Willoughby Grounds introduces a new vision for residential excellence in Sydney's Lower North Shore. This development offers a diverse range of designer residences, including 1, 2, 3, and 4 bedroom configurations. Surrounded by lush green spaces, Willoughby Grounds promises a modern sanctuary that seamlessly blends with the local environment, providing a peaceful retreat from the bustling city life.

<h3>A symphony of design and nature</h3>

The masterplan of Willoughby Grounds, crafted by the renowned Architecture Urbaneia, reflects a deep respect for Willoughby's natural neighbourhood. The development is composed of five distinct buildings, each with its unique design style that harmonises with the surrounding greenery and sunlight. The architecture employs a mix of face brickwork, metal cladding, and concrete, creating a rustic yet contemporary aesthetic that enhances the connection to the local landscape.

<h3>Where heritage meets contemporary luxury</h3>

Inside Willoughby Grounds, the interiors draw inspiration from Willoughby's rich industrial heritage, including logging, tanning, brickworking, blacksmithing, and pottery. This historical nod is balanced with modern luxuries such as stonework, European Oak floors, and textured carpeting. Kitchens are equipped with Miele appliances, brushed nickel tapware, and island benches, designed for both functionality and social interaction. Bathrooms feature large format porcelain tiles, timber look vanities, and carefully considered lighting, creating a tranquil space for relaxation.

<h3>Oases of green: The landscaped community canvas</h3>

The landscaping at Willoughby Grounds, envisioned by John Lock &amp; Associates, is designed to foster community interaction and connectivity to the natural world. The development boasts generous green spaces, corridors of native vegetation, and shared areas for residents to enjoy, reflecting a commitment to creating a living environment that is alive with possibilities.

<h3>The best of Willoughby at your doorstep</h3>

Residents of Willoughby Grounds benefit from the development's prime location, offering easy access to a variety of local amenities. The area is home to beloved cafés, pubs, vibrant retail shops, and fresh produce markets. Educational institutions, public transport options, and recreational facilities are all within easy reach, ensuring a lifestyle of convenience and quality.

<h3>The team behind Willoughby Grounds</h3>

The development is a collaborative effort by a team of industry leaders. First Quadrant Properties, known for their commitment to creating meaningful places, is the developer behind this project. The architecture is led by Architecture Urbaneia, with interiors by DKO, bringing a focus on craftsmanship and quality. Landscape architecture is provided by John Lock &amp; Associates, and construction is managed by DASCO, a builder with a reputation for excellence and&nbsp;recently awarded 4.5 Star iCIRT rated by the NSW Building Commissioner.

 
Willoughby Grounds is more than just a place to live; it's a community designed with care and attention to detail, offering a unique blend of history, modernity, and nature. Enquire today via Urban and discover the serene and connected lifestyle that awaits at Willoughby Grounds.

Willoughby Grounds introduces a new vision for residential excellence in Sydney's Lower North Shore. This development offers a diverse range of designer residences, including 1, 2, 3, and 4 bedroom configurations. Surrounded by lush green spaces, Willoughby Grounds promises a modern sanctuary that seamlessly blends with the local environment, providing a peaceful retreat from the bustling city life.

<h3>A symphony of design and nature</h3>

The masterplan of Willoughby Grounds, crafted by the renowned Architecture Urbaneia, reflects a deep respect for Willoughby's natural neighbourhood. The development is composed of five distinct buildings, each with its unique design style that harmonises with the surrounding greenery and sunlight. The architecture employs a mix of face brickwork, metal cladding, and concrete, creating a rustic yet contemporary aesthetic that enhances the connection to the local landscape.

<h3>Where heritage meets contemporary luxury</h3>

Inside Willoughby Grounds, the interiors draw inspiration from Willoughby's rich industrial heritage, including logging, tanning, brickworking, blacksmithing, and pottery. This historical nod is balanced with modern luxuries such as stonework, European Oak floors, and textured carpeting. Kitchens are equipped with Miele appliances, brushed nickel tapware, and island benches, designed for both functionality and social interaction. Bathrooms feature large format porcelain tiles, timber look vanities, and carefully considered lighting, creating a tranquil space for relaxation.

<h3>Oases of green: The landscaped community canvas</h3>

The landscaping at Willoughby Grounds, envisioned by John Lock &amp; Associates, is designed to foster community interaction and connectivity to the natural world. The development boasts generous green spaces, corridors of native vegetation, and shared areas for residents to enjoy, reflecting a commitment to creating a living environment that is alive with possibilities.

<h3>The best of Willoughby at your doorstep</h3>

Residents of Willoughby Grounds benefit from the development's prime location, offering easy access to a variety of local amenities. The area is home to beloved cafés, pubs, vibrant retail shops, and fresh produce markets. Educational institutions, public transport options, and recreational facilities are all within easy reach, ensuring a lifestyle of convenience and quality.

<h3>The team behind Willoughby Grounds</h3>

The development is a collaborative effort by a team of industry leaders. First Quadrant Properties, known for their commitment to creating meaningful places, is the developer behind this project. The architecture is led by Architecture Urbaneia, with interiors by DKO, bringing a focus on craftsmanship and quality. Landscape architecture is provided by John Lock &amp; Associates, and construction is managed by DASCO, a builder with a reputation for excellence and recently awarded 4.5 Star iCIRT rated by the NSW Building Commissioner.

 
Willoughby Grounds is more than just a place to live; it's a community designed with care and attention to detail, offering a unique blend of history, modernity, and nature. Enquire today via Urban and discover the serene and connected lifestyle that awaits at Willoughby Grounds.

A modern sanctuary in a lush Lower North Shore setting

1, 2, 3, and 4-bedroom luxurious residences with spacious, open-plan layouts

Premium grade Miele or Gaggenau appliances

Expansive district views and garden apartments

Communal rooftop garden

Well-connected neighbourhood within minutes of local amenities and the Sydney CBD

A modern sanctuary within the lush Lower North Shore

Willoughby Grounds is spread across five boutique buildings and surrounded by superbly designed gardens of native vegetation creating a peaceful setting.

The communal rooftop garden is also an architectural delight of sculpted stone furniture and blooming foliage in oversized planters. Expansive district vistas add a breathtaking touch to an already outstanding residential development.

A well-connected neighbourhood within minutes of local amenities and parklands, Willoughby Grounds invites you to enjoy all the modern conveniences – from easy transport options and quick CBD access to a variety of exclusive retail, gourmet food, and dining opportunities.

Willoughby Grounds is currently under construction by DASCO, recently awarded 4.5 Star iCIRT rated by the NSW Building Commissioner.

The Willoughby Grounds Display Suite is available for private inspection at 60 Frenchs Road, Willoughby.

Willoughby Grounds - 5 Walter Street, Willoughby

It was a case of research reward rather than risk reward for Mark Fitzsimmons and his fiance Sophie, who recently secured an off the plan apartment in the new Willoughby development, Willoughby Grounds.

The couple had initially been looking for a house toward the upper end of the Northern Beaches. That search however quickly ended when they discovered<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/willoughby-grounds-5-walter-street-willoughby"> Willoughby Grounds</a>.

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While Mark and Sophie currently reside in the eastern suburbs and work in the CBD, Mark says the couple grew up in Wollongong and enjoy being close to the water, so they were looking for something near the water but also close enough to their workplace that would provide a short commute.

"For us, <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/willoughby-nsw-2068">Willoughby</a> struck the right balance between offering us a short commute to work each day and a gateway to the northern beaches on the weekend. There is a bus stop across the road that allows us to get to the city in 10 minutes and we can be at the beach in 20 minutes on the weekend."

There wasn't any hesitancy from the couple after they went to the onsite display suite.

"Provided you do your research, we believe there's no reason why a buyer shouldn't look at the off the plan market," Mark suggested, adding that the couple had bought off the plan previously in Canberra.

"The local developer has worked on several residential buildings in Mosman and Manly and has a solid reputation. With a reputation, a funder locked in, and the building under construction, we were more than confident to buy off the plan."

The development team behind Willoughby Grounds are<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/first-quadrant-properties"> First Quadrant Properties</a>, led by property development veteran Chris Rose, and funding partner Qualitas.

"We were able to meet with the developer and were familiar with their work in the area. This combined with the knowledge that the builder was iCIRT rated provided us with confidence in the build"" Mark added.

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Willoughby Grounds, almost presenting as mini-masterplanned community, comprises five lowrise buildings, each paying homage to<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/willoughby-nsw-2068"> Willoughby</a>'s industrial history.&nbsp;

The development will have around 160 apartments spread across the five buildings, with just 22 to 35 units in each.&nbsp;

Construction of Willoughby Grounds is being undertaken by the iCIRT rated builder<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/builders/dasco-australia"> DASCO</a>.

Mark and Sophie took part in Urban's Buyer Q&amp;A series which focuses on the driving factors behind buying off the plan property in Australia.

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"Provided you do your research, we believe there's no reason why a buyer shouldn't look at the off the plan market," Mark suggested.

Joel Robinson

"Research removes risk" as buyers descend on Willoughby Grounds: Urban Buyer Q&A

New apartment owners are increasingly seeking developments that connect to nature due to a growing awareness of the benefits of green living.

As urbanization accelerates, the need for natural spaces within residential areas becomes more pronounced.

Proximity to nature is known to enhance well-being by reducing stress, improving mental health, and fostering physical activity. Natural elements in residential developments, such as parks, green roofs, and landscaped gardens, create a serene environment that contrasts sharply with the often hectic pace of city life.

Part of the trend toward nature in new apartment developments is a rising desire for&nbsp;sustainable living, driven by environmental concerns. Developments that integrate nature often employ eco-friendly practices, such as energy-efficient designs and sustainable materials, appealing to environmentally conscious buyers. These spaces not only offer a healthier lifestyle but also contribute to lower carbon footprints.

Natural surroundings can also enhance the aesthetic appeal and overall value of a property. Buyers are increasingly looking for homes that provide a harmonious balance between modern conveniences and natural beauty, reflecting a broader shift towards lifestyles that prioritize well-being and environmental stewardship. This trend underscores a collective recognition of the importance of integrating nature into everyday living spaces.

In a city where land is at a premium, it's difficult for developers in Sydney to put together a large enough development site to incorporate a significant amount of nature.

We've wrapped up the most nature-fuelled new apartment developments on the market in Sydney right now.

<h2>Project: The Newlands, St Leonards</h2>

<h3>Location: 21-41 Canberra Avenue, St Leonards NSW 2065</h3>

<h3>Developer: Top Spring Australia</h3>

Following its initial launch to the market in late 2022, Sydney developer <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/top-spring-australia">Top Spring Australia</a>'s parkside masterplan,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/the-newlands-st-leonards-21-41-canberra-avenue-st-leonards">The Newlands</a>, has been one of the most sought-after developments in the St Leonards South precinct.

Designed by <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/architects/bates-smart">Bates Smart</a> and landscaped by <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/landscape-architect/arcadia-landscape-architecture">Arcadia Landscape Architecture</a>, The Newlands emphasises a pedestrian-oriented precinct with a focus on the natural landscape of Newlands Park.

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Quietly set off Canberra Avenue, just minutes from the <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/st-leonards-nsw-2065">St Leonards</a> activity centre and the train station but with the peace and privacy that living opposite a park brings.

“The Newlands is a breath of fresh air for purchasers looking for lower density, leafy spaces, and a more suburban neighbourhood," Colliers Project Director, Daniel McMahon, said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=24509 project_image_fid=234815]

The Newlands will be home to 319 apartments across five low and mid-rise buildings. 90 per cent of apartments and terrace homes at The Newlands will have green landscape views and some offer absolute park frontage to the soon-to-be expanded Newlands Park, and all the buildings are connected by a 5,700 sqm communal green spine with boardwalks.

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Bordered by parkland on three sides, the community provides unrivalled resident facilities including rooftop dining and entertaining spaces, pool, gym, communal electric vehicles and e-bikes for hire, refrigerated parcel lockers for grocery deliveries, and a digital concierge to connect services such as cleaners, personal trainers, and dog walkers.

The Newlands is under construction with 4.5-star iCIRT-rated builder <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/builders/dasco-australia">DASCO</a>, and the first stage is due for completion in late 2025.

<h2>Project: The Orchards | Veue Parkside</h2>

<h3>Location: 15-19 Spurway Drive, Norwest NSW 2153</h3>

<h3>Developer: Sekisui House Australia</h3>

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/sekisui-house-australia">Sekisui House</a> Australia has committed to nature in its $1 billion Norwest masterplan, The Orchards.

Veue, stage four of the $1 billion masterplanned community, comprises 583 apartments, nearly half of the total apartments that will make up the 8.1-hectare The Orchards.

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Sekisui's most recent stage, <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/the-orchards-veue-parkside-15-19-spurway-drive-norwest">Veue Parkside</a>, is the most nature-focussed release to date.

Designed by <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/architects/crone-architects">Crone Architects</a>, every element of the parkside homes - from the architectural vision to the selection of material - has been carefully curated to reflect and celebrate the ever-changing beauty of nature.

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<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/sekisui-house-australia">Sekisui House Australia</a>&nbsp;sales manager David Lee says Veue Parkside’s direct connection to nature via a vertical green building spine supported by splendid northerly views overlooking&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/castle-hill-nsw" target="">Castle Hill</a>&nbsp;Country Club and panoramic aspects across to the Blue Mountains from the west will capture the interest of perceptive buyers.

On its launch, <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/news/nsw/sekisui-house-australia-secure-over-85-million-in-apartment-sales-at-veue-parkside-the-orchards-community-in-norwest">over half of the apartments</a> in Veue Parkside sold.&nbsp;Over 60 per cent of sales were secured by&nbsp;Hills Shire residents and the remainder from across Sydney including Vaucluse, Bondi Junction and Maroubra

<h2>Project: Willoughby Grounds</h2>

<h3>Location: 5 Walter Street, Willoughby NSW 2068</h3>

<h3>Developer: First Quadrant Properties</h3>

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/willoughby-grounds-5-walter-street-willoughby">Willoughby Grounds</a> puts you in the heart of everything great about the warm, green suburb of <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/willoughby-nsw-2068">Willoughby</a>.

The development sits in one of the most beautiful pockets of Sydney – a diverse natural landscape of native bushland, the Lane Cove River and the Middle Harbour estuary.

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“Willoughby Grounds is really the best of both worlds – it’s that feeling of being part of a secluded, tucked-away private sanctuary with easy access to the wider amenities of Sydney," Adam Reeves of <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/first-quadrant-properties">First Quadrant Properties</a> said.

There will be around 160 apartments spread across the five buildings in Willoughby Grounds, with around 30 to 35 units in each building.

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The design brief was to allow the multi-layered architecture and flourishing natural landscape to work in unison to create a sense of serenity and connection to the place.

The communal rooftop, overlooking district views, also reflects its rich natural surroundings, with a garden featuring sculpted stone furniture and blooming plants in large planters.

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First Quadrant has the iCIRT-rated builder DASCO currently constructing the project. The first apartments will be ready later this year, and the rest by mid-2025.&nbsp;

In a city where land is at a premium, it's difficult for developers in Sydney to put together a large enough development site to incorporate a significant amount of nature

mikah.m@urban.com.au

Sydney's most nature-fuelled new apartment developments

The first stage of Willoughby Grounds, the new Willoughby apartment development by&nbsp;First Quadrant Properties&nbsp;and&nbsp;Qualitas, is fast approaching sellout.

All of the one and two-bedroom apartments have been snapped up in the first building, Fleming, which was designed to pay homage to the tanneries from the 1800s.

All five of the buildings in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/willoughby-grounds-1a-27-walter-street-willoughby">Willoughby Grounds</a>&nbsp;have been designed to reflect Willoughby's industrial past. Future stages will have buildings that recognise&nbsp;pottery, blacksmiths, logging and brickworks.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135512 project_image_fid=251214]

There's only one three-bedroom apartment left, and a handful of four-bedroom apartments which have proven incredibly popular, so much so the developer amalgamated a number of smaller apartments to create more four-bedroom units.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/news/nsw/buyers-look-for-size-on-sydneys-lower-north-shore-as-large-apartments-snapped-up-at-willoughby-grounds">Buyers look for size on Sydney's Lower North Shore as large apartments snapped up at Willoughby Grounds</a>

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/project-marketer/link-project-marketing-0">LINK</a> Project Marketing Director, Ben Hamblett, said four-bedroom apartments don't exist in Willoughby, which is drawing buyers who can't hit the threshold of a house purchase.

&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

Willoughby Grounds will have just 164 apartments&nbsp;spread across the five buildings, with just 30 to 35 units in each. Fleming was the smallest stage, with sub-30 units following the amalgamations.

Construction of Willoughby Grounds is being undertaken by the iCIRT-rated builder <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/builders/dasco-australia">DASCO</a>, with the first apartments scheduled for completion later this year and the following stages expected to be ready by mid-2025.

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Willoughby Grounds will have just 164 apartments spread across the five buildings, with just 30 to 35 units in each


Willoughby Grounds approaches stage one sellout

The Sydney unit market continued to outperform house market growth in 2024, property data analytics firm CoreLogic found.

CoreLogic’s Monthly Hedonic Index showed the median value of units, which incorporates both townhouses and apartments, rose by 0.4 per cent in March to be one per cent up over 2024. Comparatively, house values rose 0.3 per cent in March to be 0.9 per cent up so far this year.&nbsp;

Sydney's median unit value is now at $839,000, compared to the median house value of $1,414,000.

March marked the 14th straight month of the house market upswing.&nbsp;Since declining -7.5 per cent between April 2022 and January 2023, the national home value index has increased 10.2 per cent, or, in dollar terms, by around $71,832, rising to new record highs each month since November last year.

<h2>What happened in Sydney's off the plan apartment market in March?</h2>

Sydney's off the plan apartment market could see an increased demand in 2024 as Sydneysiders grapple with the cost of living in the most expensive capital in the country, Charter Keck Cramer forecast.

The property advisory giant's Metro Sydney State of the Market H2 2023 said there is considered an enhanced opportunity for apartment projects to receive increased demand in the Harbour capital, given that buy-to-sell apartments represent the most affordable dwelling typology. They note however there needs to be an expectation recalibration due to budget constraints.

CKC believes the “cascade" effect will continue to play out in 2024. "The “cascade” effect can be described as the trade-off/s made by occupiers in terms of the type of housing, number of bedrooms, location, type of tenure and number of people per household," the report read, adding that the trade-offs are primarily driven by buy or rent price points and availability of stock."

However, while the "cascade" effect may influence some buyers to prioritise affordability, there is still a significant market segment interested in apartments at the higher end of the market. Revelling in the demand is Aqualand's <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/aura-by-aqualand-north-sydney-168-walker-street-north-sydney">AURA by Aqualand</a> and First Quadrant Properties recently launched Willoughby Grounds.

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/aqualand-australia">Aqualand</a> recorded over $100 million in sales in February at the North Sydney apartment development, set to be completed later this year. It was their biggest sales month to date, not including the month the project was launched in.

&nbsp;

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Aqualand’s Head of Sales and Marketing, Alex Adams, said the figure represented the biggest jump in sales activity on any project he’d experienced.

“We’ve found potential buyers who had previously enquired, but weren’t quite ready to commit, have recently returned to the market. Those waiting to transact closer to the building’s completion have now seen its construction progress and have made the decision to buy,” Adams said.

Families continue to be the lead clientele, while the stabilising interest rates, and the ability to now see the product at the new display apartments, are also attracting more investors, who are showing more interest in their searches.&nbsp;

Recently, downsizers have also come back, with more four-bedroom sales at around $7 million.

“With the housing market stabilising, and even increasing, they now have confidence in selling their home. Also, with the interest rates steadying they can list their homes until they get the price they want."

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/news/nsw/aura-by-aqualand-secures-record-100-million-in-sales-in-february">AURA by Aqualand secures record $100 million in sales in February</a>

It's been a similar story at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/willoughby-grounds-1a-27-walter-street-willoughby">Willoughby Grounds</a> on the Lower North Shore, where buyers have snapped up the largest apartments of all, which saw apartments amalgamated in the plans to create more of the larger scale homes.

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<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/project-marketer/link-project-marketing-0">LINK Project Marketing</a> Director Ben Hamblett says they've created something that fits a major gap in the market.

"Four-bedroom apartments don't exist in Willoughby, even in some of the other new developments. However there is a strong underlying demand for them," Hamblett says, adding that the only opportunity to buy four bedrooms is in the housing market, and that can cost upwards of $4 million.

Indeed since the launch of the project, which will be delivered in five stages housing a total of 160 apartments, reflective of the number of buildings there are in the mini-masterplan, over 20 per cent of the enquiry on Urban have been on the four-bedroom configurations, with a further 20 per cent on the large, 200 sqm three-bed apartments on offer.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/news/nsw/buyers-look-for-size-on-sydneys-lower-north-shore-as-large-apartments-snapped-up-at-willoughby-grounds">Buyers look for size on Sydney's Lower North Shore as large apartments snapped up at Willoughby Grounds</a>

&nbsp;

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There's also been great success at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/podia">Podia</a>'s new luxury&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/neutral-bay-nsw">Neutral Bay</a> apartment development, <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/wirra-neutral-bay-96-ben-boyd-road-neutral-bay">Wirra</a>, where the penthouse sold for $13 million.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The size of the apartment, at 200 sqm, and the location of Wirra, on Ben Boyd Road next to Neutral Bay Village, were the two contributing factors for the local downsizing couple. The apartment has three bedrooms, four bathrooms, and parking for three cars.&nbsp;

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/news/nsw/13-million-wirra-penthouse-sets-neutral-bay-off-the-plan-apartment-record">$13 million Wirra penthouse sets Neutral Bay off the plan apartment record</a>

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Luxury apartment developer <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/central-element">Central Element</a>&nbsp;filed plans for their $50 million Bondi Beach site in March. They're planning seven luxury residences on the amalgamated 2,050 sqm site fronting Sandridge and Wilga streets.

At the top of the site fronting Sandridge Street, there will be two duplex-style homes above a turntable parking system which will offer each residence two parking spaces.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-exclusive-central-elements-ultra-luxe-bondi-beach-plans-revealed">First look exclusive: Central Element's ultra-luxe Bondi Beach plans revealed</a>

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Sydney builder developer <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/coronation-property">Coronation Property Group</a> has also kicked off construction on the second stage of their Ashbury Terraces residential project in Sydney's inner west.&nbsp;

Ashbury Terraces, designed by acclaimed architects <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, will be a combination of 127 apartments and townhouses on a sprawling 16,500 sqm site on Milton Street in <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/ashbury-nsw">Ashbury</a>, complemented by a range of communal amenities, green spaces and landscaping by Daniel Baffsky of 360 Degrees.

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Prominent Lower North Shore apartment developer <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/abadeen-group">Abadeen Group</a>&nbsp;appointed iCIRT-rated <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/decode-group">Decode Group</a> as the builder for two of their upcoming residential developments in March.

They'll be building&nbsp;<a>The Villas</a> in Neutral Bay and <a>Northcote Collective</a> in Naremburn.

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/the-villas-7-11-premier-street-neutral-bay">The Villas</a>, located on Premier Street near Forsyth Park, is a five-level residential development comprising 18 spacious two and three-bedroom apartments, while&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/northcote-collective-2-6-northcote-street-naremburn">Northcote Collective</a> will bring the first new residential project in <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/naremburn-nsw">Naremburn</a> for several years, offering 58 Rothelowman-designed apartments across a seven-storey and four-storey residential building.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112613 project_image_fid=231687]

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/thirdi-group">Third.i Group</a> has also appointed iCIRT-rated builder <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/builders/dilcara">Dilcara</a> as the builder for its boutique <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/potts-point-nsw">Potts Point</a> apartment development, <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/muse-potts-point-30a-34-brougham-street-potts-point">Muse</a>.

Charter Keck Cramer believe that, with expected rate cuts, or at least rate retention, coupled with the introduction of Federal Government Stage 3 tax cuts, the outlook for the residential property market is expected to be more favourable by mid-2024.

What happened in Sydney's off the plan apartment market in March 

City Beat April 2024: Sydney unit growth continues to outstrip houses in 2024

Sydney's affluent Lower North Shore is generally a region which is starved of apartment stock for the majority of the population.

Given the area's status as one of the priciest spots in Sydney, the majority of the apartments are half or full-floor, they sit close to the harbour, and they command prices often starting at around the $5 million mark.

It was this knowledge, pared with market feedback during the early stages of marketing of the new architecturally striking Willoughby development Willoughby Grounds, that developer First Quadrant Properties, who is working alongside funding partner&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/qualitas">Qualitas</a>, went back to the Willoughby Council to create more four bedroom apartments.

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While already offering a handful, they sought to convert 20 apartments into 10, creating more large-scale, four-bedroom apartments that would give prospective buyers an opportunity to buy something that Willoughby hasn't seen before.

LINK Project Marketing Director Ben Hamblett made the recommendation to create larger apartments having fielded significant enquiry from those looking to buy two two-bedroom units.

Hamblett, who has sold a number of the four-bedroom apartments already, said they're a perfect market fit.

"Four-bedroom apartments don't exist in&nbsp;<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://c-jD404.na1.hs-sales-engage.com/Ctc/W2%2B23284/c-jD404/Jl22-6qcW7lCdLW6lZ3p-W4-pVY58fCxmFW3CvLxJ2bxwW9W2Hjm-j2mJhtsW7WLSfW991ZYZW6SPV5S8kg4KvW8HRg4H3DHX5TV45l0m5MsNP1W8lNk3-1knRSwW6H-_NV6BkslbW1hdgtl6mz3SnW3Tr1MH5BLfvNN7hLb4XpCcMwW5kp7_717N4xLW6d8DWm6MJgD5W1w06bX5CG8RSN4w4Ys_BzlJrW67dFpQ18Cf-7W25jF-s3DtNnvN17M1dSskjwZW6R-TQr8ttLnDMjV31Mgzk-rW2cL1951ZyRpBW7csltm7DmJFQW66rxK07wS40Kf3jrNkz04&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1711530027689000&amp;usg=AOvVaw25piQogND_39uC9ZjnACUn" href="https://c-jd404.na1.hs-sales-engage.com/Ctc/W2+23284/c-jD404/Jl22-6qcW7lCdLW6lZ3p-W4-pVY58fCxmFW3CvLxJ2bxwW9W2Hjm-j2mJhtsW7WLSfW991ZYZW6SPV5S8kg4KvW8HRg4H3DHX5TV45l0m5MsNP1W8lNk3-1knRSwW6H-_NV6BkslbW1hdgtl6mz3SnW3Tr1MH5BLfvNN7hLb4XpCcMwW5kp7_717N4xLW6d8DWm6MJgD5W1w06bX5CG8RSN4w4Ys_BzlJrW67dFpQ18Cf-7W25jF-s3DtNnvN17M1dSskjwZW6R-TQr8ttLnDMjV31Mgzk-rW2cL1951ZyRpBW7csltm7DmJFQW66rxK07wS40Kf3jrNkz04" target="_blank">Willoughby</a>, even in some of the other new developments. However there is a strong underlying demand for them," Hamblett says, adding that the only opportunity to buy four bedrooms is in the housing market, and that can cost upwards of $4 million.

"Even at that price, there are likely renovations and maintenance works that need to be considered, which some people can't afford. This four-bedroom product bridges that gap between getting something smaller and having to reach toward a house."

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Hamblett says there's a large cohort of buyers who aren't willing to downgrade either in terms of the size of the home or the location.

"With current interest rates and renovation costs, it is nearly impossible for many buyers to upgrade or purchase a quality family house in Willoughby. This recalibration of expectations is perfectly filled by the luxury house-sized apartments found at Willoughby Grounds. This is the way for the family buyers in Willoughby."

Indeed since the launch of the project, which will be delivered in five stages, reflective of the number of buildings there are in the mini-masterplan, over 20 per cent of the enquiry on Urban have been on the four-bedroom configurations, with a further 20 per cent on the large, 200 sqm three-bed apartments on offer.

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There will be around 160 apartments spread across the five buildings in Willoughby Grounds, with around 30 to 35 units in each building.

Mo Chehelnabi from Architecture Urbaneia has designed each building to pay homage to the&nbsp;unique industries that used to exist in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/willoughby-nsw" target="">Willoughby</a>&nbsp;area; tanneries, pottery, blacksmiths, logging and brickworks.&nbsp;

The design brief was to allow the multi-layered architecture and flourishing natural landscape to work in unison to create a sense of serenity and connection to place.

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LINK Project Marketing Director Ben Hamblett says there's a large cohort of buyers who aren't willing to downgrade either in terms of the size of the home or the location.

Buyers look for size on Sydney's Lower North Shore as large apartments snapped up at Willoughby Grounds

The first stage of Willoughby Grounds, a community-style project with unique architecture reflecting the industrial history of Sydney’s lower North Shore, has hit the market.

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/willoughby-grounds-1a-27-walter-street-willoughby">Willoughby Grounds</a>, which is being developed by First Quadrant Properties along with funding partner <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/qualitas">Qualitas</a>, comprises five distinct buildings, each with their own architectural style and interior design.&nbsp;

Just 164 apartments will be spread across the five buildings designed by Mo Chehelnabi from Architecture Urbaneia, with only 30 to 35 units in each.

“When designing Willoughby Grounds we wanted to foster a sense of community by giving a nod to the past and you’ll see each of the residential buildings with its own unique design style,” says Adam Reeves, Director of Sales and Marketing at <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/first-quadrant-properties">First Quadrant Properties</a>.

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"Whilst the project has 164 apartments in total&nbsp;the individual buildings each contains 30-35 units meaning good separation with most apartments having dual aspects to maximise natural light and ventilation," Reeves says.

“People want to know their neighbours these days and feel like they’re part of their own community."

Each building contains design features that recognise the unique industries that used to exist in the Willoughby area; tanneries, pottery, blacksmiths, logging and brickworks.&nbsp;The design brief was to allow the multi-layered architecture and flourishing natural landscape work in unison to create a sense of serenity and connection to place.

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Face brickwork, metal cladding and concrete framing interacts with the surrounding greenery and inclusion of jacaranda trees - for which the lower North Shore is famous for.

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/architects/dko-architecture">DKO</a> has handled the interiors of the apartments which feature&nbsp;European oak floors, stone and marble benchtops, Miele or Gaggenau appliances, Parisi tapware and integrated fridges.

“We wanted to build a residence that actually enhanced the neighbourhood around it,” Reeves added.

“It’s quite different to the singular, imposing structures that dominate much of the Sydney residential landscape at the moment.”

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The first stage of the project features the release of apartments in the Fleming building which is designed to reflect the tanneries from the 1800s.

For nearly 90 years Willoughby was known for its tanneries with as many as 15 tanning pits operating at the one time.

The development is expected to appeal to a wide range of buyers due to its floorplans of up to 173 sqm. There are some large four bedroom apartments on offer, as well as three-bedroom apartments with three aspects. Some of the larger apartments have the unique feature of sharing no common walls.

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Ray White's Director of Projects and Developments Tim Abbott says there's not often this type of product on the market.&nbsp;

“We don’t often see 4 bedroom units available on the lower North Shore and I think there will be strong interest from families and downsizers for these,” Abbott says.

“The kids playground in the common area will be a real attraction to families who&nbsp;will see the larger apartments as an alternative to buying a house in the area given the convenience of living so close to the CBD, without being in a high-rise development.

&nbsp;“With so many parks, gyms, cafes and other amenities in the immediate local areas of <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/willoughby-nsw">Willoughby</a>, <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/northbridge-nsw">Northbridge</a> &amp; <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/crows-nest-nsw">Crows Nest</a>, the project has been designed to ensure the strata fees are low which will appeal to both owners occupiers and investors too."

First Quadrant has the iCIRT-rated builder DASCO currently constructing the project. The first&nbsp;apartments will be ready later this year, and the rest by mid-2025.&nbsp;

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The first stage of the project features the release of apartments in the Fleming building which is designed to reflect the tanneries from the 1800s.

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