Wooden Co-Living Apartments to Be Developed Near Sydney to Minimize Environmental Impact

Development of Wooden Co-Living Apartments Near Sydney

Overview

Sumitomo Forestry, a leading company in timber and construction, has announced a significant development in the co-living housing sector. In collaboration with Cedar Pacific, they will construct a nine-story wooden apartment complex in Wolli Creek, an area in close proximity to Sydney. This innovative project aims to address the housing crisis while emphasizing environmental sustainability.

Project Details

Scheduled to break ground in June 2026 and open for rentals in October 2027, the complex will consist of 217 studio units, primarily targeting young professionals, students, and expatriates. Each unit will feature private kitchens and bathrooms, promoting a blend of privacy and communal living. Notably, the integration of mass timber construction will constitute a significant portion of the building, enhancing its environmental credentials.

Location and Accessibility

Located approximately 8 km southwest of the Sydney Central Business District (CBD), the Wolli Creek apartments will offer unparalleled access to public transportation, with a direct connection to Wolli Creek Station. Residents will be just one stop away from Sydney Airport and three stops from the CBD, making it an ideal location for both commuters and travelers. Furthermore, major highways are within a short drive, reinforcing the project's strategic positioning.

Environmental Considerations

The project will incorporate reinforced concrete (RC) for the basement and ground floors, while the upper levels will utilize mass timber. This choice aims to significantly reduce embodied carbon emissions by about 30% compared to traditional concrete construction. Furthermore, the use of approximately 1,800 m³ of timber is expected to sequester around 1,500 tons of CO2, reinforcing the project’s commitment to minimizing its ecological footprint.

Addressing Housing Shortages

Australia's ongoing housing crisis, particularly in Sydney where property prices have surged, has resulted in decreased affordability for younger generations and single professionals. Co-living spaces, characterized by their smaller, furnished private units complemented by extensive shared amenities, are increasingly viewed as a viable solution for those struggling to secure affordable housing.

Collaborative Efforts

Sumitomo Forestry Australia Pty Ltd (SFAU) is funding this project through a 100% subsidiary established to collaborate with Cedar Pacific and several international institutional investors. This initiative follows a similar partnership in Brisbane, where they are developing a 31-story build-to-rent property.

Future Outlook

Sumitomo Forestry Group aims to confront the pressing housing shortages in Australia actively while enhancing housing affordability. This project aligns with the company’s long-term vision, "Mission TREEING 2030," intended to bolster CO2 absorption through sustainable forestry management and the promotion of wooden architecture.

Summary

The Wolli Creek Co-Living Project represents a forward-thinking response to urban housing challenges in Australia. With its focus on sustainability, convenience, and community, this development stands to benefit not just residents but the environment as well, illustrating the potential of mass timber in modern construction. As the project materializes, it will be closely watched as a model for future housing developments across Australia.