Leading Australian integrated property development group Aqualand is redefining the definition of luxury in their AURA by Aqualand mixed-use tower in North Sydney.

The $1 billion residential community is the second to be delivered by Aqualand’s internal construction arm, Aqualand Construction, and will comprise 386 premium apartments above a richly landscaped two-storey retail podium and commercial spaces.

Located at 168 Walker Street, on the edge of the rapidly transforming North Sydney CBD, AURA is nearing completion, with Aqualand having recently marked the construction of its uppermost floor, which rises 28 storeys above the streetscape, with a topping out ceremony.

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This period in AURA’s construction is an interesting time, according to Aqualand’s Executive Director Development &amp; Construction Tom Catalovski, as the various ‘layers’ of luxury are briefly visible at various stages throughout the building’s ongoing fit out.

“When most people use the term ‘luxury’, they’re generally referring to the quality of the fixtures and fittings – the elements of the residence on show and used on a daily basis, such as counter tops, cabinetry, tiling, tapware, lighting and the flooring, for example,” Catalovski said.

“As these fittings are currently being installed floor-by-floor in AURA, the fact that they epitomise ‘luxury’ is clearly evident, but our idea of ‘luxury’ goes beyond the surface to also describe the additional features we’re building into future proof the structure, the layers that won’t be seen when the fit outs are complete.

“It’s the details you don’t see, behind the walls, floors and ceilings that gives our clients security over time, and this is especially important when there’s such an industry focus on building defects,"&nbsp;Catalovski said.

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Catalovski says most&nbsp;residents won’t ever know about the additional luxurious features they're choosing to install in AURA.

“While we’re installing our hand-selected marble, which was inspected on various site visits to quarries in Greece, and high-grade direct-fix timber flooring, it’s really what’s underneath this layer that defines our approach to ‘luxury’, such as the high-quality water proofing membrane we install and the double-glazed façade windows providing acoustic protection, for example,"&nbsp;Catalovski says.

“Many people assume developers install bottom of the range fittings and fixtures of a perceived quality brand and position them as the best quality. However, at Aqualand we go to great lengths to ensure all the inclusions are best-in-class, and what’s installed is exactly to our strict specifications and meets our high expectations."

Catalovski says Aqualand intend&nbsp;to be in the luxury market for generations to come, so their reputation for delivering the best possible quality is of paramount importance. It was the driving factor as to why Aqualand developed their own in-house construction arm, to ensure build quality is second to none and truly lasts the test of time.

Aqualand&nbsp;go to great lengths to meet and exceed the standards mandated by the Building Code of Australia. They've appointed industry leading independent peer review&nbsp;consultants, ensuring they adopt their recommendations and implement best-in-class procedures with their building standards.

Catalovski says they've gone above and beyond by hiring a team of independent tier one consultants to conduct peer reviews of the entire design and construction process initially specified by their tier one project team which includes world-renowned architects Woods Bagot, Richards Stanisich and Turf Design Studio, plus all the top contractors and premium suppliers such as Gaggenau, Bosch, Sub-zero, Technogym, Samsung, and Parisi.

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Aqualand has also elected to engage a third party to undertake a peer review on quality assurance, once the fit out is complete.

“We’ve engaged a company called Strata Defect Specialists Sydney to undertake a third-party independent defecting review, in addition to that carried out by our building team, to help ensure an outstanding experience for our customers at their pre-settlement inspections. They’ll be ensuring we’re delivering the quality our clients have come to expect of us. Again, this goes way beyond the industry standard."

A clearly evident aspect of AURA’s luxury offering are the oversized apartments, which exceed the North Sydney Council’s minimum building requirements. The standard size for a two-bedroom apartment in the area is 80 sqm, with AURA’s measuring 95 sqm, plus a wintergarden, making them well over 100 sqm in total. AURA’s design was revised three times to increase the size of the apartments, with the initial plan decreasing from 448 residences to 386.

Other luxury inclusions visible to residents include the integration of the latest technology, including provisions to charge electric vehicles. A pool of Tesla share vehicles will be available for hire, all apartments will have full fibre nbn internet connections, and Wi-Fi hot spotting will be installed in common areas throughout the entire building.

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The building will also benefit from a building management system to monitor and control the building’s services to ensure efficient management and allow for early detection and rectification of any issues to ensure the building is always operating optimally.

AURA represents the fifth residential project delivered by Aqualand since the company’s launch in 2014 and is well on the way to joining a portfolio of other notable completed projects such as BLUE at Lavender Bay in Milsons Point and The REVY at Darling Island.

Aqualand Group Managing Director, Jin Lin, says Aqualand’s integrated holistic business model is another key to their success.

“We’re continuing to grow strength by strength. Even in these uncertain times we’re still performing strongly due to the 100% ownership of our development and internal construction arm, and other lifestyle service and hospitality business offerings,"&nbsp;Lin said, adding that their&nbsp;other completed landmark projects are testament to their focus on delivering quality.

"This is especially attractive to our clients at a time when many other developers are struggling to find builders for their projects and buyers are asking who’s building the project as one of their very first questions. Construction quality really is top of mind now."

AURA will feature an extensive podium level retail precinct providing residents with a curated shopping and dining destination on their doorstep, including a providore, bakery, café and wine bar, an all-day diner and a contemporary Japanese restaurant. A network of landscaped laneways will also welcome visitors into the precinct.

Other resident amenities include a lifestyle concierge service, gym equipped with world- leading fitness technology brand Technogym, wellness room, and end-of-trip facilities. A glamorous rooftop area offers a sky sun deck, private dining rooms, barbecue and kitchen space for year-round al fresco entertaining.

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Joel Robinson

Aqualand's idea of luxury goes beyond the surface: Inside the final stages of AURA by Aqualand's luxury aesthetics

The Darling Harbour of tomorrow is taking shape today with a major project progressing to the next phase of development and a new 2050 Vision being drafted by the NSW Government.

The State Significant Development (SSD) of Harbourside, is a key project moving Darling Harbour from a 1980s icon into a modern and thriving destination for the next generation of visitors.

The $764.5 million SSD has now been approved and involves the demolition of the original Harbourside building to make way for a new mixed-use 50-storey residential and commercial building, with up to 265 new homes.

As part of the project, Mirvac has agreed to a $5.2 million contribution to generate affordable housing, including in the surrounding Pyrmont area. Major renewal is also underway nearby with the restoration of the Pyrmont Bridge, expansion of the Chinese Garden, a new stage in Tumbalong Park, the opening of the new W Hotel, and the IMAX redevelopment.

<img alt="Harbourside" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3882456e-dbcb-4c60-ba28-809ee95c1d22" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-12-05%20at%201.50.05%20pm.png?VersionId=sEaYrFYAFPfT0wQX5hGWu0aGuXQW.ur5" />

The Department of Planning and Environment is currently assessing a separate SSD for the design of Harbourside’s public domain, including upgrades to the waterfront promenade with seating, greenery, heritage interpretation (storytelling of the area’s history), and public art.

Additionally, the NSW Government has announced it is developing a Darling Harbour 2050 Vision to provide a ‘big picture’ for the community, allowing the precinct to evolve over time while keeping its unique, world-famous character.

The Vision is being developed in partnership with the community with over 1,100 participants engaging in an online survey, pop up stalls and focus groups. Emerging themes from these sessions highlight opportunities to connect to the water, a need for more trees as well as greener and open space.

Aboriginal community engagement is currently underway, and the feedback will form an important part of the Vision.

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The Vision will deliver a planning framework to shape it into a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable waterfront precinct. A draft is expected to be exhibited for feedback mid-next year and will reflect the views of the community.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said the NSW Government is focussed on continuing to rejuvenate this iconic part of Sydney’s harbour foreshore, and to drive more housing in well connected locations.

“This major SSD approval will support the Darling Harbour of tomorrow and create hundreds of new homes close to transport and services," Scully said.

“The 2050 Vision will also guide future decision-making and secure Darling Harbour as a world-famous destination for generations to come.”

Next steps for future of Darling Harbour as Mirvac's 50-storey mixed-use development secures approval

Iwan Sunito Unveils Vision for One Global Capital's Future Developments

In a recent interview with Urban.com.au, Mike Bird sat down with Iwan Sunito, the CEO and founder of One Global Capital, to delve into the company's impressive background and its exciting vision for the future.

While One Global Capital may seem like a new player, it's the rebranded face of Crown Group, a family office that has already delivered $4 billion worth of developments.

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Background and Rebranding

Sunito clarified that One Global Capital is the fresh identity chosen to present his family office, formerly known as Crown International Investment. The rebranding, which took place in 2023, aligns with the philosophy of "One Vision, Infinite Possibilities", emphasising the global reach of the company. Sunito highlighted the intention to continue the legacy of successful projects, pushing boundaries in 2023 and beyond.

Upcoming Projects

With an impressive portfolio of almost $1.5 billion worth of developments in planning, One Global Capital is set to make its mark quickly on the Sydney off the plan apartment market. Sunito shared details about two major projects – a $1 billion, 300-apartment development in Macquarie Park and a groundbreaking $1.2 billion project in Chatswood. The latter is expected to be the largest of its kind, featuring an extraordinary design that aligns with One Global Capital's commitment to excellence.

Target Audience and Urban Living Trends

Sunito discussed the evolving trend of urban living, noting that more people are gravitating towards city living. One Global Capital aims to tap into the local and global buyer markets. Sunito explained that they are targeting residents who seek high-rise living with extensive amenities, catering to both local buyers and the influx of migrants contributing to Australia's population growth.

Signature Amenity and Thoughtful Design

A key focus for One Global Capital has always been thoughtful design. Sunito, an architect by background, stressed the importance of creating an experience of space that goes beyond technology and style. He emphasised the need for buildings to be world-class, with an iconic and timeless design. Sunito shared the joy of seeing people positively respond to their buildings, reinforcing the psychological and physiological impact of well-designed structures.

The Future Vision

Looking ahead, Sunito expressed his commitment to pushing the boundaries of design, emphasising that great architecture contributes to a legacy beyond profitability. He highlighted the psychological value of buildings, noting that they should be designed to withstand the test of time and become iconic landmarks.

In closing, Sunito shared his excitement about the future, where One Global Capital is set to go public in the next five years. The company's focus remains on creating a green city for the future, reflecting their passion, purpose, and commitment to being more than just developers.

Stay tuned for One Global Capital's transformative projects, where innovation and care converge to shape the urban landscape.

Michael Bird

Iwan Sunito unveils vision for One Global Capital's future apartment developments

Sydney developer ALAND has announced a partnership with IHG Hotels &amp; Resorts for voco Gosford to be the hotel component of their Gosford apartment development, Archibald by ALAND.

The mixed-use tower named after Archibald Acheson, the second Earl of Gosford, sits on a prime 5,656 sqm site overlooking the Brisbane River and will include 320 apartments, the 130-room lifestyle hotel, and portfolio of&nbsp;hospitality venues and a podium outdoor pool with swim-up bar.

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The design-focused hotel will feature guest rooms of up to 41 sqm and executive suites of up to 54 sqm.

The hospitality offerings extend to a&nbsp;street level pub and pizzeria, a rooftop sky bar and lounge on level 28, a signature restaurant under celebrity chef Dany Karam (former Executive Chef at the award-winning restaurant Black Bar and Grill in Pyrmont), a wellness centre and conference and events facilities.

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Marking IHG’s continued expansion into regional Australia, the hotel will be the second voco in regional NSW.

Andrew Hrsto, ALAND Founder and Director said they are thrilled to be partnering with IHG on the once-in-a-generation development in Gosford – one that will enliven the CBD and take this attractive regional city to the next level.

“Archibald is set to reposition Gosford as a major destination for holidaymakers and corporate hospitality," Hrsto said.

"The voco brand was the perfect fit for what is set to be a vibrant lifestyle destination on the Central Coast, at a time of significant growth and investment in Gosford.

“By integrating the voco brand into our development, residents will benefit from the atmosphere and amenities of a world-class hotel right at their doorstep, creating a cohesive experience of luxury everyday living for anyone who resides at the Archibald or is visiting as a guest.”

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Archibald by ALAND has been popular with downsizers, investors, and local first home buyers due to the&nbsp;attracted by government schemes.

Archibald by ALAND is scheduled for completion in Q3 2024 and will offer unique features and easy access to the region's beaches and amenities.

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ALAND partner with hotel chain voco for Archibald by ALAND, Gosford development

Coronation Property has revealed their first stage of their recently acquired <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/erskineville-nsw">Erskineville</a> block in the growing Ashmore Estate.

Coronation Property, who <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/news/nsw/coronation-property-plan-over-1000-apartments-at-newly-acquired-park-sydney-erskineville-site">18 months ago snared around 50,000 sqm of the Ashmore Estate development</a> from <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/greenland-australia">Greenland Golden Horse</a>, has submitted plans for&nbsp;a collection of buildings with 146 apartments at <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/upsy-erko-155-mitchell-road-erskineville">155 Mitchell Road</a>.

Architecture firm Silvester Fuller won the City of Sydney Design Competition over submissions by FJMT and <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/architects/mhn-design-union">MHNDU</a> who supplied a plan jointly with Archer Office.

The brief by the City of Sydney panel was to "develop a superior residential development outcome for the site that reinforces the desired neighbourhood character of Ashmore and <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/erskineville-nsw">Erskineville</a>."

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The plans by Silvester Fuller were selected by the expert panel as part of the City of Sydney Design Competition, a mandatory part of the planning process for developments of this scale. The panel suggested the scheme by&nbsp;Silvester Fuller offers a unique built form that is the most compliant with the Stage 1 Concept envelope.

"The proposed scale and form are highly responsive to the surrounding existing and future development and presents a strong relationship between the park, the street and the through-site link. The internal planning is considered excellent and highly successful.

"The Silvester Fuller submission included excellent floorplate planning, rigorous apartment layout, three core arrangement with two lifts per core, generous entry lobbies and arrival areas within the apartments which made it stand out from the other submissions. The building separation relationship with the western neighbour is also a positive."

<a data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e157a428-dfdb-463e-be39-89b2d3616b2a" href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/upsy-erko-155-mitchell-road-erskineville"><a data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e157a428-dfdb-463e-be39-89b2d3616b2a" href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/155-mitchell-road-erskineville"><img alt="Upsy Erko" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e157a428-dfdb-463e-be39-89b2d3616b2a" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-12-03%20at%207.32.45%20pm.png?VersionId=3eUaozKYdE5_fkhPyHjIpcHbIoYl96iR" /></a></a>

The buildings will have 146 apartments, from studios to a single four-bedroom apartment. The majority of apartments are two and three-beds, a large portion of which have an additional study room.

Given strict planning laws don't allow for street-level activation like cafes, Silvester Fuller created apartments which present more as terrace homes. They have two or three-bedrooms, the third bedroom access through sliding doors on the main living area.

Their designs also incorporated a striking pitched roof above the "roof apartments", which are the largest in the development. They have between 110 sqm and 143 of internal living area and a further 66 sqm plus of balconies and wrap around terraces.

Despite no ground-level retail, Silvester Fuller has planned a communal "pavilion in the park", a multi-purpose, bookable room within the garden. There's also further private residential amenity in the form of a rooftop garden in the northern building wing with views of the city.&nbsp;

"This garden has been designed as a collection of outdoor rooms enabling multiple groups and individuals the opportunity to find and occupy their own space," Silvester Fuller noted in their Design Statement.

"The rooftop garden being open to sky with excellent solar access contrasts with the more protected ground plane providing a variety of outdoor spaces suitable for different times throughout the day and seasons all year round."

<a data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="934503f8-c7ee-49ed-9baf-77b7bec3ab4d" href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/upsy-erko-155-mitchell-road-erskineville"><a data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="934503f8-c7ee-49ed-9baf-77b7bec3ab4d" href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/155-mitchell-road-erskineville"><img alt="Upsy Erko" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="934503f8-c7ee-49ed-9baf-77b7bec3ab4d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-12-03%20at%207.44.16%20pm.png?VersionId=lQK5WLlz2XBHIFVIOLdj8B9d1NmUH4cK" /></a></a>

Silvester Fuller said the vision for <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/upsy-erko-155-mitchell-road-erskineville">the project</a> is to reflect the uniqueness and capture the spirit of <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/erskineville-nsw">Erskineville</a>.

"Located on the edge of McPherson Park within the Inner West Sydney suburb of <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/erskineville-nsw">Erskineville</a>, this neighbourhood is unique. Not as serious as the East, quirkier than the beaches, not as straight as the North shore and certainly edgier than the West.

"<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/upsy-erko-155-mitchell-road-erskineville">The project</a>&nbsp;aims to capture the spirit of this place, the greater neighbourhood and the specific qualities offered by the site itself - fun and joyful - reflecting the anticipated play and recreation offered by the park adjacent.

"Much like the location itself, our vision for the project&nbsp;is to foster a community of multi-cultural, multi-generational occupants and provide moments of joy and delight for all those who pass her by

"<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/upsy-erko-155-mitchell-road-erskineville">The project</a> balances the playful and the pragmatic, the whimsical and the whacky, wrapped in an overall concept focused on creating uplifting spaces to be in and around - a building to make you smile."

The frontage to the new park is direct, with no road between the building and the green.

<a data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a01ddc9c-d307-4fca-a584-fd1e8f13d3f3" href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/155-mitchell-road-erskineville"><img alt="Upsy Erko" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a01ddc9c-d307-4fca-a584-fd1e8f13d3f3" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-12-03%20at%207.32.31%20pm.png?VersionId=bFqOm9vU1rnlrn8yAhvuww2DCcm5vfBK" /></a>

"This presents an opportunity for a closer relationship between the apartment interiors and the park beyond - the building skin able to open freely with reduced acoustic and pollutant pressures"."

"The architectural tones serve as a backdrop to the soft landscape of the park, sending forward the curated collection of native flora. The home types within <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/upsy-erko-155-mitchell-road-erskineville">the project</a> are focused around family life, with families coming in a variety of shapes and sizes. From people living alone with occasional guests through to larger families full of children and pets, there is a diversity of apartments and town houses to call home - a home for everyone in <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/upsy-erko-155-mitchell-road-erskineville">the project</a>."

There are sustainable elements&nbsp;including double glazing, rainwater capture and re-use, rooftop solar panels and natural ventilation.

"Our vision is the creation of a new building that makes a positive contribution to its neighbourhood and extends the ecological systems of the masterplan by creating healthy new homes, energising the public realm and supporting a culture of a creative and cohesive residential community."

The Ashmore Estate is the largest precinct identified for urban renewal within the City of Sydney Local Government Area and historically comprised large warehouse buildings. The redevelopment of the Ashmore Estate is a staged development resulting in approximately 1,400 new dwellings, new retail floor space and public domain works.

Ashmore Estate will accommodate around 6,000 residents as development is staged over 10 years.

First look Urban reveal: Coronation Property's plans for Erskineville's Ashmore Estate

While the majority of the first wave of buyers in Aqualand's game changing North Sydney landmark AURA by Aqualand were downsizers, now completion is drawing near, young families are starting to emerge as one of the dominant buyer groups.

The location of AURA by Aqualand, in the heart of North Sydney on Walker Street, puts future residents within close proximity to a number of private schools, as well as the selective public school catchment area for North Sydney.

Directly behind AURA by Aqualand is&nbsp;Wenona School, an independent, secular day and boarding school for girls, offering junior and middle school through to college.

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There are plans by Reddam House, one of the top five private schools in New South Wales, to open a new facility in North Sydney, across the road from AURA in the Harry Seidler-designed Simsmetal House at 41 Mclaren Street.

Reddam House has long been one of the most exclusive schools in Sydney. The co-ed, non-denominational school caters for toddlers through to year 12. It's been run by Inspired Education Group since 2019. The only other locations are in the affluent suburbs of Woollahra and Bondi.

Reddam would become one of at least three&nbsp;co-educational private high schools on the north shore after Marist College started admitting girls last year.

Monte Sant' Angelo Mercy College is another independent girls' school, only five minutes from AURA by Aqualand. Monte is the oldest independent girls' school on Sydney's North Shore. It is a Roman Catholic single-sex secondary day school for girls years 7-12 founded by Sisters of Mercy in 1875.&nbsp;

Two academically selective secondary day schools nearby are the government-funded North Sydney Boys High School and North Sydney Girls High School, known for their rigorous admissions process and academic excellence. The school emphasises a holistic education approach, fostering intellectual and personal development. Its proximity to AURA makes it a practical choice for families seeking free quality education without a lengthy commute.

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Other nearby schools less than two kilometres from the property are the North Sydney Girls and Boys Public School, St Thomas North Sydney Preschool, TrEd College and ANZAC Park Public School. There's the Cameragai Montessori Preschool, part of the highly rated Montessori group of preschools, St Mary's Catholic Primary School, and the&nbsp;Australian Catholic University, North Sydney Campus.

The future Victoria Cross Station, which will be open in 2024, will provide easy access to Sydney's extensive university network like the University of Technology Sydney, University of New South Wales, and The University of Sydney.

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While schooling is the top priority for parents when looking for somewhere new to live, there's a number of other reasons families are being drawn to AURA by Aqualand.

Generally when buying a residence on the fringe of a business and transport precinct, buyers have to trade in the suburban lifestyle, but not at AURA by Aqualand.

The project is strategically located at the end of Walker Street, just a few hundred metres from St Leonards Park, a go-to for families on weekends.

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The 15-hectare park has a custom kids playground, barbecue areas and large expanses of open lawn space perfect for children. The park is also home to the famous North Sydney Oval, the Bon Andrews Oval and Cunningham Pavilion, as well as netball courts, cricket nets, and bowling greens. The North Sydney Oval complex also homes commercial and retail outlets, as well as a childcare centre.

Less than a 20-minute walk from the front doors of AURA by Aqualand is also Forsyth Park and Anderson Park, the latter not far from Neutral Bay village.

Not only is AURA by Aqualand ideally located for parents with education and parks on the doorstep, the size of the apartments are also why parents are so keen on low-maintenance apartment living.

AURA's oversized apartments exceed the North Sydney Council's minimum building requirements by a large margin.&nbsp;

The standard size for a two-bedroom apartment in the area is 80 sqm, with AURA’s measuring 95 sqm, plus a wintergarden, making them well over 100 sqm in total.

AURA’s design was revised three times to increase the size of the apartments, with the initial plan decreasing from 448 residences to 386.

A number of the apartments include a multi-purpose room, which can be set up as a media room, home office, or a kids living room and homework space.

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Yet another motivation for parents is the onsite amenity within the building. AURA by Aqualand will feature an indoor swimming pool and a sky deck with barbecue space and sweeping views over the whole of Sydney.

For busy parents, there's also a gym fitted with equipment from leading fitness brand Technogym.&nbsp; The ground level of the building will home to an exciting retail precinct with a providore, bakery, café and wine bar, an all-day diner and a contemporary Japanese restaurant.

Construction at AURA by Aqualand is advancing quickly, with the external building structure now finished. The grounds works for the retail precinct has started. Aqualand is expecting residents to be moving into their apartments by mid-2024.

AURA by Aqualand represents the fifth residential project delivered by Aqualand since the company’s launch in 2014.

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Why AURA by Aqualand is attracting the family buyer

Since the completion of its first stage, Sekisui House Australia's Sanctuary has become a focal point of Wentworth Point.&nbsp;

Sekisui recently introduced its third development stage, Willow, three architecturally-striking buildings comprising 323 apartments bordering the open expanse of Newington.

Perfectly positioned at the geographical heart of Sydney, Sanctuary's residents will significantly benefit from Wentworth Point's regeneration, with massive investment in transport, infrastructure, schools, shopping and retail, plus a new marina.&nbsp;

Sanctuary is easily connected to the rest of Sydney by an ever-expanding network of roads, ferries, buses, trains, approved future Parramatta light rail and Bennelong Bridge nearby.

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The Sydney RiverCat and Sydney Olympic Park Ferry Wharf, two minutes away, put Parramatta, Abbotsford, Chiswick and Circular Quay just a short boat ride from Sanctuary.&nbsp;

Whether residents work locally or further afield, Sanctuary's location takes the stress and time out of the daily commute, being near robust transport infrastructure and just 15 minutes from the Sydney CBD.

Offering multiple opportunities to enjoy life, Sanctuary has resort-style facilities that residents can use, as well as, all of the Sydney Olympic Park facilities on their doorstep.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6969 project_image_fid=228561]

Neighbouring Sydney Olympic Park is the heart of Sydney's sports and recreation zone and hosts major sporting facilities, world-class events, and cultural attractions.

Set amongst 47.77 hectares of nature reserve and surrounded by the Parramatta River, residents will be spoilt for outdoor leisure and water sports.&nbsp;

Wide, green open spaces in Blaxland Riverside Park and Adventure Playground are great for picnics with kids and pets, while the 45-kilometre bike path surrounding Sydney Olympic Park gives ample cycling and walking exercise.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6969 project_image_fid=228641]

Sanctuary residents will also benefit from the proximity to shopping precincts, amenities, entertainment and city conveniences, including cinemas, restaurants, and supermarkets in the neighbouring suburbs.

Wentworth Point's Retail and Dining offering has grown with Pierside Shopping Centre servicing the locals' everyday needs with IGA Supermarket, cafes, restaurants and services.

Families can enjoy proximity to various public and private schools, including Newington College, Concord High School, Marsden High School, and the new Wentworth Point Public School, only a two-minute walk from Sanctuary. Macquarie University is also just an easy 20-minute drive from the property.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=6969]

Urban Editorial

Sanctuary Wentworth Point: The focal point in Sydney's geographical harbourside heart

Construction is underway on Newcastle's latest residential development, ONE Apartments.&nbsp;

Their inhouse construction team, GWH Build, is handling construction of the two-tower development of just under 200 one, two and three-bedroom apartments.

The demolition of the existing site concluded late last year, paving the way for structural piling and inground work, which commenced early this year.

ONE Apartments, designed by global architects Marchese Partners and local firm CKDS, will feature one of GWH's signature inclusions, two all-weather rooftop entertaining areas overlooking 360-degree views of Newcastle.&nbsp;

<img alt="ONE Apartments" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c6395f94-2e44-49bd-9741-82bbc372a497" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-11-30%20at%208.25.38%20pm.png?VersionId=8mlhbF7BTeab36M2cY_VB8wzGkwvQqVq" />

Among the additional amenities are an outdoor heated pool, cinema, gymnasium, steam room, and several smaller private communal spaces available for bookings.

GWH officially launched ONE Apartments to the market in mid-June 2022.

The project attracted a strong interest from the outset, particularly among purchasers from other GWH developments. This has resulted in over one-third of Stage One being sold within the first eight weeks on the market.

"Currently, we're over 50 per cent sold in Stage One and all of our one-bedroom apartments are sold out which shows so much confidence in the market at the moment in Newcastle City, especially off-the-plan," said GWH/RE Licensee in Charge - Peter Kunov.

"Our enquiry rate every week seems to grow despite the current market and the confidence in the off-the-plan sales for both downsizers and investors and first home buyers is really strong."

<img alt="ONE Newcastle" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a8ed6fa4-7fc9-44d2-a464-860c1ea6cd4c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-11-30%20at%208.25.24%20pm.png?VersionId=16XvQUSVLNNHTTbqneJOuEUyT6bGkoUY" />

ONE is located in the centre of Newcastle, just steps away from the Interchange, Marketown Shopping Centre and Newcastle’s famous walking tracks and trails.

The development is slated for completion in October 2025.

Newcastle's One Apartments over 50% sold as construction continues

Resident amenity is everything nowadays in the off the plan apartment space.

Longtime Bondi Junction developer Stargate Property knew they had to push the envelope on amenity in their newest apartment development, The Centennial Collection, given their goal to reset the benchmark for prices in the area next door to Centennial Park.

As well as offering premium, house-sized apartments with fittings and finishes which the location hasn't seen before, they've matched that with a premium level of amenity which is expected in a development of this calibre. They've arguably gone past expectation in some of the facilities in the building.

While one often overlooked, Stargate placed a focus on the first communal space everyone frequents daily, the lobby. The elegantly-style space, through distinctive curved arches by architect SJB, is home to the full-service concierge, as well as a delivery room tucked away for cold and dry goods.

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While swimming pools are fairly standard in modern day apartment developments, there's nothing standard about what Stargate are offering Centennial Collection residents.

They've dedicated the top level of one of the two 10-level buildings to a rooftop swimming pool and terrace, with&nbsp;sweeping views extending all the way over the Sydney skyline to the harbour. Native gardens landscaped by Black Beetle envelop the space.

Not many, if any buildings in the immediate area have their swimming pools located on the roof.

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Not content with just the one swimming pool, Stargate had the understanding that a rooftop pool can't be used all year round, so they had SJB create what they're calling a "winter pool", which runs alongside one of the buildings. The pool is inspired by the rockpools which are dotted up and down Sydney's eastern beaches.

Shaded from the elements, the expectation is this pool will be used in the colder months, as well as the summer months depending when El Niño decides to rear its ugly head.

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Then they've got not just a gym, but a state of the art fitness studio with cardio and personal training areas.

Of course there's the extensive amenity outside of The Centennial Collection. You'd be hard pressed to find another new off the plan apartment development with the abundance of cafes options The Centennial Collection has, in every direction.

Heading into Bondi Junction of course there's a limitless supply of cafes, bars and restaurants, while Centennial Park's Centennial Homestead is one Sydney's best park cafe, bar and restaurant all rolled into one. Neighbouring The Centennial Collection is Woollahra, and its litany of cafes and boutiques which make it one of the most sought-after suburbs in the country.

Stargate are set to bring the cafe culture as close to future residents as they possible can, on the ground floor of the building.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136076 project_image_fid=212624]

Comprising 70 apartments across two 10-level buildings, The Centennial Collection is situated just four kilometres from Sydney CBD. Prices range from $1.45 million for one-bedroom apartments to $5,625,000 million for three-bedroom units.

The project is crowned with two penthouses, featuring private rooftop terraces with swimming pools overlooking harbour views.

Located at an iconic gateway overlooking Centennial Park and a short walk to Woollahra’s Queen Street, The Centennial Collection offers an enviable lifestyle with the East’s renowned restaurants, wine bars, shopping, and schools at its doorstep.

Construction has commenced on The Centennial Collection, with completion slated for late 2025. Ray White Projects are marketing the development.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=136076]

Centennial Park's most impressive new development: Inside the resident amenity at The Centennial Collection

Reform Projects has successfully delivered a boutique collection of oceanfront residences in one of the last development sites along the Manly beachfront.

The project of just six three and four-bedroom apartments is located at 138-139 North Steyne, at the quiet northern end of Manly Beach.

They were designed by Rob Mills Architecture and Interiors to take in as much of the ocean as possible, with a focus on indoor-outdoor living.

The heart of the home is the open plan kitchen living and dining area, which meets the balcony with uninterrupted, never to be built out views of the water.

<img alt="Ondas" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="681a8e22-4126-4cb9-927a-8044c0a17056" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-11-30%20at%2012.08.02%20pm.png?VersionId=R0ZtBlaVEmZMHqxamBUbKYirTAjfE0L8" />

On the ground floor, a 500 sqm full-floor apartment is framed by lush gardens and a wrap-around courtyard.

Generous three-bedroom apartments with expansive balconies offering uninterrupted ocean views sit on the second and third floors. Finally, an opulent full-floor penthouse tops the entire building.

The spacious living and dining areas invite residents and guests to enjoy an afternoon of entertainment and relaxation inside—wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling windows frame the view outside.

In the heart of the home, the sleek and stylish kitchen can cater to every culinary whim. Entertaining friends is easy with help from the best in Gaggenau, Miele, and Sub-Zero appliances.

<img alt="Ondas" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cbad0b26-a0ff-4f28-a58f-1f9ef5f08f3c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-11-30%20at%2012.08.13%20pm.png?VersionId=.u_gnPAkcbL53RLvBkSVZQnzzeYmUUpr" />

Every morning, seemingly endless ocean views greet the residents as they wake up in their bespoke master bedrooms.

Bathed in natural light and finished with smooth stone and marble, each bathroom is a private and luxurious space to start and end the day.

The facade of the building features a geometrical style of soft curves and bold edges in a neutral colour with cascading greenery from the balconies—all a tribute to North Steyne waves, sand, and parks.

Living on the beach in Manly feels a world away from the bustle of Sydney's CBD, but residents are just a short ferry ride from the inner-city amenities of the harbour city.

The newly completed $11 million Ondas is now ready for move-in. Only two remaining apartments are still available, which are being marketed through CBRE.

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