Why Good Design Matters For SEPP Seniors Housing

Balancing costs and design

The work we do, right from feasibility and concept through to consultation during construction, is all about balancing cost and design. You aren’t entering into a SEPP Seniors development simply because you enjoy it. You want to make money.

And good design is what will make that happen.

We are highly skilled and experienced at producing spot on cost and feasibility analysis for our clients.

We understand the business of construction and how to come in on budget. But good design is always at the forefront of what we do. You simply can’t have one without the other.

Understanding the market

The SEPP Seniors market – downsizers who want fit for purpose housing alternatives – do care about the homes they are moving into.

It’s likely they are moving from a family home of many years, looking to retain some cash from the sale of that home to support them into their retirement.

These people don’t want to sit between four beige walls for the rest of their lives.

They want a home they can be proud of, just as they were proud of the family home they are leaving. Good design matters to them… and it is something they are prepared to pay for.

Respecting the landscape

When residents discover that a SEPP Seniors living development is going in next to them, their reaction isn’t usually a positive one. They don’t want an ugly development ruining the appeal of their street. Who would?

But good design ensures that developments respect the landscape around them.

It respects the neighbouring houses and in no way detracts from the value of the street. Good design serves to enhance the surrounds – and in doing so removes some of the inevitable objections that will come up.

Higher gross realisation

We are specialists in knowing the highest and best use for a plot of land… partnered with good design, the result is a higher gross realisation for you. Good design sells. We’ve seen it time and time again. This is a booming market and we are at the cutting edge.

We are passionate about seeing well designed alternative living options in the community for seniors.

Our expertise as architects who truly care about the designs we produce and getting outcomes for our clients has seen us become the SEPP Seniors living experts in NSW. We know development. We know construction. And we know design – it’s a triple threat that brings the results.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is SEPP Seniors Housing and how does it influence design quality?

SEPP Seniors Housing is embedded within the NSW Housing SEPP and enables age-appropriate housing through relaxed planning controls. Good design under this policy focuses on accessibility, connectivity, daylight access, and communal amenity—without sacrificing architectural quality.

Why is well-executed design important in seniors housing?

Thoughtful design ensures comfort, accessibility, social interaction, and long-term asset value. Intelligent layouts, natural light, landscaped communal spaces, and independent living zones all contribute to a residents’ wellbeing and operational efficiency.

What design features define high-quality SEPP Seniors developments?

Best-practice elements include accessible unit entries, internal circulation that accommodates mobility devices, flexible layouts, passive environmental design (sunlight and ventilation), shared outdoor spaces, orientation for social interaction, and integration with surrounding context.

How does Playoust Churcher deliver good design for SEPP Seniors projects?

We combine master planning with user-centric layouts, sensitivity to zoning, and collaboration with planning consultants. Our services include feasibility assessments, concept design, detailed documentation, and DA submissions under SEPP provisions that prioritise both compliance and design excellence.

Can SEPP Seniors developments include heritage-sensitive design?

Yes. Where a site exists in a heritage overlay or conservation area, we overlay SEPP provisions with careful architectural solutions that preserve character while introducing modern seniors-friendly features.

Where are SEPP Seniors housing developments most appropriate in Sydney?

We primarily deliver these developments in areas with strong amenity access—such as North Shore suburbs (Ku‑ring‑gai, Willoughby), Northern Beaches, and inner-west locations. These are well-suited for accessible, walkable seniors living models.

Explore our featured SEPP Seniors project examples

How do I start a SEPP Seniors design and planning process?

Schedule a feasibility consultation to evaluate your site’s zoning, amenity access, overlays, and development viability. From there, we propose design options with compliance and quality as dual objectives.

Key Takeaways

Cost and Design Must Work in Harmony

Many SEPP Seniors developments are poorly conceived simply due to prioritizing cost over design. Playoust Churcher emphasizes that good design doesn’t have to be expensive—but balancing cost with quality is essential for creating successful projects.

Market Insight Amplifies Value

The firm combines deep SEPP expertise—including feasibility, design savvy, and construction knowledge—to identify the highest and best use of land. Exceptional design, grounded in market understanding.

Understanding the Downsizer Mindset

Downsizers are typically moving from homes they’re emotionally attached to—they want something just as beautiful and functional. Playoust Churcher’s designs reflect that aspiration, offering homes they can be proud of.

Good Design Respects Context

SEPP developments sometimes trigger pushback from neighbours. A well-conceived design can not only conform, but also elevate the streetscape—enhancing community value rather than detracting from it.

Meet the Author

Brett Churcher

Managing Director & Nominated Architect 
NSW Architect Registration No. 5924

With over 30 years of architectural experience, Brett Churcher leads Playoust Churcher Architects with a rare combination of design expertise and commercial insight. As a registered architect and Managing Director, Brett has played a pivotal role in delivering high-end single residential homes and boutique medium-density developments across Sydney’s North Shore and beyond.

Brett’s unique strength lies in his deep understanding of both architectural design and the Sydney property market. His valuation background enables him to align creative vision with practical feasibility, ensuring each project achieves both aesthetic excellence and financial viability.

At Playoust Churcher, Brett drives the studio’s growth, strategy, and leadership, while remaining closely connected to what matters most: the client. His ability to see the bigger picture from a client’s perspective and to guide projects seamlessly through the design process is at the heart of his role and reputation.