FK has been awarded the contract to design ‘Novus on Victoria,’ a new Build-to-Rent (BTR) tower set to redefine the skyline of Chatswood, Sydney. The project emerged as the winner in a competitive design process and will be located in the heart of Chatswood, a key area in Sydney’s evolving cityscape.

The new development will feature a variety of BTR apartment types above a range of amenities for residents and potential retail or dining options. The design emphasises creating a vertical community that leverages the area’s vibrant atmosphere.

Craig Baudin, a partner at FK, notes, “Novus on Victoria offers a chance to capitalise on Chatswood’s dynamic environment and improve housing availability. Victoria Avenue is one of Sydney’s most bustling streets, well-connected to cultural, educational, and public transport facilities.”

The development will enhance the area with ground and first-floor tenancies dedicated to food and beverage services, complementing the existing lively scene.

Baudin emphasises that Novus on Victoria’s blend of community focus and livability, shaped by its location and design, aims to attract a new generation to the BTR model. “This project exemplifies how we can sustainably evolve our cities while maintaining excellent placemaking and unique residential experiences,” he adds. “We aim to build a highly liveable vertical community in the heart of Chatswood.”

Jason Goldsworthy, Co-Founder and Chief Development Officer of Novus, praises the FK design as a representation of Novus’ unique approach in the BTR sector. “Our goal is to create homes for 10,000 people, focusing on wellbeing, convenience, sustainability, and superior service. The Novus on Victoria design embodies these principles and showcases our mid-scale BTR model.”

Goldsworthy looks forward to collaborating with FK, expressing pride in their joint effort on Novus on Victoria. FK’s design expertise, based on a deep understanding of BTR challenges and success factors, aims to foster a genuine sense of community among residents, promoting loyalty and a true sense of home.

Baudin explains, “Effective BTR developments encourage social interaction by designing amenity spaces and common areas that bring residents together. The ground floor will feature a concierge lobby providing personalized services and parcel stations, while the ‘Wellness Level’ will include a pool, spa, gym, and an outdoor yoga terrace.”

The top floor will house the Sky Lounge and Work Club, offering social spaces and a dedicated area for remote work, enhancing residents’ convenience and productivity.

“These thoughtfully designed amenities foster social connections and a sense of belonging, setting a new standard for BTR projects,” Baudin adds. “Creating a vibrant, connected community is key to a successful BTR experience.”

The apartments are crafted to be flexible and adaptable, allowing residents to tailor their living spaces to their needs.

“Now that the design phase is complete, we will focus on submitting a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for the project,” says Goldsworthy. “With our recent SSDA submission for Novus on Albert, just a short distance away, we are excited to bring our BTR vision to Chatswood at two prime locations.”