Milieu champions sustainability at Elsternwick Gardens

As Melbourne eyes a net-zero future by 2035, developer Milieu is getting well ahead of the curve. Its new Malvern and Brunswick developments are fossil fuel–free, achieving an average 7-star and 7.5-star NatHERS rating through inclusions like solar photovoltaic systems, high levels of insulation, and passive design that encourages cross-flow ventilation.

Milieu’s largest project to date puts sustainability at the forefront and provides an opportunity to trial new initiatives—particularly in landscaping—thanks to the project’s scale and its unrepeatable, near-1.2-hectare block neighbouring the 140-year-old, heritage-listed Rippon Lea Estate.

Milieu’s nature-first masterplan, Elsternwick Gardens, will transform the former ABC Studios on Gordon Street into a new neighbourhood of low-rise buildings interspersed with walking trails, extensive landscaping, and pocket gardens by landscape architect Oculus. Over 40 per cent of the site will be dedicated to green space, with mature tree retention and a resident-access-only gate connecting directly to the Rippon Lea Estate’s gardens.

Like their Malvern and Brunswick projects, Elsternwick Gardens will be entirely fossil fuel–free, with no connection to the natural gas network. All appliances and services will be electric, enabling residents to operate on 100 per cent renewable energy. Solar photovoltaic systems are powering common building services and reducing both environmental impact and energy bills.

Water efficiency is another key feature. Rainwater harvesting tanks will irrigate the landscape, reducing reliance on freshwater and easing pressure on Melbourne’s stormwater system. High WELS-rated tapware and fixtures will further minimise water waste.

A multi-waste stream system will promote recycling and efficient waste separation for recyclables, general waste, and green waste. Car parking areas will include infrastructure for electric vehicle (EV) chargers, supporting the transition to sustainable transport.

Milieu has so far launched two of the residential buildings: Ripponlea Terrace and Gordon Place, with design by Woods Bagot and K.P.D.O. Ripponlea Terrace features a facade covered in cascading greenery that connects seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. Interiors are defined by natural stone, timber finishes, and soft colour accents. Gordon Place is one of the neighbourhood’s most sustainable buildings, incorporating high-performance insulation, double-glazed windows, and energy-efficient heating and cooling systems.

Beyond environmental performance, Elsternwick Gardens is also designed to support wellbeing and community. A wellness hub—including yoga and Pilates studios, saunas, and mineral pools—sits alongside pet care amenities, shared lounges, and workshop areas. Technological features such as smart locks, secure parcel lockers, and number plate recognition for car park access round out Milieu’s vision for modern, connected living.

Milieu Founder and Managing Director Michael McCormack says Elsternwick Gardens is a once-in-a-generation opportunity.

“The layers of thought and design within this project, alongside the historical and cultural importance of the site, renders this our most significant undertaking to date," McCormack says.

“This site represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to build something truly special. Our first step was to engage the local community, to get a sense of what they expected. Through that process, we arrived at a design that centres on a fully realised natural landscape – a series of private, interconnected gardens that encircle the homes and extend seamlessly from Rippon Lea Estate.”

Milieu recently appointed Brady Constructions to handle the build. The development will be delivered in stages, with the first residents expected to move in by early 2027.