Middleton sets a new benchmark for high-end residential living in Malvern. This exceptional development by South Haven Group, with an immaculate, well-considered design by Rob Mills Architecture & Interiors features 16 unique dwellings conveying a classic, contemporary feel.

More home than apartment, the two- and three-bedroom residences were originally designed for downsizers, but had wider appeal to couples and families with teenagers or young adults. What makes this development so appealing is that every dwelling is completely different.

“They were all designed like a unique home for someone, just what you’d expect in a Toorak mansion,” says Ian Pratt, Chief Executive, South Haven Group.

Each dwelling is light-filled, with ample glazing capturing views across the city, Kew and Mount Dandenong. The interior’s spacious design, subtle detailing and quality craftsmanship are indicative of a Rob Mills design. Features in each apartment include two or three bedrooms, each with ensuite – the master with walk-in robe – as well as butler’s pantries, marble island benches, separate lounge and dining areas, and double or triple basement garages.

The building’s classic, symmetrical façade with its clean lines and sophisticated, yet minimal palette of brick, render and Bronze Vitracore panelling articulates contemporary elegance and creates a strong connection to the streetscape.

Brick was always going to be in the mix to reference the surrounding residential brick buildings, and for its longevity, quality and aesthetic benefits. “We wanted to be able to look at Middleton in years to come and be proud that the building has stood the test of time,” says Emma Pratt, Design Director, South Haven Group.

Rob Mills agreed that bricks were “the perfect choice for this residential land, as well as being environmentally sound and durable”. And when it came to sourcing the best brick for this build, Rob knew exactly where to find it.

“Peter Robertson and I have collaborated for years, and he and Robertson’s Building Products are trusted suppliers of quality products. So we always have absolute certainty when hand-selecting the products that Peter and Robertson’s Building Products supply.”

When Emma visited Robertson’s showroom in Cremorne, “one brick stood out from the rest and ticked all the boxes in terms of the colour palette and look we envisaged. That was the Petersen K91 brick. We liked this brick because of the variation in colour and tone given that they’re all handmade.”

We went through a long process of looking at alternative finishes, but kept coming back to the Petersen Kolumba™. We did have some pushback on our selection at times, but we were firm in our decision and are so thrilled with the outcome. During the build, the number of comments we had about the Petersen bricks was extraordinary. At site visits, Monaco Hickey would remark on the number of people who’d stop and ask about them.”

Landscape architecture by Jack Merlo softens the façade creating a welcoming pop of greenery that blends seamlessly within Malvern’s tree-lined streets. Inside, meticulous landscaping in each courtyard creates beautifully secluded outdoor spaces.

Middleton is, without doubt, a cut above the average residential development. This sophisticated collection of dwellings celebrates light and space, and elevates contemporary living to an exceptionally high standard.

Project details

Project: Middleton Residences

Location: Malvern, Victoria

Developer: South Haven Group

Architect: Rob Mills Architecture & Interiors

Builder: Monaco Hickey

Landscape: Jack Merlo

Product: Petersen Kolumba™ K91 Bricks, 528 x 108 x 37mm

Photography: Shannon McGrath

Architecture & Design Team

Robertson's Building Products

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