Sekisui House opens Zeste Sky Homes prototype at The Orchards

Sekisui House Australia has opened a full-scale Sky Homes prototype apartment at Zeste, the final residential release within The Orchards masterplan in Norwest, as buyer demand for oversized apartment living continues to grow across Sydney's Hills District. 

The prototype offers buyers a physical look at the oversized layouts and finishes ahead of completion.

“It was evident from the preceding four stages at The Orchards that a large number of buyers were local owner occupiers or downsizers specifically looking for oversized apartments with additional living spaces," said sales manager of apartment & mixed-use developments at Sekisui House Australia, David Lee.

“The majority of buyers prefer to touch, feel and physically sight a full-scale completed apartment, rather than imagining the living spaces from floor plans. 

"The prototype apartment provides greater clarity and buyer confidence. 

"We expect this will increase sales momentum for Zeste and the Sky Homes in particular.”

Positioned within Stage 5’s Zeste project, the Sky Homes form part of the final opportunity to purchase within the award-winning master-planned community, which will ultimately deliver approximately 1,300 apartments.

Designed by Rothelowman, Zeste comprises two residential buildings, Essence and Eden, providing 209 apartments surrounded by extensive landscaping, resort-style amenities and community spaces.

“Zeste explores a reinvention of the traditional house, in the orchard, synthesising the nostalgic story of the orchard homestead of yesteryear with a contemporary aesthetic inspired by the landscape," said principal at Rothelowman, Ben Pomroy.

“Natural light and ventilation are key to the design, contributing to a higher quality of life at the human scale. 

"Across all Rothelowman projects, our ethos of ‘a generous eye for life’ drives our consideration of the human experience as the central point of focus of our design process.”

Ben said the interior design at Zeste will incorporate glass.

“A notable design element is the cathedral glass light boxes incorporated in the joinery, inspired by the idea of wandering the orchard homestead with a lantern in hand, something familiar and nostalgic. 

"We took this narrative and gave it a contemporary twist that is both beautiful and functional, creating unique features that unify the kitchen and bathrooms design.”

In addition to the two residential buildings, Zeste comprises a single-story community amenity pavilion nestled in the landscape between Essence and Eden. 

“The communal pavilion is a distinctive feature designed to foster a deep sense of community, with nature at its heart," said Ben.

"Whether it is watching the football grand final or hosting a family BBQ, the pavilion is designed as a place where residents can create memorable moments with friends, family and neighbours."

Since launching Essence, the first building within Zeste, buyer demand has remained strong with more than 30% of residences already sold. Sky Homes have accounted for nearly 40% of all sales achieved since launch.

“Purchasers are responding positively to the oversized layouts, diverse apartment configurations and the vast range of community facilities that will be available at completion,” said David.

Management consultant James Villegas and his wife Olga Korneiko, a former economics lecturer and professional tour guide, currently reside in The Orchards and purchased a Sky Home in Zeste.

“We were drawn to the spaciousness of Norwest and infrastructure already in place, particularly the proximity to the metro, which enables easy access to the city while avoiding the congestion many Sydney suburbs experience,” said James.

“The Orchards offers an affluent demographic coupled with a strong community atmosphere. 

"Sekisui House Australia’s reputation as a sound and well-established property developer made for a comfortable decision to purchase.”

“Zeste offers a level of innovation we have not experienced before in a modern apartment," said Olga.  

"The kitchen and bathroom finishes are exceptional, and it is obvious a lot of thought has gone into the design.

“The shared spaces, pools, gyms and communal gardens create a tranquil and peaceful way of life.

"We are looking forward to enjoying a well-equipped apartment within a great community.”

Zeste Sky Homes represent approximately 35% of the entire Stage 5 offering and are available across both Essence and the yet-to-launch Eden building. 

Select residences also feature integrated ‘Max’ spaces, designed to function as flexible areas for home offices, children’s playrooms or additional storage.

Zeste also continues Sekisui House Australia’s sustainability partnership with Altogether Group, delivering integrated water, power and data services alongside passive design initiatives including cross-ventilation, landscaping and water features.

Early purchasers are currently able to access a selection of premium upgrade options, with VIP buyers receiving one complimentary upgrade package. 

A 2.5% deposit is available for a short time.

Located at 27–29 Spurway Drive, Norwest, pre-construction has started with completion anticipated early 2028.

For more off-the-plan property news, click here.