Logo
Sign Up
Surfing on WA’s new wave of urban excellence with Willing Property

Surfing on WA’s new wave of urban excellence with Willing Property

Perth has long been defined by its vastness. Stretching along Western Australia’s coastline, it’s often described as the world’s longest city. But with a history of less than 200 years, the state’s capital city is a newcomer on the global stage.

Clémence Carayol
Clémence Carayol

07 May 2025 3m read View Author

The Perth-property landscape is on the cusp of a new chapter of housing density and a redefined standard of design excellence. 

Among the leaders in this shift is Willing Property, a Perth-based developer drawing inspiration from global design hubs like London, Milan, and New York to weave world-class architectural excellence and innovation into the city, utilising the timeless quality of locally sourced and produced clay brick.

Willing Property founder Tim Willing says Perth’s identity is being redefined as we speak.

Coolbinia1.jpg

“Perth has always been about space. What we call the Australian dream. But the future of our city lies in well-designed density,” Willing says.

“We see an opportunity to reshape the city into a more people friendly, connected, design-driven community, and there’s no need to reinvent the wheel, especially when we have the opportunity to adopt ideas and design excellence from hubs across the globe where density and design work in harmony.”

Willing’s ninth development, The Coolbinia, has been heavily influenced by the grand apartments of Milan, blended with the Art Deco architecture of the 1920’s, while its recently commenced development West Residences was inspired by the Flatiron building of New York.

"For too long, Perth has played it safe with design, settling for buildings that don’t push boundaries or contribute to the city’s identity. The Flatiron Building in New York proved that bold architecture can define a place, just as Milan’s grand apartments have set the benchmark for elegance and liveability,” says Willing.

coolbinia2.jpg

“Why shouldn’t Perth have the same ambition? With West Residences, we’re bringing that level of intent and craftsmanship to a market that’s overdue for something truly distinctive."

Unlike many developers that rely on external construction firms, Willing Property controls its own build division, led by Tim’s brother, Dayne Willing. This approach provides greater oversight, ensuring projects meet the highest standards despite nation-wide challenges around escalating cost and resource constraints.

He says Perth’s construction market faces similar pressures to cities around the world.

coolbinia4.jpg

“It’s no secret that many destinations globally are dealing with labour and supply shortages in the construction industry.

“Our approach helps us ensure greater certainty over project deliverables such as quality, time and cost – as well as an ability to attract and retain high-quality trades, with surety of the project reaching completion.”

With a steep climb ahead to challenge the local Perth dream of a 4x2 home on a block of land, and push for urban infill that exemplifies design-led development, Willing Property is looking to set the benchmark for how density and architectural excellence can coexist.

Images: The Coolbinia / supplied

  • Popular Articles
  • Melbourne’s West Side Place
  • cyclone-proof homes
  • Now it’s up to Labor to deliver its housing, wages and other economic policies
  • Pedestrian pathways
OSZAR »