Marshall White Projects Open Magazine - New Development Edition (June 24)

O pen

New Development Edition

David Steele from Metro

In conversation with

A note from our director Ranko Cvjeticanin

Melbourne Property

Market Dynamics: Rising Rents and Shrinking Gaps

Recent data from NAB reveals a significant shift in Victoria's property market: while property investment declined last year, advertised rents surged by 11%.

Victoria experienced a notable net migration of 161,758 new residents last year, largely fuelled by the return of international students. This influx surpasses the net migration figures for both Queensland (87,954) and Western Australia (67,629), though it slightly trails behind New South Wales (186,433).

Dr. Nicola Powell, Domain’s Chief of Research and Economics, highlights that many international arrivals prefer apartment living for its proximity to city centres. This preference has narrowed the rental gap between units and houses in major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. The sustained demand for apartments, combined with limited supply, continues to drive up rents.

Victoria faces an impending 'investor exodus,' with projections indicating the loss of 5,000 rental properties over the next 12 months.

According to MCG Quantity Surveyors, the state is expected to see 40,880 new private rentals entering the market annually, compared to 45,924 exiting, resulting in a net loss of 5,044 rental properties. In contrast, New South Wales and Queensland show net gains of 9,008 and 8,600 rental properties respectively, suggesting more stability ahead. Despite these challenges, long-term fundamentals remain positive.

Savvy investors understand that the fundamentals of Victoria, the nation's second most populous state, remain "overwhelmingly positive." The state's extremely low rental vacancy rate, hovering around 1%, combined with strong population growth and a shortage of new housing, suggests continued upward pressure on rents.

“I think rents are going to continue to rise well above the rate of inflation, making it increasingly expensive for renters,” says Powell. The best areas for investment in Victoria depend on budget, but those with above-average population growth, a diversity of industries, and access to train lines and infrastructure are expected to drive growth.

Property prices are likely to continue increasing due to simple supply and demand dynamics, reinforcing the attractiveness of the Melbourne property market for investors willing to navigate recent tax changes.

83 Wattletree Road, Armadale Society Armadale

Marshall White Projects Current Projects

Mercer — Armadale

Society — Armadale

Laurel — Bentleigh

McIntyre — Burwood

Lynden Park — Camberwel

Argyle Square — Carlton

Drummond House — Carlton

Parlington Street — Canterbury

Edithvale Place — Edithvale

Malvern Gardens — Malvern

Central Park — Malvern East

Preston Place — Preston

Mattone — Richmond

Walmer — Richmond

Havenwood — Surrey Hills

Introducing Society Armadale

83

Within the heart of Armadale, a new architectural landmark is set to redefine luxury living. Society Armadale, a collection of beautifully crafted boutique residences, captures the essence of sophistication and style, offering a private sanctuary for the select few who appreciate the finer things in life.

Wattletree Road, Armadale

Ross Hams, Marshall White Projects Director

Architecture by Gardens by Developed by Interiors by Built by

The address to be desired by many but reserved for only a select few.

Society Armadale presents a new benchmark in refined luxury, envisioned by CHT architects, Bensons Property Group developers, renowned Melbourne residential builders, Krongold Constructions and landscape designer, Jack Merlo.

Incorporating world class finishes and appliances throughout, this property will truly stand the test of time and establish itself at the forefront of elevated living.

A private sanctuary replete with lavish bespoke features, Society Armadale captures the essence of elegance with residences exuding style and

unparalleled sophistication. Considered layered materiality - a combination of concrete, travertine, steel and generous glazing - complements cutting edge design and state-of-the-art technology.

Society Armadale sets a new standard and cements its place as an architectural piece for generations to come.

A carefully curated array of world-class amenities and services selected to create a unique offering of premium lifestyle experiences.

With convenience for residents at the forefront of design considerations, Society Armadale presents one-of-a-kind residences that truly surpass anything on the market in this revered location. ■

For enquiries contact Ross Hams 0410 160 151

futureInvest in your

With growing environmental concerns and technological advancements, the move towards all-electric homes is accelerating. Modern residences not only align with sustainable living practices but also offer significant advantages over older homes, particularly when it comes to energy efficiency, compliance, and future-proofing.

Here's why investing in an all-electric home could be the smartest decision for your future.

Enhanced Energy Efficiency

All-electric homes are designed with the latest technologies to maximise energy efficiency. Key features often include advanced insulation, high-efficiency heating and cooling systems, and energy-smart appliances. This integration not only reduces the home's carbon footprint but also significantly lowers energy bills. By relying entirely on electricity, these homes can be powered through renewable sources, such as solar panels, making them almost independent of non-renewable energy sources.

Future Compliance and Reduced Retrofitting Costs

New buildings are increasingly required to meet stringent environmental standards. An all-electric home is already compliant with many of these emerging regulations, saving homeowners from future legal headaches and costly retrofitting. Older homes, in contrast, may require significant updates to meet modern standards, involving everything from installing new electrical systems to upgrading insulation and appliances.

These renovations can be not only expensive but also complex, particularly in homes not initially designed with these upgrades in mind.

EV Charging Integration

As electric vehicles become more commonplace, having an EV charging station at home is turning from a luxury into a necessity. All-electric homes often come equipped with dedicated EV charging points. This integration is not only convenient but also increases the property's market value, making it a wise investment as the world shifts away from fossil fuels. Retrofitting an older home to include an EV charger can be challenging and expensive, especially if the existing electrical system requires significant upgrades to handle the extra load.

Modern Appliances and Systems

All-electric homes typically feature the latest in home technology, such as induction cooktops which are not only more efficient but also safer and faster than traditional gas stoves. Additionally, these homes often include solar panels that can generate enough energy to run these high-efficiency appliances, further reducing electricity costs.

Enhanced Security with Digital Locks

Security is a paramount concern for any homeowner. All-electric homes often incorporate advanced security features like digital locks and keyless entry systems. These systems offer both convenience and improved security, allowing homeowners to control access to their property remotely and track who comes and goes. Retrofitting older homes with such technology can be invasive and costly, often requiring significant changes to door frames and existing security setups.

Insurance Compliance

Insuring an all-electric home can be simpler and sometimes cheaper than insuring an older property. Newer homes built with compliance to current codes are viewed as lower risk by insurance companies. They are less likely to suffer from issues like faulty wiring or the structural vulnerabilities typical of older buildings. This can lead to lower premiums and fewer headaches with claims.

Investing in an all-electric home offers a myriad of benefits. Not only do these properties come with modern conveniences and advanced technologies integrated right from the start, but they also meet current environmental standards and are ready to accommodate the future directions in energy and technology. The long-term savings, increased property value, and peace of mind that comes with purchasing a new, all-electric home make it a worthwhile investment. Whether it's reducing your carbon footprint or embracing a techsavvy lifestyle, an all-electric home is designed to meet the demands of the future, today. ■

From $4,150,000

to

and

A homage

the rich

deeply textured neighbourhood of Armadale, Mercer presents an exclusive collection of luxurious townhomes curated by one of Australia’s most esteemed design studios, Conrad Architects. 30 Mercer Road, Armadale

Architecture by Developed by Built by Gardens by

Architecture by Gardens by Developed by Interiors by

Tapware by Appliances by Built by

Developed by

Designed by Gardens by

Developed by Built by

In conversation with

from Metro David Steele

David Steele, State Manager of Metro Property Development, is at the forefront of creating sustainable and attainable townhouse communities. With a focus on embedding eco-efficient design from the initial concept phase, Steele and his team are reconciling environmental sustainability goals with enhanced resident experiences in their modern townhome developments.

What are some of Metro’s signature environmentally sustainable design (ESD) features and green innovations that you incorporate into off-the-plan projects?

We endeavour to incorporate as many sustainability features as we can into our projects, including those that can be readily seen like EV charging points, ceiling fans, low VOC paint, and fully electric homes. Importantly, we also put a lot of effort into measures that are less obvious such as insulation, considered cross-ventilation and compartmentalised living zones.

How are sustainable features in new housing developments helping to address the rising cost of living for homeowners and renters?

We strongly believe that demonstrating and explaining the benefits of sustainability measures is worthwhile to ensure our buyers are aware of what has been done and why, in the hope that it will drive the discussion in the community, as there really is a huge difference between a newly built home and a house that was built 10+ years ago.

The way a project is designed and delivered is impactful on the final running cost for the residents who ultimately live in the homes; the more efficient a home is, the lower the cost to provide the necessary energy to run it.

This is even more important to our residents in the current environment of constantly increasing energy prices, so using high-rated appliances and designing the home to not require as much energy are addressing the issue at the demand end of the equation, and installing solar and/or batteries assist with the supply side. In what ways does Metro collaborate with architects, engineers, and other professionals to ensure that

their projects meet or exceed industry standards for sustainability?

What we have found is that many of the most effective sustainability measures are embedded in the design of a project from day one – orientation of the homes, size and proportions of windows and openings, spatial allowances for sustainable design elements, etc.

Given this, it's crucial to engage with the project team upfront on what the aim for the project is and what it is that we're seeking to achieve.

That is why for every project we deliver we will have a full team workshop to determine what the design themes are and how they could be included. It's very hard to "retrofit" the best sustainable elements further down the track!

What innovative sustainability design elements do you anticipate becoming standard as the industry continues to prioritise environmental responsibility and sustainable living?

A lot of the design elements that were included only on a small number of projects a few years ago are now becoming much more standard – which is great to see. Energy storage (through batteries) will become more popular as prices come down, and the reduction in reliance on gas will also continue.

Given the recent building cost increases that have hit the industry over the past couple of years, I anticipate that efficiency of design will become an increased focus. This isn't just in relation to physical inclusions but also clever designs of floor plans to ensure every square metre is considered and plays a role in increasing liveability for the resident. We have always sought to provide house-style accommodation at a townhome price to deliver a product that is attainable to our market, and this, I believe, will become more of a focus for others which will result in an overall more environmentally sustainable industry. ■

Photo

Credit Chris Besley (Wildlab)

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

Lynden Park is a collection of just five parkside residences nestled in an idyllic pocket of Camberwell. Elegantly crafted by Ascui & Co and John Patrick.

207 Highfield Road, Camberwell

Architecture by Developed & Built by Gardens by

From

Developed by Project Management by Architecture and interiors by Construction by

From $1,799,000

Only

Developed by Architecture by Interiors by

Built by

Smart Home Solutions Miele’s

For insights into Miele's innovative appliances and their role in sustainable living, we spoke with Gregoire Dorel, VIC Sales Manager, Projects at Miele Australia. With his extensive knowledge of Miele's product range and commitment to energy efficiency, Gregoire shares how the company is transforming the way we live through cutting-edge technology and eco-friendly solutions.

What are some of the most cutting-edge features and innovations that Miele incorporates into their appliances to enhance the living experience?

Miele is at the forefront of innovative features. Our FoodView technology integrates a high-quality camera in the oven cavity, allowing you to monitor your cooking process in real-time through your phone. The Combi Steam Pro ovens feature HydroClean functionality, using steam and a specially formulated Miele detergent for effortless cleaning. The Miele app is an impressive smart connectivity feature that allows remote control and monitoring of appliances. For instance, you can select the fabric type and dirtiness level on your washing machine, and it will choose the perfect program, then sync with the dryer for optimal drying, making life easier and more efficient.

How do Miele's appliances contribute to the overall sustainability and energy efficiency of off-the-plan developments?

Miele's commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency is at the heart of everything we do. Miele's guiding principle, 'Immer Besser,' aims to set a standard of 'forever better' products that are durable, sustainable, and high performing with a stylish finish.

With this always in mind, our appliances are built to last, with testing for a lifespan equivalent to 20 years of average usage. We use durable materials and high-quality components to ensure longevity.

Many of our washing machines and dishwashers achieve a 5-star energy rating, which is now a minimum requirement for new developments. This means our products are incredibly efficient in terms of energy and water usage.

In what ways does Miele collaborate with developers and architects to ensure seamless integration of their appliances into the design and functionality of new homes?

At Miele, we work very closely with developers and architects to ensure our appliances integrate seamlessly into new home designs. Our Projects division collaborates with interior designers and developers from the early stages, helping select products that match the design, functionality, and budget requirements. We support the development through various activations and provide ongoing support to ensure end-users can fully utilise all the features of our appliances through our fourteen Miele Experience Centres and numerous retail partners.

What sets Miele apart from other premium appliance brands when it comes to meeting the unique demands of off-the-plan developments?

One key differentiator is that Miele produces its own electronics, allowing better control over design, development, and manufacturing processes, and quick implementation of technological advancements. Another unique aspect is the ability to supply all areas of a

development, providing a one-brand solution. Additionally, Miele has its own in-house team of highly trained technicians and a first-time fix rate of close to 80%, showcasing expertise and commitment to customer satisfaction.

Can you share any insights into Miele's future plans or upcoming innovations that will continue to redefine the standards of everyday living?

Miele has exciting innovations lined up for 2025, including Miele Aerium, a steam cabinet for refreshing and drying textiles, and SmartFood ID, which uses AI and an integrated oven camera to recognise ingredients and select the best cooking settings. The MealSync app feature will synchronise cooking times between appliances, while new refrigeration products will respond to voice commands or knocks. AI diagnostics will soon diagnose appliance issues and provide repair instructions without needing a service call, making life easier for consumers. ■

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

Appliances by Tapware by

Developed by Designed by Landscaping by

Developed by Design by

Edithvale

Developed by Architecture by Built by Gardens by Managed by

Meet the Purchaser

Meet Rhys, a homeowner at Wattle on the Park, a luxurious collection of residences designed for effortless living. We sat down with Rhys to discuss his experience purchasing an off-the-plan property and what drew him to this unique development.

What were the factors that led you to choose to purchase a brand-new townhouse rather than an existing property?

Coming from the construction industry, I'm acutely aware of the sub-standard developments across the country. I wanted to ensure I could inspect the development as it was being built, have time to send my own building inspector through, and also have a builder's warranty to fall back on if anything wasn't right or up to standard. This made me feel much more comfortable with the property I was purchasing.

How important was the sustainability aspect when considering an off-the-plan purchase?

The sustainability aspect was important for adding value to my property for any potential resale purposes through solar panels, water tanks, and energy-efficient fittings. The beauty of buying off-the-plan is that if you want any improvements to the existing design, you can get in early and make a design change at a lesser cost than if you were to make the same change post-build.

What has your experience been like so far living within your development? Can you share your impressions of the amenities, services, and sense of community?

I live in a 5-townhouse development that is beautifully designed with an amazing aspect directly overlooking a memorial park. This is something all of us appreciate, and therefore, we look after the area and each other's interests. We are definitely on the smaller end of developments, but by having like-minded owners who saw the quality in the development, we generally always agree on any initiatives or ideas that would help improve our living experience.

If you were to do it all over again, is there anything you would do differently when purchasing your new townhouse off-the-plan?

The main thing I would do differently is get in earlier and try to have more influence over certain fittings before the developers have procured specific items. I still made a lot of changes, but by getting in earlier, you have more time to frame up your end vision of the property versus the original one proposed by the developer.

What advice would you give to someone considering buying a pre-construction townhouse?

Deal with reputable companies that have a long-standing presence in the industry, including the agent. Research the proposed builder and examine their previous developments for build quality. Consider how long they've been in business and whether they have successfully delivered similar developments to the one you are purchasing. Verify that the building surveyor being used has no negative past dealings. Make an effort to establish a friendly relationship with the builder/ developer so you can regularly see progress on-site.

I had excellent access, which made me feel very confident about the product I was receiving when it came to the handover. ■

Developed by Architecture by Gardens by

Managed by

In collaboration with

Developed by Gardens by Design by

Preston

Developed by Architecture by Gardens by Architecture by

On material, memories, and modern design

Davidov Architects

We spoke to Robert Davidov, founder and principal of the award-winning Davidov Architects based in Melbourne. The studio, known for its understated yet warm aesthetic, has gained recognition for projects ranging from private residences to multi-residential developments. Below, Davidov shares insights into the firm's design philosophy, material choices, and the inspirations that shape their work.

Photo

Credit Nanami Studio

Can you describe the design philosophy and core principles that guide Davidov Architects?

We see ourselves as both an architecture and design studio, so there is always conscious consideration given to developing a cohesive body of work across disciplines. In terms of architecture, we are interested in crafting work that is robust but also familiar and cinematic. Ambience is important to us. This approach tends to inform our other design endeavours.

Your practice has gained recognition for an understated aesthetic using refined material palettes. What informs your material choices, and how do you create a sense of warmth in a space?

We consider materials that allow us to achieve several aims. Of course, the materials need to be durable and age sympathetically, but beyond the practical, what interests us is the way materials and their usage hold a deeper resonance. The concept of nostalgia is one that interests us for various reasons, as it helps us imagine a space across time.

Travel seems to be a significant source of inspiration for your work. Can you share some specific places or experiences that have left a lasting impact on your design approach?

Travel would certainly be my greatest indulgence. I have been a keen traveller all my life, but more recently travel generally revolves around visiting architecture, be it ancient or modern. Some highlights have been exploring the architecture of Luis Barragan in Mexico City, as well as wandering through the ruins of the Temple of Karnak in Luxor, Egypt. The key to architectural travel is to allow enough time to feel settled in a place in a way that allows you, once back home, to transport yourself back to that moment and place.

Considering the wide range of project types you take on, from private residences to multi-residential developments, how do you adapt your design process to meet the unique needs of each commission?

Our design process relies on a balance between innovation and refinement. This inherently means that each project is unique, unique to the site and unique to the client’s brief, but we are not drawn to innovation simply for innovation’s sake. Innovation carries risk, so where we can, we draw upon and evolve our existing design ‘language’ to deliver designs that are tailored to every client.

What does the future hold for Davidov Architects?

Are there any exciting new directions, collaborations, or types of projects you're looking to explore in the near future?

Currently, on the horizon, we are looking forward to the completion of a couple of private homes of which we are incredibly proud. We have a few special projects currently in the various stages of design and approval in Melbourne and the Mornington Peninsula. Apart from that, we have a few multi-residential projects coming out of the ground this month and some other interesting collaborations with various manufacturers and interior designers. ■

Photo

Credit Nanami

Studio

Photo Credit Enceladus

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Developed by Gardens by Built by Design by

From $1,865,000 Designed for

5-7 Leura Street, Surrey Hills 3 A B C 3 2

Architecture by Gardens by Human Habitat

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.

Ranko Cvjeticanin Meet our Director

With over twenty years of real estate experience, Ranko has a proven track record of achieving outstanding sales results in the industry. During this time period, Ranko has seen substantial change in the real estate profession but his professional approach to every facet of every transaction hasn’t wavered.

Part of the project development team at Marshall White, Ranko’s natural positive energy and enthusiasm and ability to relate to people from all walks of life has been invaluable. His genuine integrity and personal service style quickly makes clients feel at ease.

Balance has always been and continues to be crucial to Ranko’s consistency throughout his career. Away from the office he spends time with his son and family and he is dedicated to keeping fit and physically active.

Contact Ranko 0451 153 833 ranko.cvjeticanin@marshallwhite.com.au