Sydney-based property development and construction group Freecity has secured development approval for its landmark mixed-use project at 378-398 Pacific Highway, Crows Nest, paving the way for one of the most prominent metro-adjacent precincts on Sydney’s Lower North Shore.

The project’s State Significant Development Application (SSDA) was endorsed following extensive consultation and is closely aligned with the NSW Government’s Transport Oriented Development (TOD) program to increase housing in highly connected, high amenity locations.

Situated directly opposite the new Crows Nest Metro Station, the proposed 40-storey mixed use tower, designed by COX Architecture, combines premium residential living, vibrant ground-floor retail and modern commercial space. With an estimated end value exceeding $600 million, the development comprises 178 luxury apartments, lifestyle and wellness amenities, a curated retail mix, two levels of commercial offices and basement parking. Aligned with the Government’s broader objectives, Freecity will allocate 10% of the units for affordable housing.

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The Crows Nest high-rise will offer a broad mix of premium dwellings, from well-appointed one-bedroom apartments to expansive four-bedroom penthouses, each designed to maximise natural light, views and overall liveability. From Level 14 upwards, residents will enjoy sweeping outlooks across Sydney Harbour, the CBD and Lavender Bay.

Key highlights of the project include 36 adaptable units to support accessible living needs, a three-level podium with high-street retail and commercial floorspace, as well as 140 car spaces, 227 bicycle spaces and premium end-of-trip facilities. Level 20 will house resident amenities designed by Arcadia, featuring native landscaping, viewing terraces, outdoor dining and recreational areas.

“This approval represents a significant step forward for both Crows Nest and Freecity. We are proud to be delivering a landmark project that brings new homes, new amenity and new economic activity to one of Sydney’s most strategically connected locations,” says Lawrence Zheng, Co-Founder and Joint CEO of Freecity Group.

With a six-billion-dollar pipeline of 12 mixed-use projects, the development reinforces Freecity’s commitment to helping deliver the housing supply and transport-integrated precincts the Government is championing, he adds.

Michael Romano, Executive Director of Development, describes the project as reflective of the future of urban living – design led, highly liveable and seamlessly connected to the city’s major transport, employment and education hubs.

“Being directly opposite the Crows Nest Metro means residents can access the best of Sydney with unrivalled convenience. Our focus is on creating places that genuinely enhance how people live day to day – communities that balance accessibility, amenity and neighbourhood vibrancy,” Romano observes.

Felipe Miranda, Director at Cox Architecture explains their design approach as responding to the evolution of St Leonards and Crows Nest into a dynamic lifestyle precinct.

“The building has been shaped to complement the character of the neighbourhood, contribute positively to the public domain and enhance how people move, meet and live. Our partnership with Freecity is grounded in a shared ambition to elevate design outcomes and rethink conventional approaches, and this project is a clear expression of that collaboration.”

Renders: Supplied

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