Local developer Kincaid has made `local’ the cornerstone of its new Ivanhoe apartment project, beginning with the name Iva and culminating in a development which represents everything that’s special about an inner suburb which for a long time has been regarded as one of Melbourne’s most desirable places to call home.
According to Kincaid founder Kris Burt, the 15-17 Livingstone Street project, is “by locals, for locals” right down to the local architecture and landscaping featuring both native and exotic species that have thrived in the locality.
“Unlike many other developers in the local market, we’re actually from Ivanhoe, so we understand why people choose to make it home.
“Our philosophy is that these residences should reflect what it means to be a true Ivanhoe local, someone who has been here all their life or is now returning to where they grew up or went to school. That sentiment, we believe, will also appeal to those new to Ivanhoe.
“In order to achieve that we have drawn on the best elements of Ivanhoe and rolled them into a very special residential package, Mr Burt said.”
“Striking that fine balance between generous residences and appropriate scale is never easy, but with Iva it was crucial in respecting the streetscape. By receding the upper levels and using contrasting materials, the mass of the building is softened. The black-metal window hoods anchor the lower levels, giving them a scale and appearance more like that of a house than an apartment building.
“A six metre setback from Livingstone Street also gives back to the neighbourhood, while setbacks on every side have been widened to give more space for terraces and canopy-tree planting. This is a development that breathes.”
Iva is a joint venture between Kincaid and Monark Property Partners. Monark Executive Director, Michael Kark, said its keen interest in the undersupply of the area has been prompted through the company’s work on similar projects in neighbouring suburbs.
“The Ivanhoe downsizers market is an untapped demographic for many developers,” said Michael.
“With strong infrastructure in the area including ample transport links, major hospitals, schools and shopping centres, the suburb is a downsizing dream for the over 60s market.”
Iva, just minutes walk from the Upper Heidelberg Road retail precinct with its cafes, restaurants, fashion houses and services, will offer 35, one, two and three bedroom apartments over a modest five level build with courtyards, balconies, basement parking and bicycle storage.
Purchasers will have access to a level of amenity that is only available in the best suburbs – exclusive schools, a fashionable retail precinct, a prized village atmosphere, golf courses, excellent public transport, and close proximity to the CBD.
According to marketing agent, Savills Australia Director John Kravaritis, the key to the success of Iva lies with the developer’s keen understanding of its target market.
“The fingerprints of Kincaid’s local staff are all over this development in their desire to create a product that reflects a unique understanding of the local market, the local culture and the needs of its people, along with the desire to remain within close proximity of their established homes.
“It is this type of attention to detail that is really noticeable, and, in a lot of cases, is the decisive factor in tipping a potential buyer over the line.”
Apartments will start at $425,000 for one bedroom, at $785,000 for two bedrooms and at $889,000 for three bedrooms and range in size from 52 to 131 square metres, with courtyards and balconies from 9 to 96 square metres.
Construction is expected to be completed at the end of 2018. An on-site display suite is open for inspection from 2pm – 4pm, Saturday and Sunday from May 27.