areas, is expected to see strong growth of nearly 13 per cent if rates drop by one per cent.

Builder-developer <a href="/developers/toga-group">TOGA</a> is well placed in Sydney's east with their recently completed <a href="/buildings/surry-hills-village-redfern-6-14-baptist-street-redfern-nsw-2016">Surry Hills Village</a>, their landmark mixed-use development they recently completed.

There are just a handful of apartments and townhouses left in the building at the end of Crown Street. Surry Hills Village also is home to Wunderlich Lane, the newest go-to hospitality precinct in Sydney.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=9302 project_image_fid=306333]

Just up Cleveland Street on Anzac Parade, TOGA is developing <a href="/new-apartments/the-kensington-147-151-anzac-parade-kensington">The Kensington</a>, strategically located not only opposite a light rail stop giving future residents easy access into the city, but a short walk to the burgeoninig Randwick health precinct, as well as the main campus for UNSW.

TOGA says The Kensington, 142 one, two and three-bedroom apartments above a retail strip, is one of the <a href="/news/nsw/among-the-most-well-connected-apartment-developments-toga-has-produced-inside-the-kensington">most connected developments they've ever produced</a>.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110959 project_image_fid=307651]

Beyond Sydney’s premium inner suburbs, areas outside of Sydney are also expected to boom from rate cuts.

CoreLogic says units in&nbsp;<a href="/developments/dural-nsw-2158">Dural</a>&nbsp;to <a href="/developments/wisemans-ferry-nsw-2775">Wisemans Ferry</a>&nbsp;will be the best performing, with increases of up to 18 per cent, while&nbsp;<a href="/developments/campbelltown-nsw-2560">Campbelltown</a>&nbsp;units could rise by 16 per cent.

"Certain markets will see a bigger boost from rate reductions than others, and it may be because of market characteristics like price point, location and investor interest," CoreLogic's Head of Research, Eliza Owen, says.

"CoreLogic estimates based on previous periods of rate reductions that national dwelling values would increase an average of 6.1 per cent for each one percentage point decline in the cash rate.

"Relatively expensive markets have historically shown stronger responses to reduced cash rate settings. A reduction in the cash rate could spur a recovery trend in the high end of the Sydney and Melbourne housing market, which tend to be the bellwether for broader market recoveries in those cities."

A reduction in the cash rate could spur a recovery trend in the high end of the Sydney and Melbourne housing market, which tend to be the bellwether for broader market recoveries in those cities

The Sydney suburbs that will see the biggest uplift in apartment values after interest rate cuts

Bondi Beach's famous Hall Street is set to see its transformation continue, with more plans for new shoptop housing.

The latest proposal is for a redevelopment of 27 Hall Street, currently a Vodafone and a mobile phone repair shop beneath six original apartments.

The plans for the 593 sqm site, which was bought for $23 million in 2021 by&nbsp;Hong Kong-based OCP Asia partner Dan Simmons and his wife Mandy, is for a five-level building with 17 apartments, including affordable housing, above two retail spaces.

Brian Meyerson's MHN Design Union, which is behind several new development designs in <a href="/developments/bondi-beach-nsw-2026">Bondi Beach</a>, handled the plans for the latest project.

<img alt="Hall sTreet" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2b3daa29-9831-46a1-b8e5-b100a17893d5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-02-10%20at%2012.28.22%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=6AhtzVwrLCw014d4OnO37WvQp2O6eXYu" /> 
The plans by MHN Design Union

The Urban Context Rpeort, prepared by&nbsp;AE Design Partnership, referenced Waverley Council's 'Our Liveable Places' strategy, which says&nbsp;“The desired future character of Hall Street is to be an iconic destination for locals and international travellers that is lively, green and sustainable. A centre that has a community feel and is creative and diverse”.

In a move not common with new development applications, a focus has been on smaller units. Two studios have been proposed, as well as 11 one-bedroom apartments and four two-bed units, two of which will have their own private rooftop terraces.

<img alt="Hall Street" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2bc4a2d2-b296-4721-91ad-4013cf600301" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-02-10%20at%2012.32.18%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=79C.zeT7Wff7K75ccrB0qLQ1azoxF4M8" /> 
The current building at 27 Hall Street

There are currently six developments on Hall Street which are either with the local council or approved, the submission noted.

The proposal comes at a time when three major projects for the area are coming to a close.

Buyers are settling at Aqualine where Koichi Takada-designed pentouse sell for around $22 million, a <a href="/news/nsw/aya-penthouse-bondi-beachs-largest-single-level-apartment-sells-for-around-22-million">record for a non-beachfront facing apartment</a>.

Rebel Property Group's Hall &amp; Campbell, too a record setter with the $23 million sale of its penthouse for a <a href="/news/nsw/hall-campbell-sets-new-apartment-record-in-bondi-beach">record $105,000 per sqm</a>, will finish soon, as will Princeton's Eurangi Bondi Beach which is near Hall Street on Campbell Parade.

There are currently six developments on Hall Street which are either with the local council or approved.

First look: Hall St, Bondi Beach transformation to continue with new shoptop housing pitched

The softening of Sydney's housing market looks to be short-lived, with hopes of an interest rate cut or two in the near term fuelling a slowdown of the slowdown.

October marked the first time in 21 months that the <a href="/developments/sydney-nsw">Sydney housing market</a> went backwards. Sydney's last decline saw the market contract -12.4 per cent between February 2022 and January 2023.

That doesn't look on the cards this time however, with some positive signs coming at the start of 2025.

In January, house values declined -0.4 per cent and units -0.2 per cent, according to CoreLogic's Home Value Index, better than they both fared in December.

If next month prints even better, it will look like both the house and unit market might give up just two or three per cent of the gains they saw for 21 months until October 2024.

<h2>What happened in Sydney’s off the plan apartment market in January?</h2>

The property market is generally quite quiet in Sydney until after Australia Day when kids return to school and prospective buyers restart their search after the summer break.

There was nothing quiet about the development applications pushed to various councils across Sydney's inner city in January however - with several developers getting back to the desks early and putting their proposals on the desks of local councils.

The biggest plans were revealed in the CBD where&nbsp;<a href="/developers/billbergia">Billbergia Group</a>&nbsp;and Metrics Credit Partners are teaming up for two 80-level towers that will home around&nbsp;600 apartments, a high-end hotel, retail spaces, and an upgraded public domain.&nbsp;

The duo acquired a&nbsp;6,000 sqm site spanning Castlereagh, Pitt, and Liverpool Streets and intends on starting demolition on the site, subject to approvals, next year.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/nsw/billbergia-metrics-propose-two-80-level-towers-in-sydneys-cbd">Billbergia &amp; Metrics propose two 80-level towers in Sydney's CBD</a>

<img alt="Billbergia &amp; Metrics propose two 80-level towers in Sydney's CBD" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_auto/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/fjcstudio%20-%20338%20-%20V2-%20Final.jpg?VersionId=KNbLILH27WtrgtvvaMZzpRfUHeQ6NnK2" />

&nbsp;

In harbourside <a href="/developments/double-bay-nsw-2028">Double Bay</a>, furniture king Anthony Scali is plotting a redevelopment of the Savoy Hotel on Knox Street.

Scali has submitted plans for a five-level, mixed-use building at 35-45 Knox Street, comprising nine luxury apartments above three ground-floor retail spaces.<img alt="Double Bay makeover to continue as Scali furniture boss plots new luxe apartments" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_auto/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Plan%20-%20Photomontage%20-%20DA2024%20546%201%20-%2039-41%20Knox%20Street%20DOUBLE%20BAY%20%281%29.JPG?VersionId=JAz.LKybCrHzHwoivGoVjyBML029QMfL" />

Designed by <a href="/architects/mhn-design-union">MHN Design Union</a>, the $31 million development aims to integrate with the suburb’s established character while catering to a diverse demographic, including families, downsizers, and retirees.&nbsp;

The proposal is part of a broader wave of redevelopment in Double Bay, which includes the $1 billion transformation of the InterContinental Double Bay precinct and other shop-top housing projects in the area.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/nsw/double-bay-makeover-to-continue-as-scali-furniture-boss-plots-new-luxe-apartments">Double Bay makeover to continue as Scali furniture boss plots new luxe apartments</a>

Mixed-use projects proved popular in January. <a href="/developers/fabcot">Fabcot</a>, the development arm of supermarket giant Woolworths, finally submitted its long-awaited plans for its&nbsp;<a href="/developments/waterloo-nsw-2017">Waterloo</a>&nbsp;shoptop development.

&nbsp;

The $165 million project designed by <a href="/architects/bates-smart">Bates Smart</a>&nbsp;will include two residential buildings with 110 apartments, a five-level commercial building, and a full-line Woolworths supermarket with specialty retail.&nbsp;

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/nsw/woolworths-unveils-long-awaited-waterloo-precinct-with-shop-top-housing">Woolworths unveils long-awaited Waterloo precinct with shop-top housing</a>

<img alt="Woolworths unveils long-awaited Waterloo precinct with shop-top housing" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_auto/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/923%20-%20935%20Bourke%20Street%2C%20Waterloo.png?VersionId=2jKvJSrvW5xy_JvUr6rj_QO8pY_OvujU" />

Waterloo is undergoing a major transformation. Adjacent to the site is DASCO's six-building <a href="/new-apartments/danks-st-district-903-921-bourke-street-waterloo-nsw-2017">Danks Street District</a> which was recently launched to the market.

And the growth in Waterloo is set to continue with joint venture partners&nbsp;<a href="/developers/mirvac" target="">Mirvac</a> and John Holland changing up their plans for Waterloo Metro Quarter, scrapping offices in favour of co-living and apartment towers.

The $960 million submission will deliver 655 apartments in total, as well as retail spaces and community facilities above the recently opened metro station.

<img alt="First Look: Mirvac, John Holland, submit $960m Waterloo Metro Quarter plans" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_auto/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/MIR_WAT_VIEW_12_FINAL_V2.jpg?VersionId=X5IF2ucStjwn0HHuziLE5sXwgS0eC1EV" />

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The original Concept SSDA, approved in 2019, envisioned a mixed-use development but was later amended in 2021 to primarily focus on office space.

However, the developers cite significant shifts in market demand following the COVID-19 pandemic, including a decline in demand for city fringe office space and an escalating need for residential housing in the Waterloo-Zetland area.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/nsw/first-look-mirvac-john-holland-submit-960m-waterloo-metro-quarter-plans">First Look: Mirvac, John Holland, submit $960m Waterloo Metro Quarter plans</a>

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If next month prints even better, it will look like both the house and unit market might give up just two or three per cent of the gains they saw for 21 months until October 2024

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