Coronation progresses pivotal build-to-rent community in St Leonards

MEDIA RELEASE

St Leonards 10 December, 2025 – Coronation Property (‘Coronation’) has lodged plans for a 36-storey build-to-rent (‘BTR’) community now on public exhibition. Located at 46–52 Nicholson Street and 59–67 Christie Street in St Leonards, the project marks Coronation’s second North Shore development, following the recent State Significant approval of Archer & Albert in Chatswood.

The proposal is designed to support the transition of St Leonards from a commercial precinct into a thriving residential neighbourhood. Early works are already underway, with main works approval anticipated by mid-2026 and completion targeted for 2028. The project will contribute to the NSW Government’s housing supply goals, delivering 541 high-quality apartments with extensive amenities and public benefits.

“We are proud to deliver this landmark project that will turn an underperforming commercial site into a thriving residential community,” said Joe Nahas, Managing Director of Coronation Property. “This development will bring new life to St Leonards by offering quality homes, improved public space and a strong sense of place.”

Cox Architecture has led the design of the development, including both the building and interiors, with landscaping by 360 Degrees. The architectural expression draws on both metropolitan and local cues, combining vertical articulation, deeply recessed balconies and a finely detailed podium. Positioned along the ridgeline, the tower captures expansive views of Sydney Harbour and the CBD, offering a rare and elevated outlook within the BTR market.

“Placemaking and resident experience are central to our Nation communities,” said Charlotte Dillon, General Manager of Nation, Coronation’s BTR platform and Australia’s leading BTR operator. “As the future operator, we’re focused on creating places where residents feel genuinely connected. From the rooftop amenity to the day-to-day functionality of our apartments, everything has been considered to elevate the living experience.”

Nation will manage and operate the development within its growing portfolio pipeline of more than 5,000 BTR apartments. Following the successful leasing of Charlie Parker (Nation Parramatta) and Mason & Main (Nation Merrylands), Nation continues to deliver stable, high-quality communities backed by integrated design, development and management.

Sustainability is a core focus of the proposal, with an all-electric building strategy, on-site renewables and a strong emphasis on ESD principles. The development is situated within the state’s Transport Oriented Development precinct and is a short walk to both St Leonards Train Station and the new Crows Nest Metro.

Public realm upgrades include a new plaza, widened footpaths and significant landscaping improvements that will enhance the pedestrian experience and connect key parts of the precinct. These interventions will help shift St Leonards towards a more human-scale, community-oriented future.

“This project strengthens the precinct’s long-term potential by responding to how people want to live and move through their neighbourhood,” said Aras Labutis, Head of Urban Transformations at Coronation Property. “We’re focused on enhancing local identity, improving connectivity and supporting the shift from a commercial centre into a more liveable, human-scale neighbourhood.”

This St Leonards proposal reflects Coronation’s commitment to design excellence, sustainability and creating enduring communities. Through the combined efforts of Coronation and Nation, the project will help reshape St Leonards into a liveable, connected and highly functional residential precinct.

ENDS