Set within the established leafy character of Ivanhoe East, The Grounds is a residential community that balances contemporary living with a strong landscape identity. Positioned between the Yarra River corridor, Ivanhoe Golf Course and the surrounding network of parklands and open space, the site draws on the area’s rich ecological and recreational character to create a landscape deeply connected to place.

Designed in collaboration with Architectus, the project comprises three apartment buildings and a collection of townhouses arranged within a generous garden setting and connected by a central green spine. The landscape framework was conceived to preserve and enhance the site’s significant existing tree canopy while creating communal spaces that encourage movement, interaction and wellbeing.  

The landscape response is informed by the site’s ecological vegetation class within the Plains Grassy Woodland and River Red Gum terrace landscape of the Yarra Valley. Memla’s planting palette reinforces this identity through the extensive use of indigenous and climate-responsive species, including River Red Gum, Red Box and Spotted Gum, layered with native grasses, shrubs and groundcovers that support biodiversity and seasonal variation.  

Over 8,400 square metres of landscaped area and 122 proposed trees establish a verdant neighbourhood character that exceeds planning requirements while contributing to a resilient and enduring urban landscape.