Why Sydney buyers are rushing to the Hills’ newest release

1 month ago 9

Sydney’s Hills District is fast emerging as a buyer hot spot.

Realestate.com.au data shows Sydney dwelling prices have risen around 3–5% in the past year, while buyer interest in Norwest has surged 15% year-on-year on realestate.com.au searches (September 2025).

It’s a clear sign of demand outpacing the city average.

With the Sydney Metro now running every four minutes, plus thriving retail and business hubs, Norwest is delivering the space and lifestyle buyers want - without giving up city connectivity.

At the centre of this momentum is Zeste — the final chance to secure a brand-new apartment in The Orchards.

Unlike projects still in progress, Zeste offers oversized homes, resort-style amenities and a ready-made community from day one.

Zeste is the final release in Sekisui House's masterplanned The Orchards community.


Why Norwest is fast becoming the Hills District’s lifestyle capital

Norwest, part of the vibrant Hills District, is quickly emerging as a growth hub attracting Sydney buyers. 

Positioned 30km northwest of Sydney's CBD, this area offers everything buyers are looking for — from modern homes to retail and employment centres. 

But it is the excellent connectivity to transport that cements its desirability, according to David Lee, Sales Manager at Sekisui House.

"Now that the Sydney Metro has actually opened, it's really created access to the city," he says. 

"Commuters can live in a place that's part of the Hills, adjoining a world-renowned golf club, and still be at Martin Place within 40 to 45 minutes with a metro every four minutes." 

The area has plenty of amenities, from schools to shopping centres, parks, and activity centres.

Plus, Norwest Marketown is located centrally, offering supermarkets, restaurants, and retail options, meaning residents have everything at their doorstep.

At the heart of Norwest, the final stage release of The Orchards Masterplan, Zeste represents the last chance for buyers to get into the heart of this community and the luxury offering is turning heads, says Mr Lee.

Zeste offers elevated living in the heart of one of Sydney's most vibrant growth hubs.


Inside Zeste: elevated apartment living with space to grow

Designed by the renowned architect Rothelowman, Zeste epitomises luxury living with sizeable layouts and meticulous attention to detail.

"It's to be delivered or constructed over two buildings," explains Mr Lee.

“There'll be a very diverse mix of apartment choices, ranging from one-bedroom to four-bedroom options to cater to the diverse demographic that we see in the area."

The one- to four-bedroom apartments are beautifully designed, with many incorporating flexible rooms.

Mr Lee mentioned that the 40 two-bedroom Breezeway Sky Homes offer a unique approach to apartment living.

"The new 'breezeway apartments' feature an open breezeway rather than a traditional enclosed lobby, allowing residents to step directly into the outdoors," Mr Lee explains.

The homes are north facing with large kitchens, various storage spaces, study alcoves, and much more, specifically tailored to downsizers who "want to sell the family home but don't want to live in something small," Mr Lee explains.

"They want that room so the grandkids can come stay, but it's easier to maintain," he shares.

He adds that all the residences at Zeste are above average in size, with units averaging around 102sqm compared to previous stages' 90sqm.

This is unique to the release to appeal to owner-occupiers.

Open-air breezeways are a unique feature of Zeste's exclusive Sky Homes.


From Sky Homes to resort-style pools: the features driving buyer buzz

Zeste residents will have access to a suite of resort-style amenities, rarely outclassed in luxury. 

Some of the features include an outdoor pool with BBQ and dining areas, and an exclusive Communal Building within the internal courtyard.

The Communal Building offers living, dining, and kitchen areas perfect for entertaining, as well as a quiet study area and meeting room — all exclusive to Zeste residents.

"We've included a lagoon pool as a community facility, featuring cabanas and outdoor barbecue areas," Mr Lee says.

"This is part of the Master Plan Committee's vision for the project to make it feel special."

Beyond these exclusive facilities, residents also have access to The Orchards' broader precinct amenities, including additional pools, landscaped gardens, and communal spaces that enhance everyday living. 

"The development is surrounded by open green spaces, recreational parks, stunning landscaping, providing a direct connection to nature, with a creek running through," says Mr Lee.

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