Planning approval has been granted for VMCH's premium retirement living precinct in Kew

Planning approval has been granted for VMCH's premium retirement living precinct in Kew, marking a significant step forward in the delivery of high-quality housing for older Australians. The approved development, located within the Studley Park Heritage Overlay, will feature around 108 independent living apartments across four thoughtfully designed, low-rise buildings.

The design celebrates both the natural beauty and heritage significance of the site. A defining feature of the project is the restoration and adaptive reuse of three heritage buildings, which will be sensitively repurposed and integrated into the new precinct. The overall layout prioritises open space, with generous landscaping, communal gardens, and wellness-focused amenities designed to promote social connection and support ageing in place.

We are proud to be providing Project Management services to VMCH on this milestone development. Our role includes coordinating the consultant team and guiding the project through key stages, including this major planning approval. We're pleased to support a vision that offers residents premium living in a location with deep historical and environmental value.

The project team includes:

Developer/Operator: VMCH

Human Habitats: Town Planning

Woods Bagot: Lead Architect

Conservation Studio: Heritage Architect

Oculus: Landscape Design

ADP: Services Engineering

Webber Design: Structural and Civil Engineering

Together, the team has developed a scheme that responds to the site's heritage constraints and landscape character, while delivering high-quality, independent living dwellings. The buildings have been designed with landscaping front of mind, including a carefully considered tree canopy and surrounding parkland, aligning with local planning policy and VMCH's goal of creating a serene, connected community.

This approval paves the way for the delivery of a unique and meaningful addition to Kew, one that honours the past while meeting the needs of future residents through thoughtful, age-friendly design.

Image Credit: Woods Bagot