WINTER 2025
Design by dialogue:
Domenic Cerantonio
PAGE 8
The Playground Project:
The art of play
PAGE 4
Guided by the studio’s Design by Dialogue
philosophy, co-founder of Cera Stribley,
Domenic Cerantonio, shares how thoughtful
collaboration, bold ideas and a deep connection
to place are shaping the future of Australian
residential design.
Domenic Cerantonio
on architecture that
resonates
The exhibition, curated by Swiss urbanist
Gabriela Burkhalter, traces 150 years of
playground design, highlighting its ties to art,
activism, and architecture. Read on to learn
how the project comes to life at the Melbourne
Incinerator Gallery this winter.
The Playground
Project Melbourne:
The art of play
In this article, Byron Kerr, Managing Director
of Jellis Craig Kingston, shares his journey
from commercial property to leading two
high-performing residential real estate offices
while balancing family time and life lessons in
empathy and resilience.
My Neighbourhood
with Byron Kerr
WINTER 2025
Contents
Welcome to our Winter 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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Four levels of architectural excellence, this
showstopper property sets the scene for
luxurious living at its finest, complete with an
inside pool, home gym and beachside views.
Feature Property:
270 Beaconsfield
Parade, Middle Park
Explore a collection of multi-residential buildings
by architecture practice, Cera Stribley. Designed
intelligently for the future, celebrating the
unique cultural, historical, and environmental
context of each project.
Luxe Developments:
Cera Stribley
Thoughtfully designed to capture natural light,
an atrium garden and soaring 6-metre ceilings
creates a memorable first impression, while
insitu concrete formwork and reclaimed San
Selmo bricks imported from Spain add timeless
texture and elegance.
Feature Property:
2 Grange Avenue,
Plenty
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Jellis Craig and The Jellis Craig Foundation are proud to
be major partners of The Playground Project exhibition.
Curated by Swiss urban designer Gabriela Burkhalter, the
work traces 150 years of playground design, highlighting
its ties to art, activism, and architecture. In this article,
Gabriela Burkhalter shares the origins of her research,
while Jade Niklai, Head of Visual and Public Art, Moonee
Valley City Council, reflects on how the project comes to
life in Melbourne at the Incinerator Gallery.
Yvan Pestalozzi, Lozziwurm (1972 / 2025).
The Playground Project Melbourne. Photo Michael Pham.
Courtesy Incinerator Gallery MVCC.
Why do you feel it is important to reflect on the history and future
of children’s play?
The Playground Project (Architektur für Kinder) emerged from a
research project I started around 2006, inspired by the book American
Playgrounds. Revitalising Public Space by Susan G. Solomon. When I
discovered a number of these non-standardised playgrounds, I realised
they are not considered part of the urban heritage. But why? They
had an incredible artistic quality and served as a testament to their
time. People have fond memories of these playgrounds, yet they were
simply removed, with few exceptions. I therefore wanted to document
these playgrounds and honour their designers, who had invested a lot
of time, passion and money.
How have cultural and political contexts shaped the way
playgrounds are designed around the world from 19th century
playgrounds of the past to more standardised designs today.
After World War Two, the topic of the playground became increasingly
important when the need to build new housing and neighbourhoods
arose, as did the question of where children could play safely in the
context of the dominance of cars in cities.
Later, design responsibility was handed over to companies, so standard
solutions became the norm (although they always existed alongside
individual solutions). Individual designs became almost impossible to
achieve due to the high safety standards.
Playground design used to be a sign of civic engagement. For
instance, the schoolyard playgrounds in the US in the 1970s were
often organised by the Parents & Teachers Association and built
through a collaborative effort. The first adventure playground, opened
in Germany in 1967, was a response to a lack of play spaces for older
children in a large housing estate in West Berlin.
The first adventure playground in Melbourne, Australia, also emerged
from the initiative of a single woman, Joan Healey. Building an
individual playground always requires the engagement of local people
and associations.
At the beginning of the playground movement, community groups in
countries such as the US, England, Germany, and Australia responded
to the challenges of growing urban environments. Playgrounds were
introduced to offer children safe spaces for activity, learning, and
social connection. Over time, the importance of play in childhood
development became more widely recognised. It was increasingly
linked to creativity, nature, and the benefits of unstructured
exploration. To support these ideas, new playground concepts
emerged, often shaped by artists, architects, and educators.
About Architektur für Kinder
Gabriela Burkhalter, Guest Curator
M. Paul Friedberg, Riis Park Plaza, Jacob Riis Houses, New York City, 1965.
Photo anon. Modern Records Centre and the Lady Allen of Hurtwood papers.
University of Warwick, Coventry UK. Courtesy The Playground Project.
Yvan Pestalozzi, Lozziwurm (1972 / 2025). The Playground Project
Melbourne. Photo Michael Pham. Courtesy Incinerator Gallery MVCC.
Winter 2025
In Focus Magazine
05
The Playground Project is where design meets adventure and where
the digital pause button gets pressed. In a world where kids often
play on screens, this colourful, ever-changing space turns play into
something magical, and invites kids and kids at heart to climb, explore,
and connect through hands-on, interactive installations. It’s not just
about fun, although there’s plenty of that; it’s also a place for social
connection. It’s a takeover where creativity, teamwork, and shared
imagination come to life. Every corner is designed to spark curiosity,
inspire movement, and remind us that some of the best learning
happens when kids play together.
As a collective, The Playground Project Melbourne invites audiences to
see play not just as child’s fun, but as a powerful force for reimagining
all lives and our public spaces. This vibrant, hands-on exhibition
shines a light on the importance of children’s play, while encouraging
communities and designers alike to think differently about how we use
and design our suburbs.
With support from Moonee Valley City Council, the project champions
the idea that liveability and creativity go hand in hand. By bringing
playful, interactive art into everyday environments, it shows how art
can spark connection, boost well-being, and breathe new life into our
streets and parks. The Playground Project Melbourne is more than just
fun. It’s a bold step toward art-led urban renewal and stronger, more
joyful communities.
Local community groups are invited to gather at the Round Table
during gallery hours; a modular artwork by renowned designer Mary
Featherston, a pioneer in creating play and learn spaces for children
over many decades, and the accomplished local artist and educator,
Emily Floyd. Created as both a play element and a space for public
programs, it encourages connection and creative exchange.
What do you hope visitors take away from the experience?
What conversations do you hope this exhibition will spark among
families, designers, or city planners?
Transforming Moonee Valley’s Incinerator Gallery
into interactive play space
Jade Niklai, Head of Visual and Public Art, Moonee Valley City Council
Welcoming visitors to the Incinerator Gallery is The Ringtales Playground, designed by the Melbourne-based
architecture studio and exhibition designer, BoardGrove Architects. This custom-built, public place space
is greatly inspired by Gabriela’s research: the pedagogical ideals of ‘free play’, the significance of organic
shapes and materials, and the criticality of risk-based play in childhood. Courtesy the Designers.
Winter 2025
In Focus Magazine
06
THE PLAYGROUND PROJECT MELBOURNE
30 June 2025 - 12 October 2025
180 Holmes Road, Aberfeldie VIC 3040
Open Wednesday to Sunday 11am to 4pm
Kids under 12 go free.
Exhibition design by BoardGrove Architect
Commissioned by Moonee Valley City Council
Presented by Incinerator Gallery
For tickets and more information:
playgroundproject.com.au
The Brutalist Playground, conceived by Australian visual artist Simon Terrill
and the UK-based design studio, Assemble; it re-imagines mid-20th century
brutalist playgrounds in colourful recycled foam and invites young visitors to
an immersive installation that blends sculpture and architecture.
Above image: courtesy Artist.
Naarm-based, Trawlwoolway multidisciplinary artist, Edwina Green invites
children and carers to explore, imagine and play on Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung
Country. Shaped like an abstract oyster, the First Nations Playable Public Art
Commission speaks to themes of childhood, togetherness, and renewal; while
honouring the environmental and cultural significance of the river.
Photo Gianna Rizzo.
In the Incinerator Gallery’s historic space, Emily Floyd will also exhibit a
selection of unique silk prints (Ripple, 2014) on the theme of Australian
feminism and community and has produced a new work inspired by a
photograph in her mother’s archive, celebrating childhood and
recreation in Moonee Valley. Above image: courtesy Artist.
Winter 2025
In Focus Magazine
07
Australia presents a unique market for expansion, as a highly
industrialised country with substantial undeveloped land. Additionally,
our country benefits from a strong migration pipeline, providing
significant opportunities for growth and urban development.
Melbourne has an exciting future. The city’s multicultural population
is a huge asset, and its diverse cultural landscape offers a rich source
of inspiration for architects. This cultural diversity leads to more
innovative designs as we bring their histories, stories, and backgrounds
into their spaces. Additionally, Melbourne’s temperate and variable
climate allows different approaches to design. The possibilities here
are vast, and I believe the next decade will see Melbourne continuing
to lead in the design world.
Our city’s evolution is shaping not just how we design, but how people
want to live. Over the past few years, we’ve seen a real shift in what
people value in their homes. Lifestyle now leads the conversation,
especially in the high-end residential market.
People are no longer just looking for bigger homes; they want more
flexible, adaptable spaces. Instead of open-plan areas, there’s a return
to compartmentalised spaces that allow for privacy and function in a
way that fits the demands of modern living.
DESIGN by
DIALOGUE
As co-founder of Cera Stribley,
Domenic Cerantonio believes great
architecture starts with conversation.
Guided by the studio’s Design by Dialogue
philosophy, he shares how thoughtful
collaboration, bold ideas and a deep
connection to place are shaping the future
of Australian residential design.
Domenic Cerantonio on architecture that resonates
Winter 2025
In Focus Magazine
08
Wellness is also playing a big role, features like saunas, plunge pools,
and advanced home automation are becoming standard. But it’s not
just about adding more space or more features; it’s about creating
homes that enhance people’s quality of life.
One of the projects we’re most proud of is Boxshall. A collaboration
with an international design firm Studio Piet Boon. Their take on
apartment living was quite different from ours, and that tension
created something special. Instead of defaulting to a typical open-plan
layout, we started pulling things apart. We moved the kitchen into
its own space, separated key zones, and reconfigured the way each
apartment flowed. As a result, every layout feels considered. There’s a
uniqueness and intimacy to how the homes function.
Boxshall proved to us that when you’re brave with your ideas and you
surround yourself with the right collaborators, people respond to that
authenticity. It raises the bar not just for us, but for the neighbourhood
it sits within.
For us, design has always been about more than just form or finish,
it’s about the conversations that shape it. Design by Dialogue reflects
the way we work, listening closely, challenging ideas when needed,
and always staying open to where the process might lead. We’re not
interested in architecture that plays it safe. The work we’re most proud
of comes from asking better questions, pushing past convention, and
designing in a way that feels deeply connected to place, to people,
and to the way we live now.
Cera Stribley is an architecture and interior design studio,
passionate about creating enduring spaces and beyond.
C-S.COM.AU
When designing for resale, one of the most important considerations
is including a primary suite on the ground floor. It’s a key feature for
buyers looking for long-term liveability, especially for older residents
or multi-generational households. Often, it’s the homes with well-
proportioned, thoughtfully planned spaces that resonate most. Good
design balances function and beauty without compromising flow or
comfort.
Ultimately, great design isn’t just about ticking boxes, it’s about taking
considered risks that add real value. I believe that as an industry, we
sometimes play it too safe with our designs. At Cera Stribley, we’ve
had the most success when we’ve pushed boundaries, tried new
things, and explored ideas in ways we hadn’t seen before. The result is
often something unique, it resonates with people because it’s different
and exciting.
Winter 2025
In Focus Magazine
09
What were some of the key milestones or turning points along
that journey?
Enrolling in a Certificate IV in Property Services was a key turning
point that opened my eyes to the agent’s world, where connection,
negotiation and emotional intelligence matter as much as technical
expertise. Auctioneering, the final subject, was transformative. I still
remember standing at the front for the first time, trying to navigate
the energy of the room. It felt natural, like all the pieces of my journey
had finally clicked into place.
Is there a standout memory you have from an auction or property
story that captures the spirit of the neighbourhood?
One that stands out involved an elderly woman selling the family
home after losing her husband. For her, this wasn’t just a sale it was
the closing of a chapter filled with decades of memories. We took
the time to guide her with empathy, offering clarity and reassurance
when she needed it most. When the property sold, there were lots of
tears, a mix of grief and gratitude.
What initially drew you to the real estate industry?
My path into real estate began with a gentle nudge from my father.
At 21, fresh from a commerce degree and unsure of my next step,
he arranged a meeting with the Dean of RMIT’s Property program.
That conversation sparked my interest in the strategy and scale of the
industry. I spent my twenties at two major Melbourne development
firms, watching ideas become buildings, then added a postgraduate
diploma in property valuations and a Master’s in Property Business.
Those years quietly built the foundation for the career and business I
lead today.
In this article, Byron Kerr, Managing Director of Jellis
Craig Kingston, shares his journey from commercial
property to leading two high-performing residential
real estate offices. At home, he and his wife Josie
raise daughters Lyla and Ella, along with their golden
retriever Polly, balancing busy careers with family
breakfasts, and life lessons in empathy and resilience.
City of Kingston
Winter 2025
In Focus Magazine
10
Contact Byron to discuss your investment goals in Kingston.
Do you have any favourite local spots in Mentone, Chelsea or the
surrounding suburbs; cafes, parks, or hidden gems?
Truly Scrumptious in Mentone is a morning staple for us, their coffee
is hard to beat and for lunch you’ll usually find us at The Corner Store
in Mentone or Edithvale General Store. Huff Bagelry is always buzzing,
and for dinner, Just Italy serves up handmade pasta and pizza
that’s hard to pass up, along with the consistently reliable Castellos
Longbeach Hotel in Chelsea.
A special mention to Mordialloc, as the area has really stepped up
lately too, with exciting new additions like Chiki Chan for top-shelf
Asian fusion and Rococo for incredible Italian, both adding so much
to the growing culinary scene in Kingston. If you’re after a scenic
walk or a relaxing spot post-meal, Peter Scullin Reserve offers lovely
bay views, and the Long Beach Trail is perfect for a stretch along
the coast. It’s an exciting time to be a local foodie in this part of
Melbourne.
In that moment, and many since, I’ve come to appreciate that the
true impact of our work isn’t just in the result, but in how we show
up for people when they’re at their most vulnerable. It’s the trust and
understanding—not just the mechanics—that leave a lasting legacy.
Recently celebrating your 10-year wedding anniversary with
Josie, how has life in this area shaped your family’s journey?
We constantly remind ourselves how incredibly fortunate we are to
live so close to the ocean. Josie always says there’s something calming
about the sea air, and she’s right. There’s a peace that comes with
being near the water that’s hard to describe but easy to feel.
Josie and the kids are often out running the local tracks or exploring
one of the many nearby parks. I do my best to keep up with them. It’s
become one of our favourite ways to stay connected and spend time
together.
We love the incredible range of food options right at our doorstep.
From casual bites to more refined dining, we enjoy discovering
something new each week. When it comes to raising our daughters,
having access to excellent schooling options has given us real peace
of mind.
And after ten years, I can honestly say we wouldn’t want to be
anywhere else.
Where would we find you on a Sunday morning if you weren’t
working?
Sundays are our dedicated family time. The kids lead the morning,
usually with colouring, Barbies or Bluey. It’s relaxed and full of laughs.
In the afternoon, we’ll head out to see friends, visit a park, or grab a
bite nearby. It’s our day to slow down and really be present with each
other.
What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you?
I met my wife while trying to sell her house. Easily the greatest listing
I’ve ever had (as she reminds me). It was a real sliding doors moment.
What started as a professional connection quickly turned into
something much more, and the rest is history. Ten years of marriage
later, we still joke together that I didn’t just help her move houses, I
moved in myself.
What’s a valuable lesson you hope to instil in your daughters as
they grow up?
One thing I really hope to instil in my daughters is the idea that if you
do what you love, the rest will take care of itself. It’s something I’ve
learned through my own journey, following what drives you, what
brings you joy, tends to open the right doors in life, both personally
and professionally.
They’re already kind, thoughtful and self aware (thanks largely to their
mum) and watching them grow into confident, compassionate young
girls has been a true privilege. With their drive and empathy, they’ll
thrive no matter what path they choose.
Byron Kerr
Managing Director
Jellis Craig Kingston
M 0421 192 271
It felt natural, like all the
pieces of my journey had
finally clicked into place.
Winter 2025
In Focus Magazine
11
Expressions of Interest
Closing Monday 23rd June at 2:00pm
Price
Contact Agents
Jellis Craig Port Phillip
Simon Gowling 0422 234 644
Max Mercuri 0431 043 723
Sophie Gorring 0400 066 180
4 beds, 4 baths, 4 cars
270 Beaconsfield Parade, Middle Park
Four Levels of Architectural Excellence
Winter 2025
In Focus Magazine
12
Auction
Saturday 28th June at 1:00pm
Price
$3,300,000 - $3,600,000
Jellis Craig Northcote
Sam Rigopoulos 0425 834 583
Paula Beavis 0407 267 366
5 beds, 3 baths, 2 cars, 432sqm approx
Infinite luxury with quality innovation
34 Andrew Street, Northcote
Winter 2025
In Focus Magazine
13
Expressions of Interest
Closing Tuesday 17th June at 2:00pm
Price
$1,500,000 - $1,550,000
Jellis Craig Fitzroy
Marcus Kassab 0412 987 006
Simon Mason 0439 617 844
Carmel Morganti 0438 665 145
4 beds, 1 baths, 2 cars
Victorian grandeur in lifestyle surrounds
84 Pin Oak Crescent, Flemington
Winter 2025
In Focus Magazine
14
Auction
Saturday 5th July at 12:00pm
Price
Contact Agent
Jellis Craig Northcote
Sam Rigopoulos 0425 834 583
4 beds, 3 baths, 1 cars, 415sqm approx
Architectural design meets family comfort in
within Northcote’s premier pockets
Winter 2025
In Focus Magazine
15
Expressions of Interest
Closing Friday 27th June at 12:00pm
Price
$2,450,000 - $2,550,000
Jellis Craig Fitzroy
Charles Atkins 0405 287 112
David Ashby 0404 342 410
3 beds, 2 baths, 2 cars
Sublime McLaren & Co luxury with a vast
city-view terrace
301/341 George Street, Fitzroy
Winter 2025
In Focus Magazine
16
Private Sale
Price
$2,400,000 - $2,600,000
Jellis Craig Ballarat
Phil Hayward 0419 107 112
Toby Tanis 0413 842 666
5 beds, 3 baths, 4 cars, 12.4acre approx
A private family retreat with unparalleled
lifestyle appeal
16 Whites Road, Buninyong
Winter 2025
In Focus Magazine
17
Expressions of Interest
Closing Wednesday 18th June at
3:00pm
Price
$1,950,000 - $2,090,000
Jellis Craig Hawthorn
James Chronis 0431 146 648
Adele Mirabella 0422 570 429
4 beds, 3 baths, 2 cars, 337sqm approx
Architectural lifestyle appeal
77 Latrobe Street, Bulleen
Winter 2025
In Focus Magazine
18
Expression of Interest
Closing Tuesday 17th June at 12:00pm
Price
Expressions of Interest
Jellis Craig Armadale
Carla Fetter 0423 738 644
David Sciola 0408 598 242
Aylin Demir 0402 586 280
4 beds, 3 baths, 2 cars, 750sqm approx
An unmatched family environment
50 Glendearg Grove, Malvern
Winter 2025
In Focus Magazine
19
Auction
Saturday 14th June at 1:00pm
Price
Contact Agent
Jellis Craig Hawthorn
Peter Vigano 0407 301 224
Geordie Dixon-Sima 0418 588 399
Jessica Zhang 0452 468 117
4 beds, 3 baths, 3 cars, 1795sqm approx
Luxury family lifestyle, prestigious locale
12 Chaucer Crescent, Canterbury
Winter 2025
In Focus Magazine
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