How Malvern and Malvern East has preserved its historical character
The leafy suburb of Malvern was initially part of the Parish of Prahran until 1856 before it was established as its own suburb.
Named after Malvern Hill in England, Malvern's development was primarily driven by the arrival of the railway in the late 1850s. This transportation link connected Malvern to Melbourne, leading to increased settlement and growth.
One of the significant developments in Malvern's history was the land boom of the 1880s. During this period, grand Victorian and Edwardian-style homes were built, many of which still stand today, showcasing the suburb's architectural heritage. Malvern's tree-lined streets and spacious properties attracted affluent residents.
The neighbouring Malvern East began to evolve as a separate entity in the early 20th century, however it too experienced a housing boom during the interwar period. That saw Californian bungalows and Art Deco homes developed.
The establishment of prestigious schools and institutions in the vicinity such as Caulfield Grammar School and Monash University continued to drive the family demographic. The most recent ABS Census data shows around 60 per cent of residents in Malvern and Malvern East have children.
Both Malvern and Malvern East have managed to preserve their historical character. There's not been an overwhelming amount of new developments in either suburb of the past decade or so.
There are currently three high quality developments currently on the market in Malvern and Malvern East, and we've put together a bio on each.
Maléa
Developer: Abadeen Victoria
Address: 94 Burke Road, Malvern East VIC 3145
Price: From $2.6 million
Luxury Sydney developer Abadeen has branched out into the high-end Melbourne apartment market, revealing their parkside apartment development Maléa, which will replace one of the last remaining homes to be redeveloped overlooking Central Park in Malvern East
Maléa, just seven apartments facing the 19-acre Central Park, is the result of a collaboration with Ewert Leaf as the architectural team behind its stoic, enduring form, featuring textural brickwork, layered concrete planes, and sleek metalwork, and John Patrick and Associates who took control of the extensive landscaping.
These luxury apartments, available in two and three-bedroom configurations, feature a beautiful Calacatta Viola in the kitchen, dining area and bathroom, teamed with richer-toned porcelain slabs.
Maléa has been thoughtfully designed with sustainability in mind, aiming to achieve a minimum 6.5-star green energy rating. This commitment to environmental responsibility is evident through features like double glazing, concrete walls and floors, limited gas usage for hot water services, rainwater harvesting, solar panels, and provisions for future electric vehicle battery storage in the basement.
Abadeen Victoria is being led by former CBRE Residential Projects Director Andrew Leoncelli, who says Malea is the culmination of many years of experience working in this community. He says to have secured a site directly opposite Central Park, one of the very final sites in Malvern East, is a phenomenal opportunity.
"It's an amazing community hub at your doorstep and where we are opposite Central Park Road, which is one of the best in all of the Gascoigne Estate, is one of the last opportunities to secure a park fronted luxury residence, and we are very excited to be bringing this to the market."
Project: Plant Street by Milieu
Developer: Milieu
Address: 1 Plant Street, Malvern
Price: From $1.25 million
The forward-thinking, design-led developer Milieu took to Malvern for their debut south-East Melbourne project, which they are developing alongside partners Penfold and MaxCap.
Milieu has brought together a talented team, including architecture firm RITZ&GHOUGASSIAN, interior design practice Georgina Jeffries, and renowned landscape architects Acre, to create a harmonious living environment.
Comprising just 21 generously-sized apartments, the design of Plant Street revolves around the concept of connecting internal and external spaces, resulting in striking, textural architecture paired with warm, inviting interiors and integrated landscaping.
The use of natural materials such as honey timber joinery, brown ash brick, terrazzo, and natural stone creates an atmosphere of warmth and welcome throughout the apartments. Custom-made lighting by Volker Haug Studio complements the material palette, adding a touch of sophistication.
The landscaping at Plant Street is dynamic, with deciduous plants and trees that evolve with the seasons. Ground floor apartments feature spacious landscaped gardens, while upper-level units boast planters and terraces adorned with lush creepers.
Malvern Collective
Developer: Kokoda Property
Address: 2 Station Place, Malvern
Price: From $555,000
Malvern Collective is the under construction masterplanned development by national developer Kokoda Property. The innovative project introduces the concept of a "0-minute neighbourhood," ensuring that residents have every essential amenity right at their doorstep.
Comprising over 200 one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, including a luxurious grand penthouse and sub-penthouses, Malvern Collective is perched above what will be a thriving hospitality precinct. This precinct, designed to enhance community life, includes a Woolworths Metro, six distinctive hospitality venues, and a dedicated concierge service that feels like a high-end hotel experience.
One of the project's unique features is its integration with the surrounding community. It will connect with Glenferrie Road via new laneways, providing direct access to Malvern train station, making commuting a breeze.
Designed by Jackson Clements Burrows, these apartments offer breathtaking views of Port Phillip Bay, the Dandenong Ranges, and Melbourne's CBD. With over 70 percent of units sold to owner-occupiers, it's clear that people are not only drawn to the stunning design but also the superior concierge service, accessible through a dedicated residents' app. From ordering morning coffee to making dinner reservations anywhere in Melbourne, the concierge service goes above and beyond to cater to residents' needs.
Malvern Collective residents will also enjoy exclusive amenities within the project, including a co-working space, a cinema, a swimming pool, a wellness center with hot and cold plunge pools, and a private dining area – all bookable through the residents' app. The concierge will also collaborate with local businesses to offer services such as housekeeping, laundry, and even dog washing.