Wimba Ave puts gardens, garages and generous proportions at the centre of Kew downsizing

For many homeowners in Kew, the decision to downsize isn't necessarily about wanting less space. It's about wanting less maintenance, without giving up the things they've grown accustomed to in a family home.

A private garden, a garage with room for multiple cars, generous living spaces and enough storage for everything accumulated over the years are often the things buyers are least willing to compromise on.

It's this type of buyer that developer Ricdanic is targeting at Wimba Ave, a collection of just 13 residences across two boutique buildings at 9–11 Wimba Avenue in Kew.

Designed by architect Chris Idle, the development brings together the proportions of a traditional family home with the convenience of apartment living. Private gardens average 125 sqm, living rooms extend beyond five metres in width, and every residence comes with its own secure, private garage with room for two to three cars.

The project is split across two buildings, with six residences at No. 9 and seven at No. 11, on a quiet, tree-lined street just off Cotham Road.

The relatively small number of homes across each building is an important part of the offering, particularly for buyers accustomed to the privacy and independence of a standalone house.

Inside, the emphasis is on space and natural light. Ceiling heights range from three to five metres, while large, double-glazed windows and expansive sliding doors connect the main living areas with the outdoors.

Rather than treating outdoor space as an extension of the living room, Wimba Ave has made it a central part of the residential offering.

Landscape architect John Patrick, who brings close to 50 years of experience in Australian landscape design, has designed the gardens with 23 plant species across the site, including nine native varieties.

For buyers moving from established homes with substantial backyards, the generous garden spaces offer the opportunity to retain an outdoor lifestyle, whether that's entertaining family and friends, enjoying a morning coffee or simply having somewhere private to sit outside.

The same consideration has been given to an aspect of apartment living that can often prove challenging for buyers moving from larger homes: parking and storage.

Every residence comes with its own private lock-up garage in the basement, accommodating two to three cars, alongside a dedicated storage cage.

Vehicle access is controlled through number plate recognition technology, with a double set of security gates protecting the driveway. Cameras cover entry and exit points throughout the development, with monitoring operating 24 hours a day.

Keyless entry throughout the buildings adds another layer of convenience, while both buildings are fully electric and have been designed to accommodate electric vehicle charging.

Together, these features are intended to make the transition from a traditional family home more straightforward, retaining the practical elements of everyday living while offering the security and convenience of a boutique apartment building.

The location is another important part of the appeal.

For established Kew residents, moving to Wimba Ave doesn't necessarily mean changing the routines or local connections they've built over many years.

Adeney's Milk Bar and the Kew Tennis and Cricket Club are both around a five-minute walk from the development, while Leo's Fine Food is approximately five minutes away by car.

Tram routes 48 and 109 are also nearby, connecting residents with the surrounding suburbs and Melbourne's CBD.

With larger residential landholdings becoming increasingly scarce across Kew's established streets, developments offering substantial private outdoor spaces and house-like proportions present an alternative for buyers who want to remain in the area without taking on the upkeep of another standalone home.

Construction is underway, with Sinjen appointed to deliver the development, which is backed by NAB funding. The builder is providing a 10-year structural guarantee, with completion anticipated in 2027.

Eligible buyers may also benefit from the Victorian Government's temporary off-the-plan stamp duty concession, which applies to qualifying contracts signed on or before 20 April 2027, regardless of purchase price.

For those considering the move from a long-held family home, Wimba Ave's proposition is relatively simple: the opportunity to stay in a familiar neighbourhood, retain the space and practical comforts they've become accustomed to, and leave behind some of the responsibilities that come with maintaining a larger property.