Marshall White Open - Metro E41 by remagazines

O pen

P repare to sell in 2024

Now is the prime opportunity to prepare your home for a successful 2024 sale.

Begin by discovering your home’s true worth with an updated appraisal, revealing its current market value and providing valuable insights to maximise your sale’s potential.

Arrange a specialist appraisal with the Marshall White team today.

White Projects

17 Manning Road, Malvern East

Gascoigne Estate Grandeur

Undoubtedly one of the Gascoigne Estate’s most beautiful domains, it seamlessly blends period charm and grandeur with a modern and elegant feel.

Alan Crawford, Marshall White Sales Executive

In a stunning 1,310 sqm (approx.) landscaped north-facing garden and pool setting, this magnificent Federation home in the prestigious Gascoigne Estate has been elegantly updated with designer style, luxury, and cutting-edge technology.

Secluded behind a high-walled garden, the tranquil entrance leads to a grand interior featuring ornate ceilings, exquisite leadlight windows, and wide oak floors. The spacious living areas, including a sitting room/library, formal dining room, and conservatory-style dining space, are served by a gourmet kitchen with premium finishes. A fitted home office, media room, and temperature-controlled wine cellar add to the home’s impressive amenities.

The living spaces flow seamlessly to the private north-facing gardens with a gas-heated pool, spa, and a large al fresco dining terrace complete with open fire, BBQ, speakers, and built-in TV under a retractable awning for all-weather entertaining.

The luxurious main bedroom suite is accompanied by a second bedroom with ensuite on the ground floor, while upstairs features a children’s zone with two additional bedrooms, a retreat or fifth bedroom, and a stylish bathroom.

Conveniently located near Central Park, transport, shopping, and elite schools, this exceptional residence comes fully appointed with top-of-the-line features, including 6-car parking within a 3-level stacker accessed via the rear lane. ■

For enquiries contact

Marcus Chiminello 0411 411 271

Alan Crawford 0423 747 155

Rae Tomlinson 0418 336 234 VIEW LISTING

In conversation with

David Steele from Metro

What are some of Metro’s signature environmentally sustainable design (ESD) features and green innovations that you incorporate into off-the-plan projects?

We endeavour to incorporate as many sustainability features as we can into our projects, including those that can be readily seen like EV charging points, ceiling fans, low VOC paint, and fully electric homes. Importantly, we also put a lot of effort into measures that are less obvious such as insulation, considered cross-ventilation and compartmentalised living zones.

How are sustainable features in new housing developments helping to address the rising cost of living for homeowners and renters?

We strongly believe that demonstrating and explaining the benefits of sustainability measures is worthwhile to ensure our buyers are aware of what has been done and why, in the hope that it will drive the discussion in the community, as there really is a huge difference between a newly built home and a house that was built 10+ years ago.

The way a project is designed and delivered is impactful on the final running cost for the residents who ultimately live in the homes; the more efficient a home is, the lower the cost to provide the necessary energy to run it. This is even more important to our residents in the current environment of constantly increasing energy prices, so using high-rated appliances and designing the home to not require as much energy are addressing the issue at the demand end of the equation, and installing solar and/or batteries assist with the supply side.

In what ways does Metro collaborate with architects, engineers, and other professionals to ensure that their projects meet or exceed industry standards for sustainability?

What we have found is that many of the most effective sustainability measures are embedded in the design of a project from day one –orientation of the homes, size and proportions of windows and openings, spatial allowances for sustainable design elements, etc. Given this, it’s crucial to engage with the project team upfront on what the aim for the project is and what it is that we’re seeking to achieve.

That is why for every project we deliver we will have a full team workshop to determine what the design themes are and how they could be included. It’s very hard to ‘retrofit’ the best sustainable elements further down the track.

David Steele, State Manager of Metro Property Development, is at the forefront of creating sustainable and attainable townhouse communities. With a focus on embedding eco-efficient design from the initial concept phase, Steele and his team are reconciling environmental sustainability goals with enhanced resident experiences in their modern townhome developments. LEARN MORE

What innovative sustainability design elements do you anticipate becoming standard as the industry continues to prioritise environmental responsibility and sustainable living?

A lot of the design elements that were included only on a small number of projects a few years ago are now becoming much more standard – which is great to see. Energy storage (through batteries) will become more popular as prices come down, and the reduction in reliance on gas will also continue.

Given the recent building cost increases that have hit the industry over the past couple of years, I anticipate that efficiency of design will become an increased focus. This isn't just in relation to physical inclusions but also clever designs of floor plans to ensure every square metre is considered and plays a role in increasing liveability for the resident. We have always sought to provide house-style accommodation at a townhome price to deliver a product that is attainable to our market, and this, I believe, will become more of a focus for others which will result in an overall more environmentally sustainable industry. ■

In the heart of Sorrento is an architectural icon that has withstood the test of time.

The Continental, affectionately known as the ‘Conti’ by locals, has been a beloved landmark since 1875 when George Coppin, the father of Melbourne theatre, brought a slice of European luxury to this picturesque corner of Australia.

Now, after a meticulous restoration and reimagining by architecture and design studio, Woods Bagot, The Continental has reclaimed its position as the jewel of the Mornington Peninsula.

An Icon Reborn

The Continental 1/21 Ocean Beach Rd, Sorrento

The 20,000-square-metre lifestyle precinct exemplifies the power of vision and innovation, seamlessly combining The Continental’s heritage with modern luxury across six levels. At the core of this transformation is a kaleidoscope of experiences that cater to every taste and occasion. From world-class dining and entertainment to luxurious accommodation and state-of-the-art wellness facilities, The Continental has it all.

Foodies revel in the precinct’s diverse dining options, curated by renowned chefs Scott Pickett and Julian Robertshaw. Audrey’s, named after Pickett’s grandmother, is a hatted restaurant that showcases the finest local produce and sea-inspired flavours against a backdrop of panoramic views. The restaurant’s recent accolade as the AHA Best Pub Restaurant in 2024 affirms Audrey’s exceptional quality and service.

For a more casual dining experience, visitors can head to the Conti Bar, a homage to Sorrento’s heritage with its limestone walls and nautical accents. The bar offers both indoor and outdoor spaces, perfect for enjoying a refreshing drink or a light meal. The Beer Garden and Promenade provide additional al fresco options, while the Atrium, with its stunning glass artwork, is an inspiring setting for lunches or cocktails.

At night, The Continental comes alive with Barlow, a speakeasyinspired space where live entertainment takes centre stage with comedy, jazz & shiraz, piano nights, and more. Expert mixologists craft an extensive selection of drinks, complemented by delicious food served in a luxurious setting.

Beyond its culinary delights, the precinct is also a hub for events and celebrations. The beautifully restored spaces provide a stunning backdrop for corporate events, weddings, wellness retreats, and private gatherings, with a team on hand to ensure every detail is taken care of.

For those seeking a truly indulgent experience, The InterContinental Sorrento offers accommodation that expertly merges luxurious comfort and refined sophistication. Guests can unwind in elegantly appointed rooms and suites, each designed to provide a serene retreat from everyday life.

No visit to The Continental would be complete without experiencing the Aurora Spa and Bathhouse. This state-of-the-art wellness facility offers a range of treatments and experiences designed to rejuvenate the body and mind, from massages and facials to hydrotherapy and steam rooms.

The reopening of The Continental is a significant milestone for Sorrento and the Mornington Peninsula, driving business and tourism throughout the year. As a heritage-listed and award-winning building, the Conti’s restoration and reimagining is a tribute to preserving the past while embracing the future.

With its array of dining, accommodation, wellness, and events, The Continental is a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike. This timeless treasure will redefine luxury and sophistication on the Mornington Peninsula for generations to come, cementing its status as an icon of the region. ■

Dopamine Decor

The concept of dopamine décor has captured the imagination of interior design enthusiasts and mental health advocates alike. This trend, based on the principles of neuroaesthetics, aims to create living spaces that boost happiness and well-being through thoughtful design choices. Dopamine décor, sometimes referred to as ‘joyful design’, encourages the use of vibrant colours, playful patterns, and sensoryrich environments to stimulate the brain’s reward centres, particularly where dopamine plays a significant role. This approach is especially well-suited for the winter months, when shorter days and colder temperatures can lead to feelings of sluggishness and low mood. By introducing dopamine decor into your home during this time, you can create a warm, inviting, and uplifting atmosphere.

Understanding Dopamine Décor

The essence of dopamine décor lies in its ability to evoke positive emotions and a sense of joy through visual and sensory stimulation. Small, uplifting changes to your environment can significantly enhance your daily sense of well-being. Research supports this idea, showing that environments rich in sensory stimuli are more restorative and can improve brain functions such as reducing anxiety and enhancing connectivity.

Key Elements of Dopamine Décor

Bold Use of Colour: One of the most striking aspects of dopamine décor is its bold use of colour. Vibrant hues like bright pinks, oranges, yellows, and cobalt blues are commonly used to create dynamic and stimulating spaces. Colours have been shown to affect our moods significantly; warm colours can evoke excitement and stimulation, while cool colours can create a sense of calm and relaxation.

Playful Patterns and Textures: Incorporating playful patterns and textures is another hallmark of dopamine décor. From polka dots to stripes, and from soft textiles to tactile surfaces, these elements add a layer of sensory richness that can enhance the pleasure of everyday interactions with your environment.

Personal Touches: Decorating with items that hold personal significance or evoke happy memories can amplify the joyful

impact of a space. This might include cherished photographs, travel souvenirs, or unique vintage finds. The goal is to create an environment that feels uniquely yours and full of personality.

Maximalism Over Minimalism: Contrary to the minimalist trend, dopamine décor embraces maximalism, or ‘abundance’. This approach allows for a more generous and less restrained way of decorating, encouraging the use of a variety of items that bring joy, rather than adhering to strict minimalist principles.

Benefits of Dopamine Décor

The benefits of dopamine décor extend beyond aesthetics. Creating a joy-inducing environment can have tangible effects on mental health. Research has found that looking at art and beautiful spaces activates the brain’s reward centre, similar to the feelings of being in love. Additionally, sensory-rich environments have been shown to be restorative and help to alleviate stress.

Implementing Dopamine Décor

To start incorporating dopamine décor into your home, begin by decorating with items you truly love. Think about the places that make you feel good and try to replicate their elements in your space. Use bold colours that energise you, mix and match styles to create a unique aesthetic, and don’t shy away from whimsy and novelty.

For example, adding a colourful rug can be a great starting point, as it allows you to introduce multiple colours and patterns without overwhelming the space. Ensuring good lighting, with multiple light sources, can also enhance the overall mood of a room.

The key to transforming your living spaces into havens of happiness and comfort lies in the thoughtful incorporation of elements that stimulate the senses and resonate on a personal level. By embracing the vibrant, the playful, and the personal, you can create a home that not only exudes joy but also serves as a true reflection of your unique personality and style. ■