MAY 2025
Melbourne
Design Week 2025
PAGE 10
Behind the design:
Garden Tower House
PAGE 4
Australia’s largest design event is back with more
edge, elegance and energy than ever. With over
350 events, talks, exhibitions and installations
showcasing who’s who of the industry.
Melbourne Design
Week 2025
We draw back the curtain to one of Richmond’s
most beautiful and cleverly designed homes,
as we talk to the homeowner Eve Wilson and
architect Melissa Bright.
Behind the design:
Garden Tower
House, Studio Bright
Renee Reynolds, Director or Jellis Craig Geelong
Property Management, shares her journey, the
milestones that shaped her business, and her
favourite local spots around Geelong.
My Neighbourhood
with Renee Reynolds
May 2025
Contents
Welcome to our May edition of In Focus magazine. Discover a curated selection of style and
design inspiration from industry-leading experts and explore a handpicked collection of beautiful
homes across Melbourne, central Victoria, and the coast. Find your dream home with Jellis Craig.
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Designed by Pleysier Perkins and crowned ‘House
of the Year’ in 2022 for Lighting and Sound,
this tri-level home is a statement in elegance,
seamlessly blending natural materials, cutting
edge technology and resort style indulgence.
Feature Property:
10 Farleigh Grove,
Brighton
An exclusive collection of thirteen residences
that reflect a rare balance of heritage character,
contemporary design, and enduring quality.
Luxe Developments:
64 Glyndon Road,
Camberwell
A captivating architectural renovation by
ST-Architects has completely reimagined this
timeless Californian bungalow into
a breathtaking contemporary sanctuary.
Feature Property:
23 Collings Street,
Camberwell
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Garden Tower House
by Studio Bright
Was there a strong vision from the outset, or did the design evolve
throughout your collaboration with Studio Bright?
Having lived next door for several years, we knew the property had
potential to be turned from a barely touched workers cottage into
a beautiful and functional family home. One of its unique features is
the northern grass laneway, which allows for multiple points of access
to the property, as well as the opportunity to introduce northern light
through new windows.
We just needed help working out how to bring that vision to life on
such a narrow block.
We worked with Studio Bright on the architecture and interiors, and
they did an amazing job bringing to life our brief – which I think was
fairly broad. We wanted something with texture and colour, as much
greenery as possible and if it could be done, breezeblocks.
As a freelance photographer, Eve Wilson has captured
countless beautiful interiors throughout her career,
and her own home is a natural extension of her refined
eye for design. Together with her husband Jon, and
architectural practice Studio Bright, they have created
a home that reflects both warmth and creativity.
Completed in 2022, the home has since been featured in numerous
editorials, including The Design Files, The Local Project, Houses
magazine and more. As Architecture AU puts it, the home is “private
yet permeable, defensive yet decorative,” a lively addition that not
only enriches family life but also “animates the neighbourhood.”
Within the constraints of an inner-city block, it manages to feel both
grounded and generous. We caught up with Eve to learn how she
transformed a modest workers cottage into a warm, design-led
family home.
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In Focus Magazine
05
The blush breeze block towers really set the house apart from its
neighbours. Can you tell us about the decision behind using them?
Jonny and I both love mid-century architecture and had visited Palm
Springs many years ago and fallen in love with the use of breeze
blocks. What started as a visual design element turned into a very
functional aspect of the house. The breeze blocks work to give privacy
along the laneway and screen the windows so we aren’t breeching any
of the overlooking laws from our bedroom.
The interiors feel so thoughtfully connected, from the sage tones
to the warm exterior and original cottage elements. What guided
your choices when it came to materials and colours?
I spent a lot of time finding the right architect. I wanted to know that
I would love anything that they designed – I think that is one of my
biggest lessons from the process. There’s no point approaching a firm
with a brief if it’s not in their style—you need to be able to let them do
what they do best. Studio Bright were the perfect fit for our aesthetic
and they nailed the colour palette straight up – with some tweaks here
and there. As well as hardware and lighting I don’t think we changed
too much at all from their recommendations.
May 2025
In Focus Magazine
06
Were there any unique challenges you faced during the design
or build process?
The property is quite tight so every millimetre is considered – there’s
no “dead” space. It was like a big game of Tetris. It’s the hardest
working house in Cremorne
Do you have a favourite spot in the home? Somewhere that
captures what you love most about living here?
My favourite room of the house is our bedroom. The first night we
stayed over we said it felt like a hotel room. You can really appreciate
the benefit of the use of the breeze blocks here too, as a design
feature but also as a practical screen allowing us to have two full sides
of windows without any overlooking complications. The large windows
are surrounded by greenery which sits in planters inside the ‘skin’ of
the breeze blocks. Greenery was high on my list for the house given
the inner urban nature of the location. There’s also a curtain that
wraps around three sides of the bed on a recessed rail in the ceiling,
it’s super cosy.
Having been through the process yourself, what advice would
you share with someone about to start their own build?
Find a great architect and trust them. If there was something we were
unsure about, design-wise or aesthetically, Em and Mel could explain
the reasoning behind it. There’s a reason they’re the best at what
they do.
Take a chance on aspects that you might feel are pushing the
boundaries a bit – the reward will be worth it.
The rooftop feels like a hidden escape above the city. What does
this space mean to you?
Friday pizza night has become a regular – it was takeaway but we’ve
now purchased a pizza oven and it is amazing! Girls love it when we
pop the music on and watch the sun go down over the city.
It’s also a great place to escape to for some peace – no one seems to
look for you up there.
72 Wellington Street, Richmond is on the market with Jellis Craig
Richmond. Contact Jodie McCarthy for more information. Page 35
May 2025
In Focus Magazine
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Words from
the Architect
MELISSA BRIGHT
A key part of our design process is to ensure the design is sympathetic
and responsive to context and site. Australia is known for its suburban
sprawl and many of our suburbs suffer from having too much space.
Increasingly, we need to address how to maximise inner urban areas
without losing their fine grain character. We see small house projects
as an opportunity to explore larger urban issues about densifying.
In this project, the lane becomes a borrowed landscape, a space of
shared amenity and connection between neighbours.
At every opportunity, lush greenery is introduced in small pockets of
planted area that, in total, seek to offer landscape surroundings where
none are possible. For us, good architecture does not stop at the edge
of a building. Design work needs to extend to include landscape,
the whole site and even the street and city beyond.
Garden Tower House is a gymnastic exercise in making a family home
with all the suburban amenities, fit into an inner-urban site. With all
of the components of a full sized house; water tank, solar panels,
fireplace and flue, shed and services, absorbed and concealed in
pursuit of visual clarity.
The ‘backyard’ is reimagined in a dense urban environment with
courtyards, lightwells, rooftops, vertical facade planting and laneways
all contributing to the full family brief.
Studio Bright is a Melbourne based practice creating enduring and
responsive architecture for people and places. studiobright.com.au
May 2025
In Focus Magazine
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Expect boundary-pushing
innovation and enduring
style at this year’s
Melbourne Design Week.
Australia’s largest design event - Melbourne Design
Week – is back with more edge, elegance and energy
than ever. From 15-25 May, the city will transform into
a design mecca with over 350 events, talks, exhibitions
and installations showcasing who’s who of the
industry. Hosted by the National Gallery of Victoria and
supported by Creative Victoria, the annual event draws
tens of thousands of visitors, cementing Melbourne’s
status as Australia’s design capital.
“Now in its ninth year, Melbourne Design Week is
a vital platform for designers from across the country
and the Asia-Pacific region to share ambitious ideas
and new works that will shape the future for the
better,” said Tony Ellwood AM, Director, NGV.
As the weather cools and we head indoors, this
citywide celebration offers the perfect excuse to
explore innovative ideas, beautiful spaces we
thought-provoking creations. In this article, take
a closer look at five highlights from the 2025 program.
MELBOURNE DESIGN WEEK 15 - 25 MAY
Bold
designs
bright
ideas
May 2025
In Focus Magazine
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ORIGINE x FIN Gallery | Excused from Efficiency | Images by: Nicole Reed
May 2025
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Two decades of light and play
Celebrating 20 years of bold, artistic lighting, Volker Haug’s
retrospective exhibition charts the evolution of one of Melbourne’s
most distinctive design voices.
Originally from Germany, Haug moved to Melbourne in the early
2000s, founding a studio renowned for blending function with
artistic flair.
20 Years of Volker Haug Studios is a tribute to longevity, showcasing
Haug’s early work through to some of his most iconic pieces.
“Presenting a retrospective exhibition allows us to honour the creative
community that has supported us along the way,” he said.
“Melbourne’s design scene has always inspired us, and sharing this
moment with the community feels like the most meaningful way
to celebrate.”
Playful, sculptural pieces like Brother and Sister will feature in the
exhibition, at Volker Haug Studio, 2-12 St Phillip St, Brunswick East.
Photo: Paul Allister.
Creativity meets culture
Dr Trent Jansen’s Two Decades of Design Anthropology is a deeply
personal exhibition tracing his journey from object making to cultural
storytelling.
From road sign stools to powerful collaborations with First Nations
artists, Jansen’s work brings design into dialogue with identity,
memory and place.
“I’ve never seen such a large body of my work in one space before,
so I’m looking forward to connecting works from different phases
of my career, noticing the threads that tie them together, and
establishing a clearer understanding of where I’ve been and where
I’m heading,” he said.
The Magistrato Al Sal Nero Cabinet by Trent Jansen designed for the
Venice Design Biennial, 47 Easey Street, Collingwood.
Image: Veronika Motulko.
Offcuts and originals
Founded by Garrett and Alex Lark, Brunswick-based Made Studio
brings beauty and intention to every curve and contour of their latest
collection, Offcuts.
Known for exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail, the brothers
merge art, design and innovation to create their distinctly tactile
pieces.
“As Melbourne brothers, we are incredibly proud to be a part of MDW
exhibiting new pieces from the studio and workshop we have grown
together,” they said.
“Crafting our pieces locally allows us to indulge in the freedom
of experimentation as well as make holistic use of every element of
the materials.”
Garrett Lark works on one of the pieces for the exhibition, at Made
Studio, 175 Rose St, Fitzroy. Photo: Alex Lark
May 2025
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Illuminating exhibition
The 100 Lights exhibition by Friends & Associates will transform North
Melbourne’s Meat Market into a luminous wonderland featuring works
by emerging and established designers.
Look out for pieces by Caren Elliss (pictured), Adam Goodrum, and
Marlo Lyda, each bringing a unique take on form, function and glow.
This gorgeous Caren Elliss Cambio Lamp is one of 100 stunning lights
on show in this stunning exhibition at 2 Wreckyn St, North Melbourne.
Timeless Classics, contemporary lens
ORIGINE and BOYAC have teamed up to showcase a series of Vignettes,
blending tradition with modernity.
The exhibition features pieces from Portuguese design brand Collector,
custom upholstered by French fabric house Métaphores, and hand-
embroidered wall sculptures by Belgian artist Marijke De Cock.
Origine and FIN Gallery’s vignette, at BOYAC, 104 Green Street,
Cremorne. Photo: Nicole Reed.
FOR MORE INFORMATION AND THE FULL PROGRAM,
VISIT DESIGNWEEK.MELBOURNE
May 2025
13
In Focus Magazine
You have been at the forefront of property management for over
25 years. What initially drew you to the real estate industry?
Prior to working in real estate, I was a professional ballroom dancer.
We travelled extensively, competing around the world and teaching.
I was always aware that an injury could impact my dancing career,
so my dance partner and I decided to purchase an investment
property to start building equity and financial security. Instead
of engaging a property manager, I decided to take it on myself
— advertising for a tenant, drawing up the lease agreement, and
completing the condition report. I found I really enjoyed the process,
which ultimately led me to complete my Agent’s Representative
Certificate and pursue a career in Property Management.
You have built one of Geelong’s most respected property
management agencies. What were some of the key milestones
or turning points along that journey?
There have been many turning points and milestones along the way,
and it’s incredibly rewarding to reflect on them. I still remember
the moment we celebrated managing our first 100 properties, just
six or seven months after opening our doors. Our growth came
organically through word of mouth and our new clients supported us
and referred their friends and families. We’ve continued to celebrate
each milestone along the way, and supporting team members who
have gone on to open their own agencies. It’s been a truly rewarding
experience — not just for me, but for many of my staff who have
been part of our journey.
Driven by passion, performance, and a deep commitment to her clients, Jellis Craig Geelong Director, Renee
Reynolds, has built one of Geelong’s most respected property management agencies. With over 25 years in
the industry, a string of prestigious awards, and her former role as a Director of the REIV, Renee has helped
shape the future of property management in regional Victoria. We sat down with Renee to hear more about
her journey, the milestones that shaped her business, and her favourite local spots around Geelong.
Geelong
May 2025
In Focus Magazine
14
Contact Renee to discuss your investment goals in Geelong.
As a past Director of the Real Estate Institute of Victoria (REIV),
what does it mean to you personally to contribute to the broader
industry?
I have been an advocate of the REIV over the years and sitting on
the board as a Director was a huge achievement. Our industry has
changed so much over the years and particularly in Victoria it’s been
very challenging, so to be able to voice our industry concerns at
a board level and to continue leading the industry at the Institute
was very rewarding.
How do you approach maximising investment returns for your
clients, especially in today’s market?
We like to get to know what our clients long term goals are with their
investment portfolios. Every client is different and once we know
what their investment objectives are, we can then create strategies
with them that include diversification, tax efficiencies, due diligence
and risk management.
You have won numerous awards across property management,
real estate, and business. Which achievement stands out most
to you, and why?
In 2014, my office won the REIV’s Small Residential Agency of the
Year award. At the time, we were a property management only
agency based in a regional location. We didn’t sell property, so to
be recognised on a national level, competing against full-service
agencies across Australia, was a huge personal achievement.
We also won the small business category at the Geelong Business
Excellence Awards in 2013, and then the medium business category
in 2016. These awards attract hundreds of local businesses, so to
be recognised in both categories was an incredible accolade for my
team. These achievements I will always remember so fondly.
Tell us about your ambition for joining the Jellis Craig Group and
your plans for the future.
As we began selling more of our clients’ properties, it made sense to
add a sales division. I wanted to align with a trusted, premium brand,
and had always admired Jellis Craig for their results and marketing.
Rebranding as Jellis Craig Geelong was the perfect fit. Supporting
our growth strategy and allowing us to offer clients both exceptional
property management and a premium sales service unique to
our region.
What do you like to do on the weekends in Geelong and
surrounds?
Weekends are spent with family and friends, enjoying one of the local
wineries in the Bellarine, watching the Cats play or cooking up
a storm at home and entertaining.
With a mind as active as mine, it does take a little to switch off.
However, I do love a massage to relax and unwind. I don’t mind a hit
of golf and I still enjoy kicking my heels up on the dance floor.
If you had family visiting from Melbourne or interstate,
where would you take them for;
Coffee – Poco Café Expres in Pakington Street
Activity – A day trip down the surf coast, stopping in at A La Grecque
and the Chocolaterie
Lunch – Jack Rabbit is a lovely meal with a great view
Dinner – Emerge is a favourite of mine
Renee Reynolds
Director
Jellis Craig Geelong
M 0403 383 834
It’s been a truly
rewarding experience
— not just for me,
but for many of my staff
who have been part of
our journey.
May 2025
In Focus Magazine
15
Auction
Saturday 24th May at 1:00pm
Price
$3,700,000 - $4,000,000
Jellis Craig Brighton
Michael Hingston 0412 922 488
Simone Howell 0419 542 978
Nick Renna 0411 551 190
6 beds, 3 baths, 6 cars, 1222sqm approx
Landmark grandeur in parkland pocket
2 Milliara Grove, Brighton East
May 2025
In Focus Magazine
16
Expressions of Interest
Closing Monday 2nd June at 2:00pm
Price
Contact Agent
Jellis Craig Port Phillip
Simon Gowling 0422 234 644
Max Mercuri 0431 043 723
Sophie Gorring 0400 066 180
4 beds, 4 baths, 1 cars, 250.0sqm approx
A new architectural landmark on the
waterfront
285 Beaconsfield Parade, Middle Park
May 2025
In Focus Magazine
17
Auction
Saturday 17th May at 2:00pm
Price
Contact Agent
Jellis Craig Hawthorn
Jonathon O'Donoghue 0412 745 707
Jessica Zhang 0452 468 117
4 beds, 5 baths, 4 cars
High-end family luxe on Prospect Hill
24 Derby Street, Camberwell
May 2025
In Focus Magazine
18
Expression of Interest
Closing Monday 5th May at 2:00pm
Price
Contact Agent
Jellis Craig Port Phillip
Simon Gowling 0422 234 644
Max Mercuri 0431 043 723
Sophie Gorring 0400 066 180
4 beds, 3 baths, 4 cars, 651sqm approx
Iconic landmark waterfront with rare
prestige
182 Beaconsfield Parade, Middle Park
May 2025
In Focus Magazine
19
Price
$3,600,000 - $3,900,000
Jellis Craig Sorrento
Emil Foller 0403 301 097
Adam Vocale 0418 113 070
Auction
Closing Saturday 17th May at 12:00pm
Price
Contact Agent
Jellis Craig Hawthorn
Jessica Zhang 0452 468 117
Jonathon O'Donoghue 0412 745 707
Monique Peeters 0412 603 343
4 beds, 3 baths, 3 cars, 433sqm approx
A high calibre new home on the corner
156 Wattle Valley Road, Camberwell
May 2025
In Focus Magazine
20
Private Sale
Price
$5,750,000 - $6,320,000
Jellis Craig Sorrento
Emil Foller 0403 301 097
Andrew Macmillan 0418142252
5 beds, 4 baths, 2 cars, 835sqm approx
Cutting edge design steps from the Sailing
Club
7 Holyrood Avenue, Sorrento
May 2025
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