Urban Life Magazine Issue 4

AUGUST 2016 Vol. 1, Ed. 4

Urbanlife Award-winning New Homes & Land Ideas

PLEASURE AND SPAIN • RECIPES • SETTING UP A HOME GYM SWEET SPOT • POWER OF SOLAR • PRACTICAL MAGIC IN BEDROOMS

A BETTER LIVING EXPERIENCE

Luxury Home Prices Single Storey

Double Storey

CALGARY280 27.58sq Starting from

KYALAMI370 36.53sq Starting from

$210,900

BENSON285 28.39sq Starting from

*

$212,900

*

$290,900

RITZ445 43.79sq

Starting from

*

$330,900

*

More designs available

Amazing Inclusions • 2590mm ceiling height* • Dual vanity basin to ensuite, • 20mm stone benchtops and glass 20mm stone benchtops to splash back to kitchen ensuite and bathroom • Large pot drawers and microwave • 6 star energy rating to any tower to kitchen • 900mm stainless steel appliances • Undercover alfresco with concrete pad to rear and 600mm stainless steel dishwasher • Enlarged recessed shower base with semi frameless shower screen • Remote control garage door

Plus much more

Big Value For You

• Stainless steel microwave with trim kit •

Limited time offer

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• Stained timber staircase with feature glass panelling* • • Soft close drawers and doors to kitchen cabinetry • 40mm stone with waterfall edges to kitchen island benchtop • stone benchtop, plus more* • Choice of four facades to single storey homes*

$999

Double Storey Single Storey

* Conditions apply. Refer to consultant for further information

Mernda Villages Estate 22 - 26 Stradling Rise, Mernda Ph: 9715 0055

Highlands Estate 11 - 13 Montreal Circuit, Craigieburn Ph: 9305 5375

Gateway Estate 4 - 6 Nova Avenue, Truganina Ph: 8360 5283

www.bentleyhomes.com.au

contents

18.

AUGUST // 2016

5.

FEATURES 6 GET BACK IN THE ZONE Winter can harm your fitness levels, but creating a gym space at home will definitely help 12 COASTAL LIVING Sarah Carminati did her homework and her research paid off handsomely with her Armstrong Creek home 18 FAMILY VALUES Chef Miguel Maestre’s recipe for success includes the integral ingredient of love.

34 A SUNNY DISPOSITION Tap into the power of the sun and generate electricity naturally

34.

REGULARS 2, 45 INSIDERS 5 OBJECTS OF DESIRE 33, 38-39 PRACTICAL MAGIC 48 INDUSTRY NEWS 52 DISPLAY HOME DIRECTORY

38.

12.

WELCOME

T

HE kitchen is the heart of most new homes. And with many buyers opting for a butler’s pantry, it’s easy to see why.

There’s something special about having a separate space to prepare your food and keep the mess out of sight, but keeping it ordered is another thing altogether.

In our cover story, Nicole Bittar talks to exuberant celebrity chef Miguel Maestre about his dream kitchen, family, success and his goal to bring Spanish cuisine to the masses in Australia. Better still, he’s provided us with his recipes for his delicious seafood paella and churros.

Our Estate Pioneer for this month focuses on a Geelong couple who made the move to Armstrong Creek for a tree and sea change earlier this year and are now living it up.

We examine the latest floors in Objects of Desire, the benefits of installing solar power and select some of the latest products to beautify your bedroom.

Speaking of enhancing your home, one lucky Pakenham reader won our competition for a $4990 voucher from Adriatic Furniture (see Page 49), but we have another exciting competition for you to enter.

Simply register your details at urbanlifemag.com.au for your chance to win.

Ross McGravie Editor

6.

SCAN ME! Download the Urban Life app and scan when you see this icon throughout the mag with a mobile device for a unique interactive experience (see page 4 for details) PUBLISHER Ross Copeland // MANAGING EDITOR Ross McGravie // SUB-EDITOR Cassy Polimeni // ART DIRECTOR Amy Tanner // NATIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Steve Kunesevic // ADMINISTRATION Gina Copeland

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INSIDER

What attracted you to the industry (and when)?

I was 13 years old when my father, John King, started our building company. I grew up as the company grew. And while I spent my first working years outside the industry as a business analyst, I was ultimately drawn back in and have been here now for 12 years.

It is incredibly rewarding building homes. There is as much satisfaction building a small three-bedroom home for a young family starting out, as it is building a large award-winning development. Ultimately what we do is very special, and affects many people in a wonderful way.

What do you love most about the industry?

All of us working in the industry have “building in our blood”.

There is a wonderful sense of camaraderie with all our people at JG King, as we work together to deliver new homes.

The process of meeting a client, to delivering their home, is complicated and requires the expertise of many different people. I am not sure there are many industries that engage such a broad range of people with such a broad skill set - from architects and designers, engineers, estimators, draftspeople, building surveyors, builders and subcontractors, and all the other people in between. Everyone provides a critical piece of the puzzle.

If you had the power, how would you improve the process of building?

Building a new home is becoming more and more expensive all the time. I don’t see any improvement in affordability on the horizon. Unfortunately, a myriad of legislative demands, taxes and red tape continues to add to the cost of building. I am also concerned about the lack of investment in our young people entering the industry, including trade qualifications and apprenticeships. We are currently experiencing shortages in skilled tradespeople across all aspects of the industry, and unless this is addressed, there will need to be a very significant correction in the cost of building, and/or the methodologies we use to build.

If building tomorrow, what feature would you most like incorporated in your home?

There are the hidden elements of a home that won’t reveal their importance to you until you have moved in.

For example, how your home performs in different seasons and weather conditions.

Passive airflow, light and ventilation are extremely important in how comfortable your home is and, of course, your energy bill. There are wonderful new glazing options, insulation options and energy efficient design ideas, that ensure your home is comfortable all year round.

As a larger builder, our range of homes have been refined over time. We have a wide range of plans, but many of them are derivatives and improvements on older plans that have been hugely successful for our customers. It is very difficult to design a single home from scratch and have it tick all the boxes, which is why our continual improvement approach delivers a range of homes that people really love.

Natalie King

What do you consider your proudest moment or greatest achievement (in the industry)?

We work with a number of organisations who specialise in providing housing to people who are less privileged. Seeing a family with small children who have been homeless, moving into their own secure, long-term home is truly wonderful. I have had the enormous pleasure of playing a small part in that, and I have had the pleasure of meeting some truly amazing people in the social housing sector. I believe that a secure and safe home is the first critical step in building a better future for many people.

Last year we achieved our 30th year in business. We celebrated at our Christmas party in Ballarat, where we began, and had almost 500 people in attendance.

We prepared a book showing some of the highlights of our 30 years. The process of digging out the wonderful stories, the anecdotes and photographing some of our beautiful homes was extremely rewarding. I can proudly say that there are many people still with our company that joined in the early years.

JG King Homes

Managing Director 2 // URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

What tips would you give for future-proofing a home?

While the obvious answer here may be a technology-based response, my interest lies firmly in ensuring you have a home to future proof. You see, one of the largest threats to homes in Victoria is termites, with one-third of unprotected properties subject to termite attack. Other threats include the natural elements, such as fires and floods. JG King builds 100 per cent of its homes using steel frames, and always has. Our homes are more durable, safer and built to last. It is for this reason we are able to offer a 50-year warranty backed by BlueScope Steel.

Urban Life offers readers a unique interactive experience

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Open the app and then hold your phone over the advertisement or editorial page (those marked with the Urban Life app Icon).

The app will then seamlessly deliver you to the digital link behind the page. This may be a competition offer from us; a builder’s website offering a virtual reality display home tour; it may take you to a selection of new home or interior ideas; or you might find rich media offerings, like video related to the page you scan.

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O b j e c t s of D e s ire

Floored

By Nicole Bittar

When it comes to winning residential design, it’s best to start from the ground up.

What one sets foot on in the family home should be made to stand the test of time. Whether you like to cushion the blow in woollen carpet, revel in cool stone or warm wood underfoot, these flooring options are flawless.

Designer carpets, Italian terrazzo tiles, cool concrete and the pick of parquetry are on show wherever you go in these beautifully durable options.

Consider yourself grounded with any one or all of them put together.

1. Chocolate (American Oak top layer), (www.royaloakfloors. com.au) RRP: starts at $85/sq m, plus GST, for the 158 x 10 x 1830mm, board size.

2. Herringbone Block (American Oak top layer), www.royaloakfloors. com.au RRP: $100/sq m, plus GST

3. Concreate floor tiles RRP: $129/sq m, plus GST www.royaloakfloors.com.au 4. Fibonacci Stone Storm Terrazzo Tiles, Fibonacci Stone www.fibonaccistone.com.au RRP: Starting from $138/sq m

Image: Brooke Holm

Image: Brooke Holm

5. Fibonacci Stone Allure Terrazzo Tiles, Fibonacci Stone www.fibonaccistone.com.au RRP: Starting from $138/sq m 6. BLOKWERK Collection, designed by Oren Sherman, Brintons www.brintons.com.au RRP: POA

URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE // 5

I n s ide

Get back in the zone A lack of exercise during winter can take its toll. But setting up a simple home gym will soon get you back in a routine

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OW that the weather has turned, it’s not always easy to keep up your exercise routine outdoors.

But creating a home gym can be one of the many ways to stay healthy as the temperature plummets elsewhere.

The best place to set up a home gym is in an empty spare room, in the garage or on a covered deck outside.

That way, you can leave the equipment out and it will be ready to use whenever you need it.

But when space is precious, examine ways to adapt a room quickly by shifting furniture. If possible, clear the space of clutter and distractions so your attention is focused solely upon your workout.

If you’re thinking long term, buy furniture that doubles as storage so your equipment can be put away with a minimum of fuss. This may include seating or coffee tables.

If you prefer a quiet space for Pilates or yoga, integrate what will work best for you. If that means plenty of natural light or closing the blinds, do it. Hang motivational posters to inspire you and, if you’re lucky, have a TV or an iPod dock on hand to allow music to enhance your performance.

Mirrors can increase the sense of space and provide an

immediate feedback tool, while plants, such as ferns, bamboo palms and spider plants, are renowned for their indoor airpurification powers. Try to avoid working out on a concrete floor even if you have a mat. More importantly, create a little time. Star of 10 Minute Solution: Ultimate Bootcamp Jessica Smith advises you to schedule a daily appointment for your fitness and wellbeing.

“Organise not only your space but also your plan of action.

Even the best home gyms won’t do you any good unless you actually do the workouts,” Smith said on the bhg.com website.

“Create a schedule for your week and decide when you’ll fit in your home workouts. It’s too easy to get distracted by the

“Get your winter workout wardrobe ready. Get a couple of pairs of long tights – try and find some that lined on the inside and ideally compression to keep the muscles nice and warm, and invest in some beanie hats, headbands and running gloves. You can also enter some events through winter so you have something to train for – it may be that you have your goal set on the Melbourne Marathon in October, meaning runs until September are vital for your training and it keeps you accountable. I also like to use some summer images as motivation – stick your fave holiday destination up on your fridge or on your laptop screensaver – when you lose your mojo you can imagine yourself there.”

– Colette McShane, aka The HIIT Mum, runs The HIIT Factory fitness facilities and workout app PT in My Pocket (thehiitmum.com.au) 6 // URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

IMAGES: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

WARM GAMES

I n s ide

phone, computer, or kids being home, so make an exercise appointment you won’t miss by scheduling it into your week.

And when it comes time to get going, go full out.”

LESS is more when it comes to a basic home gym. Given the expense and a general desire to preserve space, it’s best to keep it simple.

The internet and YouTube are full of examples of inventive people replicating the gym experience with everyday items.

“Use your body weight for exercises like push-ups, squats and lunges, while everyday items can be adapted to suit your purposes,” 12wbt.com recommends.

“Sturdy chairs, stools or benches can be used for exercises

like tricep dips and step-ups. For upper-body workouts, use cans of soup or water bottles filled with water or sand as weights. These are great for bicep curls, tricep push-backs and shoulder presses.

“For lower-body workouts, fill a backpack with books or other heavy objects and hold it or strap it onto your back. This will add intensity to exercises like lunges, squats and sumo squats.”

Similarly, an old soccer ball or basketball filled with sand and then sealed can become a medicine ball.

If you can’t resist the temptation to get some professional equipment, such as a treadmill or exercise bike, try hiring it first.

FRIEND REQUEST “There’s nothing like a little competition to help motivate you through winter, so team up with some friends. With the power of wearables and social media now, the options are endless. You can create a mini challenge between friends and even put up a prize for grabs to ramp up the stakes.

Our research has also shown that people sharing workout information with friends via an app are working out 5.5 times harder than those with no friend connections.”

– Michael Jordan, MYZONE (myzone.org)

URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE // 7

Inside Then, when the time comes to outlay your cash, the decision you make will be informed.

There are many anecdotes of rarely used gym equipment becoming very expensive clothes horses – just check out Gumtree for proof.

In 2014 Choice Australia surveyed people who had bought exercise equipment in the previous 12 months and found they were typically using it three to four times a week. But use tended to drop off over the years and by the five-year mark about half of our respondents who bought treadmills and three in four who bought exercise bikes were no longer using them.

Most people were satisfied with the machines they’d bought, especially those who’d bought treadmills (87 per cent) were satisfied, compared with 77 per cent of people with exercise bikes or elliptical trainers. Not surprisingly, the more satisfied people were, the more likely they were to still be regularly using the machine. The main complaints or reasons for giving up using equipment were: boredom or loss of motivation; not being able to watch TV as planned, because the machine was too noisy; taking up too much space; niggling faults with the machine, or breakdowns; and, poorer quality machines than those you find at the gym.

Floor space is another consideration, particularly if you’re using machines. But vertical space is equally important. The American Council on Exercise has guidelines that recommend treadmills have 2.8 sq m of space for optimal performance.

This consideration should also be made for a stationary bike (1 sq m), free weights (1.8 sq m to 4.7 sq m), single-station gym (3.3 sq m), rowing machine (1.8 sq m), stair climber (up to 1.8 sq m) and multi-station gym (up to 19 sq m).

Gabi from the 12wbt.com blog said that whatever equipment you buy, it’s worth paying a little extra for the best item you can afford.

“Invest in quality pieces from the outset – you’re going to use this equipment a lot, so you want it to be safe and to last,” she said. “You want to be able to add new pieces to your gym over time, not just replace stuff you’ve already bought that hasn’t lasted.”

Also, look for second-hand items on online sites such as Gumtree or eBay. “Check with the gyms in your area – many sell their equipment when upgrading or renewing, and provided it has been well maintained, you can get really good bargains,” Gabi said.

WHEN it comes to equipment, you can get started for less than $100.

A skipping rope is ideal for cardio. Not only is it easily transportable, it’s affordable and takes up next to no space.

Likewise, dumbbells are incredibly versatile, and it’s not necessary to buy a whole set. Pick a few weights that suit you now and add to your collection as you become stronger and fitter. If you’re graduating to a larger weight, consider swapping with friends.

Exercise balls can also be used for a multitude of exercises, and resistance bands are perfect for stretching and increasing flexibility. bhg.com said some of the most effective workouts are simple.

“Follow the basics of good training – working within your target heart rate, loading your muscles, and progressing your workouts – and you’ll be rewarded with positive results no matter how elaborate or simple your home gym set-up is.”

8 // URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

TEA UP RESPITE “Tea is a great option for winter diets and to help fight those winter blues. It can do a lot more than just keep you warm, a good-quality blend can help soothe that sore throat or your lethargic winter feeling. Try and pick a tea that is organic, as it won’t contain nasty additives or flavours. During winter months your body produces more melatonin, which is a hormone that makes your feel sleepy and less motivated to workout. There are now exercise teas on the market that can provide that much-needed energy boost and help you recover from a workout as a natural alternative to artificial supplements. You can also benefit from adding a few key ingredients into your diet over winter – for example, ginger and lemongrass are two examples. Both have anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant benefits that can assist with circulation and sore muscles, which often flare up in winter.”

– Andrew Smith, The Organic Trainer (www.theorganictrainer.com)

Over 3kms of walking and bike trails

Toronto

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The Porter Davis Advantage+ Range launches on July 30th, 2016.

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*$10,000 Cashback requires the adherence to a qualification criteria. Please see the Porter Davis Advantage+ brochure or our website www.porterdavis.com.au for full details of all Terms and Conditions. Images on these pages are for illustration purposes only. They show upgrade items that are not included.

1800 PORTER (767 837) PORTERDAVIS.COM.AU

spot

Meticulous research has paid off handsomely for a Geelong couple, who are now living the dream

PHOTOGRAPHY: NICK FLETCHER / STYLIST: CLAIRE CAU-CECILE

Sweet

E STAT E P I O N E E R S

W

HEN Sarah Carminati and Craig Durran pulled up outside their block in Armstrong Creek, they just knew this was the place to call home. Opposite farmland, a grove of protected trees and an expected walking and cycling track, the block in the Warralily Coast Estate had instant appeal for the newly engaged couple, who knew they were on to a good thing.

“We just had a feeling. We researched the area extensively … but as soon as we pulled up and looked around us, we turned to each other and said, ‘This is going to be great for us’,” Sarah said. It’s a sentiment that has only grown stronger as they enjoy the myriad benefits of their new life together as they prepare for their wedding in April.

“Craig and I got engaged in March 2015, and we decided we wanted to build a house as soon as we could. At the time we were living in a small, two-bedroom rented townhouse in Belmont. It was comfortable, but not ‘home’,” the clinical pharmacist at University Hospital Geelong said.

“Like any prospective home builders, we did our homework – well, I did and Craig tagged along! It’s in my nature to look into absolutely everything and do all the background work before making any big decisions.” The research included a two-hour trip to see a similar display home in Craigieburn, a journey Sarah would make again and again for peace of mind.

Sarah Carminati loves nothing more than cooking and relaxing with her fiance Craig Durran in her new kitchen, which was upgraded to include an extra-wide island bench. Providing plenty of space for family gatherings, it complements the 12-seat table crafted from the barn doors rescued from a farm belonging to Craig’s uncle

THEIR decision to settle at Warralily Coast didn’t take the couple long to make.

“We had considered building in Portarlington, but decided that it was too far away from where we wanted to be, and hence we settled on Warralily Coast. Once we decided on this estate, we picked our land in one day,” Sarah said.

“Warralily Coast was an easy choice for us primarily because of its location. It’s 15 minutes to the centre of Geelong

and 10 minutes to Torquay – we have the best of both worlds.

It’s also right near the Geelong Ring Road, which Craig uses to get to work in Melbourne every day. It’s also aesthetically appealing with houses and front gardens having a coastal look.”

The nearby Marshall train station also adds to the appeal for those commuting to Melbourne. Adopting a “so far, so good!” attitude to how they were settling in, Sarah said the area offered excellent prospects for long-term capital growth once the promised infrastructure was in place.

“I love how new and modern our neighbourhood is. I like that there are designated walking tracks, footpaths, parks and playgrounds. We’ve not been in very long, so we are hoping that all the plans (e.g. supermarket and town centre) will come to fruition.”

SARAH said choosing Metricon to build their home was simple.

“The very first builder we made contact with was Metricon.

We knew they had an excellent reputation, but we wanted to experience it ourselves and make our own judgement,” she said.

“Over the next few weeks we visited several other builders in the area, but ... there was just something about our interaction with them that set them apart.

“This was our first home build, and I’d like to think it’ll be the first of many homes built with Metricon.”

NEXT came the house design.

“My best bit of advice is to think very logically when picking the layout of your home to ensure that it will function to service your needs as a family.

“Imagine you’re experiencing a Virtual Reality tour and, with every step you take, think of everything that you need in that

URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE // 13

“I couldn’t believe the house that we’d dreamt about and visualised over the previous months was finally here … and it was all ours! It was even better than I ever expected it would be.”

14 // URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

E STAT E P I O N E E R S space. It may be a power point to the right, or a doorway to the left. Taking our time to carefully consider all possibilities worked for us … but don’t skimp on the electrical and carpet – it’s definitely worth the money,” Sarah said.

“We looked through every single house design that Metricon had available and narrowed it down to three designs.

“We wanted our main bedroom to be at the back of the house and that was one of the main reasons we went with the design we did (Cohen 28). We wanted a few different living areas and a theatre room, as we love to watch movies. We also wanted to make sure we had extra rooms for friends and family to come and stay, but also to have the potential of growing our family into.”

Thankfully, the compromises required to customise the fit-out to their tastes were limited. Sarah added frosted glass to the pantry door and in return, Craig’s preference for a Colorbond roof was heeded. Sarah loves the privacy of having the main bedroom suite at the rear, with its mirrored his-andher robes and en suite. The separate living zones within the Cohen 28 also provide flexibility for future plans.

The second living area around the other three bedrooms and bathroom will make an ideal kids retreat in years to come, she said, but was perfect for self-contained guest accommodation. It has already been used for babysitting her nieces Willow and Zahlie. The study nook would also be updated with a desk and shelving in the months ahead to make the most of its NBN connection.

“We don’t have any kids (just yet), but we do have a lovely indoor cat, Tess, who likes to frequent the backyard on weekends. She loves watching the builders work on the houses next door during the day.”

UPGRADES were a major part of the process. Sarah’s focus was the kitchen. From pot drawers and appliances (including a freestanding 900mm Technika oven with six-burner gas cooktop, stainless-steel and glass rangehood and Bosch dishwasher), to the extra-wide Caesarstone benchtop and hand-made splashback tiles, they have spent wisely in a space Sarah enjoys spending much of her time.

“I love to cook and entertain, so having a big kitchen bench was an absolute necessity. We got the largest bench we could fit in the kitchen/dining area and Craig jokes it is ‘so big it needs its own postcode’,” Sarah said.

She said the home had been put to the test at a Mother’s Day function for 12, and passed with flying colours. The feature table they built from barn doors salvaged from Craig’s uncle’s farm has been a hit with both families, as well as with Sarah’s craft friends. The dining area opens through the stacking timber doors – another upgrade – to Craig’s favourite feature of the decked al fresco area that overlooks the backyard.

Evidence of upgrades feature in most rooms, such as the stylish showerhead in the family bathroom, or the extra-large shower in the en suite.

Outside, plans are well under way for the rear fence to be planted with dwarf fruit trees, including lemon and olive. It will complement the merbau decks (front and rear) with in-deck LED lighting and neat landscaping installed within a week by Barnaby from Armstrong Creek Landscaping.

“Overall, we had a budget and came in just under. I think that was because we knew what we wanted, so we weren’t spending unnecessarily,” she said.

TRUE to her goal of harmonious living, Sarah created a sense of community in the neighbourhood.

“We had initially contacted our neighbours to organise our shared fences. I set up a Sunday afternoon one weekend, and we all met,” she said. “Immediately, we hit it off with our neighbours. Andrew and Jennie Rogers next door and Sam ‘Feathers’ Bird in the house behind us, were a point of contact for us throughout the remainder of our build. We would talk with them nearly every day sharing experiences and supporting one another.

“We actually moved in the same week as Sam. We’ve had him over a few times for dinner and we’ve also been over to his house. Andrew and Jennie’s house hasn’t been finished yet, however we see them regularly when they’re visiting their house. I have to say, we’ve not only found great neighbours but also great friends that we’ll have for the rest of our lives.

“Make a good connection with your neighbours, it’s so important. It really gives such a wonderful community feel.

We can’t wait to have barbecues during summer with our neighbours, and are even thinking of organising a ‘street’ Christmas party.

“I had always hoped we were going to have really good neighbours, and I really think we have been lucky to land them.”

AN easygoing attitude and excellent communication was the secret to their stress-free construction experience. Sarah said she made a point of keeping open the lines of communication with the site supervisor, Brad Cue, sending several hundred emails during the process.

“To be completely honest, there is nothing I would change about our building process,” she said. “I went into the process with the expectation that there would be minor hiccups along the way and I think this really helped. Like any build, we had a few hiccups, however they were always dealt with promptly by Brad.

“Anyone who builds needs to realise that people make mistakes, and that (with the protection of the contract) the builders are going to fix it. At the end of the day, the contract will look after you.”

“I DON’T think we’ll ever forget the day we moved in. It was like a dream. I couldn’t believe the house that we’d dreamt about and visualised over the previous months was finally here … and it was all ours! It was even better than I ever expected it would be.

“Brad, our site manager, did such an amazing job of getting everything together for us to move in. His attention to detail was second to none. We were so impressed with the quality of the final product that he delivered to us. We really felt having such an amazing site supervisor like Brad enriched our experience.

“When we moved in, about half our street had finished houses, and the other half were at various points in construction. Both houses either side of us are still being built.

Much to our delight, the building either side of us hasn’t been a burden on us at all.”

(Clockwise, from top) The kitchen and dining room are the central hub of Sarah and Craig’s Warralily Coast home, which opens to Craig’s favourite zone - the outdoor room. The finished look was completed by the excellent work of Barnaby from Armstrong Creek Landscaping.

URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE // 15

IT’S THE DEPOSIT ON YOUR CITY FRINGE APARTMENT First Home Buyers can receive up to $30K towards their first home^ Indicative image

At Caydon, we believe everyone should have the chance to buy their own place.

The Caydon Kickstart program offers you the best of both worlds. Your very own apartment just 10km from the CBD secured with just $5K upfront and $15 per day to make up your deposit.

So if you have a good credit history and an acceptable level of full-time income, let’s take the first step to your new way of life.

$5K AND 5 EASY STEPS Secure your apartment with a minimum of $5K

Caydon will match your deposit amount (up to $10K)

If you qualify you will also receive the $10K Government FHO Grant

You kick in approximately $15* per day (for 30 months)

Caydon will contribute another $10K and pay your stamp duty

Congratulations you now have the 10% deposit for your apartment

#Caydon Kickstart

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Ivanhoe Apartments Located on one of Melbourne’s highest positions, Ivanhoe Apartments features extraordinary views and a visually powerful, appealing design. Ivanhoe is an idyllic, leafy and prestigious suburb with a strong sense of community and belonging. It is close to the CBD and well supported by public transport including buses and frequent trains on the Hurstbridge line.

The apartments feature a deep, warm textural and earthy colour scheme with beautiful European style kitchens and sophisticated fixtures and finishes.

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Check this out *Offer is based on the following: Purchase of a Caydon off the plan, 1 bedroom apartment for $350,500 with a 10% deposit and settlement at 30 months. Purchaser pays at least $5,000 upfront with Caydon matching the contribution (up to $10,000). Purchaser enters into a deposit assistance loan agreement with Caydon’s approved financier (subject to eligibility criteria). Loan repayments are calculated over a period of 60 months, based on an interest rate of 12.5%. Upon settlement at 30 months, Caydon contributes a further $10,000 plus any interest earned on the deposit during the term to repay the outstanding loan balance. Purchaser is eligible for and receives the First Home Owner’s Grant of $10,000. ^Figure based on the current $10K Government First Home Owner Grant.

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Loving spoonful Larger-than-life celebrity chef Miguel Maestre can’t help but bring energy, charm and family values to any space he graces, as NICOLE BITTAR discovers

IMAGES: NICK FLETCHER AND SUPPLIED, shutterstock.com

T

HE definition of success means different things to successful people. For Spanish chef Miguel Maestre, who followed his heart to Australia, it does not necessarily mean being awarded the Order of Merit by the king of Spain for his services to Spanish food in Australian media, nor working from a tender age in the best restaurants with the world’s top chefs, including Tony Bilson and Manu Feildel.

It does not even mean opening the country’s biggest Spanish restaurant, El Toro Loco (the mad bull), on the Manly beachfront, nor starring in the multiple Logie-award-winning The Living Room on Channel 10, nor appearing alongside fellow chefs and kitchen comrades in the worldwide-syndicated TV series, Boys’ Weekend and Miguel’s Feasts. Nor does it mean writing two successful cookbooks, nor running a burgeoning food import company, presenting the cream of Spanish food to an ever-growing legion of Australian consumers, though these laudable achievements are not to be scoffed at.

Success to Maestre is returning after a long and often gruelling day to his hillside home on Sydney’s northern beaches to the waiting welcome of his two adoring young children, Claudia, almost five, and Morgan, 22 months, and wife Sascha, for whom he made the permanent move to Australia in 2004.

“That, for me, means I am the richest man in the world,” he beamed.

“Some people are so poor that all they have is money.”

Since he arrived in Australia, this country has been richer

for Maestre’s injection of rustic charm, his culinary prowess and his infectious personality on our TV screens and in print.

And it seems ‘successful is as successful does’.

Maestre said the network of celebrity chefs with whom he works is tight knit. These include Gary Mehigan, Adrian Richardson and Feildel, with whom he ran the tapas-style Aperitif restaurant in Potts Point.

“Any friend could call me tomorrow and ask for a favour and, in the blink of an eye, I would do it for them,” he enthused. “It’s a beautiful thing. I could call George Calombaris tomorrow and say ‘Hey, George, I need one of your kitchens, and within one second, he would organise that for me and then ensure that everything was in order after the event,” Maestre said, confirming the camaraderie and brotherly bond between these high-profile personalities in the Australian hospitality industry.

The Beautiful Game (football, or soccer to the uninitiated) also plays its part. With Calombaris being No.1 ticket holder at Melbourne Victory, he shares a friendly rivalry as Maestre has been appointed as the No.1 ticket holder at his beloved Brisbane Roar.

Working within the tight dynamic of the team on The Living Room (with host Amanda Keller and fellow co-hosts Chris Brown and Barry Du Bois) is also like a home away from home to the enamoured Spaniard.

“The public feedback is that they love The Living Room, and that makes me very happy,” he said.

Family it seems is not exclusive to blood ties.

URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE // 19

Equipment: paella pan and burner, barbecue gas bottle, food processor (transparent top), chopping board 400ml chicken stock 200g Bomba rice 4 large king prawns 10 black mussels, live 6 pippies 4 large scallops 150g baby calamari, cleaned and scored 2 chorizo sausages, thinly sliced 50g fresh/frozen peas 1 lemon, cut into wedges, to serve Sofrito 2 large ripe oxheart tomatoes, roughly chopped 2 large roasted red capiscums from jar (piquillo) 4 cloves garlic, peeled ½ bunch parsley ½ bunch chives 25ml Moro Extra Virgin olive oil 1 teaspoon saffron threads 1 tablespoon smoked paprika

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1) To make the sofrito, place all ingredients in a food processor and process until chunky. If you don’t have a food processor, then simply roughly chop the tomatoes and capsicums and finely chop the garlic and parsley and combine with other sofrito ingredients.

2) Heat a 30cm frypan or paella pan on high heat, add chorizo and cook until golden brown. Add sofrito and cook until tomatoes start to become juicy, 3-4 minutes.

Add chicken stock and bring to the boil. Stir in rice and seafood bring to a simmer. Continue simmering for about 10 minutes.

3) When rice is tender and liquid has almost fully reduced (there should still be some liquid in the frypan), add peas and cook for a further 2 minutes to achieve ‘soccarrada’ (crust on the bottom of the pan).

4) Season to taste with salt and garnish with chives. Squeeze over lemon juice just before serving.

COVER Although he loves his homeland and misses it every day, Maestre always knew his love of cooking would lead him further afield. He hails from the stunning seaside town of Murcia in south-eastern Spain, renowned for its agriculture and abundant seafood, so it’s little wonder that he settled on Sydney’s beautiful northern beaches.

The beach is in Maestre’s lifeblood. Even his son’s name, Morgan, literally means “close to the sea”. Family is paramount to the 36-year-old middle son, whose mother is his inspiration in the pursuit of producing beautiful food.

“Love is the ingredient,” he said, but often a firm hand was necessary.

She challenged notions of food preferences and steered his tastes toward the finer, albeit simple, things in life. For example, he used to despise capsicum as a boy. Choice was not an option and he was forced to eat the vegetable to the point where it is now his favourite. He includes a recipe for roasted red capsicum in his book, Spanish Cooking. He thanks his mother for her perseverance and apologises for all the food-related headaches he caused.

Although Maestre says she was dismayed when he revealed his aspirations to be a chef (“15 or 20 years ago, becoming a chef was not a glamorous job”, he said). Nonetheless, she supported Maestre in his goals and for that he is eternally grateful. So much so that the dutiful son speaks to his parents on the phone daily.

Maestre moved to Edinburgh at 21, simultaneously learning to speak English and working his way up the ranks at Montpeliers group of restaurants, including the bustling Indigo Yard, which touts itself as being “comfortably chic” and “passionate about produce”, much like Maestre. He praised

the sophistication of Scottish clientele, who love to spend money on good food, beer and quality Scotch whisky.

The chef said he would return there in a heartbeat, which makes perfect sense considering he met his future wife in Edinburgh. She was a waitress at one of the Montpeliers restaurants where he worked. They married in Australia after moving to Sydney, Sascha’s home city.

Maestre has two successful brothers in the business and hospitality industry, Antonio, 39, is an engineer working in the UK, and Carlos, 31, is a freelance silver-service consultant and former restaurant manager for his brother in Australia.

“Carlos would be the only restaurant manager in Australia who is university qualified,” beamed Maestre, proudly. Carlos studied hospitality at university for six years (as is mandatory in Spain). His namesake predestines career dominance. In Australia, he worked in some of the country’s best kitchens, including The Bathers Pavilion, Minus 5 and Bilson’s Number One Wine Bar, before opening El Toro Loco, all before the age of 27.

To Maestre, which translates as master, the perfect kitchen should comprise excellent storage (“smart ways to access everything”) and kitchen appliances that are oriented towards the entertainment zone.

“There’s nothing worse than a chef always cooking with their back to people having a good time,” he said. “Normally, kitchens are designed the wrong way, with the appliances on the wall, which is where the cook is facing. There is nothing worse in the world,” he bemoaned.

Having worked in poky commercial kitchens for much of his professional life, Maestre also said that wide kitchen designs are paramount for manoeuvrability and easy cleaning.

Family man Miguel with his Spain-based father Antonio and mother Florentina, both of whom he speaks to daily. Dad helps with the Maestre Family Food business, while Mum fostered his love of cooking and capsicum

URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE // 21

COVER he uses for stirring the pot, so to speak, a rare knife (one of 170) by Bob Kramer, which was a gift from Sascha, KitchenAid attachments for making pasta, and a gypsy knife from a dearly departed friend, which Maestre said he would “grab in a fire, along with my Logies”.

FOOD and family clearly mean the world to Maestre. So much so that he employs his father and family in Spain for his import company, Maestre Family Food, sourcing local produce for Australian clients and keeping the family literally in business.

Distinctly Spanish products are on offer, including a range of manchego cheeses made from 100 per cent sheep’s milk, Serrano jamon, olive oil, sangria and seven different paella products, such as chicken and chorizo and seafood. The items are stocked in Woolworths stores and independent grocers, including Sacca’s Fine Food in Victoria.

Australians are taking to Maestre’s Spanish fare like churros to chocolate sauce.

TEXT: XXX / IMAGE: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

“I have spent most of my life in commercial kitchens and once I did an experiment and found that I walked 5km in one day in a tiny kitchen, up and down, up and down. So if you think about all the times you have to reach for something on the left, then on the right, and if access is not good, it is the worst thing in the world,” he said.

With two young children, Maestre particularly appreciates products that are safe to use around young hands, for example, “a wok can be placed inside the cookware, which is very smart, and it is also very easy to clean”.

Lighting is equally important in an appealing and workable kitchen. Maestre said the ideal space should be accented towards large windows to allow for copious natural light to pour in.

His favourite kitchen tools include a prized wooden spoon

THE simple things are always the best to this loyal friend and family man. A traditionalist, Maestre routinely cooks paella at home and includes his guests in the preparation process.

“You should see my garage. I have the equipment to cook paella for five people, all the way up to 150 people,” he enthused. “Everyone gets involved. It’s something so visual when everybody gets to stir, and add the chicken and tomatoes. It’s pretty much the centre of the party.”

Suffice to say, Maestre is an advocate of low-stress entertaining. “When everybody arrives, I get the fire on. We have a huge paella pan in the backyard or front yard. I serve the drinks and everybody gets into it. It’s a way of starting a conversation and linking people to food,” he said.

“We don’t communicate that much any more, so when you’re cooking and everybody is excited, you cannot look at your mobile phones. So that’s great.”

It all boils down to family coming together, seated around the table and allowing their mouths – rather than fingers – to do the talking, and the eating.

Maestre’s recipe is of course passed down from his beloved mother. It comprises a lot of tomato, capsicum, garlic, paprika and saffron, which melds into a deeply flavoursome sofrito sauce (“it’s very, very rich”).

Fresh local seafood and chicken are also essential to the success of Maestre’s unique version of Spain’s national dish.

For dessert, churros with chocolate dipping sauce are the sweet treat that the chef regularly prepares and craves. He has called the crispy, deep-fried doughnut treats a “sometimes” food, but admits that he could eat them “all day for breakfast, lunch and dinner”.

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“Love is the ingredient!”

URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE // 23

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Equipment: small saucepan, whisk, medium saucepan, wooden spoon, piping bag, 2cm star nozzle, deep fryer, absorbent paper, tea towels, serving plate & bowl for chocolate sauce Serves: 4–6 250ml milk 1 teaspoon caster sugar 50g unsalted butter, chopped 2 vanilla beans, split, seeds scraped out 115g plain flour 3 egg yolks vegetable oil, for deep frying caster sugar, to dust chocolate sauce 100ml condensed milk 200g dark eating chocolate, chopped splash milk splash rum

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1) To make chocolate sauce, stir condensed milk in a small saucepan, over medium heat until hot. Add chocolate.

Whisk until smooth. Whisk in milk and rum. Remove from heat. Cover to keep warm.

2) Bring milk, sugar, butter and vanilla beans and seeds to a boil in a medium saucepan.

3) Discard vanilla beans. Remove from heat.

4) Sift in flour. Stir with a wooden spoon until combined and dough comes away from side of pan. Remove from heat.

Stand, covered with plastic wrap, for 10 minutes.

5) Beat in egg yolks with wooden spoon, one at a time.

6) Spoon dough into a piping bag fitted with a 2cm star nozzle.

7) Heat oil to 180°C (when a cube of bread turns golden brown, oil is hot enough). Pipe 5cm lengths into oil, cutting off the dough with a sharp knife.

8) Deep fry churros until golden brown. Drain on absorbent paper.

Dust with caster sugar. Serve with chocolate sauce.

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COVER

“My goal in life is that for every 10 meals an Australian cooks, one of those is paella,” Maestre said.

“And I will not stop until everyone at home has manchego, sangria, chorizo and jamon,” he laughed.

Maestre is an ambassador for Freixenet Australia, a major worldwide distributor of sparkling wine, and Stockland shopping centres. He also works closely with the Cancer Council Australia and Care Australia.

These days, television and food business commitments pretty much preclude his home-catering service, Miguel’s Experience, where the hungry diner who hankers for a taste of authentic Spanish food, hospitality and felicity can takes home a slice of Maestre to their kitchen.

URBAN Life experienced an exclusive smattering of Maestre’s infectious charm.

On the day of our photo shoot, in true Mediterranean fashion, the first thing he said upon entering the grey-veined marble kitchen was that “this is a kitchen; there should be fruit in it.” He added that there weren’t enough power points and he would remove the Insinkerator, with his young children around.

But he loved the kick-board vacuum cleaner to quickly inhale spills.

26 // URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

Ornamentation near the stovetop was also a no-no. “Do you know how dirty these would get from all the oil spills from wontons? A mother will tell you these things,” he said.

FOR someone who didn’t learn to speak English until he was 21, Maestre makes up for lost time with his engaging banter about food, family and living life to the full.

He was a barrel of laughs, horsing around with an equine statuette, making harmless jibes about landscape designer Jamie Durie always wearing black shirts, and gleefully pointing out the Melbourne media in attendance donning darkcoloured attire.

As sharp as the knives in his kitchen and just as effective, Maestre enthusiastically continues to spread the word about his love of Spanish cooking and does it with style.

A success story? No doubt, in every sense.

Maestre’s cooking demonstration of paella and churros, including samples and take-home recipe cards, is at Porter Davis World of Style at 11am on Saturday, August 20.

Bookings and details at worldofstyle.com/event/2016/august/ wos-miguel-maestre-masterclass Coming events at World of Style also include interior stylist Julia Green (October 15).

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Starting out as a small home building company in Melbourne, Burbank is now one of Australia’s most trusted builders, with offices in Victoria, Queensland, South Australia, New South Wales and the Australia Capital Territory.

vision “to deliver a wide range of home solutions through exceptional service”, Burbank is more than just a traditional home builder. While it’s true that Burbank is most well known for their stunning range of detached homes, with over 80 displays located in more than 30 estates across Victoria alone, Burbank is making waves in the high and medium density space.

Part of the innovative Burbank Group of Companies, Burbank Homes is getting bigger and better every year. But, for Burbank, it’s not just the number of homes that’s increasing, but also the type of homes. With a company

Partnering with high profile developers such as LendLease and Cedar Woods, Burbank is responding to market demand for low maintenance homes that combine the convenience of city living with fresh, modern floor

plans that don’t cost the earth. Burbank has numerous townhouse and apartment projects across metropolitan Melbourne, including Greentree Signature Townhouses in Williams Landing, MV1 Apartments in Roxburgh Park and the award-winning Mosaic apartment complex in Dandenong, which took out the coveted UDIA award for excellence in the ‘Urban Renewal’ category in 2015.

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For more information, visit burbank.com.au.

How to make the most of your Edge Selection Studio experience The team at Burbank pride themselves on offering a unique and completely integrated customer experience, so it’s no surprise that this streamlined service extends to interior and electrical design. With their very own Edge Selection Studio in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD, Burbank offers a specialist interior design service aimed at helping customers personalise their home, inside and out. Burbank’s Edge Selection Studio manager, Sharon Parker, shares some insights on what to expect from the team at the Edge.

What services does the Edge offer?

The Edge offers a complete interior and electrical design service, with expert designers on hand to guide customers through selections for their new home. The studio is stocked with everything needed to tailor a personalised design outcome - from floor coverings, lighting, appliances, bricks, paint and more. The Edge is open to the public every weekend from 10am to 4pm. So, whether you’re in the process of building with Burbank, or you just want to have a look at what’s out there, we welcome everyone.

What tips can you give for people to get the most out of their Edge selection experience?

One great way to prepare is to create a mood board, including images of colour palettes, products and styles you love. Whether it’s on a digital platform like Pinterest or Houzz, or simply cutting out images from magazines, this really helps us understand the look and feel you’re aiming for. Don’t forget to revisit your favourite Burbank display home and make a note of any special features. If you already have furniture for your new home, it’s also a good idea to bring in

pictures. Also, know your budget, bring a pen and leave the little ones with a family member or friend so you can concentrate 100% on your selections.

What are the most important things to consider when choosing the following items?

Tapware – Strike the right balance between style and functionality. Consider things like ease of use and safety, especially for children, and the purpose of the tap.

Floor coverings – When it comes to floor coverings, think about maintenance. Large, white floor tiles might look luxe, but they do require more cleaning than floor boards or darker coloured tiles.

Benchtops – This is your chance to make a real impact. Benchtops are a permanent feature and island benches often become the hero of a room.

A great looking benchtop will not only enhance the overall look and feel of your home, it will become the most used part of your home and is always worth the investment.

Doors – Most people are surprised by the range of doors on offer. Consider whether you prefer a stained or painted finish, then think about features such as glazing options and panels or trims.

Handles – Touch the handles and see how they feel in your hands. Are they comfortable and functional for the room? Do you prefer the clean look of no handles on your overhead cupboards?

Colours – The most important thing that brings a scheme together is colour. We are moving away from all white interiors, instead layering different shades of one colour for a great new look. Have a think about whether you prefer a warm or cool palette, and whether you like a natural look or something more modern and bold. These are great starting points for your interior designer to work with.

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URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE // 33

Sunny side up Solar panels are slowly changing the way we view energy.

NICOLE BITTAR asks experts how we can benefit most from installing a system on your roof

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O u t s ide

T

HE sun has provided hope and hearth to all living creatures since the dawn of time. Born about 4.6 billion years ago, it is just one of a billion stars in the Milky Way, yet it is by far the largest object in our solar system (about one million Earths could fit inside the sun).

According to space.com, the visible part of the sun is about 5500 degrees Celsius, while its core temperature reaches 15 million degrees Celsius. NASA experts say that 100 billion tonnes of dynamite would need to explode every second to match the sun’s energy.

Scientists believe that the sun has enough nuclear fuel to remain unchanged for the next five billion years. With its fusion of hydrogen and helium, it is also a powerful source of energy that can benefit the environment and your bottom line when harnessed correctly in the home. This is where solar panel installation is an undeniable boon when building your new home, particularly given Melbourne’s lengthy winters and archetypically grey days.

TO combat the cool climate, a house with 80 per cent of its windows facing north is recommended by the Australian Solar Council (ASC) at the installation process. A true-north orientation also allows for the easiest shading during summer.

workings of the solar system. He says the panels, comprised of photovoltaic cells, generate electricity as direct current and the solar inverter converts this into an alternating current at 240 volts, compatible with your home appliances.

“At any instant, your appliances get the first call on your solar generation,” Reddaway says. “If there’s excess, it gets immediately exported to the grid.”

The ATA has found that the payback period on a solar system is eight to nine years. This equates to an investment with a comparative annual interest rate of more than five per cent.

“The benefit comes in bill savings, so there’s generally no tax implication,” Reddaway says. “There’s no risk of losing your capital, as there may be with financial investments.”

Another upside is that the system is paid back even quicker if: you live in a sunny suburb or town; you are home during the day to use electricity as it is generated; and you reside in a state or region with high electricity rates, such as Western Australia, South Australia or many rural zones.

THE key question for construction companies is how to build a solar-friendly roof? A broad, sunny roof is an asset and it is important to consider if the roof pitch is less than 10 degrees, the solar panels may need costly tilt frames. Reddaway strongly advises builders to steer clear of shaded roofs.

“There’s no risk of losing your capital” A 20-degree deviation from north gives up to five per cent reduction in performance, and a 30-degree deviation gives approximately 10 per cent reduction. This provides scope for divergence. Based on a preference of morning sun for an early warm up and a dislike of overheating from the late afternoon sun, “north” means within the limits of 30 degrees east of north and 15 degrees west of north, according to the ASC. Wind protection should also be a key factor, as strong winds fuel heat losses by increasing transfer rates and air leakage.

The ASC advises that shelter from the wind needs to be provided by windbreaks, hedges, fences, screens, shrubs and porches, as well as air locks at all outside doors.

In a passive-solar document published by the ASC, it states: “A house contains about half a tonne of air, which is replaced between two to 10 times an hour, depending how leaky it is. The new air must be heated to maintain the indoor comfort level. By paying careful attention to sealing gaps and fitting sheathing, door seals and flue dampers, as the house is being built, it is possible to reduce this infiltration rate to one air change per hour. A healthy indoor environment is still maintained, heat losses are reduced and large heaters become unnecessary.”

YET, regardless of orientation and climatic conditions, how solar power works and why it is worth installing is the true proof of the pudding. In April 2013, more than one million Australian households had solar panels, while nearly 800,000 were using solar to warm their homes and water, according to Allianz Home Insurance. Victoria’s largest energy-delivery service business, AusNet Services, believes that figure is close to 1.4 million Australian homes with solar systems.

The Alternative Technology Association (ATA) is a not-forprofit organisation whose key focus is to promote sustainable living. Energy analyst Andrew Reddaway explains the inner

“Consider future building construction and growth of trees,” he says. “Even partial shading of a single panel can have a major impact.”

But it’s never too late to install. The ATA also says that if vendors wait until they’ve received a few electricity bills, it will help them work out how many panels to get.

Generally speaking, installation costs amount to between $3000 and $6000 for a small (1.5-kilowatt system) and $5500 to $9500 for a four-kilowatt system, which is suitable for a large family. The annual bill savings are $400 and $1500 respectively.

THE Clean Energy Council, which is the peak body for the industry in Australia, recommends researching the best-sized system for your property, as well as warranties, terms and conditions, government incentives and solar accreditation.

To be eligible for rebates, the system must be installed by an electrician who is a Clean Energy Council-accredited retailer.

As with any major purchase, shop around and source several quotes, ask questions and obtain references.

Similarly, Reddaway advises to account for the big picture but to shop locally. “If you go through a large solar sales company, you may have no choice over the tradespeople who will be subcontracted to do the work,” he says.

As with any growth industry, panel models change frequently. Take note of the brands installers recommend.

Internet forums, such as ATA forums and Green Tech at Whirlpool, are another good source of information.

A good solar panel should continue to generate energy for at least 25 years. The inverter may need replacing after 10 years, but particularly so in hot locations, such as a west-facing wall.

The panels are cleaned like windows and, if tilted at least 15 degrees, will be cleaned by rainfall. A professional clean once a year is usually sufficient.

URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE // 35

Outside BUILDERS should also plan for appropriate space for the inclusion of a battery, which will store excess day-time electricity for the home owner to use in the evenings. Although expensive, batteries will further reduce your bills, and ATA modelling found that batteries will be competitive by 2020, as prices exponentially decrease. Some solar systems are battery ready, while others are not. This is a key question to ask retailers and installers. The ATA says that in addition to panels, reliable off-grid solar systems have large batteries, a special inverter and generator. But again, off-grid systems are more expensive than a grid-connected system, so it’s important to weigh up the pros and cons at bill time.

WHAT exactly are the comparative savings by being grid connected or off grid? AusNet Services conducted a threeyear battery-storage trial and found that a typical residential customer with solar panels could save $1500 over five years by adding a battery-storage system. But the potential benefit for a network from the same system could be $3000 over five years.

“The findings show that network businesses have real incentives to support the take-up of this technology. The trick is to find ways to share those benefits with customers so both parties have the incentive to move forward together,” AusNet Services’ general manager of Asset Management, Alistair Parker, said. But he conceded that facilitating the widespread adoption of these technologies was a massive challenge for the industry, government and consumers alike.

The environmental benefits, however, are undeniable. Solar energy is clean, green and renewable.

“All the electricity you generate directly reduces the output of centralised power stations, thus avoiding greenhouse-gas emissions,” Reddaway says.

He adds that it takes only one to two years for a solar system to generate enough electricity to produce itself. And the amount

36 // URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

of electricity expended in the manufacturing process is minimal compared to the electricity saved by its use.

Allianz also notes that by installing a solar system, you will be “protecting your household against future price increases of electricity produced by more traditional energy sources (coal, oil and gas). As a provider of your own electricity from a renewable source, you can reduce your household’s dependence on fossil fuels and energy providers”.

The future looks bright.Installing solar panels will not only create energy, save thousands of dollars, offer a low payback period, allow the home owner to take advantage of government incentives and provide a secure investment, but extensive warranties of up to 25 years will also add value to your property.

DON’TS OF INSTALLATION • Not enough insulation is provided and cold bridges in construction sabotage the value of insulation • Windows do not face north and/or receive unobstructed winter sun because features such as wide verandahs or tinted glass cut out solar radiation • Windows are not shaded in summer • Mass is not sized in relation to glass and incident solar radiation • Where views require large windows facing away from north, insulation values are not increased to compensate (Source: Australian Solar Council)

WIA 0835/OZ

WIA 01157/AVI

WIA 0906/BK

WIA 01043/AVI

CIM 59356/05/B8

WIA 49083/NI

WIA 01175/OZ

WIA 0725/OZ

WIA 01050/RZ

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Nixon T lamp ash white concrete beaconlighting.com.au RRP: $79.95 Noughts & Crosses throw downthatlittlelane.com.au RRP: $270

Luca Cushion (silver grey, natural, soft pink, white) whiteandco.com.au RRP: $89.95 38 // URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

P R A CT I C A L M A G I C Soda + Stitch Ditsy Daisy quilt cover sodaandstitch.com RRP: $129

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House-proud Blues Sam Rowe and Andrew Phillips, Brown Property Group’s Graham Nolan and Orbit Homes’ Craig Millson (inset) check on the progress of the ‘Carlton House’ at Highgrove Estate (left)

Team building Fundraiser to assist community projects CARLTON Football Club has joined forces with Orbit Homes and Brown Property Group to build a new property in Highgrove at Clyde North.

The new house-and-land package, colloquially known as the ‘Carlton House’, will be sold later this month (subject to build completion). Proceeds will benefit the community and club.

The land was developed by Brown Property Group, which creates communities in Melbourne’s south east.

Orbit Homes has built the fourbedroom and two-bathroom residence.

The single-storey ‘Heathmont’ of 24.4 squares includes a kitchen with walkin pantry, informal living and meals domain, separate sitting room that could be used as a theatre or parents (or guests) retreat, a covered outdoor space and double garage.

The Highgrove community features multiple parklands and shared trails linking neighbourhoods, making it an ideal place for growing families to call home. It is close to several schools, shopping facilities and a range of sporting clubs.

Clyde North is less than 50km from Melbourne’s CBD and is surrounded by suburbs including Berwick, Clyde, Cranbourne, Officer and Pakenham.

To be sold by Harcourts Real Estate (Narre Warren South), the property is expected to be sold with a 60-day settlement.

In coming months, Orbit Homes and Brown Property Group will host Carlton Football Club at a family day during which there will be opportunities for fans to discover the community and to inspect the completed ‘Carlton House’.

Land size: 256sq m-520sq m Price: $158,000-$282,000 Sales: Cnr Berwick-Cranbourne Rd & Newbridge Blvd, Clyde North Open: Daily, 11am-5pm highgrove.com.au WITH more than half of its blocks sold, Highgrove is one of the fastest-growing communities in Clyde North since being launched in May 2014.

Brown Property Group marketing manager Graham Nolan said more than 200 homes were under construction, with about 20 homes already occupied. When completed, Highgrove will be home to almost 1000 dwellings and 3000 residents.

Elevated blocks that capture views of

parkland and the Dandenong Ranges sets apart Highgrove from the rest.

“The community is currently a hub of activity with many new homes being built, as well as a number of future stages currently under construction. Due to increasing demand at Highgrove we have responded with larger and more regular releases,” Nolan said.

The latest stage release, The Dressen, was released recently.

About 180 lots - over four stages - will be titled in the next six months.

Designed with family and community living in mind, Highgrove has multiple parklands and avenues linking neighbourhoods. It is also close to schools and shops.

TEXT: XXX / IMAGE: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Highgrove

ARTIST’S IMPRESSION

40 // URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

A JOINT INITIATIVE BENEFITTING THE LOCAL COMMUNITY

THANK YOU

Custom Design Your Apartment Make it More You

Indicative image

In an industry first, Caydon makes it possible for you to design your apartment to fit with the lifestyle you desire. Caydon Monogram is a service that allows you to reconfigure your apartment design, whether it’s building your dream kitchen or even turning two apartments into one.

Whatever your specific requirements, Caydon’s international designers will work with you to develop your unique plans.

Contact Caydon for more information on how to custom design your own apartment

1800 229 366

caydonmonogram.com.au/urbanlife

Housing Industry Association (HIA) is an industry body which supports over 40,000 tradespeople in the residential building industry. Our members are equipped with the latest industry advice, ongoing training and support and are committed to provide ethical and high quality service to their clients.

Dreaming of a new space, a new look, a new home?

HIA members can make your dreams a reality.

We stand by our members.

HIA members agree to adhere to the HIA National Code of Ethics (the ‘Code’), under which they commit to competence, fairness, value, honesty and integrity in dealing with consumers. You are in good hands with an HIA member!

Don’t forget to visit housinglocal.com.au to find great ideas, design tips, and practical information on getting started.

You will find: > Construction tips – applying for building permits > Design – cool tips and trends > Environmentally friendly products > Features and finishes – making your home stand out > Checklists that are helpful to the process > Insurance information > Products gallery for information and inspiration

INSIDER

What attracted you to the industry (and when)?

My fascination with design really started at the turn of the century when the housing industry started to become more dynamic. People started developing an interest in the interior design of their home through the rise in popularity of do-ityourself (DIY) and renovation reality television programs. So I would mark this as where I first became attracted to the industry.

What do you love most about the industry?

This industry evolves continuously and that makes it exciting.

The evolution is influenced by changes in fashion and trends, which means there is always something new to discover and we can have fun adapting these changes to suit our clients’ tastes and reflecting them in our display homes.

What do you consider your proudest moment or greatest achievement (in the industry)?

I take great pride in creating home designs that are admired and loved by our clients and competitors alike.

It’s satisfying to know that my conceptual design will be built and become someone’s dream home in a matter of months.

Biggest regret?

You can’t live with regrets.

You learn from mistakes and ensure they aren’t repeated the next time around. It’s a natural process everyone must go through.

prefinished with conduits and also pre-wired and ready to fit off, would streamline a lot of the process.

What’s the biggest misconception people have when building a home?

That it will run smoothly. Building is still largely a hand-made process, unlike building a car, which is done in a factory to exact standards and high repetition. Building a home is a complete one-off process as every site, design, client, trade, supplier and manufacturer can vary, so this means each build is unique. It’s how builders strive for consistency and deal with any issues as they arise that sets them apart and I believe we offer a superior service when it comes to this.

If building tomorrow, what feature would you most like incorporated in your home?

Aesthetically, a double-storey living space is an amazing feature and makes the house stand proud along the street. Technology-wise, I would incorporate a form of smart system that can be upgraded as your needs change through the life of the home.

Keith Fuller Porter Davis & World of Style

Worst trend?

Without a doubt, one of the most dated looks would have to be terracotta tiles with little blue decals. This colour combination was very popular in the 1990s and perhaps it should stay there.

Best change?

Energy ratings that see new homes perform better than older, existing homes of 40 years plus. This has meant that more households are operating more efficiently and that has great benefits for all involved. We all need to do our bit to reduce our carbon footprint where possible.

If you had the power, how would you improve the process of building?

People want to see their dream homes built as quickly as possible. With innovative processes, there are opportunities to reduce the time of a build. Things such as tilt-up walls,

What tips would you give for future-proofing a home?

Again, ensuring the smart system in the home can be upgraded as required to adapt to changes in technology and lifestyle. Also, power in the garage that is designed for your electric car-charger is what we will start to see more of.

What should prospective buyers look for when choosing a builder?

Inspect the display home quality because these are supposed to be the best representation of what that builder can achieve. Also, be sure to understand their story and why they build homes. The best advice of all to listen out for is word of mouth. If you know someone who has had a great experience building with a builder, then this is the most valuable recommendation available.

What do you think building a home will be like in 2030?

Evolution will have the building process be a little more automated than it is today. It will feature a combination of natural and prefinished materials that are quick and easy to install. Designs will also be more multi-purposed, giving more longevity to the owner with the potential to be altered to suit the needs of the inhabitants.

Senior Designer URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE // 45

Only trust your home to a Master Builder.

Make sure your home is in the right hands. Choose from thousands of highly qualified builders all over Victoria.

To find your Master Builder call (03) 9411 4555 or visit:

mbav.com.au Master Builders - Masters of our Industry

PLANNING

IMAGE: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM / SUPPLIED

T

House Rules

HOUGH it ranks as a crowning achievement in the minds of most people, the process of building a home is seldom a dream experience.

Exciting and satisfying though it may be, it takes astute planning, evaluation and careful decision-making in order for things to turn out right. Selecting a builder is an important part of that process, and one that deserves consideration as early as possible.

Whether or not you decide to work with an architect on the design, a good builder can be one of your closest allies and advocates before, during and even after construction. As I have advised the many people who approach Master Builders for help, the key to a successful working relationship with a builder is clear and regular communication. With that in mind, the first step in building your new home is choosing a registered builder.

A registered builder comes to your project prepared with rigorous training and experience to shepherd your house project from beginning to end. They have provided proper documentation of their credentials and demonstrated the skills specified by the Victorian Building Authority (VBA) which oversees the registration of all homebuilders in the state. Working with an unregistered builder may put you at risk, potentially compromising the quality of design and construction, and exposing you to nightmarish structural and legal troubles even long after the project is completed. Important, too, is using registered tradespeople for the same reasons.

Registered trades help to ensure a baseline of competence and skill that you shouldn’t have to gamble on.

But before you look for your builder, you need to do some homework. Develop a comprehensive budget and have clear, detailed plans for what you would like to achieve. Having a clear understanding of what you can afford to invest in your new home isn’t so much about defining the limits of what you can achieve, but finding ways to get the most for your money with a builder as enthusiastic about your house as you are. The sooner you’re able to offer specific goals and realistic figures, the better; it helps to ensure that the two factors are considered simultaneously at every stage.

Next, ask for references and try to look at—perhaps even visit—examples of the builder’s previous and current work. Not only will this give you the chance to evaluate their finished product, but seeing a home under construction can also give you an idea of what your property may look and feel like once it becomes an active work site.

Once you’ve got your budget squared away, you should collect at least three quotes from different builders to see what your budget will buy you. You can expect there to be at least some difference in what various builders say they can deliver, and having the perspective of different quotes can help sharpen and refine your goals even further.

The attraction to building your home is a strong one, and getting the construction under way is hard to resist. But taking time to do good research before selecting a builder can pay big practical and emotional dividends in the long run. Master Builders Association of Victoria makes your research easier with membership requirements that help ensure a high professional standard of work, including builder registration, background checks and the opportunity to view a wide portfolio of completed work in the awards section of our website, mbav.com.au and in our publications. If you have any questions, we’re ready to help you find solutions.

Radley de Silva Master Builders Association of Victoria CEO

Building Dos & Don’ts

Do • Consult Master Builders Association of Victoria’s website tool “Find a Master Builder” • Obtain at least three written quotes • Check with family and friends who have recently used a registered builder and have been happy with their work • Inspect recent projects completed by builders and, if possible, ask clients their opinion of the workmanship • Ensure the builder can provide warranty insurance for the building work Don’t • Engage unregistered builders or tradespeople • Sign the building contract before you have thoroughly read and understood it URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE // 47

I N D U ST R Y N E W S

Interest rates to stay low Quality issues THE quality of building products used in Australian buildings remain on the national agenda.

An interim report by the Senate Economics Committee inquiry into non-conforming building products found there had been a “serious breakdown in the regulation and oversight of non-conforming and non-compliant building products”.

“There is a fundamental need to focus on the point of entry into the supply chain, through manufacturers, suppliers and retailers to ensure builders and home buyers are not left with an expensive problem to fix through no fault of their own,” HIA senior executive Kristin Brookfield said.

Renovations revival AUSTRALIA’S $30 billion home renovations market has picked up with a second consecutive year of growth. The HIA’s Renovations Roundup found renovations accounted for 35 per cent of total residential construction in 2015, but “the pace is growth is being held back by the weakness of earnings growth in the economy and the fragile condition of consumer sentiment”.

It estimates that renovations activity will increase by 2.5 per cent this year, 1.7 per cent in 2017, 2.8 per cent in 2018 followed by a 2.0 per cent increase in 2019.

HOME loan interest rates are likely to remain at historical lows for the next decade, with the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) unlikely to return its cash rate to levels previously considered “normal”.

1300HomeLoan managing director John Kolenda said the official rate now at a record low of 1.75 per cent will be the “new normal” with consumers more sensitive now to the impact of higher interest rates.

“We are unlikely to see official interest rates move to pre-global financial crisis (GFC) levels and the standard norm of the future will be lower than historical levels for the next decade,” Kolenda said.

“The monetary policy game has changed and the RBA has found cutting its cash rate is not necessarily an instant remedy for economic stimulus.

“Conversely, any time the RBA increases official rates in the future could have a disastrous impact on consumer confidence and the economy.

“Consumers are now very rate sensitive and when they rise, they are likely to stop spending and revert to saving.

“This is why we will see rates remain at historical lows or around levels we have experienced for the last number of years.

Over the short term it will likely be lower.

“The cash rate has been below what was once considered the normal level of 5.0 per cent since November 2008, when the GFC was at its peak.

“The GFC has been a game changer as far as interest rates are concerned and it's hard to imagine when they could ever return to those pre-GFC levels.”

Kolenda said while the prospect of the RBA further reducing its cash rate this year remains high, consumers should never be complacent and simply wait for the central bank to take action.

“It has never been more important to review your home loan regularly than what it is today,” he said.

24 million and counting OUR nation’s population reached 23.94 million in December, according to Australian Bureau of Statistics figures.

Victoria posted the strongest population growth of all states with a 1.9 per cent increase over the year as Australia increased by 326,000 people (or 1.4 per cent). The HIA warned there were wide divergences between the states and territories, with Victoria and NSW increasing fastest.

Leadership needed LEADERSHIP and policy commitment should address the issue of housing affordability if housing is to continue performing well.

Industry Policy chief executive Graham Wolfe said residential building activity provided jobs for more than a million Australians, supported 321,595 firms and produced $162 billion of economic activity annually – one-10th of Australia’s total activity.

“Any government that wants to promote economic growth, rising living standards and productivity improvements needs to have a plan for housing Australia’s growing and ageing population as a core element of its policy vision,” Wolfe said.

48 // URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

Burbank moves into NSW, ACT Burbank Homes has expanded its operations to New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory.

The award-winning builder took over the project home operations of Sekisui House from July 1. Sekisui House will focus on greenfield development and high-density housing.

Burbank Homes is a familyowned-and-operated business led by father-and-son team Eddie and Jarrod Sanfilippo (pictured above).

“We expanded into South Australia last year after a similar agreement with

Sekisui House, so when the opportunity arose to further penetrate the eastern seaboard by taking over Sekisui House’s project home operations in NSW and the ACT, it was one we eagerly seized,” managing director Jarrod Sanfilippo said.

“We look forward to servicing those communities by creating homes that are as stylish as they are functional - and doing it with Burbank’s trademark quality and commitment to customer service.”

Sekisui House Australia managing director Toru Abe was equally optimistic about the divestment of interests.

“The purpose of this move is to give our business greater focus on our core areas of business and product innovation”, Toru said.

I N D U ST R Y N E W S

New suburbs in west to support 55,000 people

Jimmy lands Adriatic Furniture prize JUNGBHADUR “Jimmy” Atwal thought his housemates were pranking him, but the Pakenham resident is thrilled to be the winner of Urban Life’s inaugural Adriatic Furniture competition.

The 29-year-old entered he and his housemate Kate in the competition, which attracted more than 1000 entries before it closed on June 30. Jimmy, pictured with Adriatic Furniture’s Teresa and Katya, is saving for a home deposit and hopes to buy land and build in the next year.

All good at Alwood WERRIBEE’S Alwood residential community has passed its 100 sales mark.

Intrapac Property’s residential community is now 40 per cent sold, with the 274-dwelling estate on Alfred Rd awarded UDIA EnviroDevelopment certification for five elements.

Intrapac chief operating officer Maxwell Shifman said Werribee was “a desirable location offering home buyers the chance to buy affordable homes in an exciting growth area”.

Featuring easy access to Princes Highway and the Werribee Town Centre, Alwood is close to schools, shops and amenities.

“One of the great things about Werribee is the easy access to the city with direct routes to the freeway and the local train station. There is already established infrastructure and local amenity, with schools, shopping and everything a family needs close by,” Shifman said. “Alwood really will be a special place to live.

Blocks of land start at just $147,000.

Register your interest at alwood.com.au.

Sustainable homes project expands A PILOT sustainable homes program under way at Stockland’s Selandra Rise estate in Melbourne’s south east is about to be expanded to other estates.

Thefifthestate.com.au reports that the South East Councils Climate Change Alliance (SECCCA) was awarded a $330,000 grant by the Victorian Government.The service assists new-home buyers with information on engaging builders to achieve more sustainable dwellings.

Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio said implementing the suggestions could help create a home that uses up to 60 per cent less energy.

SECCCA projects co-ordinator Daniel Pleiter said he hoped the program achieved broad changes to the practices of builders and developers, and also provide evidence to support changes to the building code to improve residential dwelling performance.

SECCCA represents eight councils – City of Casey, Baw Baw Shire Council, Bayside City Council, Greater Dandenong, Bass Coast, Cardinia, City of Kingston and Mornington Peninsula Shire.

Participating builders and developers will deliver the program from their display homes or sales suites.

“The best time to reach people with sustainability information is before they sign the contract,” Pleiter said.

PRECINCT Structure Plans have been released for two new suburbs in Melbourne’s west that will house more than 55,000 residents when complete.

Positioned about 30km from Melbourne’s CBD between Caroline Springs and Rockbank North to make the most of the Kororoit Creek (pictured below), the suburbs will accommodate almost 20,000 dwellings and 14,000 jobs, with a total of 10 schools to be built in them.

Residents will have unprecedented access to conservation areas, parks and well-designed bicycle networks, including a proposed Kororoit regional park. They will also be serviced by a large town centre, which will be largely accessible on foot and bicycle along the former Beattys Rd goldfields route, as well as by car, the Caroline Springs train station (opening in 2017) and future bus transport along a new street network.

Further, a logical extension of Hume Drive and upgrade to Taylors Rd will connect the new suburbs to Taylors Hill West and Caroline Springs.

The suburbs’ topography include undulating rocky land, waterholes, ponds and rocky outcrops near the picturesque Kororoit Creek, which is home to animals such as the growling grass frog.

Every effort has been made to weave in the natural features of the landscape into the development plans, ensuring native grasslands are protected and indigenous plants will flourish throughout.

Development is expected to deliver more than $180 million of developer infrastructure contributions to the State Government, as well as $385 million to the City of Melton.

To discover more and to comment on the PSPs, visit mpa.vic. gov.au.

URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE // 49

FINANCE

Buying

Renting

The eternal debate about which is better always adds up to what suits you.

Bryce Deledio from Uniq Finance gets to the root of the issue.

A

S you would expect, the reality of the buying versus renting debate is there are pros and cons for both. It depends on your personal circumstances and your strategy for wealth creation.

More often that not, the reality is that it’s cheaper to rent where you want to live and better to invest elsewhere, so let’s take a closer look.

Gone are the days when the Australian dream to own your home, toil to reduce your debt and strive to pay off the mortgage in record time is a desire of the masses.

With communities becoming more internationally focused than ever before and with the influence of technology to bring the world into the palm of your hand, consumers have never been more spoilt with objective consideration.

So what is driving your decision? Is it long-term growth, emotional attitude, locational or convenience? These are ultimately the driving factors for your very personal outcome, so let’s frame it from a wealth-creation perspective for the purposes of the discussion.

The potential advantages for buying are; • emotional stability • personalising your space to suit your lifestyle needs and preferences • capital growth on your investment • long-term savings by paying off your mortgage early • available grants to offset deposit stress The possible disadvantages of buying are; • Being an owner-occupier may mean a lack of flexibility as it is not so easy to ‘pack up and leave’ (e.g. to move closer to a better school) if you are heavily invested in a particular property • overcapitalising on your home with “aesthetic” changes may make for a more comfortable home but can sometimes not be returned should you need to sell The possible advantages of renting are; • flexibility to up and go or alternatively upgrade or downgrade depending on your changing circumstances • have you ever heard it be said that it can be cheaper to rent where you want to live than own? Often this is true for inner-city locations • the fact that renting is cheaper could also lead to more disposable income being available • rates, maintenance and, where applicable, owners corporation fees are not the concern of renters The possible disadvantages of renting are; • renting can give the tenant flexibility to move. Conversely, they can find themselves being asked to move when it doesn’t suit them • the intrusion of inspections, valuations and the sense of being beholden to someone else’s needs can leave tenants feeling unsettled • changes are not permitted without approval i.e. cable installations, picture hooks, improvements

50 // URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

To Buy or not to Buy, that is the question …

TO buy positions you with a forced savings that ultimately provides you with a growth on your investment over an extended period of time - unlike renting, which can be less money spent but no return on your spending over the same course of time.

So on this basis it makes sense to buy. However, what about the idea of renting and buying?

As suggested earlier, more and more today we see people renting where they want to live, which is generally inner-city locations and buying in outer-suburban areas.

This flexibility gives investors the ability to enjoy the lifestyle they want to live while not burning their cash on rent. With money invested in sometimes multiple investment properties in the middle-ring to outer-ring suburbs, renters are able to have the best of both worlds.

Long term, this can give investors the leg up to consolidate their investments down the track and purchase a single residence in the area in which they have been renting.

Remember there are more expenses to owning your own home as opposed to renting. If you can free up some disposable income to invest for less, it will ultimately put you where you want to be - which is owning your home in a more desirable location than you could previously afford.

The cost to own is; • interest on mortgage repayment • rates • insurance • ongoing maintenance • utilities • regular one-off capital expenditure The cost to rent is; • rent • utilities Ultimately, like all investment decisions it comes down to your personal circumstances and preferences. Buying is always a good option and renting has its flexibilities.

But if you’re starting from behind the post a little, a combination of the two can let you start living the lifestyle you want for yourself sooner rather than later.

As always, the most important thing is to make sure you do your homework and make the best decision for your life.

Happy investing and/or renting!

DIRECTORY BENTLEY HOMES (Open weekdays noon-5pm, 11am-5pm weekends) Craigieburn (N) 11-13 Montreal Circuit, Highlands Estate Mernda (N) 22-26 Stradling Rise, Mernda Villages Truganina (W) 4-6 Nova Ave, Gateway Estate

BURBANK HOMES (Open seven days, 11am-5pm) Armstrong Creek (G) 11 Coastside Dr, Warralily Coast Estate Clyde North (S) 30 Flowerbloom Cres, Berwick Waters Craigieburn (N) 18 Dashing Rd, Aston Estate 3 Montreal Circuit, Highlands Estate Cranbourne East (S) 23 Bathgate Cres, Livingstone Estate Cranbourne North (S) 5 Lucinda Lane, Tulliallan Estate Cranbourne West (S) 3 Erindale St, Clarinda Park Estate Dandenong (S) 70 Cheltenham Rd, Metro Village 3175 Doreen (N) 1 Mensa Circuit, Plenty River Estate Epping North (N) 14 Corbett Ave, Aurora Estate Greenvale (N) 20 Destination Dr, Aspect Estate 46 Flourish Circuit, Greenvale Gardens Keysborough (S) 3 Olivetree Dr, Somerfield Estate Lucas (R) 18 Eleanor Dr, Lucas. Open Mon-Wed 11am-5pm, weekends 11am-5pm Melton (W) 1 Willandra Blvd, Willandra Estate Melton South (W) 10 Ladbroke St, Atherstone Estate Mernda (N) 18 Stradling Rise, Mernda Villages Mickleham (N) 515 Mount Ridley Rd, Trillium Estate Closed Thu-Fri 48 Newmarket Pde, Merrifield Estate Norlane (G) 1a Yooringa Ave, New Norlane. Closed Thu-Fri Officer (S) 20 Hardwick Pl, Timbertop Estate 52 // URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

THE ADDRESS ESTATE (W) Make your move to quality street with JG King’s Highbury ‘Balmain’. The steel-frame gem has four bedrooms (main with en suite and dressing room), two living areas, study, grand al fresco and double garage. It’s open noon to 5pm from Monday to Wednesday, and11am to 5pm on weekends.

333 Point Cook Road, Point Cook

Point Cook (W) 64 Boardwalk Blvd, Boardwalk Boulevard Estate 12 Gramercy Blvd, The Address Estate Rockbank (W) 5 Rush St, Woodlea Estate Sunbury (N) 10 Rosenthal Blvd, Rosenthal Estate Tarneit (W) 56 Heartlands Blvd, Heartlands Estate Taylors Hill (W) 25 Peppermint Grove, Taylors Hill Estate Truganina (W) 18 Everholme Dr, Allura Estate Wantirna South (S) 2B Appledale Way, Harcrest Estate Werribee (W) 3 Charter Rd, Riverwalk Estate 5 Billeroy Way, Harpley Estate Williams Landing (W) 7 Harvey St, Williams Landing Estate Wollert (N) 24 Bloom Cres. Lyndarum Estate Land Estates Bayview (G) Centennial Blvd, Curlewis. bvbellarine. com.au Eliston (S) Discovery Centre: 20 Pattersons Rd, Clyde. eliston.com.au. Open 11am-5pm, seven days Hartleigh (S) 100 Pattersons Rd, Clyde. hartleighclyde. com.au Park Central (S) Rix Rd, Officer. parkcentralestate. com.au

Reflections (W) Cnr Sayers Rd & Derrimut Rd, Tarneit. reflectionsestate.com.au Wellington Rise (N) Blackwattle Court, Mernda. wellingtonrise.com.au

CARLISLE HOMES (Mon-Fri, noon-5pm, Sat-Sun 11am-5pm) Armstrong Creek (G) 3-7 Decourcy Way, Warralily Coast Estate Craigieburn (N) 26-30 Valiant Cres, Aston Estate Clyde North (S) 19-25 Flowerbloom Cres, Berwick Waters Estate 9-15 Newbridge Blvd, Highgrove Estate 18-20 Welsh Cres, Clydevale Estate Cranbourne North (S) 4-6 Lucinda Lane, Tulliallan Estate Greenvale (N) 2-4 Petal Close, Greenvale Gardens Estate Keysborough (S) 2-8 Olivetree Gr, Somerfield Estate Mernda (N) 15-17 Stradling Rise, Mernda Villages Mickleham (N) 52-54 Newmarket Pde, Merrifield Estate.

Open Thu-Fri by appointment only Officer (S) 1-3 Marwood Way, Timbertop Estate Point Cook (W) 345-351 Point Cook Rd, The Address Estate 267-273 Sneydes Rd, Featherbrook

Estate Rockbank (W) 6-12 Woodlea Blvd, Woodlea Estate Sunbury (N) 2-4 Rosenthal Blvd, Rosenthal Estate Truganina (W) 234 a&b Sayers Rd, Gateway Estate.

Open Thu-Fri by appointment only Werribee (W) 11-13 Billeroy Way, Harpley Estate Williams Landing (W) 10-16 Opsum Way, Williams Landing Estate Wollert (N) 28-30 Timble Court, Eucalypt Estate

DENNIS FAMILY HOMES (Open 11am-5pm daily. Ph: 1800 336 647) Armstrong Creek (G) Coastside Drive, Warralily Coast Estate.

Native Ave, Armstrong Estate Burnside (W) Lexington Dr, Modeina Estate. Open Thu & Fri only Clyde North (S) Flowerbloom Cres, Berwick Waters Estate Moxham Dr, Highgrove Estate Craigieburn (N) Dashing Rd, Aston Estate Cranbourne East (S) Bathgate Cres, Livingston Estate Cranbourne West (S) Red Maple Dr, Casiana Grove Estate Diggers Rest (N) Sully Court, Bloomdale Estate Greenvale (N)

Flourish Circuit, Greenvale Gardens Estate Mernda (N) Stradling Rise, Mernda Villages Estate Mickleham (N) Newmarket Pde, Merrifield Estate Mount Duneed (G) Native Ave, Armstrong Estate Ocean Grove (G) Sacramento St, Oakdene Estate Officer (S) Penshurst Cres, Timbertop Estate Rockbank (W) Panning Circuit, Woodlea Estate Williams Landing (W) Harvey St, Williams Landing Estate Wollert (N) Timble Cl, Eucalypt Estate Wyndham Vale (W) Dalrymple Blvd, Manor Lakes Estate Land Estates (Open seven days) Manor Lakes (W) Sales Office: 2 Eppalock Dr, Manor Lakes. manorlakes.com.au. Open 10am-5pm Ashbury (G) Sales office: 460 Boundary Rd, Armstrong Creek. ashburyestate.com. au. Open 11am-5pm Westbrook (W) Sales Office: Leakes Rd (near cnr Morris Rd), Truganina. westbrookestate.com.au Open 10am-5pm Modeina Sales Office: 6 Lexington Drive, Burnside www.modeina.com.au By appointment

EIGHT HOMES (Open Mon-Wed noon-5pm, Sat-Sun 11am-5pm) Armstrong Creek (G) 103-104 Lampard St, Warralily Coast Estate Craigieburn (N)

7-9 Montreal Circuit, Highlands Estate Cranbourne East (S) 13 Bathgate Cres, Livingston Estate Cranbourne North (S) 268 Alisma Blvd, Tulliallan Estate Cranbourne West (S) 14-16 Erindale St, Clarinda Park Estate Melton South (W) Ladbroke St, Atherstone Estate Mernda (N) 23 Stradling Rise, Mernda Villages Rockbank (W) 14 Panning Circuit, Woodlea Estate Williams Landing (W) 61-63 Sayers Rd, Williams Landing Estate

JG KING (Open Mon-Wed noon-5pm, Sat-Sun 11am-5pm) Armstrong Creek (G) Lampard St Clyde North (S) 40 Flowerbloom Cres, Berwick Waters Craigieburn (N) 6-8 Star Way, Aston Estate Cranbourne (S) 39-41 Bathgate Cres,Livingston Estate Cranbourne North (S) 805D Berwick-Cranbourne Rd, Tulliallan Estate Lara (G) 121-123 Flinders Ave, Lara Central Estate Melton South (W) Cnr Bridge Rd & Astley Dr, Atherstone Estate Mernda (N) Stradling Rise (off Galloway Dr), Mernda Village Mount Duneed (G)

465 Surf Coast Hwy, Armstrong Estate 18-20 Coastside Dr, Warralily Estate Point Cook (W) 333 Point Cook Rd, The Address Estate Rockbank (W) Lot 45-46 Woodlea Blvd, Woodlea Estate Greenfields Blvd, Lomandra Estate Romsey (N) Greenfields Blvd, Lomandra Estate Werribee (W) 150 Billeroy Way, Harpley Estate

PORTER DAVIS (Open daily 11am-5pm) Armstrong Creek (G) Armstrong Blvd, Armstrong Estate Ballarat (Regional) Eleanor Drive, Lucas Estate Bendigo (Regional) Swanson Blvd (off Strathfieldsaye Rd), Imagine Estate Brighton East (S) 333 South Rd Clyde North (S) Flowerbloom Cres, Berwick Waters Estate Callow Ave, Highgrove Estate Craigieburn (N) Valiant Cres, Aston Estate Cranbourne East (S) Lineham Dr (off South Gippsland Hwy), Mayfield Estate Cranbourne West (S) Red Maple Dr, Casiana Grove Estate.

Open Sat-Thu 11am-5pm Greenvale (N) Destination Drive (off Amira Blvd), Aspect Estate Keysborough (S) Westwood Blvd, Somerfield Estate Lucas (R) Eleanor Dr, Lucas

Melton South (W) Ladbroke St (off Atherstone Blvd), Atherstone Estate Mernda (N) Stradling Rise, Mernda Villages Officer (S) Grandvue Blvd, Grandvue Estate.

Open Sat-Thu 11am-5pm Point Cook (W) Gramercy Blvd, The Address Estate Rockbank (W) Woodlea Blvd, Woodlea Estate Romsey (N) Melbourne-Lancefield Rd, Lomandra Estate Sunbury (N) Rosenthal Blvd, Rosenthal Estate Traralgon (Regional) Cross’s Road, Stockdale Fields Estate. Open Sat-Thu 11am-5pm Wantirna South (S) Appledale Way, Harcrest Estate Werribee (W) Charter Rd, Riverwalk Estate Williams Landing (W) Cnr Palmers Rd & Opsum Way, Williams Landing Estate Wollert (N) Bloom Cres, Lyndarum Estate

URBANEDGE (Open Mon-Wed noon-5pm, Sat-Sun 11am-5pm) Armstrong Creek (G) 9-11 Decourcy Way, Warralily Estate Cranbourne North (S) 264 Alisma Blvd, Tulliallan Estate Greenvale (N) 21-23 Destination Dr, Aspect Greenvale Estate Keysborough (S) 5 Olivetree Blvd, Somerfield Estate Williams Landing (W) 65-69 Sayers Rd, Williams Landing Estate. Open seven days

T H E G R E AT A U S T R A L I A N D R E A M

S TARTS HERE...

E BU YER ’ S F IR S T H O M

$10,000

* C A SHBACK

*S EE OV ER

INTRODUCING THE PORTER DAVIS

A D V A N T A G E RANGE

Delivering the Great Australian Dream for Victoria’s first home buyers.

We understand that dreams are fragile and that for a lot of first home buyers the Great Australian Dream may seem out of reach. We want to make your dream a reality with our Advantage+ range of three bedroom homes and a $10,000 Cashback* on settlement.

A D V A N T A G E

The Porter Davis Advantage+ Range launches on July 30th, 2016.

The new Toronto 20 features on pages 10 & 11.

*$10,000 Cashback requires the adherence to a qualification criteria. Please see the Porter Davis Advantage+ brochure or our website www.porterdavis.com.au for full details of all Terms and Conditions.

PORTER DAVIS

D I S P L AY CENTRES

WEST REGION DISPLAY CENTRES

NORTH WEST REGION DISPLAY CENTRES 7

ATHERSTONE ESTATE Ladbroke Street (off Atherstone Boulevard), Melton South T 03 8407 4990 | OPEN Sat-Weds 11am–5pm

14

HARCREST ESTATE Appledale Way, Wantirna South T 03 8820 3100 | OPEN Sat-Weds 11am–5pm

8

ROSENTHAL ESTATE Rosenthal Boulevard, Sunbury T 03 8747 1604 | OPEN 7 Days 11am–5pm

15

SOMERFIELD ESTATE Westwood Boulevard, Keysborough T 03 9701 8965 | OPEN 7 Days 11am–5pm

16

MAYFIELD ESTATE Lineham Drive (off South Gippsland Highway), Cranbourne East T 03 5915 9126 | OPEN Sat-Weds 11am–5pm

17

BERWICK WATERS ESTATE Flowerbloom Crescent, Clyde North T 03 5915 9107 | OPEN 7 Days 11am–5pm

18

HIGHGROVE ESTATE (Advantage+ Display Home) Callow Avenue, Clyde North T 03 5915 9111 | OPEN 7 Days 11am–5pm

19

GRANDVUE ESTATE Grandvue Boulevard, Officer T 03 5919 6105 | OPEN Sat-Weds 11am–5pm

20

BRIGHTON EAST 333 South Road, Brighton East T 03 6268 0326 | OPEN 7 Days 11am–5pm

NORTH REGION DISPLAY CENTRES LOMANDRA ESTATE Melbourne-Lancefield Road, Romsey T 0408 231 492 | OPEN 7 Days 11am–5pm

ARMSTRONG ESTATE Armstrong Boulevard, Mt Duneed T 03 5242 5212 | OPEN 7 Days 11am–5pm

9

RIVERWALK ESTATE Charter Road, Werribee T 03 5250 5442 | OPEN 7 Days 11am–5pm

10

THE ADDRESS ESTATE Gramercy Boulevard, Point Cook T 03 8750 3096 | OPEN 7 Days 11am–5pm

11

ASPECT ESTATE Destination Drive, Greenvale T 03 9999 2160 | OPEN 7 Days 11am–5pm

4

WILLIAMS LANDING ESTATE Cnr Palmers Road & Opsum Way, Williams Landing T 03 8751 2115 | OPEN 7 Days 11am–5pm

12

LYNDARUM ESTATE (Advantage+ Display Home) Bloom Crescent, Wollert T 03 9408 1048 | OPEN 7 Days 11am–5pm

5

WOODLEA ESTATE Woodlea Boulevard, Rockbank T 03 8750 2924 | OPEN 7 Days 11am–5pm

13

MERNDA VILLAGES ESTATE Stradling Rise, Mernda T 03 8750 4208 | OPEN 7 Days 11am–5pm

6

HABITAT ESTATE (Advantage+ Display Home) Bandicoot Loop, Tarneit T 03 8737 9012 | OPEN 7 Days 11am–5pm

2

SOUTH EAST REGION DISPLAY CENTRES

ASTON ESTATE Valiant Crescent, Craigieburn T 03 5250 6326 | OPEN 7 Days 11am–5pm

REGIONAL DISPLAY CENTRES IMAGINE ESTATE Swanson Boulevard (off Strathfieldsaye Road), Strathfieldsaye, Bendigo T 0457 606 613 | OPEN 7 Days 11am–5pm

22

LUCAS ESTATE Eleanor Drive, Lucas, Ballarat T 0408 920 851 or 0417 375 255 OPEN 7 Days 11am–5pm

23

STOCKDALE FIELDS ESTATE Cross’s Road, Traralgon T 03 8786 9786 | OPEN Sat-Weds 11am–5pm

Advantage+ Display Homes Open July 30th, 2016.

1800 PORTER (767 837) PORTERDAVIS.COM.AU

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