This article is from the Australian Property Journal archive
THE City of Boroondara has thrown its support behind not-for-profit VMCH’s proposal for a new retirement village in Studley Park, Kew.
The 1.6-hectare luxury retirement living precinct, sitting around 5km east of the Melbourne CBD at 6 and 14 Studley Park Road, will include 108 apartments and resort style amenities in the Woods Bagot-designed project.
“While we have been privileged to design a lot of luxury apartment buildings, this project will specifically cater to the next generation of downsizers and their changing lifestyle aspirations,” said Peter Miglis, principal and regional design leader at Woods Bagot, Australia and New Zealand.
The council declared the VMCH’s proposal demonstrated an “exemplary design standard”, with this support following 18 months of consultation with not only the council itself by the local community.
“It’s not just about the architecture. Every aspect of the design is geared towards an active, social and low-maintenance lifestyle, while delivering the sense of community that is the hallmark of all VMCH projects,” said Jason Uzice, head of property at VMCH.
Residents will not only benefit from the purportedly “house-like” proportions of the apartments, but will also have access to a concierge team that will help residents with daily tasks, such as deliveries, maintenance and pet washing.
In addition to the residences and amenities, the development will feature extensive green space offerings and a brand new public café at the site, which was acquired by VMCH in 1957.
“This project redefines perceptions of what retirement living means. Downsizing doesn’t mean compromise,” added Uzice.
The project is well placed in Kew, which at the 2016 census was found to have population with 36% of residents over the age of 50, and few options to support this ageing population while staying in the area.
“We have a long history with this site and the Kew community. This project will form the next part of our history in allowing the people of Kew and surrounds to age-in-place at the centre of the community they know and love,” said Sonya Smart, CEO of VMCH.
In developing the village, three heritage buildings at the site will be restored, while the landscaping masterplan has been set out by Oculus Studies and includes the planting of 151 new trees.
“Not only will this project continue VMCH’s legacy with our Kew site, but the proceeds will financially support the continued delivery of mission-based activities including our specialist aged care services, disability accommodation and affordable housing portfolios,” added Smart.
The project will target a 7.0 star NatHERS rating average, with apartment including 100% renewable energy, benefitting from onsite rooftop solar, rainwater capture and re-use, passive solar design principles and EV support.
Meanwhile in the aged care sector more broadly, leading operator Eureka has recently continued the expansion of its retirement community platform, moving to acquire a new site in the Whitsundays region, after having just last month spent $6.1 million on the management and letting rights for six Oxford Crest operated senior’s rental villages in south east Queensland
