JC Infocus May

In Focus

TASTEMAKER: ZOE MURPHY

We visited interior designer Zoe Murphy in her home to discuss her tips on how to introduce warmth through lighting a room and how to purchase art for your home.

BEHIND THE DESIGN: A BOTANICAL PARADISE

Tucked away behind an artisan stone wall lies a stunning residence by award-winning Landscape Architect Nathan Burkett. We sat down with Nathan to discuss how he created the incredible garden design.

MY NEIGHBOURHOOD WITH ADAM VOCALE

We sat down with Jellis Craig Rye Partner, Adam Vocale, to learn more about his local area and what makes living on the Peninsula so attractive to visitors and permanent residents.

Clyde St introduces a collection of 11 largescale townhouses and three apartments to a quintessential East Kew location.

Interior designer Zoe Murphy from Zoe Murphy Creative Office is a force for colour, art and unique design. Some of the most outstanding homes that we see at Jellis Craig are often those anchored deeply in individuality, and in no home is this more apparent than Interior Designer Zoe Murphy’s stunning (and recently sold by Jellis Craig Armadale) heritage Toorak home.

We visited Zoe in her home to discuss her tips on how to introduce warmth through lighting a room and how to purchase art for your home.

Your insider guide on crafting a beautiful home.

How to light a room

Clever design. Seamless integration. Luxury finishes. The right lighting is essential in all rooms of your home.

Lighting should never be an afterthought as the right lighting can have a huge impacts on your mood and emotions. Lighting has the ability to lift your spirits, to make you more relaxed or inspire your productivity. Light enlivens the little things.

I am a true believer that each room needs more than one source of light. Think layered illumination whereby each room has a mix of overhead, accent and task lighting.

In the living room, for example, you might begin by hanging a decorative ceiling fixture. You would then move to the outer perimeter of the room for downlighting that will gently wash the walls, curtains and art with warm, functional brightness. Depending on the layout of the room, accent lights may be used to highlight art, table lamps could be placed on bench tops, floor lamps sit beside a couch or occasional chair and for extra ambiance, soft lighting from a candle is a truly luxurious addition.

The end goal is to create a contrast between the multiple sources of individual light and the darker spaces in between. I believe it is the subtle interplay between light and dark within a space that creates appeal.

There are some incredible light designs in the market, and I am a big believer in functional elements such as lighting acting as a form of art or interest within a home. Decorative lighting will not only brighten dark corners and create an ambiance, but it can also be a point of conversation.

My number one tip? Don’t overdo the downlights. Whilst functional and completely necessary in some rooms of the home, an oversupply of downlights can flatten a space.

Nowhere is layered illumination more prolific than in Zoe’s living and kitchen area.

How to purchase art for your home

If there is one element that truly elevates a space, it is artwork. I adore art and the way that it puts personality and soul into a space. Art helps to create a feeling of movement, colour and diversity against all the static necessities that we must have within our homes.

Although we may be financially and mentally ready to buy a piece of art, actually knowing where to look and what to buy can be the hardest part and I often find that people are paralysed by indecision when it comes to purchasing art – often more so than almost any other piece for the home!

Every room needs a focal point – that first thing you notice when you walk into a space. Art can be an amazing focal point and the wonderful thing about art is that you can choose something that is less imposing if you already have a focal point or something more visually striking if your room needs a focal point. If you’re keen to have more than one piece of art in a room, there should be one hero piece and a secondary piece.

So, how do you actually go about finding (and falling in love with) art?

The first place I point my clients to is local galleries. You can ask to sign up to their databases for invitations to upcoming exhibitions, have a look in their stockroom, or visit their online showroom. Next, I suggest purchasing an art directory magazine with a list of galleries to visit. The NGV has an incredible selection of books on Australian artists.

Next, you want to narrow down the style you’re after.

If you’re choosing art for a bedroom, you might want art that is more subtle or peaceful. On the flip side, if you’re looking for a piece for a dining room, you may want something more dramatic or controversial to promote conversation. A lounge room may require something peaceful, and a kitchen something stimulating. Sometimes my art choice will dictate the colours and shapes in the room, such as wall colour, curtains, furniture, rugs or objects.

One important thing to remember about scale is that if you have a small room, one big piece of art can make the space feel bigger whereas lots of smaller pieces can make the room feel cluttered. What you put on your walls is a very personal choice, so don’t rush into it. Ask yourself what appeals about a piece – is it the colour, the subject or something else? I always say as soon as you’ve made a connection with a piece it’s a done deal.

Zoe Murphy Creative Office offers interior design and styling for residential and commercial projects.

If you would like to speak to Zoe about your next design project, visit her website to book a consult.

@by_zoe_murphy mycreativeoffice.com.au

One big piece of art can make a room feel more spacious.

Behind the design:

Tucked away behind an artisan stone wall lies a stunning residence by award-winning Landscape Architect Nathan Burkett. ‘Jumping Creek’ has been a much-loved home by Nathan and his family for the past 12 years where they have enjoyed the incredible view, picturesque locale, and unique property, not to mention the incredible garden that Nathan has spent the last 12 years perfecting.

We sat down with Nathan to discuss how he created the incredible garden design at Jumping Creek, and also gathered his top tips for autumn gardening at home.

A finely crafted botanical paradise.

165 Jumping Creek Road, Wonga Park

This property as well as other personal projects of yours are located around the municipalities of Manningham and Maroondah. What is special about Wonga Park and why do you gravitate to the area?

I’d describe Wonga Park as a picturesque secret in Melbourne’s outer East. Many of the properties are lush green acreages, so it has the appeal of a country shire but is still within a reasonable commute to the city. The area also has many elevated points affording spectacular views of the Yarra Ranges and Kangaroo Ground. Situated on the doorstep of the Yarra Valley, we are also fortunate to have some boutique wineries very close by.

Jumping Creek has been our much-loved family home for the past 12 years. I live here with my wife Kristen and our three children Eden, Zac and Mila. We have enjoyed many summers entertaining friends and family by the pool, and hosted various functions on our deck as dusk sets in. It will be hard to let go, considering the time it has taken for the garden to mature and the many wonderful memories we have living here.

What are your main goals when designing your garden landscapes?

When designing a garden in a typical Australian setting, I’m aiming to achieve a seamless transition from contemporary plantings, and organic form blending into a backdrop of bushland. I also consider a palette that is complementary to the surrounding native flora.

What inspired the landscape design of Jumping Creek Road?

I would have to say capitalising on the view was very important to me in the creation of the design at Jumping Creek. I sought to create something that allows you to immerse yourself into the setting and feel as though you can exhale and unwind every time you look out over or enter the backyard.

How did you choose the plants, materials, and colours for Jumping Creek residence to create a cohesive and harmonious design?

I chose a colour palette to compliment the surrounding bushland, so it needed to be a muted earthy palette rather than anything too bold. The warmer tones in the stone walls, paving and pool tiles were carefully considered to harmonise with the setting.

Theplantingsincorporate ornamentalgrassesthat reflectthesurroundingfields, andtheclustersofdustypink andpurpleflowerscreatea lovelycontrasttothebluegreenfoliageoftheEucalypts.

Which personalised touches did you add to your home’s design to reflect your own distinct style and personality?

Using natural materials, artisan sandstone walling, herringbone brick paving, and rusted steel pool fencing all reflect my design style. I also think it’s important that a garden comes to life at night with the use of feature lighting.

What is your favourite aspect of your home’s landscape design, and what do you hope potential buyers will appreciate the most?

This is difficult to narrow down. One of the great aspects is the negative edge pool, especially as the sun goes down to meet the water. It’s beautiful to watch, and we enjoy these sunsets almost year-round.

I am also especially fond of the paved open area below the alfresco dining that we affectionately refer to as ‘the piazza’. It features a single olive tree as a corner piece and has a Tuscan feel about it. This has been a regular place of meeting with family and friends, often around a fire overlooking the property.

Your team has an impressive portfolio of projects across Melbourne and the Mornington Peninsula. What’s next for NBLA?

NBLA has enjoyed a steady expansion over the years, allowing us to take on projects of varying scope and nature. I would love to see us continue to push creative boundaries, forging ahead with our own style and continuously innovating.

What are three words you would use to describe the property? Tranquil, Earthy, Respectful.

What are 5 tips you would give home gardeners as we head into the cooler months? 01

Stay on top of the remaining deciduous leaf drop. It will hinder lawn growth if left unattended.

Fallen leaves can be collected or blown into garden beds to create a natural mulch.

02

Deciduous pruning can also take place toward the end of autumn to ensure vibrant regrowth come spring.

03

With the heat of summer behind us and some warmth still in the air, autumn provides excellent conditions for planting.

04

In preparation for the winter ahead, all-round fertilising will put nutrients back into the soil and allow it to break down in time for planting.

05

Now is a great time to renovate cool-season grasses to ensure they go into winter in good condition. This is particularly important if the lawn is wet underfoot or has drainage issues.

nathanburkett.com.au

Nathan Burkett @nathanburkett.nbla

E: Info@nathanburkett.com.au

165 Jumping Creek Road, Wonga Park is available to purchase through Matthew Lockyer from Jellis Craig Maroodah. See page 15 for more.

My Neighbourhood

with Adam Vocale

You commenced your real estate career selling in Stonnington & Boroondara. What prompted your sea-change?

It’s simple – life’s better by the beach. I was very fortunate growing up to have a family holiday house in Blairgowrie – my grandparents bought the house in the 1970’s. Every school holidays and most weekends, we would all come down as a family. From the time I was able to drive myself, I would spend as much time here as possible.

Throughout my real estate career, my clients often had second homes on the Peninsula and I started to become more interested in their holiday house than their permanent residence. The key driver and defining moment with the move was more family focused. My wife grew up in Ocean Grove and always said she wanted to live and raise a family by the beach. Being a paramedic, Grace was allocated to the Peninsula. The stars all aligned and we didn’t hesitate to move.

What do you love most about living and working on the Mornington Peninsula?

The Mornington Peninsula is home to some of the most scenic views in Victoria. The most incredible beaches, such as Whitecliffs Foreshore in Rye, Sullivan Bay (Tideways) in Sorrento and Anthony’s Nose in Dromana, are a great reminder every day of how lucky I am to live here. The landscape’s natural beauty is well paired with stunning houses scattered between Mount Eliza and Portsea. Exquisite architecture, maintained gardens and the beautiful views of the bay, greenery or the ocean make work so much easier to enjoy.

Tell us how the coastal market is it different to metro Melbourne and how has that market changed over recent years?

As the Jellis Craig network continues to expand its reach, the latest addition to our offices is located in the picturesque coastal suburb of Rye, on the stunning Mornington Peninsula. With its pristine beaches, charming coastal towns, renowned wineries, and picturesque countryside, the Mornington Peninsula is a coveted destination for residents and visitors alike. In this article, we had the opportunity to sit down with Adam Vocale, Partner at Jellis Craig Rye, and get an insider’s perspective on the local real estate market in this sought-after region.

The coastal market was traditionally much more of a lifestyle market with more holiday homes available. However we have since seen a recent shift towards an increase in demand of more permanent residences as more people have flexibility to work from home and spend less days in the office. What used to be a slower paced market, has seen a transition to a larger volume of sales. This is due to the roads and access upgrades to Melbourne, and the growing hospitality and retail sector following which has catered to the permanent residents.

What do you think makes Rye and the surrounding area an attractive choice for potential homebuyers?

What makes it unique or special?

The Mornington Peninsula is known for the two bodies of water surrounding it - Port Phillip Bay and the Southern Ocean. The distance from Rye Ocean Beach to Rye Front Beach (the Bay) is approximately 6 kilometres. It gives residents in the area not one but two stunning beaches to choose from, all just a short drive away. Aside from the beaches, the boutiques along the main street, paired with local, family run cafes and restaurants, give Rye a great sense of community.

Adam Vocale

Partner & Licensed Estate Agent, Jellis Craig Rye

FOR COFFEE

Bonny Blairgowrie – a great café in the Blairgowrie shops. It has great coffee and breakfast (also turns into an Asian fusion/cocktail bar in the evening).

FOR LUNCH

Captains of Rye who have an extensive menu with great food.

FOR AN ACTIVITY

A great activity, especially at sunrise or sunset is the new Alba thermal hot springs located out the back of the Rye. They opened about 6 months ago and have a large range of pools (hot and cold) to bathe and relax in.

This activity is followed by hitting a bucket of balls at the Truemans Golf Range in Boneo.

FOR DINNER & DRINKS

Penni Ave Distillery. They make their own vodka and have an incredible list of cocktails as well as wine and beer. Different food trucks are there every weekend supplying the locals with a variety of cuisines.

What advice would you give to an up-and coming agent on how to form and maintain great relationships?

Communication is key – when dealing with people’s biggest asset, they need to be front of mind and know everything that’s always happening with their property. I’ve never had a client say I call them too often when selling. Buyers also need to be kept in the loop, never under estimate how monumental it is for a buyer making an offer and they need to be updated along the way.

Are there any notable features or characteristics of Rye and surrounding areas that may appeal to specific types of buyers, such as families with young children?

Rye has a sense of unity to it, many members of the community are friendly and support one another. It is a great family location as there are many local sports and activities for young kids to keep them entertained (Football, Netball, Tennis, Skating etc.) as well as a primary school located just behind the main street, perfect for families raising young children. As they grow older there are great high school options up the Peninsula in Mount Martha, Mornington and Mount Eliza. The seaside lifestyle creates fantastic memories for children and parents. Everything you could possibly need is just a short drive or stroll away, however if you need to commute to the City it is only a one hour and thirty minute drive to the Melbourne CBD.

What is a must-read book or podcast you recommend?

Book: Shoe Dog is a memoir by Phil Knight (co-founder of Nike) Podcast: On Purpose with Jay Shetty

Can you share a favourite quote from someone you look up to?

“He who says he can and he who says he can’t, are both usually right.” - Henry Ford.

If you had a friend visiting from interstate, where would you take them...

Exquisite architecture, maintained gardens and the beautiful views of the bay, greenery or the ocean make work so much easier to enjoy.

‘THE FLER’ - C1956 ROBIN BOYD ON THE YARRA’S EDGE

Set a mere 35 minutes from the Melbourne CBD, in magnificent state forest, with views of the Yarra River, sits ‘The Fler’ c1956 - Robin Boyd home. Widely recognised as one of Australia’s most influential and forward-thinking architects, Boyd created this home in collaboration with fine modern Swedish furniture brand – Fler and company.

WONGA PARK 165 JUMPING CREEK ROAD

Privately nestled behind an artisan stone wall and embraced by a botanical masterpiece that was finely crafted by award-winning landscape architect Nathan Burkett, a picturesque backdrop of rolling farmland pasture streams into this unique, architect-designed residence.

Clean lines, clever use of space and a seamless indoor/outdoor connectivity embodies this chic contemporary residence showcasing an early B.E. Architecture design. A highly sought after north facing rear elevates an expansive living zone relishing floor to ceiling windows, opening out to a completely private, treelined oasis primed for alfresco entertaining.

A captivating and customised design that utilizes the unique angles at play, this exceptional 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom single level showpiece is a celebration of designer style and contemporary liveability.

A true testament to the integration of timeless elegance and architectural design by Claire Scorpo of Agius Scorpo as seen in Open House Melbourne 2017, this grand Edwardian residence blends its iconic charm with raw elements of timber, marble and exposed brick throughout lavish period proportions.

A RIVERSIDE MID-CENTURY ESCAPE

Situated on almost an acre and a half of landscaped gardens in one of North Warrandyte’s most sought-after streets, this extraordinary mid-century home flaunts an innovative design, showcasing an interplay of light and stunning garden views that blur the lines between indoor-outdoor space.

VICTORIAN TERRACE WITH EDGE

With its stately exterior, and modern conversion this stunning three bedroom home has all the charm you could ask for on Flemington Hill's coveted landscape. Inside, you'll find industrial chic design that includes bold features such as high ceilings, custom joinery, unique tiling, stained glass and exposed beams.

SENSE OF SERENE SOPHISTICATION

Showcasing inspirational design, harmonising Scandinavian and Japanese aesthetics through superb light-filled interiors, this brand-new custom built four bedroom three bathroom residence simply excels.

ELEGANT AND SPACIOUS, WITH A COVETED ADDRESS

Grand in all its proportions and dazzling with period intricacy, this immaculate five bedroom plus study, four bathroom tri-level home ensures ultimate family living, the convenience of updated features and the flexibility to add your own personal touch if preferred (STCA).

BESPOKE LUXURY PERFECTED

A custom design by Jabbour Building Group utilizing the expertise of Pink Architecture, this builder’s own four bedroom, three bathroom masterpiece is an unrivalled achievement of eye opening luxury and sumptuous poolside entertaining.

CONVERTED HILLTOP MASTERPIECE

Award-winning and strikingly majestic, this Richmond Hill showpiece stands proudly as one of the suburb’s finest feats of design. Receiving a high commendation at the Australian Interior Design Awards, BG Architecture’s masterful statement spans three light-filled levels, with towering cathedral ceilings gifting timeless elegance to a scintillating plan.

Richard Winneke 0418 136 858

Rebecca Scanlon 0431 011 811

A rich blend of period elegance and modern luxury defines this superbly restored and extended Californian Bungalow set on a highly sought allotment spanning 917sqm approx. Prioritising a spacious, light and airy feel throughout an expertly zoned floorplan, formal and informal living and dining adorns both period detail featuring an original open fireplace.

Situated on the ground floor in the glorious rear corner of this prestigious development, a swathe of quality appointments, warm and cool neutral tones and beautifully chosen finishes define this spacious apartment, just moments from Malvern Road cafes.

House 1 boasts an enormous open plan living area and state-of-the-art kitchen. The rumpus room, complete with a bar, is perfect for entertaining guests, while the stunning pool and outdoor entertaining area provide a resort-style ambience. This property is a true gem, offering the perfect blend of luxury and nature.

Dylan Francis 0421 023 832

Caitlin Payne-Clarke 0414 456 077

POISE, PROPORTIONS AND POSITION

Captivating from first glance, this elevated beauty combines period grace with contemporary class. Soaring ceilings, corbelled archways, open fireplaces, rosettes and deep cornices confer enduring elegance while a modern kitchen/dining/family dazzles with a gas log fire and bright northerly aspect.

CANNINGTON C1900

One of the area’s finest homes, Cannington occupies a rare 3,501 sqm of superb English garden in the very heart of Romsey. Constructed in 1900, sitting privately behind an expansive 60m frontage, this grand home has been beautifully and sympathetically updated over time offering every comfort.

COTTLES BRIDGE 1280 HEIDELBERG KINGLAKE ROAD

This property has come a long way from when in the 1880s the first selector, Mr R. F. Lighthand built the original dwelling. Extended, nurtured and loved by families over the decades it is now a large inviting family home.

Clyde St – 733 High St, Kew.

Clyde St introduces a collection of 11 large-scale townhouses and three apartments to a quintessential East Kew location. MA Architects have sensitively designed each residence to respond to the character of its tree-lined street with individual entrances, a brickwork façade, robust materials and lush landscaping. With a range of floorplans including three bedrooms, two bathrooms and a study, Clyde St is an address of easy living and enduring value.

For the architecture and interior design of the Clyde St townhouses, MA Architects were inspired by the lifestyles of future residents as much as the surrounding leafy streetscape. This led to a variety of floorplans with flexibility built in. Across every design, the emphasis is on maximising sunlight, crafting finishes, and creating connections with the outdoors.

Stephen Bowtell 0455 038 022

Developer Gestalt

Architecture MA Architects

Landscape Architect Simon Taylor Landscape Design

All images are artistic impressions

“Wow what a result. We’re absolutely delighted. Thanks so much team Jellis Craig, we couldn’t have done it without you.”

- Vendor

“Such a fantastic campaign! We really enjoyed working with you both and look forward to helping you find your next home.”

- Jellis Craig