Freecity has secured development approval for its flagship mixed-use project at 378–398 Pacific Highway, Crows Nest — a transformative 40-storey tower set to become one of Sydney’s most prominent transit-oriented developments.
Lodged as a State Significant Development Application (SSDA), the approval unlocks one of the Lower North Shore’s highest-profile metro-connected opportunities and closely aligns with the NSW government’s Transport Oriented Development (TOD) agenda to deliver new housing in well-connected, high-amenity locations.
Positioned directly opposite the upcoming Crows Nest Metro Station, the $600 million development will blend luxury residential living, premium commercial offices and activated ground-floor retail into one cohesive design aimed at enriching the local community.
The project, designed by COX Architecture, comprises 178 apartments ranging from one-bedroom residences to expansive four-bedroom penthouses, all oriented to maximise sunlight, natural ventilation and sweeping city and harbour views.
From Level 14 upwards, residents will enjoy panoramic vistas stretching from Sydney Harbour and the CBD to Lavender Bay.
Key features include a three-level podium housing high street retail and modern commercial spaces, 140 basement car spaces, 227 bicycle bays, and premium end-of-trip facilities.
Freecity will also dedicate 10 per cent of the residences to affordable housing, contributing to broader state housing goals.
Lawrence Zheng, Co-Founder and Joint CEO of Freecity Group, said: “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.”
The tower’s form reflects an integration of architectural sophistication and sustainability.
Its glass and metal façade will feature vertical fins and warm-toned panels that reference the area’s evolving urban fabric while softening the visual scale.
Energy-efficient glazing, green roof elements, and landscaped podium terraces will enhance thermal performance and visual appeal.
Resident amenities, designed by landscape architects Arcadia, will occupy Level 20, providing a rooftop urban retreat with native landscaping, outdoor dining, viewing terraces and recreation zones designed to foster community connection.
Felipe Miranda, Director at Cox Architecture, said: “Our design approach responds 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.”
Construction is expected to commence in 2026.