The Grounds of Kew marked Beulah’s return to the leafy eastern suburbs of Melbourne, in particular, one of its most highly sought-after locations only six kilometres from the city. Given the traditional family-oriented nature of Kew – renowned for its exceptional schools, beautiful gardens and large homes – Beulah’s brief to the architectural team from Fender Katsalidis was to envision residences which would sit naturally within this setting.
The close working relationship between Beulah and Fender Katsalidis once again proved fruitful, as the two visionaries share a desire to create residences of real and lasting value. This process began with the issue of space, reducing the allowed 28 residences on the site’s permit to 21, which allowed for larger floorplans including some 4-bedroom options.
The size of gardens could therefore also be increased, allowing landscape designer Paul Bangay to create green spaces which would reflect the leafy character of the area. As Kew is also home to prestigious golf courses, the design also included an upgrade option of a putting green where residents could master their game at home.
“The outdoor areas are much larger than the norm, allowing for mature plantings to establish a sense of age. Plant-life becomes part of the building itself, blurring the lines between architecture and nature.”
– Paul Bangay, Landscape Architect
Within the residences themselves, a finely considered approach to the layouts and inclusions which would appeal to both families and local downsizer couples. Wine storage, butler’s pantries, breakfast benches at table height, individual laundry rooms and built-in balcony barbecues were just some of the features which struck a chord with prospective residents.
The Grounds of Kew has transformed the concept of contemporary suburban apartment living by capturing the character of its stately neighbourhood context, while still delivering homes of modern and sophisticated style. This approach clearly resonated with the local market, with all but one of purchasers living within three kilometres. Like all Beulah developments, these residences deliver peace of mind that they will provide lasting quality for generations.
