Are you a developer or contractor seeking to develop an apartment building in the Sutherland Shire? It can be difficult to ensure that your apartment building design conforms with SEPP 65, and it may consume much of your valuable time. Failure to conform to SEPP 65 regulations could cause a loss of time, costly revisions, or outright rejection by the local council.
At Level Architects, we have over a decade’s worth of experience designing apartments to SEPP 65 regulations for areas such as Cronulla, Miranda, Caringbah, Gymea, and throughout all of Sutherland Shire.
What is SEPP 65?
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SEPP 65, formerly called State Environmental Planning Policy No. 65 – Design Quality of Residential Apartment Development, forms part of Housing SEPP 2021 and is the guiding framework in assessing the design quality of apartments in New South Wales.
It applies to residential flat buildings that have at least three stories and four dwellings. It is complemented by the Apartment Design Guide (ADG), which contains the nine principles of good apartment design: context, form, density, sustainability, landscape, amenity, privacy, safety, and social considerations.
Key requirements include:
- Minimum solar access (at least 2 hours to 70% of apartments in mid-winter)
- Natural cross-ventilation for at least 60% of apartments
- Adequate deep soil zones for landscaping and trees
- Communal open space standards
- Minimum apartment sizes and ceiling heights
- Building separation distances for privacy and light
Meeting these standards isn’t just about ticking boxes – it creates better living environments that attract buyers and tenants, command higher prices, and stand the test of time.
Commitment to exceptional Architectural design + client requirements
At Level Architects, we are deeply dedicated to architectural design and attuned to our customers’ requirements. Our team of building designers, interior designers, and sustainable architects work carefully with you to visualise spaces, even when they seem invisible. We provide guidance, clarify alternatives, and deliver homes that raise your day-to-day
Why SEPP 65 Compliance Matters in Sutherland Shire
The Sutherland Shire Council is stringent with its assessment for the construction of apartments within its Development Control Plan, along with SEPP 65. There are many popular high-density sites, such as Cronulla, Miranda, and Sylvania, that have a high demand for apartments. However, lacklustre designs lead to objections regarding overshadowing, massing, privacy concerns, and insufficient open spaces.
Developers must seek the assistance of architects specialising in SEPP 65 early on. This will allow your idea to be designed in accordance with the relevant regulations.
The Level Architects Advantage
Established in 2012 by registered architect Minoo Samadi (NSW ARB 9617), Level Architects is a boutique studio based in Surry Hills with deep expertise in multi-residential projects across Sydney.
Minoo brings valuable experience from leading firms, including Woods Bagot and TKD Architects, having worked on private residences, retail, and landmark public buildings. This background translates into thoughtful, sustainable apartment designs that balance aesthetics, functionality, and compliance.
Our SEPP 65 apartment design services in Sutherland Shire include:
- Full design development compliant with the Apartment Design Guide
- Comprehensive documentation for Development Applications
- Sustainable material selection and energy-efficient solutions
- 3D visualisations and client collaboration
- Project coordination for smooth delivery
We serve all key suburbs, including Bangor, Caringbah, Engadine, Gymea, Heathcote, Illawong, Jannali, Kareela, Kurnell, Menai, Miranda, Sylvania, Taren Point, and Woolooware.
Ready to Move Forward?
Don’t let SEPP 65 compliance slow down your next apartment development in Sutherland Shire. Partner with Level Architects today for expert guidance, high-quality designs, and successful project delivery.
Contact us now on 02 9389 0095 or visit https://www.levelarchitects.com.au/sepp-65-apartment-design-architects-sutherland-shire/ to discuss your project.
Level Architects – Turning your apartment vision into an approved, marketable reality.
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