9 O'SHAUGHNESSY STREET KEW
IN CONVERSATION WITH
IN CONVERSATION WITH Foley Park
A NOTE FROM PROJECTS DIRECTOR ROSS HAMS
Welcome to Issue 20 of Open Projects
Magazine. This edition explores how design, service, and lifestyle experiences come together to elevate the everyday, from the homes we live in to the places and people shaping what comes next.
Our Feature Project, Foley Park, leads the issue with a considered approach to modern living, where architectural intent and detail are matched by a sense of ease and longevity.
We also step beyond the front door and into the ideas shaping contemporary lifestyle. In conversation with DKO, we explore the role of design thinking in creating spaces that feel intelligent, human, and future-ready. We then spotlight SANCTUM, a members-only club where sport, entertainment, and culture converge to create infinite member experiences, offering a new kind of connection and access. Delicate Days brings a softer, more supported approach to moving, downsizing, and life transitions, where clarity and care sit at the centre of the process.
To bring the issue home, Miele shares an elegant recipe for Raspberry and Chocolate Mini Cheesecakes, designed for effortless entertaining. We also highlight eight recently leased rental projects, reflecting the continued momentum across the market and the value of well-presented, well-managed homes. I hope this issue inspires new possibilities for your next chapter at home.
Ross Hams
FEATURING
FOLEY PARK IN CONVERSATION WITH 05 17 03
9 O'SHAUGHNESSY STREET KEW
SANCTUM IN CONVERSATION WITH
DELICATE DAYS
MIELE 31 23
DKO IN CONVERSATION WITH RASPBERRY & CHOCOLATE MINI CHEESECAKES
CURRENT PROJECTS
Society — Armadale
White & Weston — Balwyn
Laurel — Bentleigh
Bright— Brighton
Frith & Howarth — Brunswick
Drummond House — Carlton
Bakehouse Terraces — Fitzroy North
Enso Gardens —Glen Iris
Audrey Auburn — Hawthorn
P.6 - 7
P.8 - 9
P.10 - 11
P.12 - 13
P.14 - 15
P.18 - 19
P.20 - 21
P.22 - 23
P.26 - 27
Hawthorn House — Hawthorn
Denmark Gardens — Hawthorn East
Arteur — Kew
Montview — Kew
Wimba Ave — Kew
Prime — Prahran
Chomley Terraces — Prahran
Grandview — Prahran
First Light — South Melbourne
P.28 - 29
P.30 - 31
P.34 - 35
P.36 - 37
P.38 - 39
P.40 - 41
P.42 - 43
P.44 - 45
P.46 - 47
“Opportunities like this are exceptionally rare in Kew. With only six parkfront residences, designed by Carr Architects and built by Virgon Construction, this project represents a truly distinctive offering in the local market.”
RANKO CVJETICANIN - MARSHALL WHITE PROJECTS DIRECTOR
DEVELOPED BY
Six exclusive parkfront residences redefine luxury apartment living in prestigious Kew. Designed by Carr Architects and framed by landscaped gardens, each expansive threeand four-bedroom home delivers refined interiors, generous proportions and premium finishes, with tranquil green outlooks and secure basement parking. Moments from Kew Junction and leading cafés, Foley Park offers a rare balance of architectural excellence, lifestyle convenience and enduring elegance. ■
From $3,350,000
IN CONVERSATION WITH
SANCTUM
Sanctum is a unique, members-only club where sport, entertainment, and culture converge to create infinite member experiences. Read on to discover what membership unlocks, from curated events and insider access to a calendar designed around the moments you want to be part of.
Luxury today is increasingly defined by access, discretion and experience rather than materiality. How does SANCTUM interpret modern luxury, and how did that philosophy shape the club from its inception?
When we founded SANCTUM, we designed around a simple principle: how do our members actually want to experience this city?
The answer was with less friction, more depth, and genuine flexibility. That shaped everything, from establishing our East Melbourne HQ as a base for both business and leisure, to building a membership that works across sport, entertainment and culture rather than siloing them.
The membership reflects this. Breakfast meetings that turn into longer conversations, premium hospitality at the Australian Open, priority bookings at coveted restaurants, artists in residence, such as David Bromley. That range matters because interesting people rarely live single-dimensional lives.
The measure of success isn't exclusivity, it's whether members feel their lives are richer because SANCTUM exists.
Every SANCTUM experience feels thoughtfully considered, from sporting events to cultural moments and private gatherings. What goes into curating these experiences, and how do you ensure they feel genuinely rare rather than simply exclusive?
Every experience begins with a simple question: does this matter right now, in this city, for our members?
Curation is shaped by long-standing relationships across Melbourne's sporting, entertainment and cultural landscape. Those relationships allow access that isn't always straightforward - priority entry, proximity to key figures, or moments that sit just outside the main stage.
Not every experience needs to be reinvented to feel valuable. Sometimes it's simply securing the right seats at the right moment, or a welltimed reservation that would be impossible
to arrange independently. Other times, it's creating something that doesn't exist publicly at all.
What details, seen or unseen, do you believe define the SANCTUM experience for members?
People consistently mention the same quality when they first walk into SANCTUM: the atmosphere shifts. There's an immediate sense of calm.
The club feels like a retreat, which in a city like Melbourne is increasingly valuable. We worked with Cox Architecture to create a space that balances sophistication with genuine warmth. What defines the space is how it adapts without feeling fragmented. The same room that hosts a quiet breakfast meeting at 8am feels natural for evening drinks at 6pm. That versatility comes from restraint. We've resisted over-defining what each area is 'for,' which makes the club genuinely useful.
Privacy is built into how we operate. Discretion is a baseline expectation, creating an environment that feels calm and respectful.
As expectations around luxury continue to evolve, where do you see SANCTUM heading next?
We're disciplined about staying curious, paying close attention to how people spend their time and what they prioritise, in Melbourne and beyond.
Our focus is on building enduring relationships with the people shaping the city and creating a platform that gives members deeper access to Melbourne as it unfolds. That might mean residencies, collaborations, or simply being present when something compelling is happening.
Over time, this will include expansion of SANCTUM's physical footprint in ways that serve the community we're building. ■
A 2-4 B 2 C 2-3
From $1,325,000
Located in the Balwyn High School zone and opposite Balwyn Park (Walk Score 90), this building features a 655sqm approx. private Jack Merlo-designed garden and BBQ area, secure parking with number plate recognition, and a BESS rating 10% above industry average.
DESIGNED BY GARDENS BY
BUILT BY
DEVELOPED BY DESIGNED BY GARDENS BY BUILT BY
34 BLACK STREET BRIGHTON
A 3 B 3 C 3
From $3,750,000
Sculpted from Brighton’s textured coastal landscape, these palatial residences illustrate exceptional craftsmanship and an undeniable sense of grandeur, an ode to the streetscape’s heritage residences.
KIERRA HAGEDORN 0432 737 911
GARDENS BY DESIGNED BY MANAGED BY
BUILT BY
DEVELOPED BY DESIGNED BY LANDSCAPING BY
BUILT BY
IN CONVERSATION WITH
DELICATE DAYS
“Our role is to help reshape a lifestyle that is evolving, not simply relocate it”, says Lea-Anne Mills, Delicate Days owner and founder. We sat down with Lea-Anne to discuss how thoughtful organisation can bring clarity, calm, and confidence to life’s biggest transitions.
What goes into curating a moving and decluttering process that feels seamless and considered for clients?
Delicate Days creates a sense of ease through thoughtful planning and genuine care. Each project begins with a one-on-one meeting and attentive listening to understand the client’s lifestyle, priorities, and emotional connection to their belongings. That insight shapes a process that feels calm and personalised. Behind the scenes, timelines, transitions, and systems are carefully orchestrated to minimise stress and maintain momentum. The emotional side of organising is treated with equal importance, with gentle guidance that supports the client through a major life change. The result is a refined experience where clarity replaces feeling overwhelmed, and spaces feel both functional and well considered, delivered with understanding, precision, and deep respect for the person at the centre of it all.
What elements do you believe truly define the Delicate Days experience?
Delicate Days is far from a generic home moving service. Every move is treated individually, with its own requirements, challenges, and emotions. Rather than applying a standard formula, the team begins by focusing on the desired outcome, how the transition should feel, and how the process can unfold with minimal disruption to the client’s life. This outcome-led approach ensures every detail is planned with intention.
Many of your projects are tied to significant life moments, from downsizing to moving or managing estates. How do you balance practical organisation with the emotional side of these transitions?
Balancing the practical and emotional sides of major life transitions is at the heart of the Delicate Days approach. When managing deceased estates, my legal background becomes an invaluable anchor, allowing us to move with professionalism and clarity while holding space for sensitivity. Downsizing carries its own emotional weight, which is why we begin supporting clients months before the move, giving us time to declutter sensitively,
understand what truly matters, and plan with intention. For sentimental items that won’t be unpacked but hold deep personal meaning, we offer premium storage solutions that protect both the objects and the memories attached to them.
Where do you see Delicate Days heading next, and how do you think the idea of organisation will evolve in modern living?
Modern living is moving towards greater intentionality, and organisation is becoming a form of support that helps people step into a new chapter of life with less overwhelm and more confidence. Organisation is shifting from solely managing belongings to supporting life transitions with clarity and care, which naturally aligns with where Delicate Days is heading. We see organisation not just as a service, but as a companion through life’s most meaningful changes. The next chapter for Delicate Days focuses on providing systems that respect both practicality and emotional value, enhancing functionality, empathy, and futureoriented care. ■
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION
Pictured: Lea-Anne Mills, Delicate Days Owner and Founder
ARCHITECTURE
BUILT BY
390A QUEENS PARADE
FITZROY NORTH
A 2-3 B 2 C 1-2
From $1,950,000
Bakehouse Terraces, located at 390A Queens Parade in Fitzroy North, offers 14 architecturally designed terrace homes in one of Melbourne’s most desirable inner-city suburbs.
DEVELOPED BY ARCHITECTURE BY
44 SCOTT GROVE GLEN IRIS
A 3 B 3 C 2
From $1,855,000
Enso Gardens is a sculptural symphony of green - where nature and design meet in quiet harmony. Tucked behind Scott Grove, its Japanese-inspired landscaping by Acre features wisteria-draped pergolas, Zen stones, and a serene water feature.
ROSS HAMS 0410 160 151
DESIGNED BY DEVELOPED BY GARDENS BY BUILT BY
IN CONVERSATION WITH DKO
We sat down with Michael Drescher, Director of Interiors at architecture, interior design and landscape architecture practice DKO, to explore the global influences and lifestyle-led amenities shaping contemporary apartment living.
Which global cities or regions are setting the pace in interior design right now?
California continues to lead the conversation, especially in its approach to indoor-outdoor living and that effortless, understated luxury. Designers are blending a relaxed lifestyle with genuine refinement to create unpretentious yet considered spaces. Miami is equally exciting, particularly around hotel renovations, where beautiful Art Deco and mid-century classics are being restored with contemporary luxury to create timeless, fresh interiors. The rise of hotel-branded residences in these markets is setting new benchmarks for residential design, bringing polish and amenitydriven thinking into private homes and striking a balance between classic glamour and modern sophistication. This is where it gets interesting for us in Australia. In some cities, like the Gold Coast, we share a coastal DNA with Miami and California: the climate, beach culture and quality of light, and there is a fascinating cross-pollination of ideas. What these markets understand, and what we are embracing here, is that thoughtful design is about lifestyle as much as aesthetics, and their approach offers lessons we can interpret through an Australian lens.
A project you admire that balances global polish with a strong sense of place?
Raffles Singapore is a perfect example. The recent restoration is masterful in how it honours the property’s history while feeling completely contemporary. What stands out is the opulent residential atmosphere throughout; it doesn’t feel like a hotel trying to mimic a home, but like a refined private residence that happens to welcome guests. The design team understood that a sense of place is about capturing the spirit and soul of the city, not just using local references, and the way heritage, light, craft and detail are layered speaks to a deep understanding of context.
What can Australian interior studios learn from design cultures abroad - and vice versa?
European and Asian design cultures are very strong at layering, building richness, complexity and drama while still respecting materiality. Australian interior studios excel in an intuitive understanding of natural materials, with a philosophy of letting them do their natural thing: celebrating the grain of timber, the texture of stone and the patina of metals as they age. There is an honesty and authenticity that comes from our respect and connection to this landscape. What Australian studios can teach the world is this sophisticated restraint and material honesty. We do not over-manipulate or over-finish, and the best work has a real ease and liveability.
Which amenities or layouts actually improve daily life in an apartment?
Wellbeing spaces are no longer a luxury. We are seeing everything from saunas to cold plunge pools and hot-cold contrast therapy areas, reflecting a real understanding that home is where we decompress and restore ourselves. The bigger shift is in how we conceive living spaces. The era of vast, open-plan living is evolving; the most successful apartment designs now break larger floor plans into smaller, more intimate breakout areas, acknowledging that even within one household, people need different experiences at different times, and that good design should facilitate both connection and retreat. ■
ARCHITECTURE BY DEVELOPED BY GARDENS BY
BUILT BY
DEVELOPED BY DESIGNED BY BUILT BY GARDENS BY
RASPBERRY & CHOCOLATE MINI CHEESECAKES
Miele
Delicate yet indulgent, these raspberry and chocolate mini cheesecakes balance rich chocolate with bright raspberry and a silky cheesecake filling. Perfect for entertaining, they can be prepared ahead and served straight from the fridge.
Preparation time: 25 minutes, plus refrigeration time
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Serves: 8
METHOD
Prepare the base:
Combine the crushed biscuits and melted butter. Divide between small glasses or ramekins and press lightly into the base. Chill until needed.
INGREDIENTS
Base:
200 g chocolate biscuits, crushed
50 g butter, melted
Filling:
375 g cream cheese, softened
100 g mascarpone or sour cream
150 g caster sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 eggs
50 g raspberries
Raspberry coulis:
75 g raspberries
1 tbsp caster sugar
To serve:
Fresh raspberries
HINTS AND TIPS:
This can also be made as a slice in a 20 cm cake tin. Steam the cheesecake at 90°C for 45 minutes.
Make the filling:
Beat the cream cheese, mascarpone, sugar and vanilla until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing gently. Spoon the mixture over the bases and press raspberries lightly into the filling and cover with foil.
Cook:
Bake at 150 °C for 20–25 minutes until just set, or steam at 100 °C for 20 minutes if using a steam oven. Cool completely, then refrigerate until firm.
Make the coulis:
Heat the raspberries and sugar gently until softened. Crush and strain to remove seeds.
Serve:
Spoon the coulis over the cheesecakes and finish with fresh raspberries.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION
GARDENS BY DESIGNED BY DEVELOPED BY
BUILT BY
92 PEEL STREET KEW
A 3 B 2 C 2
From $1,735,000
Where luxury meets forward-thinking design in a limited release of ten high-end apartments. Montview offers a refined living experience that harmonizes sustainability with elegance.
DESIGNED BY GARDENS BY
BUILT BY
9-11 WIMBA AVENUE KEW A 2-4 B 2-3.5 C 2-3
From $2,220,000
On one of Kew’s most picturesque, tree-lined streets, just 13 exclusive residences offer a rare harmony of space, serenity and refined design. Created by Idle Architects and landscaped by John Patrick, the architecture is elegant and enduring, complemented by lush green surrounds.
A 2-3 B 2-3 C 1-2
From $1,545,000
Beyond the statement façade and the spacious interiors, it’s the philosophy of the design that stands apart: intelligent, private, healthy and sustainable.
LIAM ADEY
DESIGNED BY DEVELOPED BY
BUILT BY
A 3-4 B 2.5 C 2-4
From $2,365,000
Chomley Terraces offers refined 3 and 4-bedroom townhouse’s in Prahran East offering living rooms that are a minimum 6m wide, 9ft ceilings, individual solar panels, EV ready and some with private lifts.
DESIGNED BY DEVELOPED BY GARDENS BY
BUILT BY
646 HIGH STREET PRAHRAN
A 2-4 B 2-3 C 2
From $2,150,000
Construction started. Grandview offers luxury 2, 3 and 4-bedroom residences in Prahran East Village, near Hawksburn and High Street. Designed by Carr Design, these homes feature 3m ceilings, bespoke joinery, smart home tech, and city views.
DEVELOPED BY BUILT BY GARDENS BY DESIGNED BY
28 ALBERT STREET
SOUTH MELBOURNE
A 3-4 B 3-5 C 2-8
From $2,500,000
In Melbourne’s coveted Domain Precinct, First Light will soon unveil a groundbreaking fusion of art and architecture, promising to redefine the concept of luxury living through its innovative design and unparalleled attention to detail.
KIERRA HAGEDORN 0432 737 911
DEVELOPED BY INTERIORS BY
DESIGNED BY BUILT BY
JUST LEASED
402/50 ROSELLA STREET, MURRUMBEENA A 1 B 1 C 1 $550 per week
204/18 STATION STREET, HIGHETT A 2 B 2 C 1 $625 per week
804/5 GLENARM ROAD, GLEN IRIS
107/134 MCKINNON ROAD, MCKINNON
With his unwavering client-centred focus on selling Melbourne’s most luxurious off-the-plan residences, Ross Hams is recognised industry-wide as the go to agent for some of Australia’s largest public and private companies.
Known for his ability to create sales at the highest level, over the last decade Ross has been involved in some of Melbourne’s most iconic and successful off the plan residential developments.
Outside of Real Estate, family and sport are Ross’ driving forces. Ross, a former gym owner, and lawyer wife Jo have three beautiful children, and they are all sports and fitness fanatics. Basketball is number one sport at the Hams’ Warrandyte family home, and Ross plays, supports and coaches his kids’ teams and is an avid fan of SE Melbourne Phoenix and the LA Lakers.
Invest in your luxury lifestyle.
Secure your place in the future of contemporary living with off-the-plan developments represented by Marshall White Projects, showcasing unparalleled design and innovation.
We partner with Australia’s most trusted and established developers, builders, and designers to craft exceptional residences that redefine luxury and style.
Contact Marshall White Projects to explore all opportunities. CLICK
