Elsternwick Gardens by Milieu

Elsternwick Gardens by Milieu is an urban oasis with a storied site history, designed by a multidisciplinary team of leading Australian firms including Woods Bagot, K.P.D.O. and Flack Studio.

Located just 10 kilometres from the Melbourne CBD, the suburb of Elsternwick is defined partly by its connection to Port Phillip Bay and partly by the leafy nature of the city’s south-east. The Elsternwick Gardens site had belonged to the heritage-listed, 19th-century Rippon Lea Estate for 170 years before it was acquired by the Commonwealth Government in 1956 to create the first ABC studio. For developer Milieu, “The opportunity to create a collection of new buildings and a new community at Elsternwick Gardens is a truly once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and something we don’t take lightly,” says Shannon Peach, the company’s director and head of development.

The clean-lined structure celebrates mid-century modernism – championed across Melbourne’s inner-south – and features six levels overlooking the heritage estate.

The development consists of three separate offerings: Ripponlea Terrace, Gordon Place and The Garden Pavilion. In addition to creating Elsternwick Gardens’ architectural masterplan, Woods Bagot is also designing Ripponlea Terrace. Set along the west of the site, the building serves as an example of how architecture can express confidence in a natural environment. The clean-lined structure celebrates mid-century modernism – championed across Melbourne’s inner-south – and features six levels overlooking the heritage estate. Natural materials such as timber and stone are used in large architectural elements as well as fine detailing and, together with local hand-blown glass, establish a sense of warmth.

K.P.D.O. is collaborating with Woods Bagot on Gordon Place, two four-storey buildings that primarily feature two- and three-bedroom apartments. Renowned for its high-end homes, the design firm has opted for elegant finishes enhanced by a neutral colour palette for the apartments. Oak flooring is combined with warm, almond-coloured walls; stone elements are layered; door handles are handcrafted; and painted timber highlights rich textures. The gentle visual character of each space allows residents to express their personality through furnishings.

“We’re excited to see signature details and an emotive collection of finishes in these premium apartment offerings.”

Flack Studio is designing The Garden Pavilion. “This is our third project with Flack,” says Peach. “We’re excited to see signature details and an emotive collection of finishes in these premium apartment offerings.” As about 40 per cent of the Elsternwick project is gardens, the work of landscape design firm Oculus is also vital.

“There’s a kind of well-being built into the idea of landscape,” says Bob Earl, director at Oculus. “We don’t always know that we’re seeking it out, but I think once we’re in it, we realise that we feel better, that it has an impact on our lives.” In Elsternwick Gardens, landscape and architecture are intertwined, emphasising the idea of living well in place.

“We’re excited to see signature details and an emotive collection of finishes in these premium apartment offerings.”

Engaging with the history and strengths of its site, Elsternwick Gardens provides a sustainable urban sanctuary close to the city and bay. Though Ripponlea Terrace, Gordon Place and the Garden Pavilion represent the individual efforts of Woods Bagot, K.P.D.O. and Flack Studio on behalf of Milieu, they connect with the landscape in the same way, reflecting a stellar achievement in collaborative design.

Architecture and interior design by Woods Bagot. Interior design by K.P.D.O. and Flack Studio. Build by Wilderness Building Co. and Candour (display suite). Landscape design by Oculus. Developed by Milieu.