Marshall White Open - Coastal E110 by remagazines

41 STANLEYS ROAD MERRICKS

ROCK FLATHEAD WITH MUSSELS & VERMOUTH HENRYS

IN CONVERSATION WITH

PRIVATE PARADISE 07 MCKIMM

AN AUSSIE CHRISTMAS STORY WITH HEART COMMUNITY

LIFE-DRIVEN MOVES IN A STEADY MARKET

CHOMLEY TERRACES

With only a few weeks left in the year to transact property, the defining feature of the market is still consistency. Auction clearance rates and private sale activity remain steady, and serious buyers are very much engaged. Many are keen to secure a home before the summer holidays, while sellers are hoping to have their property selected and negotiations completed before the year winds down.

Price sensitivity, however, is evident. Buyers are well informed, comparison shopping across suburbs and benchmarking every property against recent sales. Homes that are thoughtfully presented and accurately priced are attracting strong enquiries and competitive offers. Properties that begin with ambitious expectations are typically experiencing longer days on market, even in well-performing areas. Vendors who listen closely to feedback and adjust quickly are finding the process more efficient and less stressful.

People continue to transact for life-driven reasons. Many are buying or selling, upsizing or downsizing due to shifting family structures, relocations, career changes, evolving financial goals and life events such as marriage, separation and bereavement.

Taken together, this all points to a market that is functioning calmly at a time of year that is often anything but calm. Buyers and sellers who lean into that sense of normality, prepare well and price with precision are placing themselves in the strongest position to achieve their objectives before the year draws to a close. If you would like clarity on your property options before the year wraps up, reach out to your local Marshall White team for informed guidance. ■

By John Bongiorno

PRIVATE PARADISE

“A landmark Merricks estate where architectural excellence meets world-class garden design.”

STEPHEN BASTER - MARSHALL WHITE DIRECTOR

‘Inverary’ is a breathtaking Stephen Akehurst–designed residence set within magnificent Paul Bangay gardens and capturing panoramic water and Phillip Island views. Privately positioned on 5.46 hectares (approx.) in Merricks, this coastmeets-country estate is just an hour from Melbourne and moments from world-class wineries, dining, golf, beaches and hot springs. A tree-lined drive leads to the sprawling singlelevel home, showcasing signature architectural detail and exceptional indoor/outdoor connectivity through extensive glazing, alfresco courtyards and wide verandahs.

Inside, grand living and entertaining spaces feature polished hardwood floors, bespoke joinery and stone-clad fireplaces.

The central kitchen is appointed with a French Lacanche range, natural stone, superb cabinetry and a butler’s pantry.

Four zoned bedroom suites include two impressive masters with walk-in robes and luxurious ensuites. Complemented by a guesthouse with two additional bedrooms, hydronic heating and a resort-style heated pool and spa, Inverary is an extraordinary lifestyle estate enveloped by mature, curated botanical grounds. ■

FOR ENQUIRIES CONTACT

STEPHEN BASTER 0417 695 644

JOHN BONGIORNO 0418 328 056

JAKE EGAN 0491 129 137

from Henrys

ROCK FLATHEAD WITH MUSSELS & VERMOUTH

Photography Credit

Kate Pascoe

Henrys brings a taste of the Mediterranean to Brighton. Now, you can bring it to your own table with their much-loved Rock Flathead with Mussels & Vermouth Cream Sauce.

Serves 4

INGREDIENTS

Flathead:

1 kg flathead fillets, skin on and boned

Mussels:

500 g mussels, cleaned and debearded

100 ml white wine

5 thyme sprigs

3 garlic cloves, crushed

Vermouth cream sauce (350 ml):

180 g onion, sliced

100 ml blended oil

285 g dry vermouth

285 g cream

10 g lemon juice

Salt and pepper

2 g each mint, chives, tarragon and parsley, chopped

Herb salad:

2 g chervil

2 g tarragon

2 g flat-leaf parsley

1 shallot, thinly sliced

10 ml extra-virgin olive oil

Croutons:

1 small Turkish bread

Olive oil and salt

Optional herb oil (50 ml):

10 g flat-leaf parsley

5 g basil

3 g tarragon

3 g mint

60 ml vegetable oil

METHOD

Vermouth cream sauce:

1. Sauté the onion in the blended oil over low heat for 30 minutes without colouring.

2. Deglaze with vermouth and reduce until it just coats the onions, then leave to infuse for 30 minutes.

3. Add the cream, bring to the boil, then remove from the heat.

4. Strain, season with salt and pepper, and stir in the lemon juice.

Mussels:

1. Place mussels, white wine, thyme and garlic in a pot with a lid.

2. Cook over high heat until the mussels open (about 1 minute).

3. Remove from shells, chop and set aside.

Flathead:

1. Cook skin-side down in a hot pan or over charcoal until the skin is crisp (about 3 minutes).

2. Flip the fillets and cook until just done.

Croutons:

1. Tear the Turkish bread into small pieces, drizzle with olive oil and season with salt.

2. Bake in a 160°C fan-forced oven for about 30 minutes until crunchy.

Herb salad:

1. Toss chervil, tarragon, parsley and shallot with olive oil.

Optional herb oil:

1. Blanch the herbs for 10 seconds, refresh in iced water and squeeze dry.

2. Blend the herbs with warm oil (60–65°C) until smooth, strain and chill.

3. Alternatively, finish the dish with extra-virgin olive oil.

To serve:

1. Place the flathead on plates.

2. Spoon the vermouth cream sauce with mussels over the fish.

3. Scatter croutons and top with the herb salad.

4. Drizzle with herb oil if using.

IN CONVERSATION WITH MCKIMM

Photography

CreditTimothy Kaye

We

sat down with Nick McKimm, founder of McKimm, one of Australia’s leading Melbourne-based architecture firms specialising in high-end residential and boutique developments, to talk craft, client priorities and the future of luxury homes.

From the early days to now, what has remained non-negotiable in the McKimm approach?

Attention to detail and an unwavering commitment to quality have always been at the core of McKimm. From the earliest projects to today, we prioritise precision, longevity and a considered use of honest, tactile materials designed to age gracefully. Each space evolves naturally over time, developing character without compromising its intention, craftsmanship or the refinement that defines our work.

In one sentence, how do you describe McKimm today, combining architecture, construction and project management under one roof?

We offer a fully integrated, end-to-end approach in which architecture, interiors, project management and construction work seamlessly together to bring a client’s vision to life, ensuring every project is realised with design excellence and structural integrity.

How are client priorities shifting — multigenerational living, flexible work areas, or amenities such as gyms and wellness zones?

These trends are shaping how we design today. Clients increasingly seek spaces that are flexible, adaptable and purpose-driven. Traditional “occasional rooms” are giving way to multipurpose spaces: a basement cinema might incorporate natural light and ventilation, doubling as a wellness area, casual entertaining space or home gym, with heavy, textured curtains converting it back into a cinema when desired. Multigenerational living also requires flexible layouts that accommodate changing family needs without compromising flow, luxury or comfort. Our focus is on responsive homes that blend functional performance with considered, refined design.

Looking to 2026, what will Australian luxury homes prioritise — scale, compression/expansion, or indoor–outdoor sequencing?

It depends on the client: how they live, who lives there, their ages and the site’s climate and context. Scale, proportion and flow are shaped by these factors rather than a single principle. As an integrated practice, we collaborate closely with clients across architecture, interiors and construction to ensure every decision reflects their priorities while delivering a seamless connection between form, function and context.

Name three design moves you wish more clients embraced — and one you’d happily retire.

We’d like to see greater freedom to let architecture and interiors fully respond to the site, creating spaces with authenticity and character. Investing in greener homes — solar energy, geothermal heating and cooling, and advanced glazing — should be more commonplace, significantly improving efficiency and environmental performance. We also continue to champion passive cooling and introspective design principles. As for what we’d retire: the idea that luxury is defined by excess. The best homes are thoughtful, refined and purposefully designed, not simply large or elaborate.

What does the future hold for McKimm?

We’ve built a strong reputation in high-end residential and select commercial projects, and we’re looking ahead. We’re expanding nationally, with projects underway in Sydney and Queensland, and engaging in international commissions, including luxury residences and commercial spaces in Dubai. Our focus remains on evolving, learning and integrating new technologies and ideas to ensure every project feels contemporary and timeless. ■

LEARN MORE

AN AUSSIE CHRISTMAS STORY WITH HEART

“More than a decade ago, after a family Christmas in Washington D.C. where my kids spotted the flying kangaroos at the Australian Embassy, I wrote Santa and His Brother Down Under. Each Christmas, we bring it back as a feelgood Aussie story, with all proceeds from sales going to KOALA Kids to support children with cancer. It’s become a small tradition with a big purpose, and I’m proud of what it’s helped us give back.”

JOHN BONGIORNO, MARSHALL WHITE SALES DIRECTOR

From family moment to beloved annual gift

Santa and His Brother Down Under began with a spark of imagination during a family holiday, then grew into a book families return to year after year. The tale reimagines Christmas through a distinctly Australian lens, inviting young readers to wonder, laugh and discover that even Santa can call on a trusted brother when the journey gets long. It is playful and warm, and grounded in the values that matter most at this time of year: generosity, community and care.

Every copy helps brighten a child’s day

All proceeds from the book support KOALA Kids, an organisation that brings practical comfort and small moments of joy to children and young people undergoing cancer treatment, as well as to their families and care teams. From creative activities that lift spirits to thoughtful items that make long days in hospital a little easier, KOALA Kids focuses on the details that help children feel seen, supported and more at ease.

A meaningful gift for the season

Choosing this book is a simple way to share the magic of Christmas while contributing to meaningful work in our community. It is an uplifting read for little ones, a feel-good gift for friends and family, and a reminder that small traditions can make a real difference. ■

PURCHASE A COPY

THE LOCAL EDIT

The Art Show - 27th November 2025 - 30 th November 2025

Studio 120, 120 Bay Street, Port Melbourne, VIC 3207

The Big Design Market Melbourne 2025 - 28th November 2025 - 30 th November 2025

9 Nicholson Street, Carlton, VIC 3053

Let's Party! Fashion for Kids: Designed by Danielle Brustman - 28th November 2025 - 3rd May 2026

National Gallery of Victoria, 180 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, VIC 3006

Women Photographers 1900-1975: A Legacy of Light - 28th November 2025 - 3rd May 2026

National Gallery of Victoria, 180 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, VIC 3006

Point Nepean Portsea Market - 29th November 2025

Point Nepean Quarantine Station, Coleman Road, Portsea, VIC 3944

Boroondara Farmers Market - 29th November 2025

484 Auburn Road, Hawthorn, VIC 3122

Asia Street Food Festival by the Yarra - 4th December 2025 - 7th December 2025

Alexandra Gardens, 3 Boathouse Drive, Melbourne, VIC, 3004

Soul Night Market Mordialloc -5th December 2025 206-220 Bay Trail, Mordialloc, VIC 3195

NGV Gala - 6th December 2025

National Gallery of Victoria, 180 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, VIC 3006

Hill and Ridge Community Market - 6th December 2025

184 Arthurs Seat Road, Red Hill, VIC 3937

Kingston Farmer's Market - 6th December 2025

3 Jean Street, Cheltenham, VIC 3192

The Lygon Street Market - 7th December 2025

Piazza Italia, Cnr Argyle Street and Lygon Street, Carlton, VIC 3053

Westwood | Kawakubo - 7th December 2025 - 16th April 2026

National Gallery of Victoria, 180 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, VIC 3006

Heide Market - 13th December 2025

7 Templestowe Road, Bulleen, VIC 3105

Mornington Racecourse Market

- 14th December 2025

320 Racecourse Road, Mornington, VIC 3931

Twilight Mornington Racecourse Market

- 20 th December 2025

320 Racecourse Road, Mornington, VIC 3931

Treasures and Tastes at Trinity Market20th December 2025

177 Union Road, Surrey Hills, VIC 3127

Martin Grant ExhibitionUntil January 2026

National Gallery of Victoria, 180 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, VIC 3006

Soul Night Market Brighton - 2nd January 2026

2 Esplanade, Brighton, VIC 3187

McClelland Maker's Market - 31st January 2026

390 McClelland Drive, Langwarrin, VIC 3910

Making Good: Redesigning the Everyday - Until 1st Feburary 2026

National Gallery of Victoria, 180 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, VIC 3006

MJ The Musical - Until 1st Feburary 2026

219 Exhibition Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000

You Are Here: Melbourne Memory-scapes

- Until 6th Feburary 2025

110 Swanston Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000

Young | youth in Australian photography: 1980s to now - Until 22 th February 2025

860 Ferntree Gully Road, Wheelers Hill, VIC 3150

Teresa's Trotters 2026 - Until 22 th Feburary 2025

200-590 Royal Parade, Carlton North, VIC 3054

MECCA X NGV Women in Design Commission 2025

- Until 1st April 2026

National Gallery of Victoria, 180 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, VIC 3006

Run the Tan - 26th April 2026

Tan Track, Melbourne, VIC 3004

COASTAL SERENITY

A newly completed coastal residence, this home blends contemporary design with natural light, indoor–outdoor flow and a heated in-ground pool. Stone, timber and glass define open-plan living anchored by an impressive entertainer’s kitchen. With four bedrooms, quality finishes and a premier Mornington address, it offers effortless, stylish beachside living. ■