A NOTE FROM SALES EXECUTIVE LAWRENCE YAN
Welcome to Issue 14 of Open Projects Magazine. In this issue, we showcase the power of expertise, innovation and creative vision across the ever-evolving landscape of Melbourne living.
As a Sales Executive at Marshall White Projects, I share the story behind our standout feature project, White & Weston, an elegant and elevated address perfectly positioned in the heart of Balwyn.
We take a behind-the-scenes look at the emotional art of home styling with The Real Estate Stylist (TRES), uncovering how thoughtful design choices can spark connection and maximise value.
We sit down with David Steele at Praxis to talk interiors, culture and the unique alchemy behind their growing studio. And we step into the world of Nick Theodossi Prestige Cars — where luxury, legacy and lifestyle come together in motion.
Finally, we speak with Christian Virgona, Project Manager at boutique construction company Virgon, to explore the evolution of developments in Melbourne and their uncompromising pursuit of design excellence.
We hope you enjoy the issue.
Lawrence Yan
FEATURING
VIRGON
CURRENT PROJECTS
Society — Armadale
Audrey — Auburn
Enso Gardens — Glen Iris
Laurel — Bentleigh
Bright — Brighton
Frith & Howarth— Brunswick
Cookson — Camberwell
Parlington Street — Canterbury
Fabric — Caufield
Drummond House — Carlton
The Address — East Melbourne P.6 - 7
- 9 P.10 - 11
- 13 P.16 - 17 P.18 - 19 P.20 - 21 P.22 - 23
P.24 - 25
P.28 - 29
P.30 - 31
Bakehouse Terraces — Fitzroy North
Hawthorn House — Hawthorn
Denmark Gardens — Hawthorn East
Arteur — Kew
Montview — Kew
Malea — Malvern East
Waterfront Residences — Port Melbourne
Prime — Prahran
Grandview — Prahran
South Kingsville Place — South Kingsville
First Light — South Melbourne
“White & Weston is an exceptional opportunity to secure an incredibly high end residence in one of Balwyn’s most prestigious pockets, surrounded by over 650m2 of private gardens and with convenience at your doorstep.”
LIAM ADEY, MARSHALL WHITE PROJECTS DIRECTOR
DESIGNED BY GARDENS BY
A boutique collection of architecturally designed residences in the heart of Balwyn, White & Weston offers a refined balance of luxury, functionality and timeless design. With interiors curated by Cera Stribley, each residence enjoys premium finishes, EV-ready parking and seamless village convenience.
Developed in partnership with Coles and positioned opposite Balwyn Park in the Balwyn High School zone, this elegant address includes a 655m² private resident's garden by Jack Merlo and offers the rare opportunity to walk everywhere. With construction now underway, it's a design-led lifestyle like no other. ■
$845,000 $1,750,000 $3,250,000
IN CONVERSATION WITH
PRAXIS
We recently spoke to David Steele, Director at Praxis, who is leading the way in sustainable, attainable townhouse living, combining ecoefficient design with a focus on resident wellbeing from day one.
Can you tell us about the vision behind the Laurel townhouse project in Bentleigh?
At Praxis, we strive to create communities that are well considered and sit in harmony with the surrounding area. The vision for Laurel Bentleigh is to create a collection of enduring, architecturally refined townhomes that blend classic design with contemporary living. Situated on a quiet, tree-lined street in the green, leafy suburb of Bentleigh, the development aims to provide families with a place to enjoy, grow, and thrive for many years. Designed by ClarkeHopkinsClarke Architects and landscaped by MDG Landscape Architects, Laurel Bentleigh is a showcase of thoughtful design and sustainable living.
What features have been included to enhance liveability for future residents?
Laurel Bentleigh prioritises comfort, sustainability, and modern convenience.
Key features include:
• 7.5-star NatHERS energy rating
• 4.4kW solar panel system
• Heat pump hot water system
• Double-glazed windows
• Miele induction cooktops
These elements contribute to a comfortable, low-maintenance, and ecofriendly lifestyle.
What kind of lifestyle can future residents expect at Laurel?
Residents of Laurel Bentleigh can expect a lifestyle that balances modern convenience with a connection to nature. The development offers spacious family-sized townhomes with 3, 4, or 5 bedrooms and dual living spaces, situated on a quiet local street with frontage to a new linear park. The surrounding area features large public parks, meandering tree-lined trails, and perfectly manicured gardens, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities and community engagement.
How important is location when planning a new project like this, and why was Bentleigh the right fit?
Location is crucial in planning a new project, as it influences accessibility, lifestyle, and long-term value. Bentleigh was chosen for Laurel due to its combination of suburban tranquillity and proximity to urban amenities. The area boasts excellent public transport links, reputable schools, and a vibrant local community, making it an ideal setting for families seeking a balanced lifestyle.
What excites you most about the future of townhouse living in Melbourne?
The future of townhouse living in Melbourne is exciting due to the growing demand for sustainable, low-maintenance homes that cater to modern lifestyles. Developments like Laurel Bentleigh, along with Praxis’ other current and recent projects in South Kingsville, Preston, Northcote, and Edithvale, are leading the way by integrating high-performance design with eco-friendly features, offering residents a comfortable and responsible way of living. This trend reflects a broader shift towards more sustainable urban development, aligning with Melbourne's commitment to environmental stewardship and quality of life. ■
A 3-4 B 2-3.5 C 2-8
From $3,190,000
ARCHITECTURE BY DEVELOPED BY GARDENS BY
44 SCOTT GROVE GLEN IRIS
A 2-4 B 2-4 C 1-3
From $895,000
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. Lush terraces, leafy courtyards, and tranquil shared spaces invite calm and connection.
DESIGNED BY DEVELOPED BY GARDENS BY BUILT BY
Glen Iris
DEVELOPED BY DESIGNED BY GARDENS BY
IN CONVERSATION WITH NICK THEODOSSI
We sat down with Nick Theodossi to explore the evolution of luxury car culture and what the future holds for one of Australia’s most iconic automotive names.
Your name has long been synonymous with prestige cars in Melbourne. What do you think has defined the Nick Theodossi brand over the years?
I believe what truly defines the Nick Theodossi brand is trust, quality, and consistency. Since our beginning in 1971, we’ve built lasting relationships with our clients by consistently offering exceptional vehicles and unmatched customer service. People know that when they walk into our showroom, they can expect integrity and a deep understanding of what a luxury car means beyond just driving — it’s an experience, a lifestyle, and a reflection of personal taste and success.
What first drew you to high-performance European cars, and how did that passion evolve into a dealership?
From a young age, I've always been captivated by cars — just seeing them has always sparked genuine excitement in me. I still vividly remember admiring the classic lines of the 1950s Ford Customline and the timeless elegance of the E-Type Jaguar. As the years pass, cars only grow more beautiful and compelling, each new model an even greater pleasure to behold. Even today, I find myself stepping back to appreciate their design, their craftsmanship, and the incredible innovations they offer — it’s truly remarkable how far we've come.
With such a dynamic range, what is one car currently in the showroom that you think every enthusiast should see?
It’s always tough to single out just one, but right now, I think every enthusiast should see the latest Ferrari model we have in our showroom. Ferrari continues to set new standards in design, technology, and performance. Their cars embody the essence of driving passion, making them something you have to experience firsthand Ferrari captures everything that's exciting about modern supercars — innovation, exhilarating power, and unmistakable Italian flair!
Car culture is as much about lifestyle as it is performance. What role do you think the dealership plays in that world?
Our dealership isn’t just about selling cars, it’s about
creating a community where enthusiasts feel at home. We see ourselves as curators of a lifestyle. The relationships we build are the most important part of our business, and the advice we offer is designed to enrich our customers’ experience. For us, performance vehicles are gateways to experiences and relationships that go beyond driving. Our clients become friends, and our dealership becomes a hub where they can relax and indulge in their passion for luxury cars.
What does the next chapter look like for Nick Theodossi?
The next chapter for us is very exciting. We plan to continue evolving alongside the automotive industry, embracing innovation and new technology without losing sight of our core values — family, community, and integrity.
We've recently built a stunning SUV centre to highlight a larger range of luxury cars. The future is about enhancing our digital and customer experience, ensuring that whether our clients visit us in person or online, they receive the unparalleled service they've come to expect from the Nick Theodossi name. ■
34 BLACK STREET BRIGHTON A 3-4 B 2-4 C 2-3
From $2,495,000
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
MANAGED BY GARDENS BY DESIGNED BY
From
Opposite the newly created Yubup Park, this all-electric building offers green spaces, a communal garden, and easy access to Brunswick’s cafés. With a 7.5-star NatHERS
DEVELOPED BY LANDSCAPING BY DESIGNED BY
DEVELOPED BY INTERIORS BY ARCHITECTURE BY
DEVELOPED BY DESIGNED BY LANDSCAPING BY
APPLIANCES BY TAPWARE BY
From $504,000
Situated in the heart of Caulfield, right next to Elsternwick and designed by renowned architects Cera Stribley, these residences offer an impressive 8.9-star energy rating. Features include EV charging, double glazed windows, breathtaking city and bay views, ultra-fast internet (faster than the NBN), convenient Click & Collect storage, all supported by extended builder guarantees of up to 6 years, providing added peace of mind.
0426 211 034
JONATHAN SCOTT
DESIGNED BY DEVELOPED BY BUILT BY
Caulfield
EMOTIVE STYLING THAT SELLS
Join us as we uncover the transformative art of property styling with the team from The Real Estate Stylist (TRES), who share insights on how expertly curated spaces can create powerful emotional connections and captivate potential buyers.
While savvy investors may contend that property purchases are driven by numbers and logic, the element of emotion inevitably plays a role. Whether you're looking to raise a family, build a legacy, care for elderly parents, assimilate into a new community, or simply enjoy life with your family and pets, the ability to visualise yourself in a space is integral in property presentation.
Professional stylists know that several key elements can create an emotional connection, which may even spark a bidding war.
FLOW
Flow is crucial. It dictates how a space feels and functions, particularly in terms of furniture placement and room proportions, allowing for movement with ease and harmony. A lack of flow can leave a space feeling cluttered and chaotic, or empty and lifeless, neither of which appeals to potential buyers.
LIGHT
While styling teams may not alter fixed lighting or window dressings, we can skilfully use portable lamps, mirrors, and colour schemes to enhance a space's light and ambience. This approach is especially valuable during Melbourne's many late-day inspections, where the warm glow of lamps contributes to a cosy, inviting atmosphere.
SUBTLE PERSONAL TOUCHES
Professional stylists often recommend removing overly personal items such as distinctive artwork, sculptures, family photos, sporting posters, and vividly coloured furniture. Such items can distract buyers from the property's key features and potentially create discomfort during viewings.
By starting with a neutral base or selecting a furniture package anew, stylists can introduce tasteful statement pieces, quality textiles, and subtle decor. These elements
work together to eliminate any sense of an impersonal display home, instead cultivating a refined and inviting atmosphere.
QUALITY
To create an emotional connection, the selection of furniture, artwork, and accessories must align with the property's calibre and the buyer's investment level. Homes attract specific demographics, and often, neighbourhoods have their distinct cultural styles. For example, a cluster of framed posters might complement the eclectic ambience of Collingwood but could appear mismatched in the understated elegance of a Toorak residence. It's this attention to detail—ensuring the design quality matches the buyer's perception of home—that distinguishes the work of seasoned styling professionals.
FRESHNESS AND LIFE
Where budget and property value align, the presence of fresh flowers, updated throughout the campaign, introduces a fragrance and vitality that can enhance the emotional appeal during opens and auctions. Complementary touches like live plants, quality candles, and ambient music can be used to create a serene atmosphere, enveloping buyers in the experience of living in the space. We don’t advocate baking cookies in the oven; however, a neatly trimmed lawn serves as the final touch, offering a clean, inviting scent that subtly enhances the home's appeal.
THE CASE FOR SPACE
It's important in home presentation to consider the role of space. An uncluttered approach, with less emphasis on filling every area, from hall tables to bookcases, can actually enhance the home's appeal. This thoughtful restraint can suggest greater value to buyers, creating a canvas for them to imagine their own lives unfolding within the space, particularly during the busy atmosphere of an open house. ■
DEVELOPED BY ARCHITECTURE BY INTERIORS BY
DEVELOPED BY DESIGN BY
390A QUEENS PARADE
A 2-4 B 1-2 C 0-2
From $1,995,000
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. Once the site of a historic bakery, this development combines heritage charm with modern living.
DEVELOPED BY ARCHITECTURE BY
DEVELOPED BY DESIGNED BY BUILT BY GARDENS BY
BUILT ON LEGACY
THE VIRGON STORY
We caught up with Christian Virgona, Project Manager at boutique construction company Virgon, to explore the evolving landscape of luxury residential design in Melbourne. Christian shares his insights into what’s shaping the next generation of high-end homes and the philosophies that continue to guide Virgon’s design-driven approach.
What key design elements or materials are shaping the next generation of luxury homes in Melbourne?
Virgon is seeing a renewed appreciation for natural materiality across both interior and exterior design palettes. Building façades are increasingly grounded in locally sourced, hand-crafted masonry, where the imperfections in brickwork are embraced. Narrowprofile bricks are often used, with ruled mortar beds that highlight the individuality of each brick.
Concrete stucco and polished render finishes are also growing in popularity. When paired with ground-level masonry, they create a seamless confluence of major façade elements.
Within the home, warm tonal palettes are being embraced through the use of timber-look laminates in joinery, sourced from suppliers such as Polytec and Nikpol. These timber accents introduce a sense of texture and warmth, often paired with layered limewash paint finishes that offer a refined backdrop. The focus on natural materiality provides the perfect canvas for stonework to flourish in kitchen and living spaces, as well as master suites.
Are you seeing shifts in the way people want to live, and how is that influencing your designs?
Virgon specialises in a market that services residents in prestigious neighbourhoods experiencing a shift from large family properties to boutique townhouse or apartment developments.
The floor plates of these developments must consider the end occupier’s milieu. Buyers seek generous living spaces that seamlessly extend into carefully curated gardens, alongside open-plan kitchens that flow into wellappointed butler’s pantries.
Purchasers are more discerning than ever — a reality that quality developers and designers are cognisant of. The most popular developments prioritise liveability over
density, reflecting a clear shift towards more intimate, boutique offerings that balance refined design with a sense of spaciousness and comfort.
What should clients prioritise early in the custom build process to ensure a successful outcome?
Assembling a team of experienced professionals is paramount to the success of any project. Cultivating a collaborative environment where architects, builders, landscape architects, and engineers coalesce will almost always result in a home that is meticulously considered in every design aspect.
Early engagement of the builder in the design process is essential; Virgon frequently collaborate throughout the entire design process, offering expertise in buildability and value engineering at every stage, from structural planning through to the selection of final finishes and furnishings.
Which core philosophies have remained constant for you, despite changing trends?
Virgon has consistently prioritised a design-minded, quality-driven approach to construction. Our expertise lies in understanding when, where, and how to realise aesthetic intent, striking a careful balance between architectural vision and the practical insight of a builder that brings thirty years of experience to each of our projects.
Delivering each project to the high standards that define our reputation is a collaborative effort. It is made possible by a trusted network of contractors and suppliers who share our commitment to quality craftsmanship. We place great value on working with a consistent group of proven professionals — our curated network of skilled tradespeople — who help ensure the successful delivery of every build.
What excites you most about the future of residential design and construction in Victoria?
I am particularly motivated by the opportunity to continually elevate the quality benchmark within the construction industry.
I take pride in being part of a network of design and construction professionals who share a strong commitment to delivering exceptional workmanship at every stage of the process.
Collaborating with like-minded individuals whose work I deeply respect brings me great professional fulfilment. I look forward to continuing to contribute to high-quality construction projects for decades to come. ■
DEVELOPED BY DESIGNED BY GARDENS BY
DESIGNED BY GARDENS BY
DEVELOPED BY BUILT BY DESIGNED BY GARDENS BY
BUILT AND DEVELOPED BY
TAPWARE BY
ARCHITECTURE BY
APPLIANCES BY INTERIORS BY
A 2-4 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. For those drawn to the pulse of Prahran and everything it offers, this is the ideal place to shape a new future.
DEVELOPED BY DESIGNED BY
Prahran
646 HIGH STREET PRAHRAN
A 2-4 B 2-4 C 2-10
From $1,450,000
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. The exclusive Penthouse is $19M. Customisable floor plans, with a display suite available. Construction starts mid-2025. Secure now for significant stamp duty savings.
KIERRA
DEVELOPED BY BUILT BY GARDENS BY DESIGNED BY
Prahran
DEVELOPED BY GARDENS BY
DESIGNED BY
Prahran
28 ALBERT STREET SOUTH MELBOURNE
A 3-5 B 2-4 C 2-4
From $1,995,000
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.
DEVELOPED BY DESIGNED BY INTERIORS BY
Lawrence is a talented communicator. Fluent in Mandarin, Cantonese and Malay, his personal enthusiasm for property investment motivates Lawrence to help his clients find suitable investment property, appropriate to each individual need.
With a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and after years of experience overseeing the provision of mechanical building services for the construction of high-rise towers and mega-malls, Lawrence now directs his skills to off-the-plan residential project marketing. Alongside his intention to assure hassle-free transactions for his clients, Lawrence’s willingness to listen makes doing business with him a pleasure.
Lawrence is a keen weekend golfer. Married with two sons, he loves taking the family to the movies or going for an invigorating swim.
YAN
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