Vertical forests: 5 apartments that prove you don’t have to give up a garden

Over recent months, biophilic design has become a buzzword in architecture spaces. It refers to buildings that bring humans and nature together, and has been credited with everything from improving physical health to reducing energy usage. 

As high house prices push more Australians into apartment living, those who dread giving up their garden will be relieved to know that vertical gardens are becoming increasingly common. 

Here are 5 units currently for sale in Australia that don’t compromise on greenery. 

Under Contract

3208/1 Carlton Street, Chippendale NSW 2008

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Set in the heart of Chippendale, One Central Park is Sydney’s first and most iconic green skyscraper. 

Now, one of the building’s luxurious penthouses is for sale, offering expansive views of the city skyline. 

Vertical gardens on the outside walls come with vines, hedges, lawns, and even full-grown trees suspended 117 metres in the sky. 

$1,135,000

4806/60 Southbank Boulevard, Southbank VIC 3006

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STH BNK by Beulah isn’t fully built yet, but when the building is completed it will be the tallest building in Australia. 

The building aims to be a 365-metre-tall urban forest, with a balcony garden on every single level. 

Rainforest plants will be placed at the lower levels, while robust mountain and coastal plants will be placed higher up where conditions are tougher. 

$400,000 - $440,000

6/89 Roden Street, West Melbourne VIC 3003

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In West Melbourne, a one-bedroom biophilic apartment could be yours for just $400,000. 

The low-rise apartment block has lush planting on the exterior walls, and inside is a courtyard with a miniature bamboo forest. 

The one-bedroom unit is compact, but it comes with everything you need, including built-in-wardrobes and an in-unit laundry – no need to lug your washing basket downstairs. 

1 Bed 1 Bath

9-A302/21 Canberra Avenue, St Leonards NSW 2065

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St Leonards, on Sydney’s Lower North Shore, is a densely built-up area, but residents will soon have a private oasis in the heart of Sydney. 

This development is set to be completed in 2026, and will have several rooftop gardens, balcony planting, and a pool surrounded by waving palm trees. 

Inside, all the rooms have generous windows to make the most of the leafy views over surrounding parkland. 

$800,000

604/272 Normanby Road, South Melbourne VIC 3205

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When first glancing out the window at The Canopy in South Melbourne, you would never guess you were in an apartment. 

The building, scheduled for an early 2026 completion, is a celebration of native flora with abundant balcony planting, a rooftop lawn space, and an open-air jacuzzi with skyline views surrounded by native grasses. 

Apartments in the 20-floor building will start from $560,000 for a one-bedroom unit.