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Community High Tea for Hope: A Community Success
In Conversation with Marshall White Projects Shevoke Society Armadale Feature Recipe Roast Chicken from Castlerose
58 Kooyong Road, Armadale Victorian Grandeur
45 Mary Street, Hawthorn Exquisite Landmark
58 Kooyong Road, Armadale
Victorian Grandeur
The home is a historic Armadale manor, set on over a quarter of an acre, with contemporary features throughout that would make it a generational family home.
Nicholas Brooks, Marshall White Director/Auctioneer
Magnificently set within lush Jane Jones designed botanic gardens, this c1887 solid brick Victorian residence masterfully blends grand period elegance with luxurious contemporary design. Behind the majestic tessellated verandah, a stately hall with ornate ceilings and Baltic pine floors leads to a temperature-controlled arched wine cellar.
Refined formal rooms, including a marble-fireplace dining room, executive study and gracious sitting room, offer serene garden views. The entertainer’s kitchen boasts marble benches, premium appliances and a cosy dining nook, flowing to expansive living/dining with a marble fireplace and access to a north-facing garden, BBQ terrace, pergola and heated outdoor pool.
A 25m indoor lap pool beneath a stunning glazed atrium includes a change room and bathroom. Family accommodation includes a lift-accessed principal suite with balcony, plus five additional bedrooms, multiple ensuites and study zones. Located on the corner of Inverness Avenue near High Street, top schools and transport, with every modern comfort and a 1140sqm (approx.) landholding. ■
For enquiries contact
Nicholas Brooks 0419 883 136
Ella Atkins 0427 211 769
John Bongiorno 0418 328 056 VIEW LISTING
“Maryemeade” is a landmark Victorian slate-roofed residence and one of the earliest built in the prestigious Grace Park Estate. Set on 1,140sqm (approx.), it is framed by lush gardens and mature trees. Dating to the late 1880s, it reflects Melbourne’s era of grand living and entertaining.
Today, it offers superb family living with modern comforts and exquisite period features—stained glass windows, ornate high ceilings, original fireplaces, and parquetry floors. The arched porch opens to a grand hall with mahogany staircase and Waterford crystal chandelier, leading to a study/library, dining room, and a second sitting area opening onto a north-facing verandah.
A vast rear domain includes a gourmet kitchen, paved alfresco entertaining area, heated pool, billiard room, bar, sauna, and poolside bathroom. Upstairs, four large bedrooms include a luxurious master with spa ensuite. Ideally located near Grace Park, Glenferrie Road, elite schools, transport, and CityLink, “Maryemeade” blends timeless elegance with contemporary lifestyle. ■
For enquiries contact
Désirée Wakim 0412 336 266
Nick Ptak 0413 370 442
John Bongiorno 0418 328 056 VIEW LISTING
45 Mary Street, Hawthorn
Exquisite
Landmark
A historical landmark residence full of character, period charm and generous room proportions in the tightly held Grace Park estate. This magnificent home offers families a rare generational opportunity.
Désirée Wakim, Director/Licensed Estate Agent
In Conversation with CREATE EXPECTATIONS
Creative Director Leah Hallis of Create Expectations, a design house offering a complete range of tailored services, and Create Interiors, an interior design studio renowned for its exclusive and personalised approach, shares her insights on crafting harmonious interiors and the emotional impact of property styling.
Creative Director Leah Hallis of Create Expectations, a design house offering a complete range of tailored services, shares her insights on crafting harmonious interiors and the emotional impact of property styling.
Why is it important to consider property styling when selling your home?
Styling your home is about evoking a feeling. It’s not just placing furniture in a room; it creates an emotional connection, allowing potential buyers to envision their lives in the space.
You’re not just selling a property; you’re selling a lifestyle.
Great styling defines the purpose of each space, highlights the home’s best features, and ensures it feels cohesive, current, and aspirational. A well-styled home doesn’t just look good; it feels right.
What does your creative process look like when styling a property?
We’ve developed a distinct, recognisable signature style. We’re not afraid of colour, bold artwork, and unexpected combinations, blending vintage and contemporary aesthetics to create interiors that feel layered, authentic, and thoughtfully "collected over time."
Our deeply personal approach treats every property as a unique design project, carefully curating every item from scratch. While selling a home requires some emotional detachment, it’s essential that homeowners still feel proud and confident in their property’s presentation.
Collaboration is at the heart of what we do. We invest time understanding clients’ vision, values, and home connections. We communicate our design intent clearly, explaining our choices for aesthetic and market appeal. Aligning client expectations with our expertise and market knowledge consistently results in beautifully styled homes and happy clients.
Our collaborative ethos also fuels our design team, turning each project into a shared creative journey driven by mutual inspiration, open dialogue, and pushing ideas further.
In your experience, what is the most challenging aspect of transforming existing spaces, and how do you navigate these challenges?
The most challenging aspect often arises when clients have lived in their home for many years, developing habits and attachments. For example, suggesting transforming a beloved
‘man cave’ into a formal living room can be a tough sell! Another challenge is recommending temporary relocation during sales campaigns, particularly difficult with young children or pets involved. Yet clients often end up grateful for these suggestions. Establishing honest, heartfelt connections and dedicating time to guide homeowners through preparation significantly helps overcome these challenges.
What would you say are the key elements that contribute to creating interior spaces where all components work in perfect harmony?
We focus on the flow throughout the home, ensuring each space transitions seamlessly. While it’s encouraged for rooms to reflect their own distinct style, function, and personality, maintaining a cohesive thread is essential. This harmony creates unity, preventing spaces from feeling disjointed.
What are your long-term visions for Create Expectations?
Create Expectations was established 28 years ago, when property styling was still emerging. As the real estate market has transformed, so too has our approach to presenting, marketing, and selling homes. Property styling, once niche, is now essential, and we’ve proudly evolved alongside these changes.
Our mission remains delivering high-end, design-forward styling that reflects current trends while adapting to Melbourne’s ever-changing market demands.
As our reputation and client base have grown, so has our vision, reflected in the expansion of our sister company, Create Interiors, a dedicated interior design studio. Together, we offer a seamless, holistic approach to property styling and interior design, ensuring spaces are beautifully designed and thoughtfully curated. ■
LEARN MORE
Roast Chicken from Castlerose
Bring the Castlerose supper club into your own kitchen with this signature roast chicken recipe. Infused with garlic, truffle, and a gentle brine, it’s a simple yet elegant dish made to impress.
Ingredients Method
1 whole organic chicken (Size 12–14)
¼ cup of butter
Black or regular garlic cloves
Truffle (not oil; frozen is fine if out of season)
Brine
Water (enough to submerge the entire chicken)
Pinch of salt
1 tablespoon of honey
1 bay leaf
1 clove of garlic
Pinch of black pepper
1 sprig of thyme
Small amount of chopped parsley
1 small sprig of rosemary
1 slice of lemon rind
Make the brine by placing all the ingredients in a large pot. Submerge the chicken completely, cover, and refrigerate overnight.
For Roasting
1. Blitz the butter, garlic, and truffle together to make a paste.
2. Rub the paste underneath the chicken skin, covering as much as possible.
3. Steam the chicken at 62°C for 2 hours.*
Preheat the oven to 185°C. Place the chicken on an oven tray and roast for 30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 75°C (check with a thermometer).
*If you do not have a steamer, here is a simple way to steam without one:
1. Place a round wire cooling rack inside a lidded pot.
2. Add about an inch of water to the pot.
3. Place a heatproof plate or bowl on top of the rack.
4. Add the chicken to the plate or bowl.
5. Cover the pot with a lid and bring the water to a simmer.
6. Steam the chicken until cooked through.
HIGH TEA FOR HOPE: A COMMUNITY SUCCESS
On Sunday, 25 May, The Westin Melbourne hosted You Matter’s High Tea for Hope - an inspiring afternoon dedicated to supporting women and children rebuilding their lives after experiencing family violence. Attendees were united by a common purpose: to create a brighter future for families in crisis.
The sold-out event featured a powerful keynote by former tennis player Jelena Dokic, who shared her personal journey of resilience and transformation. Her story resonated with guests, reminding everyone of the power of community support and the importance of providing tangible hope to those in need.
Adding excitement to the day, a lively charity auction was expertly conducted by John Bongiorno, Marshall White Group Sales Director. Thanks to the extraordinary generosity and enthusiasm of attendees, approximately $70,000 was raised - funds that directly contribute to You Matter’s vital mission of furnishing welcoming and fully equipped ‘Havens of Hope.’ Each Haven transforms empty houses into warm, safe homes, thoughtfully prepared by volunteers with essential furniture, kitchen items, bedding, and personal touches such as flowers and heartfelt notes.
A You Matter client highlights the impact of this work: “The people were so friendly and did a beautiful job setting up the house. When I found the flowers and note they had left me,
I burst into tears - they were happy tears. What I liked most was that it felt like home when I walked in the door.”
With the funds raised at the event, You Matter is now positioned to furnish 23 new Havens, but they still need an additional $5,000 to achieve their goal of completing 25 Havens by 30 June 2025. Given the ongoing housing and cost-of-living challenges facing Melbourne communities, the work of You Matter has never been more essential.
You Matter relies on the compassion and generosity of the community. Every contribution helps create safe, nurturing environments that empower women and children to rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.
To find out more about You Matter and how you can make a difference, visit https://youmatter.org.au, or make a donation today to help achieve the June 30 target using the QR code below.
Together, we can help women and children affected by family violence find safety, dignity, and hope. ■
DONATE HERE
Featured in image: Deborah de Rossi, CEO You Matter, Jelena Dokic –Guest Speaker, Stephen Ferrigno, General Manager The Westin, Melbourne
Market on the Move
The momentum generated by the recent interest rate cut has persisted, and while it hasn’t drastically changed the property market, it has certainly had a noticeable, positive effect. Optimism amongst buyers seems to be steadily increasing, with many now expecting further rate cuts later in the year, driving growth in the market moving forward.
This rising confidence was clearly evident in the strong auction success rates we have recently experienced. Even properties that were initially passed in attracted active bidding, indicating strong, ongoing buyer demand. Many of these passed-in properties have since entered successful negotiations, proving the continuing competitiveness of the present market landscape.
Despite the optimistic market conditions, property supply is somewhat constrained, particularly heading into the school holiday period, a traditionally quieter period for property listings. With fewer new listings expected in the short term, competition for well-presented homes will likely remain high. Buyers who are prepared and decisive will be best positioned to take advantage of the current market.
If you are considering making a move, now is an opportune moment. With optimism building and interest rates favouring buyers, it’s a promising time to secure your ideal property. Speak with our team today to discuss your next steps and how we can help you navigate today’s market. ■
By John Bongiorno
SHEVOKE
We sat down with Lisa Hyde, Director of Shevoke, to discuss the inspiration behind the brand - from her passion for art and travel to the journey of building a global eyewear label.
Image Credit: Steph Pedersen
Shevoke was born from your love of arts, travel, and growing up in the sun. How do these elements influence your designs?
These elements are at the core of every design. When I create sunglasses, I prioritise both wearability and comfort - they should feel like a natural extension of your style, not something you constantly need to adjust. I keep the design minimal because I believe simplicity allows the beauty of the piece to speak for itself.
The inspiration for my designs often comes from vintage sunglasses I’ve discovered during my travels. I love how they capture the essence of a place and time, so I take those iconic styles and reinvent them with a modern twist. It’s about blending the past and present, creating pieces that are timeless yet feel fresh and current.
Starting your entrepreneurial journey at 17 by designing and selling your own clothing line at local markets, how did those early experiences shape your approach to business?
Starting my entrepreneurial journey young gave me a deep appreciation for building something meaningful from the ground up. Selling at local markets taught me the value of understanding customers’ needs while staying true to my vision. Those early experiences reinforced the importance of quality, craftsmanship, and the subtle details that transform clothing into something timeless.
I quickly realised style isn’t just about trends - it’s about creating pieces that transcend time. This mindset shapes how I approach my business today. Every design, material, and detail is chosen with the goal of offering something both enduring and beautiful. My philosophy is simple: less is more - refined, effortless, and always with an eye on lasting elegance.
What role did the endorsement from Kendall and Kylie Jenner play in Shevoke’s growth, and how did you build on the momentum?
I’m genuinely honoured to see Kendall and Kylie Jenner in my designs! It has sparked an incredible global response, and the feedback has been mind-blowing. Designing pieces that resonate with people on such a large scale has always been my dream, and having style icons like Kendall and Kylie embrace them means the world. We leveraged that momentum and iconic imagery to elevate Shevoke on a global scale. While we’ve been fortunate to have celebrities and fashion influencers wear the brand over the years, the Jenner sisters have a unique ability to truly amplify a brand’s impact. It just inspires me even more to continue creating styles that empower and celebrate individuality.
What is your vision for Shevoke’s future, and how do you see the brand evolving in the coming years?
My vision for Shevoke is to continue evolving as a brand that celebrates individuality, timeless style, and conscious design. As I look to the future, I see Shevoke expanding globally while maintaining the intimate connection we have with our customers. I want to create eyewear that not only looks good but also makes people feel good.
In the coming years, we’ll keep pushing the boundaries of design, focusing on innovative materials and sustainable practices without compromising on quality or style. My goal is to grow thoughtfully and intentionally, offering more versatile collections while staying true to our minimalist aesthetic. Ultimately, Shevoke will stand for lasting beauty - pieces that people cherish for years, not just for how they look, but for what they represent ■
LEARN MORE
Image
Credit: Steph Pedersen
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Discover the benefits of our client-focused approach in maximising your investment property’s potential.
Contact Marshall White for a complimentary rental appraisal today.
The Local Edit
Soul Night Market Mornington - 13 th June 2025
Peninsula Community Theatre, 91 Wilsons Road, Mornington VIC 3931
Regional Farmers Market at Abbotsford Convent - 14th June 2025
1 St Heliers Street, Abbotsford VIC 3067
MECCA Loves Charlotte Tilbury: The Greatest Glow on Earth Masterclass - 14th June 2025
Melbourne Town Hall, Melbourne, VIC 3000
Dress for Success Victoria Inaugural Gala Dinner - 14th June 2025
Cnr Ploughman Place and Young Street, Frankston VIC 3199
Rising - Until 15th June 2025 Melbourne, VIC 3000
Henne Denim Atelier - Until 16 th June 2025 122 Greville Street, Prahran, VIC 3181
Lightscape at Royal Botanic Gardens
- 20 th June - 10 th August 2025
Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne, Birdwood Avenue, Melbourne, VIC 3004
Soul Night Market Moorabin - 20 th June 2025
30 Cochranes Road, Moorabbin, Victoria, 3189
Sorrento Fire Festival - 21st June 2025
3293 Point Nepean Road, Sorrento VIC 3943
Fondue Chalet at Fed Square - Untill 22nd June 2025
Fed Square, Skyline Car Park, Melbourne VIC 3000
Mount Eliza Farmers' Market - 22nd June 2025
Cnr Mt Eliza Way and Canadian Bay Road, Mount Eliza VIC 3930
Titanic: A Voyage Through Time - Until 3 rd July 2025 206 Bourke Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000
Roola Boola Children's Art Festival8th July - 18th July 2025
12 Little Chapel Street, Prahran VIC 3181
HSBC Spanish Film Festival at Palace CinemasUntil 9 th July 2025
Your local Palace Cinemas
Albert Park
110 Bridport Street, Albert Park, VIC 3206 (03) 9822 9999
1111 High Street, Armadale VIC 3143 (03) 9822 9999
Balwyn
Level 2/379-381 Whitehorse Road, Balwyn VIC 3103 (03) 9822 9999 Armadale
Run Melbourne - 13 th July 2025
Melbourne Park Oval, 20 Olympic Boulevard, Melbourne VIC 3004
Mornington Racecourse Market - 13 th July 2025
Mornington Racecourse, 320 Racecourse Road, Mornington VIC 3931
Top Arts 2025 - Until 20 th July 2025
National Gallery of Victoria, 180 St Kilda Road, Melbourne VIC 3006
Music at McClelland with Marshall McGuire and Genevieve Lacey - 20 th July 2025
390 McClelland Drive, Langwarrin VIC 3910
Orchestra Victoria: Meet at the Market Series - 25th July 2025
The Meat Market, 3 Blackwood Street, North Melbourne VIC 3051
Beetlejuice the Musical - Until 3 rd August 2025
Regent Theatre, 191 Collins Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
Winter Night Market - Until 27th August 2025
Queen Victoria Market, Queen Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
Hill and Ridge Community Market - 6 th September 2025
184 Arthurs Seat Road, Red Hill, VIC 3937
Connor's Run - 14th September 2025
Melbourne VIC 3004
Kimono - Until 5th October 2025
National Gallery of Victoria, 180 St Kilda Road, Melbourne VIC 3006
French Impressionism - Until 5th October 2025
National Gallery of Victoria, 180 St Kilda Road, Melbourne VIC 3006
Martin Grant Exhibition - Until January 2026
National Gallery of Victoria, 180 St Kilda Road, Melbourne VIC 3006
Level 1/225 Bay Street, Brighton VIC 3186 (03) 9822 9999 Mount Eliza 98 Mount Eliza Way, Mount Eliza VIC 3930 (03) 9787 6650
Level 1/908 Doncaster Road, Doncaster East VIC 3109 (03) 9840 1111
Flinders 60 Ocean Beach Road, Sorrento VIC 3943 (03) 5981 3000
Level 1/801 Glenferrie Road, Hawthorn VIC 3122 (03) 9822 9999 Hawthorn 10/33 Cook Street, Flinders VIC 3929 (03) 5931 1000
Sorrento
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