Meet the MAKER
ASHLEY JAMES
Ashley James is an Australian Garden Designer & Writer. From relaxed country and cottage gardens to bold urban spaces, Ashley has gained a reputation for creating beautiful, romantic spaces, that combine traditional design principles with wildly romantic plantings. In this article, Ashley shares his creative process and how he connects every client with their dream garden.
As a garden designer, my passion lies in crafting spaces that tell a story—a story made from nature, imagination, and romance. Each garden I create is not just a collection of plants; it is a retreat that transports visitors to a whimsical world where beauty reigns and the everyday fades away.
Inthisgardenlocatedin theYarraValley,myclients reached out to me with thevisionofcreatingan enchantingspacethatinvites explorationandembraces naturalbeauty,allwhile exudingasenseofromance.
In your recently completed Yarra Valley project, your clients were looking for a garden that embraced the area's natural surrounds. How did you go about this?
In this garden located in the Yarra Valley, my clients reached out to me with the vision of creating an enchanting space that invites exploration and embraces natural beauty, all while exuding a sense of romance. We achieved this by leaning into the property's natrual elevated landscape, using lush perennial plantings and fragrant flowers. The garden features a Wisteria covered pergola, perfect for entertaining or simply relaxing.
You are known for creating charming scenes and beautiful wildflower selections. Tell us more about your signature style.
My gardens are characterised by their enchanting features: winding pathways, timber arbours draped in climbing roses, and hidden nooks adorned with flower rich plantings.
I often incorporate unexpected elements—perhaps a vintage birdbath or a playful sculpture—that invites curiosity and sparks joy. The goal is to create an immersive experience, where every corner reveals a new delight and inspires a sense of wonder.
What elements come into play with designing your gardens?
In these gardens, colour plays a vital role. Soft pastels and vibrant blooms come together to create a painterly effect, while fragrant herbs and flowers engage the senses. I believe that a garden should be a feast for the eyes and the soul, a place where one can escape the hustle of modern life and reconnect with nature.
Talk us through your creative process?
Every project begins with understanding my clients’ dreams and desires. I encourage them to share their favourite stories, memories, and inspirations. This collaboration fuels my creativity and ensures that the garden reflects their personality, making the space not just beautiful, but deeply meaningful.
What do you love most about working with Australian gardens?
As I watch a garden grow and evolve, I feel a sense of fulfillment. Each garden becomes a living piece of art, showing the connection between romance and nature. For me, designing gardens is not just a profession; it’s a calling—a chance to create enchanting spaces where memories are made.
Ashley James Australian Garden Designer
Ashley and his team design and create gardens to suit many different situations, from small inner-city courtyards to large country estates.
Visit ashleyjamesgardens.com for more information.
Photography | Allie Claire Creative
future
Ilana Freadman Co-founder Freadman White Architects
Many of today’s architects envision a future where our homes serve as dynamic, adaptable and sustainable spaces that enhance the way we live. At Freadman White, our approach to the future of how we live in our homes is centred on the intersection of innovation, functionality, sustainability and wellbeing.
Designing for adaptability and flexibility
As lifestyles continue to evolve, the homes of the future will prioritise adaptability and flexibility. Spaces that can easily adapt to changing needs and preferences, ensuring that residents can customise their environments to suit their lifestyles, are of increasing importance. Whether it's through customisable modular joinery that can be easily rearranged, flexible room layouts or convertible spaces, clients are looking for homes that are designed to grow and evolve alongside their inhabitants. This adaptability ensures that our homes remain relevant and functional for years to come, accommodating the diverse needs of modern families and individuals.
Michael White Co-founder Freadman White Architects
Architecture & Interior Design: Freadman White Builder: Visioneer Photographer: Gavin Green
Architecture & Interior Design: Freadman White Builder: Visioneer Photographer: Gavin Green
Sustainability as a core principle
Sustainability through passive design principles and mindful specification of systems and materials lies at the heart of contemporary architectural design. The threat of climate change now means homes should be built with environmentally conscious materials, energy-efficient systems and renewable energy sources. It is paramount that the homes of tomorrow are designed to mitigate extreme weather conditions and provide thermal comfort and reduced energy consumption for their occupants.
Beyond what can be designed through some simple but effective spatial planning, we actively pursue the implementation of these initiatives in the homes we design, making them more resilient into the future. Prioritising passive design strategies such as orientation, shading and natural ventilation helps minimise energy consumption and maximise comfort. Homes that feature green roofs and walls, rain gardens to manage stormwater, rainwater harvesting systems, vegetation-rich landscapes to reduce global warming effects, and solar panels will reduce their environmental footprint and promote a more sustainable way of living.
By integrating sustainability into every aspect of the design process, we aim to create homes that not only minimise their impact on the planet but also contribute to the health and wellbeing of their inhabitants.
Connection to nature
Recognising the profound impact that the natural world has on our health and wellbeing, modern architecture incorporates biophilic design principles, creating environments that foster a sense of connection. From indoor gardens and green walls to expansive windows and natural materials, homes that blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces allow residents to experience the benefits of nature, providing a sense of calm and overall wellbeing.
Sustainabilitythroughpassive designprinciplesandmindful specificationofsystemsand materials lies at the heart of contemporaryarchitecturaldesign.
Promoting health and wellbeing
Central to our vision is the creation of homes that prioritise the health and wellbeing of their residents. The principles of balanced residential design support restorative spaces that allow for flexibility of use such as work-from-home spaces, spaces for yoga, meditation and fitness, saunas and steam rooms, as well as contemplative quiet spaces. In the future, homes will be designed to support such spaces, as well as continue to harness new technologies and materials that will assist in finding a balanced design that fosters relaxation, rejuvenation and connection. Techniques such as modulating natural light, employing cross-flow ventilation, and installing wellness amenities create environments that promote a holistic lifestyle. By prioritising health, our homes empower residents to live their best lives, both inside and outside.
Our homes are more than just buildings; they are dynamic, adaptable and environmentally conscious spaces that enhance the lives of their inhabitants. By integrating advanced technology, flexible design solutions, sustainable practices and biophilic principles, we inspire a brighter, positive and more environmentally conscious future for generations to come.
Architecture & Interior Design: Freadman White Builder: Whelan Paradigmes Photographer: Gavin Green
Jared Wei
Jared Wei, Director at Jellis Craig Monash, is known in the industry for his exceptional work ethic and unparalleled multilingual negotiation skills. We sat down with Jared to find out what it’s like living and working in Monash and his favourite local finds.
We sat down with Jared to find out what he likes about living and working in Monash, and to get the inside word on the best local spots in the neighbourhood.
Being fluent in multiple languages, how do you think this ability has enhanced your career, particularly in a multicultural market like Monash?
Proficiency in Mandarin is crucial in this market due to the large client base and the importance of cultural understanding. Having lived in an Asian country for 24 years and spending 15 years in the suburbs of Monash, enhances cultural insight and fosters greater client comfort.
The City of Monash is celebrated as one of Melbourne's most thriving and multicultural hubs. What do you think makes the area so attractive to buyers?
The community in Monash places huge priority on schooling and education, both private and public, as well as facilities and amenities such as the Monash Medical Centre, sports centers, community activities, and shopping centers. The public transport facilities in the area are second-to-none. The wheels are in motion on the ambitious $50 billion Suburban Rail Loop East, linking Cheltenham to Box Hill. Underground stations in Clayton, Monash, Glen Waverley and Burwood will link surrounding suburbs to the CBD and Melbourne Airport by 2035.
If you had a friend visiting from interstate, where would you take them...
Stanley Café, Glen Waverley
Chadstone for mini golf, Hoyts gold class and shopping FOR COFFEE
FOR LUNCH
Proud Peacock for a Pho FOR AN ACTIVITY
FOR DINNER & DRINKS
Piccolino in Mount Waverley for dinner. Altus Bar at Chadstone Rooftop for a drink
What are your spring predictions for the Monash property market?
The last 6 months has been moderate in Monash with clients holding back. During the spring, the market will boom again with families jumping back in and ready to transact. We look forward to the momentum to come...
You've been building your career in property over the last 15 years, what do you love most about the industry?
My favourite thing about the industry is being able to help my clients in their property journey, whether that is buying their next home or selling their current one. I get a lot of satisfaction in helping my clients and seeing the smile on their faces when they are delighted with a result.
What is the best piece of advice you have received? Don’t be afraid to give things a go.
What is a must-read book or podcast you recommend?
Rich Dad, Poor Dad
What advice would you give to aspiring professionals who want to excel in leadership roles within the property industry? To trust and to believe in their ability. To be open to learning and to stepping out of their comfort zone. HavinglivedinanAsiancountryfor 24yearsandspending15yearsinthe suburbs of Monash, enhances cultural insightandfostersgreaterclientcomfort.
Tell us about ‘home’.
It is most important to me to have a nice property for my family to live in. A place for comfort, rest and recovery.
Whether you are thinking of the next move or just want to consider your options, a property appraisal is the first step towards your future. Request an appraisal from Monash's leading property agency.
Jared Wei
Director M 0413
260 872 E
JaredWei@jelliscraig.com.au
37 The Highway, Mount Waverley SOLD by Jared Wei
Expressions of Interest
Closing Saturday 7th September at 2:00pm
308 Canterbury Road, Forest Hill
5 beds, 4 baths, 2 cars, 613.0sqm approx
Price Contact Agent
Jellis Craig Monash
Jared Wei 0413 260 872 Sue Li 0499 556 445
Expressions of Interest
Closing Monday 16th September at 2:00pm Price Contact Agent
Jellis Craig Armadale
Carla Fetter 0423 738 644 David Sciola 0408 598 242
Expressions of Interest
Closing Wednesday 18th September at 2:00pm
19 Bonview Road, Malvern
4 beds, 4 baths, 4 cars, 695.0sqm approx
Price Contact Agent
Jellis Craig Armadale
Carla Fetter 0423 738 644
Nathan Waterson 0439 905 188
Jellis Craig Richmond
Trent Stewart 0403 051 980 Luke Schickerling 0414 095 248
Peter Hannon 0419 158 427
Auction
Saturday 14th September at 11:00am
Price
42 South Crescent, Northcote
2 beds, 1 baths, 1 cars
$1,450,000 - $1,550,000
Jellis Craig Northcote
Stefan Di Loreto 0400 621 082
Sam Rigopoulos 0425 834 583
Auction
Saturday 7th September at 11:00am
A family sanctuary of style
38 Hastings Road, Hawthorn East
4 beds, 2 baths, 1 cars, 598sqm approx
Price
$3,300,000 - $3,600,000
Jellis Craig Hawthorn
Richard Winneke 0418 136 858
Chloe Quinn 0412 238 565
Jellis
“This architectural marvel, steeped in rich history, seamlessly blends impeccable period details with modern sophistication, offering an unrivalled lifestyle of elegance.”
Contemporary countryside retreat on 69 acres with picturesque landscape
109 Captains Gully Sandon Road, Sandon
3 beds, 2 baths, 4 cars, 28.02ha approx
Expressions of Interest
Price $1,750,000
Jellis Craig Daylesford Carole Lenander 0401 472 346 Gary Cooke 0409 003 356
Sought-after country lifestyle property with a hint of Tuscany
2B Stump Street, Maldon
4 beds, 2 baths, 6 cars, 1.462ha approx
Expressions of Interest Price
$1,450,000 - $1,550,000
Jellis Craig Castlemaine Leah Panos 0466 878 214 Andrew Turley 0428 129 469
Expressions of Interest
Closing Tuesday 17th September at 4pm
78 Napoleon Street, Eltham
Price
$1,900,000 - $2,090,000
Jellis Craig Corporate
Aaron Yeats 0400 067 024
Ashleigh Garch 0402 660 934
$1,600,000 - $1,750,000
Jellis Craig Brunswick
Elizabeth Kelly 0431 434 169 Greg Cusack 0417 128 125
Hamptons-style luxury
25 Temby Street, Watsonia
5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 2 car spaces, 611sqm approx
Expressions of Interest
Closing Tuesday 17th September at 4:00pm
Price
$1,570,000 - $1,650,000
Jellis Craig Greensborough
Aaron Yeats 0400 067 024
Ashleigh Garch 0402 660 934
Infinite style and seclusion – A stones throw from the Yarra
9 Hamilton Road, North Warrandyte
4 beds, 2 baths, 4 cars, 2708.0sqm approx
Expressions of Interest
Closing Tuesday 17th September at 4:00pm
Price
$1,800,000 - $1,900,000
Jellis Craig Eltham
Aaron Yeats 0400 067 024
Ashleigh Garch 0402 660 934
“Beyond the c1902 façade lies a residence that redefines
6 McLachlan Street, Northcote Auction
4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms
Saturday, 7th September at 3:00pm Price
$2,600,000 - $2,800,000
Jellis Craig Northcote
Brian Te 0477 429 859
Sam Rigopoulos 0425 834 583
Federation sanctuary presents a once-in-alifetime opportunity
104 Eglinton Street, Moonee Ponds
5 beds, 4 baths, 6 cars, 1651.0sqm approx
Expressions of Interest
Closing Tuesday 17th September at 5:00pm
Price Contact Agent
Jellis Craig Kensington
John Morello 0412 088 757
Chauntel Considine 0407 741 456
Auction
Saturday 7th September at 3:30pm
Family sanctuary of light-filled
6 Burns Street, Moonee Ponds
5 beds, 3 baths, 2 cars, 548.0sqm approx
Price
$2,500,000 - $2,700,000
Jellis Craig Kensington
John Morello 0412 088 757
Carmel Morganti 0438 665 145
Luxurious family grandeur in a coveted riverside locale
71 Doncaster Street, Ascot Vale
4 beds, 3 baths, 4 cars, 809.0sqm approx
Auction
Saturday 14th September at 1:30pm
Price
Contact Agent
Jellis Craig Kensington
John Morello 0412 088 757
Christian Lonzi 0403 344 279
1 Channel Street, Mornington
3 beds, 2 baths, 1224sqm approx Auction
Sunday 15th September at 11:00am
$2,100,000 - $2,300,000
Jellis Craig Mornington
Brendan Collopy 0400 339 644
Jarrod Quint 0409 462 156
‘Coronal’ masterfully blends period grandeur with contemporary elegance.
9-11 Lewes Drive, Malvern East
“Exuding a rich history, combined with harmonious indoor-outdoor spaces that promote modern living and entertaining.”
‘Grace Darling’ c1892 – glorious Darling Gardens grandeur
6 South Terrace, Clifton Hill
5 beds, 3 baths, 2 cars
Auction
Saturday 14th September at 12:30pm
Price
$4,900,000 - $5,300,000
Jellis Craig Fitzroy
Antony Woodley 0421 286 741
Antony Harbor 0406 585 435
Auction
Saturday 31st August at 12:00pm
Luxe lving: beauty and bliss
56 Johnson Street, Thornbury
4 beds, 3 baths, 3 cars
Price
$2,200,000 - $2,400,000
Jellis Craig Northcote
Stefan Di Loreto 0400 621 082
Sam Rigopoulos 0425 834 583
Architecturally designed family sanctuary, magnificent location
245 Bridport Street West, Albert Park
4 beds, 4 baths, 2 cars, 457.0sqm approx
Auction
Saturday 14th September at 10:30am
Price
Auction Saturday 14th September, 10.30am
Jellis Craig Port Phillip
Simon Gowling 0422 234 644
Warwick Gardiner 0438 308 555
Expressions of Interest Price
Breathtaking design and views
2/7 Wimmera Place, St Kilda
2 beds, 2 baths, 2 cars
$2,750,000 - $2,850,000 Jellis Craig Brighton
$2,250,000 - $2,350,000 Jellis Craig Rye Adam Vocale 0418 113 070
From the team behind the highly-awarded Fenwick development, Fernhurst comprises just seventeen apartments and three homes on a one-acre north-east corner site. Positioned in a coveted Studley Park side street, the residences are conveniently located just 300m to Kew Junction, with an exceptional Walk Score of 91.
11-15 Fernhurst Grove & 5 Stawell Street, Studley Park, Kew
Apartments from $2m Homes from $6m
Contact Stephen Bowtell 0455 038 022
fernhurstkew.com.au
All images are artistic impressions
Characterised by generous setbacks and oversized gardens, Fernhurst encompasses three distinct and highly considered offerings. Due to zoning and heritage restrictions, it occupies one of the last remaining apartment development sites in the Studley Park precinct. Fernhurst represents the second collaboration between award-winning developer ANGLE and acclaimed studios Edition Office and Eckersley Garden Architecture. The team has established a reputation for delivering timeless, liveable and innovative designs that are redefining urban living and shaping the future of Australian property development. Construction is commencing on Fernhurst early 2025.
Curated by ANGLE
Landscape by Eckersley Garden Architecture
Architecture by Edition Office
