Sydney off the plan apartments

The first release of Mirvac’s luxury Harbourside Residences in Sydney’s Darling Harbour has sold out, resulting in a fast track of the second release to the market.

They've secured over $600 million of pre-sales, a record for Mirvac.Over 140 apartments have been conditionally sold to local buyers with sold prices ranging from just over $1.7 million to $25 million.

The sales launch for the 48-level luxury residential tower, a redevelopment of the former Harbourside shopping centre, saw a strong response from a diverse range of buyers including downsizers, families and couples from the local market, including the inner west, north west, eastern suburbs, and north shore of Sydney. There were also some interstate buyers.

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Stuart Penklis, Mirvac's CEO of Development, said there was unprecedented demand from discerning buyers who recognise the unique opportunity Harbourside presents, driving what he believes is an Australian real estate pre-sales record.

“The exceptional level of amenity we're offering is unparalleled, reflecting our understanding of what luxury buyers desire," Penklis says.

"In creating Harbourside, we're drawing on over 50 years of experience in design excellence, development, and construction to Mirvac’s exacting standards. Our customers know and trust the Mirvac brand and our commitment to delivering the highest quality.

“With the success of the first two sales releases this weekend, we are looking forward to releasing future stages progressively through delivery, with construction completion anticipated in late 2027."

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Harbourside Residences will include 263 apartments and feature an entire floor of high-end, resort-style amenity including an outdoor infinity pool with cabanas, a landscaped terrace and yoga/pilates space, indoor lap pool and spa, plus wellness facilities including steam room and sauna. There's also a range of private indoor facilities including a lounge, dining room with kitchen, cinema, and double-storey golf simulator.

Over 40 per cent of new Harbourside owners were repeat Mirvac customers.

“We were delighted to see so many familiar faces at this launch,” Penklis said.

“In the lead up to the VIP sales launch, we offered our valued customers exclusive previews of Harbourside at our state-of-the-art display suite, and their enthusiasm was overwhelming.”

The strong local buyer profile highlights the significant appeal of Harbourside's prime location and its promise of an exceptional lifestyle on Sydney's iconic waterfront, within a fully revitalised Darling Harbour.

“Many customers have shared a strong emotional connection to Harbourside, sharing nostalgic stories whether it be a visit as a child or a fond memory of their experiences at Harbourside with their family,” Penklis added.

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Mirvac’s wider $2 billion Harbourside precinct revitalisation will deliver over 10,000 sqm of public open space, including a new waterfront promenade and new 3,500 sqm waterfront park; pedestrian connections to Pyrmont and the waterfront including $50 million in public domain funding; and $7 million in public art and activation.

The precinct will have diverse retail offerings, including restaurants, national and international retailers, integrating and activating the public spaces.

“Bringing a complex, mixed-use project like Harbourside to life requires the expertise of an integrated property group. Our integrated approach enables us to seamlessly manage every aspect of the project, from initial planning and design to construction and delivery."

Harbourside Residences will comprises 263 one, two, three, and four-bedroom apartments across 48 levels, including three penthouses and three sub penthouses.

Harbourside Residences will be fully electric with rooftop solar panels, targeting a 5 star Green Star Buildings rating, 7 star NaTHers minimum average, 40 BASIX for Water and 25 BASIX for energy. The Harbourside precinct will feature 6,000 sqm of green roofs, in addition to the public domain and the planting of over 100,000 plants on a site that previously had no green landscape spaces.

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Harbourside Residences will include 263 apartments and feature an entire floor of resort-style amenity including an outdoor infinity pool with cabanas, a landscaped terrace and yoga/pilates space, indoor lap pool and spa, plus wellness facilities including steam room and sauna

Joel Robinson

Mirvac sell out first stage of Harbourside Residences as sales reach $25 million

Developer <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/scion">Scion</a> and Ray White Wider Sydney welcomed prospective buyers to the VIP launch of Sterling, the new apartment development set to transform a quiet pocket in Lane Cove North.

A mix of local first home buyers, rightsizers and downsizers attended the event on site at 2 Merinda Street, with the building nearly finished by Scion's in-house construction team.

With one, two and three-bedroom apartments on offer, and prices starting from $750,000, Sterling has proved popular with the majority of buyer types.

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<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/sterling-lane-cove-north-2-merinda-street-lane-cove-north-nsw-2066">Sterling</a> is one of very few new developments in <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/lane-cove-north-nsw-2066">Lane Cove North</a>. It comprises 50 apartments, just six apartments per floor, ensuring the development is in keeping with the privacy its location expects.

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Sterling is also the first development in the area to be protected with Resilience Insurance's Latent Defects Insurance, a first resort insurance policy that covers apartment buildings for structural defects for 10 years post-completion.

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Kitchens are equipped with integrated Miele ovens and cooktops and dishwashers by Fisher &amp; Paykel. The bathrooms feature rainfall showers and high-end fixtures and fittings.

All inclusions and designs go back to the project name, Sterling, reflective of the quality Scion is instilling across the whole of the development.

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Open plan kitchen, living and dining spaces feature floor-to-ceiling windows to maximise natural light and offer views of the leafy surrounds and back to the Sydney CBD.

All apartments open onto either a garden courtyard, a balcony, or, for the upper-level apartments, expansive terraces that capture the best views.

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The development also offers communal amenities, including a rooftop entertaining area equipped with barbecue facilities — reinforcing the project’s focus on creating a lifestyle centred around both community and comfort.

Sterling’s location on Merinda Street places it in the heart of nature without sacrificing accessibility to urban amenities.

Residents will be positioned near Stringybark Creek and the endangered Blue Gum High Forest while benefiting from proximity to key hubs like Chatswood and Macquarie Park.

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Essential services and lifestyle destinations such as The Canopy community hub and major shopping centres are just a short drive away.&nbsp;

Scion has a solid reputation as a premium builder-developer across Sydney, with a string of projects completed and several in the pipeline.

Sterling will complete in early 2025, with buyers moving in shortly after.

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Sterling’s location on Merinda Street places it in the heart of nature without sacrificing accessibility to urban amenities

Scion launches Sterling apartments in Lane Cove

A landmark development application has been lodged for the redevelopment of the InterContinental Hotel Double Bay, to deliver a $1 billion lifestyle precinct in the heart of Double Bay Village. 
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The proposal, with Woollahra Municipal Council, will replace the existing outdated purpose-built hotel with an architecturally designed mixed-use building comprising a high-end retail and dining precinct, landscaped open spaces, cinemas and community spaces on the ground floor, and a new boutique luxury hotel, commercial office suites, a health and wellness centre, and 29 apartments across the seven upper levels.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a> and led by project and development managers Metis Group, 33 Cross Street is the vision of a consortium headed by Rebel Property and Capitel Group, two leading local developers with deep connections to Double Bay and a proven track record delivering high-quality, &nbsp;lifestyle-focused mixed-use projects.&nbsp;

<img alt="33 Cross St Double Bay Aerial" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="605bfafd-3dd1-4421-907e-1b0d22598fdd" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/33%20Cross%20St%20Double%20Bay%20Aerial.jpg?VersionId=sMJaDwJ8Jeptz78FwkYgu3XG3UCcnNSX" />

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/capitel-group">Capitel Group</a> Managing Director, Eduard Litver, said the proposal for 33 Cross Street had been designed and planned with the Double Bay community in mind.&nbsp;

“This is the largest privately held site in <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/double-bay-nsw-2028">Double Bay</a> Village, and over the past 25 years there have been numerous concepts, schemes, ownership changes and refurbishments in an attempt to revitalise the site without sustained success,” Litver said.&nbsp;

“Our focus is to deliver the next evolution of this Sydney icon – a truly mixed-use lifestyle destination of enduring quality that inspires local pride garners global recognition, and aligns with Woollahra &nbsp;Council’s vision for Double Bay Village. &nbsp;

“This is Double Bay’s moment – a chance for this site to redefine how people experience this iconic waterfront neighbourhood for years to come."&nbsp;

Rebel Property Managing Director, Allen Linz said almost half of the proposed development has been dedicated to non-residential uses including cinemas, landscaped open spaces, retail and dining, commercial suites and community-accessible services.&nbsp;

“Since the early 1990s, 33 Cross Street has served as a landmark hotel with a limited civic connection beyond one street frontage, while the harbourside community has been transforming into a vibrant cosmopolitan precinct that we know people want to preserve and enrich,” Linz said.&nbsp;

“Our design creates an inviting, permeable street-level experience for all to enjoy while preserving the &nbsp;site’s history with a new right-sized luxury boutique hotel.”&nbsp;

Metis Group Director, Arian Galanis, said the iconic design required a meticulous approach.&nbsp;

“With the client and project team’s extensive experience and local knowledge, we have committed to a design that honours the site’s historic significance while offering an innovative, mixed-use space that caters to the evolving needs of Double Bay,” Galanis said.&nbsp;

“We have engaged with the community to ensure the proposal was thoughtfully considered to set a new benchmark for mixed-use development and will continue to do so throughout the development approvals and delivery process.&nbsp;

“Our shared goal is to create a positive legacy – a precinct that blends seamlessly into the fabric of &nbsp;Double Bay Village garnering local pride and global appeal, a cherished part of its future for years to come."

<img alt="Close Up 33 Cross St Double Bay" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e2bb2070-3895-4ccf-99d6-77346bff67ad" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Close%20Up%2033%20Cross%20St%20Double%20Bay_3D_render_by_VV.jpg?VersionId=wor0_l4iFTizwlA9YoaxyfWrH5QaceAz" />

The proposed design was the culmination of a competitive design excellence process aimed at achieving the highest standard of architectural design, setting a new benchmark for development in &nbsp;Double Bay, with COX awarded the design role from four leading Australian and international firms.&nbsp;

COX Director Ramin Jahromi said the proposal embraced timeless architecture.&nbsp;

“33 Cross Street delivers a modern interpretation of classical proportions, featuring timeless materials and sophisticated finishes that create an iconic building with an elegant, enhanced street presence and enduring appeal,” Jahromi said.&nbsp;

“The facade’s glass light columns create a grand and visually stunning experience that draws inspiration from the illuminated fig trees framing the street-level entrance, adding to the site’s landmark status and enhancing safety and beauty at night.&nbsp;

“Community is really at the heart of the new design, with over 90 per cent of the ground plane accessible to the public. &nbsp;

“The design includes a spectacular atrium with a sculptural staircase and striking public art installation, &nbsp;a generous north-facing courtyard, and a six-metre-wide pedestrian walkway connecting Cross Street to Galbraith Walkway and down to Double Bay Beach."

Jahromi said the building has been&nbsp;carefully designed to not exceed the overall height of the existing building and includes recessed upper floors and an architectural green roof with a fully concealed plant that will offer a recessive landscaped aesthetic visible from higher surrounding areas.

Capitel Group Managing Director, Eduard Litver, said the proposal for 33 Cross Street had been designed and planned with the Double Bay community in mind. 

InterContinental Hotel, Double Bay, to become $1 billion lifestyle precinct

Reputable builder&nbsp;Decode has commenced construction on <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/atrium-at-carrington-place-40-42-ashford-avenue-castle-hill">Atrium</a>, the first stage of Ellipe Property's $750 million Castle Hill masterplan, Carrington Place.

&nbsp;Occupying 17 amalgamated sites along Carrington Road, Ashford Avenue and Partridge Avenue in Sydney’s north-west, Carrington Place is the largest residential masterplan in Castle Hill. It will deliver more than 800 new homes across five stages, helping to address Sydney’s critical housing shortage.

A recent groundbreaking event was attended by more than 100 partners and stakeholders, including the Mayor of the Hills Shire, Federal Member for Mitchell, and the Acting NSW Building Commissioner. The groundbreaking was celebrated with a traditional turning of soil as well as a smoking ceremony led by a local Deerubbin Elder, paying respect to the traditional custodians of the land in <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/castle-hill-nsw-2154">Castle Hill</a>.

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/carrington-place-castle-hill-36-carrington-road-castle-hill">Carrington Place</a> is <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/ellipse-property-group">Ellipse Property</a>’s largest project to date, featuring architecture by the award-winning Tony Owen Partners and Stanisic Architects, with interiors by renowned design firm Studio SC, formerly known as Scott Carver.&nbsp;

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With the newly-built Hills Showground Metro Station unlocking greater connectivity between the Hills and the Sydney CBD, <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/ellipse-property-group">Ellipse Property</a>&nbsp;Founder Sam El Rihani said that the groundbreaking marks the start of a thriving new community in Sydney’s burgeoning north-west – a sentiment echoed by Federal Member for Mitchell, Alex Hawke.

"With an ongoing shortage of high-quality, transport-oriented housing in greater Sydney, we’re proud to be delivering hundreds of quality new homes – with significant amenities and proximity to retail as well as the state-of-the-art Sydney Metro system," El Rihani said.

"Together with our partners, we are setting a new standard for modern, community-focused living in Castle Hill."

Alex Hawke said north west Sydney is becoming a hotspot for jobs and growth thanks to our world-class Metro infrastructure.

"The community has been ready for this change for some time now, and we thank developers like Ellipse Property for bringing that vision to Carrington Place,” said Hawke.

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The masterplan will be constructed across five stages and feature abundant community space, with over 20,000 sqm of outdoor recreational area including a one-kilometre boardwalk connecting the precinct to the nearby Fred Caterson Reserve.

The project is seamlessly integrated with the surrounding bushland, with a site boundary that stretches right to the edge of Cattai Creek.

The Hills Showground Metro Station is just a two-minute walk from Carrington Place and offers fast connectivity to Sydney’s CBD, Chatswood, North Sydney, Macquarie Park, and Norwest Business Park.

Atrium comprises 140 one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, some with double living spaces. Uniquely, over 75 per cent of apartments will feature studies or multi-purpose rooms, and abundant storage with various layouts also offering walk-in pantries.

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Paying homage to its verdant setting, Atrium’s design features a curvilinear exterior echoing the form of Cattai Creek with lush landscaping surrounding the building on three sides. True to its namesake, it will also feature an expansive atrium at the ground floor entrance, further connecting residents to nature.

The development will offer elevated indoor-outdoor living, outdoor kitchens, BBQ areas, an outdoor gym, and rooftop terraces boasting sweeping views of the creek and the wider Hills region.

Atrium will be delivered by <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/builders/decode">Decode</a>, an award-winning Tier 2 residential builder and one of the first to achieve a prestigious Gold iCIRT rating.&nbsp;

<img alt="Construction starts on Castle Hill’s largest residential masterplan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="02188aec-b465-44fd-bfe0-79fcd07432eb" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Team%20Shot%20%281%29.jpg?VersionId=.ZEHlCX4.ECvwt6Yv_jdyeHmZF6EqXrZ" />

Acting NSW Building Commissioner, Matt Press, said housing is a massive investment for any consumer, and it is absolutely vital that they can trust the developer and builder they are dealing with.

"We need iCIRT-rated developers and builders like Ellipse Property and Decode to be the backbone of our industry, and the type of quality players that are filling the void of the housing supply crisis."

Apartments at Atrium have been sold predominantly to downsizers and first-home buyers, who are attracted to Castle Hill’s natural beauty, vibrant community and abundant retail and dining options.

Speaking at the groundbreaking event, the Mayor of the Hills Shire Dr Michelle Byrne said that Carrington Place addressed the needs of the Hills’ changing demographics.

“There are people that have lived in the Hills for 30,40, 50 years, they’re not leaving the Hills - they’re downsizing and choosing apartments," Byrne said.

"There are also more and more people from outside the Hills who want to be part of our community. I’m looking forward to welcoming these people, and projects like Carrington Place - that build not just apartment blocks, but communities - are the key."

Atrium is set for completion in early 2026.

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The masterplan will be constructed across five stages and feature abundant community space, with over 20,000 sqm of outdoor recreational area including a one-kilometre boardwalk connecting the precinct to the nearby Fred Caterson Reserve

Decode kicks off construction at Castle Hill’s largest residential masterplan, Carrington Place

A growing family and a long-term commitment to a lifestyle that ticked all the boxes were the two key drivers behind the recent purchase of a penthouse at Killarney Ponds in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/box-hill-nsw-2765">Box Hill</a>.

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/killarney-ponds-box-hill-4-alan-street-box-hill">Killarney Ponds</a>, the new development by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/kellarney-developments">Kellarney Developments</a>&nbsp;that is slated for completion early next year, has been intentionally designed so it not only offers larger-scale apartments than any other new development in the area, but the community facilities to match, creating an environment where its residents can thrive privately and socially.

We recently spoke with a buyer of one of the penthouse apartments to hear firsthand why they bought in&nbsp;Killarney Ponds.

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The young family secured a two-level penthouse, with three bedrooms set privately on the second level, away from the main kitchen, living and dining space. The apartment, including terraces, spans around 140 sqm, one of the biggest apartments in Box Hill.

The buyer spoke not only about the rarity of such an apartment, but also about the facilities within the building that they intend to use. Residents will have access to&nbsp;a function room, outdoor barbecue area, and playground on level one, along with a gym and technology hub on level two.&nbsp;

There's also an exclusive rooftop terrace reserved just for the penthouse owners.

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Speaking about buying off the plan for the first time, the purchaser said it suited their needs because the family didn't need to move in straight away.

"We wanted to find the right place because this is a long-term decision that we're making for our family," the buyer said.

"It's a 10+ year decision for us, so we didn't want to rush into looking for an established place if we didn't need to. we would rather wait, and when we saw the opportunity, and say all the boxes were ticked, we jumped on it and it was a no-brainer."

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It was the first time purchasing off the plan, and the buyer highlighted the effort taken by the McGrath Projects team to help them understand the process.

Reputable builder Sitecorp is approaching completion of the building, with internal fitout to commence soon after.&nbsp;

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Speaking about buying off the plan for the first time, the purchaser said it suited their needs because the family didn't need to move in straight away

Why apartments at Killarney Ponds in Box Hill are suiting the family buyer: Urban Buyer Q&A

NSW Government Announces Major Housing Reform to Streamline Approvals and Boost Supply 
In a bold move to address the state's housing crisis, the New South Wales (NSW) Government has unveiled plans to overhaul the housing approval process, aiming to cut red tape, speed up development, and deliver much-needed homes to the market faster.

The new initiative introduces a state-led approval pathway for large-scale residential housing projects, designed to bypass local council approval and significantly reduce approval timelines. This reform, set to take effect in early 2025, is part of a broader strategy to tackle the state's ongoing housing affordability issues and ensure that housing projects get off the ground more quickly.

<h2>The Housing Delivery Authority (HDA)</h2>

Central to the reform is the creation of the Housing Delivery Authority (HDA), a new body within the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure. The HDA will oversee a streamlined approval process for major housing developments, focusing on projects with an estimated development cost of over $60 million in Greater Sydney (typically 100 or more homes) and $30 million in regional NSW (usually around 40 or more homes).

The HDA will be responsible for managing the approval process, including rezoning and development applications, which will no longer require approval from local councils. By eliminating the council approval stage, the government hopes to shorten approval times by potentially several years, facilitating quicker delivery of new housing across the state.

Key figures in the new authority include the Secretary of the Premier’s Department, Simon Draper; the Secretary of the Department of Planning, Kiersten Fishburn; and the CEO of Infrastructure NSW, Tom Gellibrand. Despite the changes, the Minister for Planning and Public Spaces will remain the final consent authority for any projects moving through this pathway.

<h2>A Shift Towards Faster, State-Managed Approvals</h2>

This reform addresses one of the most pressing issues in NSW’s housing market: the slow pace of housing development due to bureaucratic hurdles. Housing affordability has become a significant challenge for many residents, and the NSW Government has long acknowledged the disconnect between the demand for new housing and the ability of the planning system to deliver it.

The new state-led process aims to fast-track the approval of residential projects by allowing developers to submit their proposals directly to the HDA. Proposals will be assessed on merit, and planning controls will be applied flexibly to suit the needs of each development. This includes potentially making incremental zoning changes when necessary.

This approach is intended to make the approval process more efficient, enabling developers to proceed with projects that might otherwise be delayed or blocked by local council requirements. The government hopes these reforms will foster a more conducive environment for large-scale housing developments, helping to meet the growing demand for homes in NSW.

<h2>New Fast-Track Rezoning Process</h2>

In addition to the streamlined approval pathway, the NSW Government is also introducing a fast-track rezoning process for projects that require more significant zoning changes. This process will apply to developments that could provide a substantial increase in housing supply but need major rezoning to move forward. Like the development approvals, these projects will be chosen through an Expression of Interest (EOI) process managed by the HDA.

By allowing rezoning and development assessments to occur simultaneously, the reform aims to further speed up the planning process. Developers will submit their rezoning proposals directly to the HDA, which will assess them based on criteria aligned with the state’s housing priorities.

<h2>Impact on Local Councils</h2>

One of the anticipated benefits of these changes is a reduction in the number of large, complex development applications that local councils will need to assess. With the state assuming control over these major projects, councils can focus their resources on smaller, less complicated applications. This shift is expected to improve the efficiency of the overall planning system, allowing councils to allocate more time and effort to managing local development needs.

<h2>The Broader Context</h2>

These new measures are part of a series of reforms aimed at addressing housing affordability and supply issues that have plagued NSW for years. Other recent initiatives include:

- The largest rezoning in NSW history to unlock new housing opportunities. 
- Housing targets for councils to ensure a fair distribution of housing across Greater Sydney. 
- A $450 million investment to build new apartments for essential workers, including nurses, paramedics, teachers, and emergency responders. 
- The establishment of a land audit of vacant government-owned land, which will unlock 30,000 homes, including 8,400 public housing units. 
- A $5.1 billion investment in social and affordable housing.

Premier Chris Minns emphasized the urgency of these reforms, noting that previous governments had made it harder to build homes, leading to a growing crisis.

"For over a decade in NSW, governments have made it harder to build the homes we need, not easier – but this cannot continue if we want to be a city that young people can afford to live in," Minns said.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully echoed these sentiments, stating, "The Minns Government is doing everything in its power to tackle the housing crisis and encourage developers to build and boost housing supply and overall affordability."

Scully also criticized the previous government for adding unnecessary red tape that hindered the development of much-needed housing.

<h2>Looking Ahead</h2>

As the government prepares to roll out these reforms, they are also engaging in consultation with stakeholders to ensure the new system works for both developers and communities. The fast-tracked approval and rezoning processes, expected to come into effect in 2025, mark a significant shift in how housing is developed in NSW, with the state taking a more active role in shaping the future of housing delivery.

By cutting through bureaucratic delays and focusing on high-priority projects, the NSW Government hopes to improve housing affordability and provide more homes for the people who need them most, particularly in a state where the demand for housing continues to outstrip supply.

Premier Chris Minns emphasized the urgency of these reforms, noting that previous governments had made it harder to build homes, leading to a growing crisis

NSW Government to launch new Housing Delivery Authority to boost housing supply, remove council power

Box Hill in Sydney's northwest is ready for one of its most design-conscious projects to date with <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/killarney-ponds-box-hill-4-alan-street-box-hill">Killarney Ponds</a>, the new apartment development by locals Kellarney Developments.

Killarney Ponds, located just outside the emerging <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/box-hill-nsw-2765">Box Hill</a> Town Centre, has been designed to meet the needs of both families and working professionals seeking larger apartments and lifestyle-focused amenities, two points of difference when compared to other developments around the Box Hill area.

Approaching completion in early 2025,&nbsp;Killarney Ponds comprises a mix of two and three-bedroom apartments that emphasise indoor-outdoor living.

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To maximise natural light, apartments have soaring ceilings just under three-metres, creating a sense of space and when meeting the sliding glass doors that open to a balcony or a courtyard, allow for maximum natural light to flood the interiors.

The three-bedroom apartments start from a generous 115 sqm of internal living space, and a further 10 sqm of terraces.

There are several two-level apartments, some with two bedrooms and some with three, including a three-bedroom penthouse that has its own private rooftop terrace and is priced under $1 million.

Resident amenity has been a big focus in Killarney Ponds, a level unrivalled in the local area. It starts from the entry to the development. There are three hotel-style lobbies which were designed to create an immediate impression on residents and their guests.

Facilities include a multi-purpose function room, expected to be used for community events as well as booked for private occasions like birthday parties, a fully-equipped gym, a work-from-home centre with integrated desks and meeting rooms, as well as several outdoor spaces with alfresco and picnic areas.

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The first stage of the project has already sold out, demonstrating strong demand in the Box Hill market, a market that is growing at a significant rate, driven by the improvements being made in the region.

Killarney Ponds is strategically positioned to benefit from the growth in infrastructure. The area is part of the NSW Government’s North West Priority Growth Area, which is anticipated to bring significant infrastructure improvements and job opportunities.

It's a short walk from the future Box Hill Town Centre, an upcoming hub featuring retail, dining, and recreational spaces set around a central lake.

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Carmel Village, less than two kilometres away, offers everyday essentials with over 30 specialty stores including Coles and Aldi.

Families benefit from being close to a variety of schools, while healthcare needs will be well-served by the new $700 million Rouse Hill Hospital, set to complete in 2027. Rouse Hill Station is within three kilometres, providing easy access to the Sydney Metro.

Reputable construction company Sitecorp is handling the build of Killarney Ponds. They are anticipating an early 2025 completion, with residents moving in shortly after.

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Box Hill's best new apartment development approaches completion

National property and construction group <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/traders-in-purple">Traders in Purple</a> has lodged a State Significant Development Application to develop a prime residential site in Sydney's <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/padstow-nsw-2211">Padstow</a>.

The corner 2,992 sqm site, previously occupied by just two houses, would home 113 new apartments, 21 of which would be reserved as social affordable units, as well as six commercial and retail units.

The land is owned by&nbsp;Homes NSW under its Communities Plus program which aims to increase the pool of social and affordable housing throughout the State.&nbsp;

The plans come following the finalisation of the new Local Environment Plan and rezoning by Canterbury Bankstown Council.&nbsp;

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/news/qld/first-look-exclusive-traders-in-purple-plan-large-apartments-on-west-end-megasite">First look exclusive: Traders in Purple plan large apartments on West End megasite</a>

Traders in Purple Director Charles Daoud said the mixed tenure model that blends community and private housing would help to alleviate some of the pressure in the housing market and kickstart a new and exciting chapter for Padstow.&nbsp;

“We have real stress across the entire housing market, not only in social housing but brand new quality homes that enable first home buyers to enter the market and families to settle in a quality development,” Daoud said.&nbsp;

“Padstow is set for an exciting new era which will see the commercial and retail centre reinvigorated and the introduction of new well-located apartments that take advantage of the existing amenities within the immediate town centre.&nbsp;

“Where there were just two homes on this large well-located site, we will be adding 92 new one, two and three-bedroom homes to the private market and 21 homes for social and affordable housing. &nbsp;

“This is a much more efficient use of land in a middle ring Sydney suburb where there is a high demand for new &nbsp;housing within walking distance of established infrastructure and amenity.”&nbsp;

The eight-level development, adjacent to the retail precinct, is located just 250 metres from Padstow train station and bus interchange and 100 metres from Padstow Park Public School, making it ideal for families and city workers. &nbsp;

In a move that will future-proof residents from rising costs, solar rooftop panels will offset grid demand and reduce electricity costs for communal areas with the potential for any excess generated to be sold back to the grid. The 149 car spaces will be provisioned for EV charging.&nbsp;

Daoud said Padstow’s relative affordability and proximity to amenities and public transport had put it on the radar for a wider demographic of Sydney buyers.&nbsp;

“There is a very limited supply of new apartments for sale in Padstow despite it having all the essential ingredients for a range of households, from young singles and couples to families and downsizers,” said Mr Daoud.&nbsp;

“Like all of Sydney, house prices have risen dramatically over the past five years. Padstow’s median house price in &nbsp;2019 was $900,000 making it attainable for young families. Today it is more than $1.4 million.&nbsp;

“Over the years there has been very little apartment development. This project will add to the diversity of housing choices that is so desperately needed.&nbsp;

“Future residents will only have to walk 250 metres to the train station and can be in the city in approximately 30 &nbsp;minutes. There’s a lively dining and shopping precinct with a range of cafes and restaurants and with the local primary school only a block away this makes the family juggle easier to manage. Parents can walk children to school and be on the train and in the office without having to stress.&nbsp;

“This benefits both our private buyers and community housing tenants making it easier to manage the competing &nbsp;pressures of modern life.”&nbsp;

Traders in Purple line-up new Padstow development

Having secured gazettal approval for their major Neutral Bay site earlier this year, Woolworths' development arm <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/fabcot">Fabcot</a> has submitted plans for a new&nbsp;$169 million development that would reimagine the space into a new mixed-use precinct.

The proposal seeks to replace the current structures with a mixed-use development featuring 70 residential apartments, extensive commercial spaces—including a new Woolworths supermarket and medical facilities—a public plaza, and a basement car park with 326 spaces.

The project, on the corner of Yeo Street and Rangers Road, envisions a six to eight-level building that aligns with the vision for <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/neutral-bay-nsw-2089">Neutral Bay</a>'s future growth, aimed at providing diverse housing and enhancing community interaction within a highly accessible urban precinct.&nbsp;

<img alt="Fabcot’s lodge for $169.18 million apartment development in Neutral Bay " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ae6d0094-fe24-4002-813a-f4c94b17739e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Fabcot%20Neutral%20Bay%20laneway.png?VersionId=C.Um0Qg5pFm0EFcThNKkq0f_LXU.NEnd" />

Plans are for 11 one-bedroom apartments, 29 two-bedders, 28 three-bedrooms, and two four-bedroom apartments, a diverse mix aimed to attract a wide demograpghic from young professionals to families and downsizers, in response to the need for varied housing options in Neutral Bay.

The design, by <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/architects/koichi-takada-architects">Koichi Takada Architects</a>, emphasises harmony with the local environment, drawing inspiration from Neutral Bay’s landscape, including the surrounding sandstone gullies and indigenous Angophora trees.&nbsp;

This biophilic approach integrates greenery throughout the building’s structure and promotes a natural aesthetic that contrasts with the urban setting while fostering a stronger connection between residents and their surroundings.

Thoughtful design elements ensure optimal living conditions, such as corner and through units to capture district views and maximise natural light, as well as landscaped terraces and façade overhangs to offer visual privacy and support resident wellbeing.

<img alt="Fabcot’s lodge for $169.18 million apartment-Woolworths mix in Neutral Bay " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ba1c21c3-8bfc-434a-aff0-5c12b3e6f554" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Fabcot%20Neutral%20Bay%20woolworths.png?VersionId=H1V6CU1CG9q3Thvmk0Fvmz5w7D8HqfZn" />

In addition to expanding residential options and retail offerings, the development aligns with the Military Road Corridor Planning Study, which aims to introduce community-focused facilities and improved public spaces within the area.&nbsp;

The ground-level public plaza serves as a focal point of the development, intended to encourage community engagement and round-the-clock activity.&nbsp;

Designed with both functionality and aesthetic appeal, the plaza will feature landscaped seating areas, outdoor dining spaces, and designated zones for seasonal events and community gatherings.&nbsp;

To further activate the space, retail and dining establishments are expected to offer services throughout the day and evening, making the plaza a key social hub.

The design, by Koichi Takada Architects, emphasises harmony with the local environment, drawing inspiration from Neutral Bay’s landscape, including the surrounding sandstone gullies and indigenous Angophora trees. 

Woolworth's Fabcot propose Neutral Bay shoptop housing after 

The booming Lower North Shore suburb of <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/crows-nest-nsw-2065">Crows Nest</a> is set to welcome a new tower after approval was granted to transform&nbsp;the historic former North Shore Gas Co. building into a $55 million mixed-use development.

Project manager PDS, who is acting&nbsp;on behalf of a private equity firm, secured the approval without&nbsp;a planning proposal by strategically using heritage conservation incentives, which allowed for substantial deviations from current zoning and height limits.

The approved plans will see the <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/290-pacific-highway-crows-nest">290 Pacific Highway</a> site transformed into a 14-level building with a two-level commercial podium and residential levels above.&nbsp;

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/news/nsw/twt-kicks-off-new-crows-nest-precinct-the-collective-with-first-apartments-released">TWT kicks off new Crows Nest precinct, The Collective, with first apartments released</a>

<img alt="PDS' $55 million mixed-use development approved" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7dfcbb4a-22ab-4f5b-921f-6f658753ab32" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/1731217201983_11zon_2.jpg?VersionId=kU0L3Y05ab5jY9CnDG9GFisEcvfomG.B" />

Of the 61 apartments in the building, 83 per cent will offer three and four-bedroom layouts, aimed to appeal to a broad demographic including families and downsizers.

Designed by Fuse Architects and supported by urban design work from LFA Pacific, the facade will combine traditional and modern elements, including restored masonry, terracotta tiles, and glass, to maintain the heritage aesthetic of the original building.

Contemporary materials such as fluted glass and a textured awning will accentuate the building’s character, creating a visually cohesive link between the heritage structure and the new construction.

<img alt="PDS' $55 million mixed-use development approved" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="40eb222b-0373-48e9-9a6a-0c8ddeff1100" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/1731217206108_11zon_0.jpg?VersionId=NiHsGnHMZBiCIISwcfGIZ3LLHRjx_q2I" />

The approval allows for a significant increase in height, rising from 16 to 44.8 metres along the Pacific Highway and from 8.5 to 15.5 metres on Sinclair Street.&nbsp;

The design also incorporates a publicly accessible link between Pacific Highway and Sinclair Street, enhancing pedestrian access and connectivity.

Situated on a prominent urban block bordered by Shirley Street, Bruce Street, the Pacific Highway, and Sinclair Street, the site forms part of the Five Ways intersection, a local landmark marking the southern gateway to the St Leonards and Crows Nest precinct.

The future development will be located close to major parks and public open spaces, such as Brennan Park, Newlands Park, and St Leonards Park.

The future development will be located close to major parks and public open spaces, such as Brennan Park, Newlands Park, and St Leonards Park

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