APRIL 2025
Meet the Maker
Victoria Whitelaw
PAGE 10
Tastemakers with
Nathan Burkett
PAGE 4
From early morning market runs to designing
floral installations for some of Australia’s
most prestigious events, Victoria shares the
experiences and moments that defined
her career.
Meet the maker:
Victoria Whitelaw
Award-winning Landscape Architect
Nathan Burkett, shares his expertise on
creating a garden that feels balanced,
cohesive, and designed to evolve over time.
Tastemakers with
Nathan Burkett
Passionate about the area’s historic appeal and
tight-knit community, Peter shares what makes
East Melbourne so special, and his favourite
spots to enjoy in the neighbourhood.
My Neighbourhood
with Peter Hannon
April 2025
Contents
Welcome to our April 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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Sky Pavilion from the innovative Studio Edwards
sits atop of this outstanding city-edge residence
creating an architectural statement of light and
volume with spectacular city views.
Feature Property:
29 Rose Street,
Fitzroy
Feature Property:
6 Lakeside Drive,
Lower Plenty
A rare opportunity to live in generous and
thoughtfully designed homes alongside one of
St Kilda East’s most cherished green space.
Luxe Development
97 Alma Road,
St Kilda East
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Positioned within magnificent, manicured
grounds, this exquisite manor house offers
timeless period charm in a modern, easily
maintained setting.
April 2025
In Focus Magazine
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Award-winning landscape architect, Nathan Burkett,
is known for his clean, crisp lines and artistic
versatility, able to shift from classic, subtle styles
right through to the more eclectic and cutting-edge.
Nathan founded Nathan Burkett Landscape Architecture (NBLA)
in 2003 and since then has become one of Australia’s most
respected landscape architects, receiving accolades such as a
Gold Medal at the Melbourne International Flower and Garden
Show for his installation Equilibrium. Here, Nathan shares
his expert advice on creating a garden that feels balanced,
cohesive, and designed to evolve beautifully over time.
April 2025
In Focus Magazine
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Thoughtful zoning
The vision for many homeowners is to create
a lush, private retreat that evolves with the
seasons. A beautiful home garden often
includes distinct yet connected zones, such
as a dining and entertaining area,
a swimming pool, an open lawn for play,
and a quiet corner.
To achieve this, positioning is key. Dining
areas should take advantage of shade and
garden views, seamlessly extending from
the home’s interior. Meanwhile, built-in
seating at the garden’s edge surrounded by
layered plantings that enhance privacy and
ambiance, will provide a peaceful nook.
At this Tudor-inspired Brighton home,
the dining space is elevated and serves
as a continuous extension of the interior
colour palette. While a built-in concrete
bench mirrors the dining area aesthetic, its
location at the outer edge of the garden—
surrounded by Silver Birch trees—makes it
perfect for quiet reflection.
How to design a thoughtful
and private garden
The path’s destination arrives at floating concrete bench seat atop a staggered-edge corner of Arrowmill Technifirma paving.
April 2025
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Refined material palette
The choice of colours and materials is
essential to creating contrast, harmony,
and a sense of cohesion with the
surrounding architecture. Whether your
home is a classic Victorian, contemporary
coastal or mid-century inspired, a palette of
light greys, deep greens, and soft silvers can
provide a balanced, timeless aesthetic.
Pool tile trends have evolved significantly
over the years, from bright colours and
bold geometric patterns to high gloss and
moody aesthetics. For a contemporary look,
large mid-grey mosaics are the popular
choice, which provides a beautiful light aqua
reflection.
Here, the architecture of the home is
mirrored in a staggered-edge corner of
paving, while the light grey palette offers
a subtle contrast to the rich red brick.
Smoked oak decking and burnished concrete
elements further enhance the natural
textures in the space.
Rethink pool fencing
Traditional pool fencing can break up
a space, making it feel smaller and
disconnected. To avoid this, a wet edge pool
design can eliminate the need for standard
fencing. Instead, the pool itself acts as the
barrier, with water flowing over the edge
into a hidden balance tank. This approach
maintains an open feel, allowing the garden
to stay connected to other zones.
Creating privacy
Tall evergreen hedging and layered planting
can create a secluded retreat. Consider using
Ficus hillii or Viburnum odoratissimum for a
lush, structured backdrop, complemented
by sprawling groundcovers such as Hedera
helix or Dichondra repens to add depth
and texture. Thoughtfully layering plants
of varying heights helps soften boundaries
while maintaining a natural, enclosed feel.
Ficus hedge surrounds the pool to create a tall privacy screen.
A moat surrounds the hidden floor of the ceramic tiled pool. Planting features Sedum ‘Autumn Joy’ and Arthropodium cirratum.
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Balancing strength with softness
Clipped forms of Laurus nobilis ‘Bay’ and
Buxus sempervirens ‘Box’ provide a classic
framework while softer, more textural
plants like Stachys byzantina, Euphorbia
wulfenii, and ornamental grasses, introduce
movement and contrast. This combination
ensures a garden feels both refined and
inviting, with a dynamic interplay of form
and foliage.
Blend of texture and colour
Soft, textural plants can play a key role
in creating a lush, inviting garden while
also serving practical functions like weed
suppression. Velvety foliage plants such
as Stachys byzantina ‘Lamb’s Ear’ add a
tactile element. Layer these softer varieties
with clipped hedges, compact shrubs like
Raphiolepis indica, and bold, sculptural
plants such as Ligularia reniformis ‘Tractor
Seat’ for added depth and visual interest.
How to layer planting for
structure and seasonal change
Seasonal changes
Deep garden beds allow space to
incorporate large deciduous trees, which
offer seasonal interest and dynamic shade.
Silver Birches, Maples, or Ornamental Pears
can create dappled shade in summer while
revealing striking bark and sculptural forms
in winter. Pairing them with perennials like
Sedum spectabile ‘Autumn Joy’ ensures
bursts of seasonal colour, allowing your
garden to evolve beautifully throughout
the year.
In Melbourne, deciduous trees provide shade
in hot summers and allow sunlight to filter
through during crisp winters.
Buxus sempervirens ‘Box’ and Ligularia reniformis
‘Trackor Seat Plant’
The garden beds thrive with an informal layering of diverse species in the understory, elevated by strategically placed Laurus nobilis.
Stachys ‘Lamb’s Ear’
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Nathan Burkett Landscape Architecture creates beautiful outdoor spaces
that enhance the surrounding natural and built environments.
To discuss your next design project with Nathan, visit his website to
schedule a consultation. www.nathanburkett.com.au
Watch the Jellis Craig
Tastemakers series.
For me, planting is where a garden truly
comes to life. When the balance is right,
it creates an atmosphere that is both
beautiful and enduring.
Designed to thrive
Choosing climate-appropriate plants reduces
maintenance and ensures a lush, vibrant look
in every season. Evergreen hedging offers
privacy, while drought-tolerant perennials
and grasses such as Lavender, Sedum, and
Calamagrostis add seasonal colour
and texture.
Layering a mix of groundcovers, shrubs,
and trees not only enhances visual depth
but also promotes a resilient, self-sustaining
ecosystem. Thoughtful plant selection
means less watering, pruning, and upkeep—
allowing the garden to flourish with minimal
intervention.
Adapting to change
Gardens are always evolving—trees grow,
light conditions shift, and plantings need
to adapt. As this Brighton garden has
matured, we’ve adjusted the plant selection
to accommodate changing sun and shade
patterns. Recognising these natural shifts
and making thoughtful adjustments ensures
the garden continues to thrive.
April 2025
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April 2025
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With an eye for beauty and a lifelong passion, Victoria Whitelaw is a name synonymous with
Melbourne’s floristry scene. In this edition of Meet the Maker, we step into Victoria’s world to discover
the inspirations behind her signature aesthetic. From early morning market runs to designing floral
installations for some of Australia’s most prestigious events, Victoria shares the experiences, insights,
and moments that have defined her remarkable career.
Growing up in your mother’s flower shop, what are some of your
earliest memories of floristry, and how do you think this shaped
your approach to both flowers and business?
Some of my fondest childhood memories are unpacking flower
deliveries with my mother, discovering the rich colours and textures
of each bloom. Living in Victoria, we’re fortunate to experience all
four seasons, each bringing its own unique floral beauty. This constant
change has always inspired me—I love the anticipation of new
seasonal varieties arriving and the excitement of early morning market
runs to see what’s fresh and in bloom.
Now that you’re sharing the craft with your daughter, Jessica,
what’s it like to see floristry continue through another generation?
It’s incredibly rewarding to pass down my knowledge to Jessica and
the younger florists in my studio. They bring so much creativity
and energy, constantly introducing fresh styles—some brand-new,
like reflexing roses, and others making a comeback, much like trends
in fashion. Watching floristry evolve through their eyes is both exciting
and inspiring.
With over 35 years in the industry what are some of the biggest
changes you’ve seen in floristry?
The shift towards sustainable floristry is one of the most significant
changes I’ve seen. The industry generates an enormous amount of
waste, so sustainability is crucial. Simple changes—like sourcing locally
grown flowers, reducing floral foam use, and repurposing unwanted
event florals—can make a meaningful impact.
Can you walk us through your typical morning at the flower
market—what are you looking for when selecting florals, and are
there particular flowers, colours, or textures you’re repeatedly
drawn to?
At the market, I’m completely in the zone. I arrive with shopping lists
for weddings, events, special orders, and my stores, but I’m always
on the lookout for something unexpected—maybe the first autumn
branches of the season or a rare orchid. While I prioritise local flowers,
I also source select imports, like exquisite French-grown peonies in
May, which I know my clients will adore.
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You have strong relationships with local flower farmers—how has
that shaped your ability to access unique botanicals and bring
fresh inspiration to your work?
Decades of trust and collaboration with growers have allowed me
to access truly special blooms. Some growers even cultivate flowers
exclusively for me—like my local rose farmer, who reserved his entire
Valentine’s Day crop for my business. For a large Melbourne Cup
Carnival event, one grower even produced hydrangeas in a custom
shade of mauve just for us. These relationships are invaluable.
What are some of your favourite flowers to work with, and is there
a dream flower you’d love to get your hands on?
Bouvardia is my all-time favourite—it’s beautifully scented and an
absolute joy when in season. I also adore tulips, especially double,
parrot, and frill-edged varieties. Their phototropic nature fascinates
me; they continue to grow and twist even after being cut, evolving
into something reminiscent of an Impressionist painting.
Tell us about a particularly memorable event or project that
stands out to you.
One of my proudest moments was designing the floral arrangements
for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s visit to Government House during
Her Royal Tour of Australia. I used a mix of locally grown garden roses
and native Australian botanicals—including banksia, waratah,
and kangaroo paw—to showcase our country’s stunning flora.
Bouvardia is my all-time
favourite—it’s beautifully
scented and an absolute
joy when in season.
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Are there any dream projects or collaborations you would love to
take on?
I absolutely love working on the Melbourne Cup Carnival projects—
it’s a thrill to collaborate with event producers on creating impressive
spaces for Melbourne’s biggest celebration. The challenge of designing
floral styling in creative and innovative ways and seeing months of
planning come to life is always exciting. A dream collaboration would
be working with American floral designer Jeff Leatham—his artistry
and approach to floristry are incredibly inspiring.
What advice would you give to someone looking to start a career
in floristry?
Experience is everything. While foundational skills are important,
a formal qualification isn’t always necessary. Find a florist whose work
you admire, learn from them—whether through workshops, short
courses, or hands-on experience—and build real-world skills. That’s
what will set you apart in the modern floristry industry.
Our Florist Locations:
126 Toorak Road, South Yarra, VIC 3141
15D Church Street, Brighton, VIC 3186
April 2025
In Focus Magazine
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Peter Hannon
My Neighbourhood with
East Melbourne
After moving from Ireland 12 years ago, Peter Hannon and his wife, Jenny now call Australia home with their two
young boys, Freddie and Lachlan. In this article, we talk to Peter about one of our city’s most coveted suburbs,
East Melbourne. Passionate about the area’s historic appeal and tight-knit community, Peter shares his insights on
the local market, what makes East Melbourne so special, and his favourite spots to enjoy in the neighbourhood.
What initially drew you to real estate, what do you love about it,
and how has your career evolved?
I had my first work experience in real estate at 16, and from that
moment, I knew it was what I wanted to do. I love the fast-paced
nature of the business—no two days are the same. You get to see
some incredible properties and meet people from all walks of life.
It’s never dull, and it can be incredibly rewarding.
I actually started in reception, then moved into leasing, and before
long, I transitioned into sales. It’s been a natural progression, and
I’ve loved every step of the journey.
You have likely seen some incredible homes over the years—
do you have a favourite sale or a particularly memorable
property that stands out?
I’ve been fortunate to see and sell some of the most incredible
properties over the years, but one sale that stands out for me was
an old Art Deco apartment. The special part of the story was that
the apartment had been lived in by an elderly woman with no
family. In her later years, she had formed a close bond with a lovely
lady who would visit her regularly, essentially becoming her
only friend.
When the elderly lady passed away, she left the apartment to this
woman, completely unknown to her at the time. We took the
property to auction, and it was a huge success. The sale completely
changed this lady’s life—she could now plan for her retirement and
secure her future. It was incredibly rewarding to see how much it
meant to her.
April 2025
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The right home may
not tick every box
on your list, but it
could be a great fit
in ways you hadn’t
anticipated.
What is the best piece of advice you have received?
Take action with boldness. Essentially, if you’re going to do
something—give it everything.
With East Melbourne’s proximity to the CBD and iconic
landmarks like the MCG, how does location play into property
values and desirability?
Location is everything, and East Melbourne offers the best of both
worlds—close to the energy of the city while retaining a peaceful,
leafy atmosphere. The convenience factor is huge; residents can
walk to work, enjoy top-tier dining and shopping, and have some
of Melbourne’s best parks and sporting facilities right on their
doorstep. Iconic landmarks like the MCG and Fitzroy Gardens also
add to the suburb’s prestige, making it one of Melbourne’s most
desirable addresses. This exclusivity means properties here are
always in demand, with buyers willing to pay a premium for the
lifestyle and convenience.
For sellers, what strategies do you advise to maximise the value
of a heritage property in today’s market?
The key is to highlight the home’s unique character while ensuring
it’s presented in the best possible light. Buyers here love the charm
that comes with the area, so maintaining and showcasing the
property’s original features, such as working fireplaces, restoring
stain glass windows and original floorboards will help make the
heritage features sing. Staging is also crucial—carefully styling
the space to complement its heritage while making it feel fresh
and inviting. Many properties in East Melbourne also showcase
stunning Victorian-era façade, wrought-iron lacework, and spacious
proportions that are hard to find in modern builds. Making sure the
styling and property photography showcases the unique quality of
these homes is the final step.
For buyers looking to secure a home in such a competitive and
tightly held market, what advice would you give?
My advice to buyers is to act quickly and be prepared. Be ready to
make an offer when you find the right property—properties here
don’t stay on the market for long. It’s also helpful to stay flexible and
open-minded; sometimes, the right home may not tick every box on
your list, but it could be a great fit in ways you hadn’t anticipated.
What is a must-read book or podcast you recommend?
Book – The Magic of Thinking Big
Podcast – The Diary of a CEO is my go to
Sold by Peter Hannon
36 Berry Street, East Melbourne
Peter Hannon
Licensed Estate Agent & Auctioneer
Jellis Craig Stonnington, Richmond & Surrounds
M 0419 158 427
Coffee
Square and Compass
Dinner
Rocella
Activity
Rugby or AFL match at the MCG.
I love the tennis in January.
Drink
Tippler & Co
If you had family visiting from Ireland,
where would you take them?
April 2025
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Auction
Saturday 12th April at 11:00am
Price
$3,350,000- $3,685,000
Jellis Craig Moonee Valley
Christian Lonzi 0403 344 279
Christian Ianchello 0433 627 462
4 beds, 3 baths, 4 cars, 528sqm approx
Peace & privacy with peerless proximity
18A Roberts Street, Essendon
April 2025
In Focus Magazine
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Expressions of Interest
Price
$5,500,000 - $5,950,000
Jellis Craig Richmond
Peter Hannon 0419 158 427
Luke Schickerling 0414 095 248
Sarah Sherlock 0447 942 412
4 beds, 2 baths, 2 cars
Terraced masterpiece neighbouring the MCG
24-26 Berry Street, East Melbourne
Price
$5,500,000 - $5,950,000
Jellis Craig Richmond
Peter Hannon 0419 158 427
Luke Schickerling 0414 095 248
Sarah Sherlock 0447 942 412
April 2025
In Focus Magazine
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Auction
Saturday 12th April at 11:30am
Price
$2,000,000 - $2,200,000
Jellis Craig Northcote
Nigel Harry 0412 464 116
Angelica Martin 0410 447 454
4 beds, 2 baths, 1 cars, 409sqm approx
Mediterranean style meets Inner North
comfort
113 Kellett Street, Northcote
April 2025
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Expressions of Interest
Closing Tuesday 15th April at 2:00pm
Price
Contact Agent
Jellis Craig Port Phillip
Max Mercuri 0431 043 723
Simon Gowling 0422 234 644
Sophie Gorring 0400 066 180
3 beds, 2 baths, 1 cars
Architectural innovation in a prestigious
precinct
113 Raglan Street, South Melbourne
April 2025
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Expressions of Interest
Closing Monday 14th April at 11:00am
Price
$2,850,000 - $3,100,000
Jellis Craig Armadale
Kevin OBrien 0447 008 000
Dawn Meyer 0426 894 388
Charles Boyd 0402 275 485
4 beds, 2 baths, 2 cars
Exceptional family haven in Villers-
Bretonneux estate
11 Villers Square, Malvern East
April 2025
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