A new chapter for Ballarat Central

Lyons Place has reached Practical Completion, closing out a project that has reshaped both a site and a moment in Ballarat’s evolution. Residents have now moved in. The building is no longer an idea; it is part of daily life in the city.

Delivered with Hygge Property, the seven-level development introduces 51 apartments, 7 penthouses and 2 townhomes into Ballarat Central — a scale of mixed-density living not previously realised in the region. As the tallest residential building in Ballarat, Lyons Place demonstrates how thoughtful density can enter a regional centre without erasing the character that defines it.

Designed by Chamberlain Architects, the building works between Ballarat’s historic grain and its next phase. Proportion, restraint and material intelligence shape the form; the Krause brick podium nods to the city’s masonry heritage while supporting the performance demands of a contemporary mid-rise structure. At the centre of the plan, a courtyard by Phillip Withers acts as the project’s internal civic space — a quiet room of landscape held within the block, anchoring the building socially as well as spatially.

For Figurehead, Lyons Place represents the capacity to deliver complex, mixed-typology construction at true city scale within a regional context. Heritage retention, mid-rise sequencing, façade integration and constrained urban logistics required metropolitan-grade systems applied in Ballarat’s local conditions. It reflects how we see construction engaging with the future of regional cities — not lagging behind their growth, but building with it.

To our site team, subcontractors and project partners, thank you.
Thousands of decisions brought this building from ground to skyline.

And we’re already underway on what comes next for Ballarat.

At Central Park II, the structure is now giving way to rooms, edges, and outlook. The building is shifting from frame to inhabitation.

On the ground floor, apartment walls are fully sheeted. Ceiling grids are in place. Window and door installation is underway. It is the point in the programme where scale becomes legible and the promise of interior space starts to hold.

Above, Level 1 is closing out consultant inspections in preparation for sheeting. Level 2 continues through in-wall services rough-in, with plumbing, electrical and mechanical coordination advancing in parallel. On Level 3, the external envelope is being shaped through planter box construction and waterproofing, while internally, fire-walls are being formed and sheeted. The building is now operating across multiple layers at once, structure, services and separation moving together.

Along the facade line, Krause bricks have arrived on site and preparation for rendering is underway. The penthouse cladding package is nearing final resolution, with detailed coordination across architectural metalwork and integrated services. These are the stages where the exterior expression begins to lock in, not as concept, but as construction reality.

Delivered with Roulston and Moda, with PaxPM managing client-side delivery, Central Park II has been conceived around its park setting rather than imposed upon it. The 24-residence plan is arranged to work with the tree canopy of Central Park, placing outlook, privacy and natural light at the centre of each apartment. Architecture by Ewert Leaf is complemented by interiors from Simone MacGinley and landscape by Jack Merlo, forming a restrained but deliberate relationship between building, interior and ground.

As enclosure approaches, the project is entering its most defining phase. Structure, services and facade are now converging into what will soon read as a finished piece of the city rather than a site in progress.

  

Six years. One outcome. The Trentham has reached Practical Completion.

In Sandringham, we’ve completed our most complex build to date. The Trentham brought together intricate heritage restoration, coastal conditions and a staged delivery that demanded accuracy across every trade and decision. It required foresight, discipline and the collective patience to bring all elements into alignment.

We built it in partnership with Buxton Group and OneToAnother Retirement Living for a generation that deserves quality, ease and longevity.

Cera Stribley’s architecture sets a new benchmark for retirement living. It is elevated in detail, civic in tone, calm in form and generous in space. New residences sit quietly behind the restored Kelynack House, the heritage heart of the site, forming a place that functions as both home and community.

PAX Project Management guided the process with steadiness and care through years of coordination and detail. Florencig Smith Building Surveyors maintained integrity from first permit to final certificate, ensuring the building performs as intended.

For us, The Trentham embodies the full measure of what we do. Construction that thinks as carefully as it builds.

To our site team and everyone who contributed, thank you. Your precision and patience are built into every junction, every finish, every line of sight.

      

A coastal neighbourhood by Samuel Property and Cera Stribley, built by Figurehead and defined by clarity, connection and enduring design.

Earlier this month we gathered at 116 Rokeby for a Sign & Sip, our way of marking the moment a project becomes real. The event celebrated our appointment as builder for Hali Dromana and the formal contract signing with Samuel Property, joined by the architect, consultants and wider project team.

Hali sits along the Dromana shoreline and comprises seventy residences designed by Cera Stribley. The design reinterprets the Australian coastal house for contemporary life, pairing simplicity and permanence with a strong connection to landscape and light. Each home is planned around openness and privacy, framing views outward while maintaining a human scale and domestic rhythm.

At its centre, Tract Consultants have conceived more than five thousand square metres of parkland and shared gardens. The landscape connects residents through walkable green corridors, balancing social space with ecological intent. It brings generosity and structure to the plan, ensuring the project grows more established, not less, over time.

The broader team includes WRAP Consulting Engineering, Checkpoint Building Surveyors and MRM Group, each contributing to the detail and delivery of the next phase. With foundations now underway, coordination and precision will define the months ahead.

Our ongoing partnership with Samuel Property continues to evolve through shared values of design quality, integrity and craft. Across multiple projects we have built a consistent language between architecture and construction — one that prioritises detail, collaboration and longevity over gesture.

Medium-density work sits at the intersection of design and city-making. It demands an understanding of the civic, the domestic and the technical in equal measure. Projects like Hali are an opportunity to apply that balance to the coastline — to create housing that endures and contributes meaningfully to place.

Hali Dromana continues that trajectory, strengthening a collaboration defined by clarity of design and confidence in delivery.

   

Stage 1 at Wembley Hill is moving forward with momentum. The project brings 59 townhomes to Box Hill South for Golden Age, designed by Cox Architecture and delivered by our specialist townhouse team.

Wembley Hill extends a relationship of trust with Golden Age, following our delivery of Floret in Glen Waverley earlier this year. That collaboration set a benchmark in the townhouse typology, and Wembley Hill continues the trajectory — larger in scale, more complex in program, and positioned within one of Melbourne’s most strategically important growth corridors.

The site itself sets strict terms. A former school ground, it drops more than eight metres from front to back, with reactive clay below and wetlands pressing at the edge. These are not conditions to be managed at the margins, but structural realities that shape how the project is built. Each slab is stepped to grade, each sequence measured against fall and service runs, each stage resolved with precision. Progress here is not default, it is earned — and it is in this setting that the value of townhouse expertise is most clearly defined.

Across Stage 1, progress moves in sequence. Lot A is now in pre-plaster, with frames locked, services run, insulation set, and linings to follow before scaffold begins to fall away. Lot B advances through blockwork and roof, battens fixed and cladding in motion as Cox Arc

hitecture’s design language registers in rhythm and proportion. Lot C is consolidated at ground, retaining walls set, in-grounds complete, and slabs stepping into place. Each lot reads differently, but all move in controlled rhythm — a collective sequence that defines the program of delivery.

Box Hill is not just expanding; it is being reshaped — from su

burban edge to metropolitan centre, driven by transport investment and density overlays. Medium-density development here is not incidental, it is infrastructure: structural, necessary, central to the city’s growth. Wembley Hill stands inside that transformation, setting a benchmark for how the townhouse typology is delivered on complex ground, and how growth translates into built form the city can depend on.

At Wembley Hill, that future is already under construction.

Type AAs at Edition, Bankside have reached practical completion ahead of program. Defects resolved, finishes tightened, the first residences are now ready for their new owners.

Edition is a collection of 34 townhomes delivered for Pask within the Bankside precinct in Rowville. Built by our specialist townhome team, the project sets a benchmark for delivery in Melbourne’s growth corridors — places where pace and volume often dominate. Here, delivery has been defined by precision: five building types advancing in parallel, with sequencing and tolerances held across every façade and junction.

Krause brick façades, coursed line by line, form Webster Architecture’s defining blades and reveals. Deep setbacks and tapered eaves extend that language, demanding accuracy in construction. Interiors by SJB carry proportion and finish through each residence. Landscapes by Nathan Burkett Landscape Architecture establish native planting across both shared and private spaces. These are not ideas left on paper — they are details built into place.

Progress continues across site. Types BB and CC are in final defects and cleaning. Type DD is moving through flooring, carpets and commissioning. Type EE is in structure — frames complete, brickwork rising, cladding sealed, roof trusses set. Different phases, one system: sequencing controlled, tolerances managed, detail carried forward.

With the first residences now delivered, Edition demonstrates what townhome construction can achieve when design and delivery are inseparable. We are proud to have been the builder delivering this project: townhomes realised with a level of precision and permanence that sets Edition apart.

      

Deadlines don’t pause in construction. Crews keep moving, drawings keep changing, and pressure builds with each passing day. But on R U OK? Day, we stopped — briefly — to shift the focus from the work in front of us to the people beside us.

At 116 Rokeby, desks filled with handwritten notes, and conversations stretched beyond the usual cadence of meetings. A tray of custom cookies made the rounds, less about sugar than about breaking routine. Out on site, Notes for a Mate posters sat alongside schedules and specifications, carrying reminders of gratitude and encouragement in spaces more often dominated by logistics.

These gestures were modest, but that’s the point. Construction has never been gentle. It’s an industry that runs on resilience: long hours, immovable timelines, and the constant demand to “get on with it.” Mental health challenges remain higher here than the national average, and silence still comes easier than honesty. Against that backdrop, a note, a check-in, or a conversation is not trivial — it’s a shift in culture.

For us at Figurehead, culture isn’t pinned up on a wall. It’s measured in the small, daily interactions that carry people through pressure. A conversation at the end of a long shift. The willingness to notice when someone is carrying more than the task in front of them. The understanding that integrity doesn’t end with the handover of a building — it’s present in how we look after the people who make it possible.

We know our projects stand on more than concrete and steel. They rely on trust, care, and the unremarkable moments that keep teams together. These aren’t extras; they’re the conditions that make the work possible at all.

R U OK? Day brings that truth into focus. But the practice can’t be once a year. Asking, listening, noticing — these are the habits that sustain our culture, and the foundation we build on every day.

sking, listening, noticing — these are the habits that sustain our culture, and the foundation we build on every day. Beyond Figurehead, support is always close: R U OK?, Lifeline, and Beyond Blue           

Ten years is rare in any career. In construction, it’s a unicorn. Nikki Brown, our Finance Manager, has given us exactly that.

You don’t measure a decade in spreadsheets. You measure it in presence — in the laugh that shakes our walls, and in the person who shows up through chaos or calm and still creates space for others to feel seen.

Over the past decade, Nikki has led us through it all: from COVID to cost blowouts to some of our biggest wins. Her promotion last year marked a structural change. She now leads finance internally, building capability and shaping something stronger for the future.

In those same ten years, she also became a mother twice and found her forever person. Monumental milestones, shared with us along the way. She stepped back when needed, returned on her own terms, and carried with her the respect that defines our culture.

And she’s done it all with trademark sharpness and humour. Sharp and social, she’s first on the dancefloor and last one off. She once joked that her idea of a perfect date night with her partner is dinner and a chat about super. Only Nikki could make compounding interest sound romantic.

It’s tradition at Figurehead to mark ten years with a watch. Nikki doesn’t wear watches. So she chose a Chanel bag instead. She didn’t bring it in for the photos — said the depreciation risk was too high, and the return on investment better kept off site.

Ten years is more than a number. It’s resilience through challenges, clarity in decision-making, and friendships that will last a lifetime. Nikki has shaped this place in ways numbers cannot measure, and left an imprint on Figurehead that goes far beyond finance.

Congratulations, Nikki — here’s to you, and to everything you’ve built with us

 

Collingwood has always thrived on contrast. Heritage warehouses meet design studios, and creative energy pulses through industrial streets. At the base of one of its most intentional new buildings, that balance now has a focal point.

The Local Drop — Melbourne’s wine delivery service turned coffee-to-wine bar — has officially opened its doors at 116 Rokeby, a commercial building as considered as the business it now hosts. With architecture and interiors by Carr, and delivered by builder-occupier Figurehead, 116 Rokeby has already earned accolades for design and environmental performance, from its double-skin façade to Platinum WELL and Climate Active Carbon Neutral certifications.

A ground floor designed for amenity and longevity

From the outset, the ground-floor tenancy was planned as a daily catalyst for the building community. During delivery, Figurehead coordinated base-building structure and services to support a hospitality use without compromise to workplace performance above — integrating provisions for power, ventilation and drainage, robust threshold detailing for high foot traffic, and acoustic separation in a way that protects quiet working floors while keeping the lobby active and permeable. The outcome is a tenancy shell that allows a premium fitout to plug in cleanly and operate efficiently.

But beyond the concrete, glass and credentials lies a commitment to culture. A belief that workplaces aren’t only about productivity, but participation. The Local Drop is now the meeting point at the heart of that idea.

A long-term partnership, delivered with intent

The relationship began well before the fitout.

In 2014, Jagdev Singh was hand-delivering wines across Melbourne, building The Local Drop with personal service and sharp instincts, while Figurehead was evolving from a tight-knit crew into one of the city’s most respected builders. Joe Grasso and Adam Licciardi, Figurehead’s founder and long-time business partner, first met Jag at a private dinner around seven years ago. His mix of nous, warmth and humility left an impression.

“We enjoyed watching his business grow quickly,” says Joe.

So when plans for 116 Rokeby were being finalised, it was Joe and Adam who suggested Jag as the perfect ground-floor tenant — not just for his product, but for his values. There was one caveat: it had to include morning coffee.

“We wanted the building to start the day with the same quality and care we put into its design,” Joe says. “Jag got it immediately.”

Now, The Local Drop’s flagship has opened not just as a storefront, but as a natural extension of what 116 Rokeby stands for: precision, generosity, and doing things properly.

Fitout aligned to the base build

Designed by Studio Y, the fitout is grounded and expressive with the Award-Winning Architecture of 116 Rokeby in mind. The existing palette of metallic finishes, glass and concrete inspired the need for some warmth and richness reflective of The Local Drop’s offering.

“The design of The Local Drop began with a simple idea, light passing through glasses of beautiful wines, casting shadows that celebrate the ritual of a good pour,” says Tess Speldewinde, Senior Associate Interior Designer.
Every material choice was rooted in the essence of wine, the glow of a Grenache in the sun, the depth of a Malbec against stone, the warmth of aged oak. It’s a place designed to feel grounded and quietly luxurious.”

“When you think of wine shops around the world and locally, you automatically think of full height shelving wrapping the walls stocked to the brim with wines,” she continues.

Whilst we wanted to create this aesthetic, we were mindful that the contemporary environment needed a more condensed approach.”

The space blends materiality with meaning: red hues, warm timber, and a statement marble benchtop with bold veining, balanced against raw concrete and exposed structure. No gimmicks. A full-height wine wall with integrated fridges anchors the room, with a sommelier station, custom storage and lighting that shifts with the day. For the construction team, those moves translate to clean interfaces with the slab and services, durable finishes at touch points, and future-proofed access for maintenance.

Simple service model, complex coordination made easy

The service model is deliberately pared back. There’s minimal corkage, no inflated pricing, and no fuss. Wines are available to try before purchase (with tastings Monday to Friday) and the selection spans cult allocations to cellar staples. A handwritten cellar list includes bottles the team are constantly curating.

Small plates include Local Ocean seafood, Rumble coffee, and house-baked focaccia: local favourites that speak to Collingwood’s broader maker culture. Behind the scenes, building services and back-of-house planning allow the bar to shift from morning espresso to evening pours without operational friction.

The Local Drop

On the floor is Pierrick Gorrichon, a sommelier whose résumé spans Michelin-starred City Social in London and Melbourne’s Gimlet.

“I returned to Australia after spending the vintage in Avisa (Champagne), with Etienne Calsac and met Jag in early 2025. I just had a good feeling.” he says about taking the role at a new concept wine bar in Collingwood.

“We aim for The Local Drop wine bar to be a safe and welcoming place where you can either be curious and try something new, something under the radar, or enjoy an iconic wine for an affordable price.
We love to share each wine context, their Producer’s stories, and what to expect in the glass. Connecting wine and people.”

Pierrick splits his time between the bar and his five-month-old golden retriever, Brioche, trained with the discipline you’d expect from a French sommelier. Like his owner, he’s composed, warm, and hard not to like.

Already, The Local Drop has become a shared language between tenants who appreciate good business, well-designed places and thoughtful rituals. It’s a reminder that buildings aren’t only made from glass and steel, but from the lives and interactions that unfold within them.

In a city overflowing with pop-ups and rebrands, The Local Drop isn’t that. It’s a contribution. To the building, to the neighbourhood, and to the next chapter of Collingwood.

(more…)

Master Builders Victoria CEO Michaela Lihou summed it up:

“These awards continue to be one of the most powerful ways we acknowledge and celebrate our members. And as we mark our 150th anniversary, these awards also speak to a legacy that spans generations before us and shine a light on the emerging leaders who will carry our industry forward. Our members have once again delivered work that is ambitious, thoughtful and genuinely connected to the communities they serve. Congratulations to all our winners.”

MBV President Geoff Purcell added:

“It feels especially fitting to shine a light on the individuals, teams, and members whose work continues to promote what excellence in our industry looks like. This year’s nominees and winners have continued to raise the bar in an ever-increasing complex and challenging environment.”

But 116 Rokeby is more than its structure and systems. The ground floor is anchored by The Local Drop wine bar and café — a place for tenants and locals to connect over coffee in the morning or wine at night. The upper floors are home to businesses that share our values: design-focused, sustainable, and purpose-driven.

To our team, partners, consultants, and subcontractors — thank you. 116 Rokeby is proof that when you build with intent, discipline, and heart, you don’t just deliver a project. You deliver a legacy.

 

Bradmill, Yarraville — Construction Update: Stage 1 Takes Shape

Construction continues to advance across the Bradmill precinct in Yarraville, with Stage 1 entering its final phase.

Delivered by Figurehead for Frasers Property Australia and Irongate, Bradmill is now visibly transitioning from construction site to neighbourhood. With scaffolding removed across multiple fronts and internal works progressing steadily, the former industrial landmark is beginning to take on its next form.

Stage 1A is in final works. Occupancy Permits have been issued for the first ten dwellings (Lots 101–110), with defect rectification now active. Townhomes in Type D and Type C are also well into fit-off, pacing toward Practical Completion in mid-August.

In Stage 1B, fit-off is now underway for Type E — the final typology in the construction sequence. Carpet installation is progressing across dwellings, while scaffolding has recently come down on the J4s. With external detailing now active, the buildings’ architectural intent — scale, proportion, material — is fully visible for the first time.

Across the broader site, external works are advancing. Irrigation is complete, surface treatments are progressing, and landscaping is scheduled to commence shortly.

As construction nears completion, Bradmill is beginning to register less as a staged delivery and more as a cohesive urban environment. Designed by Rothelowman, the architectural language — once abstract — is now clearly articulated across six residential typologies. What were once isolated stages now read together, forming a connected precinct.

Current Progress Snapshot

• Lots 101–110 (1A): OPs issued, defecting underway, PC mid-August

• Type D (1A): Final fit-off in progress

• Type C (1A): Closely tracking

• Type E (1B): Fit-off active, carpet installation progressing

• J4 (1B): Scaffold down, external detailing in motion

• External: Irrigation complete; surface works and fencing underway; landscaping to follow

Stage 1 is now completely sold.
Roads are in. Setbacks resolved. And the warehouse logic of the former denim mill — its grid, its proportions, its material rhythm — now informs what’s being built. This is not a reinvention of the site, but a continuation of its industrial narrative into a new civic future.

     

A Morning with Wardle: Ideas in the Open

Just down the road on Rokeby Street, we spent the morning with our neighbours at Wardle, gathered around plans, conversation, and shared questions about how buildings take shape — and what they stand for.

The focus was The Shed — Wardle’s health, medicine, and science campus for the University of Tasmania in Launceston. A building designed to connect learning with place, and research with community. It’s already been widely recognised for its civic generosity, material clarity, and typological shift — but what stayed with us was the way it was shared.

Wardle walked us through the thinking: two shed-like volumes holding a central timber-lined atrium; open courtyards drawing light and movement through the plan; robust, regional materials placed with care. It’s a building that doesn’t perform — it holds. And it does so through considered form, not noise.

What struck us most was the openness. The willingness to share not just the outcome, but the process — the drivers, the doubts, the tests, the design logic behind the resolution. That kind of transparency builds trust. It sharpens the culture around the work.

As builders, we’re used to operating in the middle of the process — between idea and execution, intent and delivery. When we’re brought in early, and treated as part of the thinking, the project holds up better. Relationships do too.

Thank you to the Wardle team for making space — and for showing what generosity in practice can look like.

It doesn’t just help us build better. It helps us think better, together
 

On a crisp Saturday morning in early July, Hamlyn Oval in Bell Park turned purple.

Not for a final. Not for a club milestone. But for something far deeper: the fourth annual Zoe Kennedy Tribute Match — a day that’s become one of the most meaningful on the local sporting calendar, and one Figurehead is proud to support.

The match honours Zoe Kennedy, a bright, fiercely loved 13-year-old netballer who passed away from an asthma attack in 2020. In the years since, her legacy has only grown — through her family, her teammates, and the thousands who now gather each year in her name.

For us at Figurehead, this day is personal. Zoe’s father, Lach Kennedy, is a long-serving Construction Manager with over 17 years at Figurehead. But more than that, he’s part of the family who built the Zoe Kennedy Foundation from the ground up — turning grief into action, and memory into impact.

Since its beginnings, the Tribute Match has raised over $500,000 to support asthma education and research. It’s helped fund a Virtual Care PhD with Asthma Australia, supported the development of smart inhaler technologies, and rolled out youth-focused asthma education across Victoria. It’s also helped families — particularly in regional areas — feel better equipped to manage asthma in both sport and daily life.

And while the football and netball games still go ahead, it’s the atmosphere around them that defines the day. From the raffle tables to the merch stand, the wine lucky dip to the silent tributes — this is a grassroots effort, powered by the people who loved Zoe, and by those who simply believe that no child should ever miss out on the sport they love.

At Figurehead, we talk a lot about what it means to build something lasting. For us, that includes showing up — for people, for causes, and for the communities we’re part of. Supporting the Tribute Match is a reflection of that. It’s our privilege to walk alongside the Kennedy family, and to help carry Zoe’s story forward — not just in remembrance, but in momentum.

To learn more or support the Zoe Kennedy Foundation, visit zoekennedy.com.au.

      

We’re proud to share that Everlane Cremorne has received the Sir Osborn McCutcheon Award for Commercial Architecture at the 2025 AIA Victorian Architecture Awards

Designed by Fieldwork for MONNO, and delivered by Figurehead during the pandemic, Everlane is a testament to resilience under pressure and precision in execution. Built amid lockdowns, site constraints, and material disruptions, the project demanded coordination, rigour, and shared intent.

From the AIA jury:

“Fieldwork’s Everlane adopts the classic commercial podium‑and‑tower typology, masterfully disrupting it at the lower levels to introduce a generous, human‑scaled arrival experience.”

Everlane reinvents the commercial typology: a nine‑storey podium and tower that expands the footpath and deepens laneway planting. It fits, shapes, and enhances its Cremorne context—no mere insertion, but a considered addition.

We share this win with Fieldwork and MONNO, alongside all consultants, trades, and the broader team. Built through challenging conditions, this award highlights what happens when design clarity meets delivery discipline.

We’re proud to share that 116 Rokeby has won the Commercial Architecture Award at the 2025 Victorian Chapter of the Australian Institute of Architects Awards.

The AIA Awards remain the highest recognition for architecture in Australia, and to be acknowledged within that field means the world to us.

Congratulations to Carr, whose design brought restraint, clarity, and conviction to the project. From the start, there was alignment — on purpose, on materiality, on what it means to build something that lasts. We’ve worked with Carr before, but this one felt different. This one was ours.

In one of the early concept design meetings, our Founder Joe Grasso brought in a photo he’d taken years earlier of the Harvard Carpenter Center, designed by Le Corbusier.

“I wasn’t pointing to a precedent,” he reflects. “I was trying to describe an emotion, a feeling — the articulate use of concrete, the way the circulation cut straight through the form, the quiet simplicity and clarity of it all inspired me. It had stayed with me, and I wondered if we could create something that carried that same conviction. Something that would be around forever.”

Carr understood that instinct. What followed was a collaboration grounded in shared values — a built form that reflects our commitment to design and construction, and perfectly captures who Figurehead is.

As builder, developer, and now occupant, the recognition holds weight.
116 wasn’t a brief we answered — it was a vision we backed, shaped, and now live inside.

We make decisions here. We meet here.
We share the space — with tenants, collaborators, visitors.
And we feel what the building gives back, every day. It’s not just our HQ. It’s part of how we show up.

The jury cited amenity, sustainability, and urban presence.
For us, those weren’t slogans — they were priorities from the beginning.

116 doesn’t just photograph well. It performs.
It’s warm in winter, cool in summer. It breathes and it moves.
The circulation works. The light lands just right.
The spaces invite use, not performance.

We share this recognition with Carr, our other valued consultants, and everyone who helped bring 116 to life — because every decision was shared.

The award recognises more than just design.
It shows what happens when builders lead with vision, and back it with care.

“It means a lot,” Joe adds, “not just because it’s beautifully resolved, but because we lived every decision.”

But what matters most isn’t how it’s awarded — it’s how it’s lived.
We work here. We rely on it. And every day, it proves itself.

We’ve reached a key structural milestone at Central Park II, with the first section of slab on ground now poured.

This slab forms the structural base beneath the basement, setting the foundation for what follows. Decks are progressing. The loading bay isn’t far behind.

At each column base, diamond box outs align with control joints — relieving pressure during cure and protecting the slab long after the pour. It’s the kind of detail that disappears when it’s done right — and stands out when it’s not. That’s why we get it right.

Designed by Ewert Leaf, the development will deliver 24 premium residences overlooking Central Park in Malvern East. Four levels. Private scale. Architecturally resolved, materially considered. Built for longevity. Built to hold.
Interiors by Simone MacGinley. Landscaping by Jack Merlo.

We’re delivering construction for Roulston and Moda, with Buxton Group Australia and Salta supporting as development partners. The program is led by PAX Project Management, acting on behalf of the client.

These are teams we’ve built with before — teams who back our thinking, trust our process, know our quality, and understand the value of getting the detail right.

Every residence is now sold. That sharpens the stakes, shrinks the margin for error, and focuses our delivery.

The slab’s in.
The systems are set.
Now, we build.

 

STEADY

In Ballarat, what you build matters, but how you build is what you’re known for.

Caleb McGrath leads the team delivering Lyons Place, an eight-level building — seven storeys plus basement — rising through Ballarat’s skyline. It’s the city’s tallest residential project and one of our most visible builds.

Caleb grew up here, knows which way the weather rolls off the lake, and how much reputation and relationships matter in Ballarat’s close-knit community. Every call is visible. People watch the job move.
“Ballarat’s home to over 100,000 people,” he says, “but it still runs like a country town. How you build here leaves a mark — people notice.”

Ballarat winters don’t ease up. Slabs frost, gear slows. These conditions demand local expertise to shape planning, resourcing, and execution.
“During structural works, we battled ice build-up on the formwork deck pre-pour,” Caleb says. “We mitigated the issue without delays.”

Beyond weather and terrain, Caleb credits Hygge’s clear intent for driving the team:
“When a client cares about the end result, it drives the team.”

PRESENCE

Lyons Place turned heads before it topped out. A build this visible doesn’t move quietly; local trades, clients, and the street all watch how we deliver.

Caleb commands trust through calm and consistent leadership, earning respect from consultants, subcontractors, and Hygge, our client.
“We’ve made a point to engage the best local trades,” he says, “and still uphold Figurehead’s standard of quality.”

That balance — local expertise, supported by Figurehead’s systems — has shaped the build and built trust in Ballarat.
“I think this project shows Ballarat’s ready,” Caleb says. “There’s an appetite for developments done right, led by people who know the place.”

He’s consistent, deliberate, and present — the kind of operator people want to work with again, the kind who understands what building here asks of you. Lyons Place may be nearing completion. For us and Caleb, it’s just the beginning of what’s next in Ballarat.
“It’s not lost on me how important a signature build like this is in Ballarat, especially as my family has been here for generations,” Caleb says.

STRUCTURE

Caleb reads the job like someone who knows what it takes to deliver here. From day one, he’s managed staging, sequencing, procurement, and interfaces. Lyons Place is layered, public, and unforgiving, but it moves clearly because he keeps it steady — disciplined and methodical. His management keeps tight sequences coordinated and precise.

The job is shaped by its constraints: a compact site, busy surrounds, and a mixed-use program testing sequencing at every level. Caleb doesn’t tackle complexity with brute force; he reads the conditions and adapts.
“There are several non-uniform external interfaces,” he says. “That shapes how we build. You can’t run one solution across the job.”

Caleb’s tier-one experience sharpened his skills, but Figurehead’s pace and collective culture make the difference.

“The longer I’ve been here,” he says, “the more I’ve seen how collective the environment is.”
That difference is felt in how information moves, how decisions get made, and how quickly the site responds.

   

Inclusion, perspective, and what it means to build well —  together.

Our quarterly Huddles are a core part of how we connect as a business. On June 20, 2025, we gathered for our Half Time Huddle, with site teams from Ballarat to Sandringham joining in person. This time, as part of our Respectful Support & Inclusion initiatives, we welcomed a new format. Staff who don’t usually speak in front of a crowd were briefed by department leads and given the chance to present. What followed was a refreshing shift in language, perspective, and energy — and a reminder of the value that comes from seeing things through a different lens.

What We’re Building

Across the business, things are moving.

• In Construction, Design Manager Julia Crivelli and Project Coordinator at Wembley Hill, Will Lord gave a cross-view of progress across key projects.

• In New Business, Development PM Kat Bencic shared our New Business and Cost Planning pipeline on behalf of the New Business Team.

• And through video, we stepped onto live sites: from Trentham and Bradmill, to Edition Bankside, Wembley Hill, Lyons Place, CP2, and our Flux project in Brighton.

Moments That Matter

Some milestones aren’t structural — but they hold the weight all the same.

• We’ve now raised over $500,000 raised through the Zoe Kennedy Foundation. A moment of scale, shared by James Hetherington and Tilly Field, built through years of contribution.

• In People & Culture, we looked at where we’ve leaned in — from IWD and The Push-Up Challenge to upcoming programs in strengths-based leadership and disc flex.

We also welcomed new team members across construction, coordination, and content — including a cadet with a VFL side hustle and a storyteller helping shape how we share what we do.

Awards & Recognition

Recognition doesn’t just land at handover. We mark it in the day-to-day — and this Huddle, we did exactly that.

• Integrity → Phoenix Brown, Cadet at Trentham
  Phoenix was the first male team member to put his hand up and speak during our IWD campaign — a gesture of quiet leadership and a strong signal from one of our youngest team members.

• Excellence → Rowan Snashall, Site Supervisor at Edition Bankside
  Rowan brings rigour to delivery. He’s consistent, thorough, and unflinching in the face of complexity — and it shows in the standard of his work.

• Happiness → David Pennicott, Site Team
  David’s the one whose smile arrives before he does. Good energy, even on tough days — and someone whose presence genuinely lifts a site.

• Impact → Kim Choo, New Business
  Seven years in, Kim’s contribution continues to shape the business. From tenders to relationships, his impact is cumulative — and unmistakable.

We also celebrated a major milestone: 10 years of Nikki Brown.

Nikki’s seen the business through multiple chapters — and helped write them. As Finance Manager, she’s guided us through growth, challenge, and uncertainty (pandemic included), with calm and clarity. A foundational presence, and a quiet force behind many of the wins we’ve had along the way.

Looking Ahead

The Huddle isn’t a report card. It’s a reset. A reminder that what we’re building is not just physical — it’s cultural, relational, and constantly evolving.

We’re halfway through the year. But far from finished.

                              

The first of the street elevations has emerged at Edition, Bankside, marking a shift in pace on site.

Across Blocks AA and BB, the build is beginning to show its external logic. Defined grooves, tapered eaves, and carefully laid brickwork—supplied by Krause—are giving form and rhythm to the façade. The structure hasn’t changed. But now, it’s starting to register from the street.

It’s a clear step forward in the construction sequence: from frame to skin, from grid to material. It’s also where coordination tightens. Detail starts to matter at scale. And the street begins to read what’s being built.

Further down the site, Blocks CC and DD are close behind, with brickwork nearing completion and roofing and glazing to follow. The rhythm is on.

We’re proud to be delivering this 34-home precinct for Pask, with design by Webster Architecture & Interiors and landscape by Nathan Burkett Landscape Architecture.

Edition brings a higher level of finish to Bankside. That comes through in the material selection—but also in how the materials are resolved. It’s one thing to specify brick. It’s another to get every course to land cleanly across four elevations, in sync with eaves, windows, and corners that taper with intention.

This is the part of the build where decisions start to show. Where delivery becomes visible. Where the pace has to hold.

The elevation has arrived. Not as spectacle, but as signal: the build is moving forward. From here, detailing sharpens, sequencing tightens, and what’s been read as frame starts to take its place in the streetscape.

The work doesn’t get easier.
It just becomes more visible.

     

Slabs are underway at Wembley Hill. And the ground isn’t giving anything away easily.

This former school site drops more than eight metres from back to front. Below the surface: reactive clay. To the boundary: protected wetlands. Above it all: planning overlays that leave no margin for error. It’s a site where nothing can be fudged or forced. Every move has to hold.

Each slab is different. Not just in size or height—but in logic. Every one is stepped to meet the terrain, formed to control water, placed to carry weight without compromise. Here, topography isn’t a backdrop. It’s the rulebook. And the pour follows it.

There’s no standard footing. No flat repeat. Every slab is individually set out—shaped by fall, framed by edge, sequenced to hold program. It’s tight, skilled work: shifting levels, changing conditions, narrow windows between weather, services, and structure.
East End Slabs are across it.

This is where our townhouse team operates best. When sequencing isn’t theoretical, but live. When structure starts on day one. When the delivery of every future stage depends on how precisely the first one lands.

Stage 1 includes 38 townhomes for Golden Age Group, designed by Cox Architecture, with interiors by Mim Design and landscaping by Taylor Cullity Lethlean.

Wembley Hill builds on Floret in Glen Waverley—delivered earlier this year—extending a partnership grounded in trust, momentum, and a shared belief in thoughtful density across Melbourne’s eastern corridor.

Slabs now.
Frames next.
No guesswork. Just build.       

Scaffold has come down at The Trentham in Sandringham, revealing the built form for the first time.

On a site defined by dualities—heritage and new build, refinement and resilience, city and coast—the relationship between design intent and construction delivery is now visible.

At the street edge, curved precast panels form a strong frontage. Every brick corner on the façade has been mitred and set out on site—no prefabrication, no shortcuts. It’s the kind of detail that requires time, precision, and sequencing across trades.

Behind the scaffold, Kelynack House—the heritage anchor on the corner of Bay Road and Trentham Street—is still mid-restoration. Once complete, it will become the precinct’s communal heart, with a commercial kitchen, bistro, lounge, and shared amenity for residents and the broader community.

Delivered for Buxton Group and OneToAnother Retirement Living, with architecture by Cera Stribley and client-side management by Pax PM, this project has been about balance from the outset. Our role has been to honour that balance in the build—bringing together legacy structure and contemporary form, and managing a complex program across multiple fronts.

Behind the heritage building, the new residences step back toward the bay. Ocean to the front. City behind. Salt air, strong sun, and shifting conditions in between. Planting is now underway on the upper levels, using species selected for resilience and durability in this exposed coastal environment.

Internally, joinery is progressing. Floors are down. Stone is in. A coffered ceiling now spans The Link—a glazed corridor that connects old and new and required precise detailing across multiple interfaces.

“There’s a real energy on site,” says Site Manager James Karintzias.
“The morale’s high. Everyone’s on the same page. The client’s been fantastic to work with. The architect’s across the detail. You feel it in how the job moves. And being close to the beach at knock-off doesn’t hurt either.”

This isn’t just a premium residential address. It’s a rethink of how later life can be lived—designed by others, delivered by us.
Our job has been to build it with care: structure, systems, and detail all working toward long-term ease of use and durability.

Now that scaffold’s down, that care is starting to show.

    

EARNED.

Danny’s been with us for seventeen years. Seventeen.
He started as a cadet, worked as a CA, then PC, and ran site for seven before stepping into PM.
He’s done every role in delivery—learning what holds under pressure, and what gives way when it doesn’t.

Site Manager was the hardest. Tight programs. Shifting scopes. Every decision landing on your desk. You learn what pressure actually feels like. That’s where it’s earned. Nothing skipped. Nothing wasted.

Now he’s Construction Manager. No shortcuts. Just job after job. He’s led The Bruce and River Street through tight programs and tighter access. At 116 Rokeby, our HQ, he helped deliver the kind of work we expect from ourselves: precise, accountable, uncompromising.

He doesn’t dwell on milestones or make noise. Years on site leave an imprint—a few more grey hairs, and instincts that only come from being in it.
“First in, last out. Every delay lands on your desk.”
That’s how you learn to carry a job—not just run it.
That’s why we trust him with the ones that can’t go wrong.

BUILT.

Ask Danny about a project, and he won’t start with the building. He talks about the team who made it possible: the people who took on more, stepped into bigger roles, and learned how to carry the weight.
“Watching them get good,” he says, “that’s the most satisfying part of the job.”

He shapes the framework that makes people capable—through structure, support, and space to move. The pressure stays distributed. The pace stays readable.
People step into that because leaders like Danny think ahead—not just about delivery, but about who’s inside the job.

“I’ve been helped throughout my career,” Danny says.
“If I can be that for someone else, that’s a good outcome. That’s what fulfilment looks like to me.”
Not improvised. Modelled. Refined. Passed on.
Now it shows up in how others lead—and how the next one gets built.

That’s the kind of leadership we don’t have to name.
We just build from it. 

LEADS.

“Conscious leadership is how I operate,” he says. Danny doesn’t need volume. His presence sets the tone. He works ahead of pressure—setting the system, reading the job, keeping things moving.

Right now he’s leading two complex jobs: Trentham and Lyons Place. Different briefs. Same demand. Get the rhythm right early, and hold it under load. That mindset shapes how he builds. It keeps the job readable when pressure builds.

“I’ve always believed people don’t set out to do the wrong thing. Helping them succeed means a better result for everyone.”

You see it in how people move around him: steady rhythm, no chaos, no second-guessing. He builds the framework before things tighten, so the team knows where they’re going—and rhythm doesn’t fall apart when things shift.

“I try to show them that different approaches get different outcomes,” he says. “I keep an open mind and try to relay that message.”

What follows is steady. Measured. The result of an environment he’s shaped—where decisions land clean and people know where they stand.

After months behind scaffold, Lyons Place is finally out of hiding. With the internal scaffold now removed, the full street and courtyard elevations have come into view — revealing the textured, layered form shaped by Chamberlain Architects.

Delivered for Hygge Property, Lyons Place rises seven storeys in the heart of Ballarat Central, making it the city’s tallest residential build. Now visible in full, the development brings together 51 apartments, 7 penthouses, and 2 townhomes — all anchored around a central courtyard designed by Phillip Withers.

The site reads as one connected system, with residences linked across levels and shared space. It’s a carefully choreographed build that balances urban density with liveability and identity.

External works are tracking well, while internals continue to progress with lining, joinery, and finishes now underway. On the corner, the heritage church is taking shape — its original façade retained and propped, with new structure rising behind. Once complete, it will house the retail tenancy shell, creating space for services that support the local community.

At the heart of the site, the courtyard is structurally in — ready to soften the geometry, ground the development, and invite connection between residents.

Sustainability here is built into the bones — not just the spec sheet.

Lyons Place reflects what intentional, place-led growth looks like for Ballarat. With scaffold down, our focus now turns to delivering the homes, shaping the shared spaces, and bringing the full potential of this community to life.

We're proud to be leading its delivery — and proud of what it represents for the future of regional living.

     

Everyone in Melbourne knows the factory off the Westgate. For years, it’s been the same question:

“What’s going on with that?”

After sitting dormant for decades — part-forgotten, part-standing — Bradmill is finally coming back to life. And it’s not a reinvention. It’s a continuation.

Stage 1 is now well underway, delivering 44 new townhomes across six distinct typologies. Two- and three-level residences, shaped by the original site structure — its setbacks, levels, and geometry. From the brick tones to the nickel detailing, each material choice responds to what was already here.

The heritage structures remain — integrated, not erased. This isn’t a rebrand. It’s a recalibration, one that respects what Bradmill was while building what it needs to be now.

Across the precinct, new streets, shared spaces, and homes are being threaded through the industrial grid that once powered Melbourne’s textile trade. This is just the beginning. Spanning 26 hectares, Bradmill is one of inner Melbourne’s largest infill sites and will eventually deliver up to 1,500 homes, along with public space, retail, and community infrastructure.

Figurehead is delivering Stages 1 and 2 in collaboration with:

• Frasers Property Australia

• Irongate Group

• Rothelowman (Architecture)

• Tract Consultants (Planning)

• MDG Landscape Architects (Landscape)

• Craig Tan Architects (Amenities)

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Where We’re At — Stage 1 Typologies:

• Type A: Stone installation underway. Fit-off started. Angled brickwork and recessed entries taking shape.

• Type C: Tiling and joinery nearly complete. Framed balconies in place. Façade works ongoing.

• Type D: Tiling and joinery wrapping up. Key material junctions resolved.

• Type E: Plastering underway. Roof cappings nearly finalised.

• Type F: Timber frame complete. Structure defined. Cladding next.

• J4: Cladding finished. Scaffold coming down. Internal finishes in progress.

External works — including paths, steps, and landings — are progressing across the site, helping stitch the precinct together. It’s a layered, constrained environment — the kind that rewards good construction. Timing, tolerances, sequencing — every move matters here.

Bradmill isn’t being reinvented.
It’s being reawakened — with the same grit and materiality that defined its past, and a future built to last.

We’re proud to lead its return.

 

We’re thrilled to celebrate a win that’s come full circle — from international competition to the Figurehead office at 116 Rokeby.

Earlier this year, our New Business Coordinator, Matilda Field, quietly became a national champion, taking out the AusCycling eSports Championship while racing abroad with Movistar Team, one of the world’s top-tier cycling outfits. Competing remotely while riding in Spain, Tilly’s win wasn’t subjective — it was calculated, metric-based, and absolute. A gold medal followed, bubble-wrapped and addressed to our office. (Yes — someone in Estimating may have given it a bite.)

At Figurehead, pressure isn’t unusual — not in New Business, and not on site. Timing matters. Constraint is constant. The people who thrive are the ones who know how to read both.

Tilly doesn’t just keep up. She keeps things moving. Working across tenders, submissions, and capability documents as part of our New Business team (led by Dylan Mercer), she helps line up the next job before boots are even on site. It’s structured work — about sequencing, momentum, and knowing when to push.

The same qualities that define elite competition are baked into how we build — whether it’s a tender delivered on the dot, a submission that lands just right, or a clean, timely handover. Every win has its own rhythm — and this one just happened to arrive with green and gold trim.

Next stop: World Championship qualifiers in Abu Dhabi.
Until then, Tilly’s chasing wins the usual way — through scope changes, word count caps, and a calendar of deadlines.

We’re backing her all the way.

Figurehead has been appointed by Golden Age Group to deliver the first stage of Wembley Hill — a new townhome precinct in Box Hill South designed by Cox Architecture, with interiors by Mim Design and landscape by TCL.

Stage 1 includes 59 designed townhomes, forming the first release in a broader 143-townhome masterplan set along the banks of Gardiners Creek. Located within one of Melbourne’s key Metropolitan Activity Centres, Wembley Hill sits at the intersection of density, ecology, and long-term residential growth — positioning this early delivery phase as foundational to the success of the broader precinct.

“We are excited to partner again with Figurehead Construction for the construction of Wembley Hill, a development that embodies our commitment to creating sustainable, high-quality living spaces,” said Damien Hehir, Development Director at Golden Age Group. “This project is set to redefine modern living in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs, supplying families and home buyers an opportunity to invest in a vibrant, connected community.”

With a focus on sequential slab pours and framing across distinct rows, Figurehead is carefully controlling subcontractor engagement to reduce site congestion and maintain precision throughout the build. Premium materials, including custom-produced Champagne Kinetic cladding, natural reconstituted granite joinery, and bespoke recessed curtain pelmets set the standard for the remainder of the precinct.

Construction of Stage 1 will commence in July 2025, with completion scheduled for Q3 2026.

This marks our second collaboration with Golden Age Group, following the successful delivery of Floret in Glen Waverley — a project that laid the groundwork for a trusted working relationship grounded in quality, consistency, and delivery.

Over the weekend, Team Figurehead joined thousands of runners in the Ballarat Marathon — lacing up for the second annual event in the heart of regional Victoria.

We ran.
Some of us faster than others.
All of us questioning our life choices by kilometre four.

From the Half Marathon to the 10km, our crew turned up in full force — some of them even resembling athletes.
- Caleb McGrath, Sam Mackie, Dylan Mercer, and Harley Pockett took on the Half Marathon.
- Joe Clarke, James Hetherington, Will Tol, Melyssa Dunlop, and Ramya Alamuri tackled the 10km.

With over 9,000 participants — 80% visiting from out of town — the event generated more than $3.25 million for the local economy. A huge result for Ballarat City Council and a growing celebration of the city’s energy, identity, and community pride.

Of course, no race weekend is complete without a few highlights:

• Joseph Clarke ran like he had a handover to make.

• Emily Tighe gave it 300 metres and made a tactical call — saving 9.7km for next year.

• Dylan Mercer placed first among our group in the halfie. He’s been sore ever since. He’s also made sure we all know it.

• James Hetherington just welcomed a newborn — though right now it’s his calf splints keeping him up at night.

• Will Tol wore shoes so bright we’re vetting him for a sparky role.

We couldn’t be prouder of this crew — they showed up, pushed through, and were back on site and in the office Monday morning.

It’s the same mindset that drives our work: show up, back each other, and go the distance.

   

Navya’s path into construction wasn’t linear. She studied architecture, interned in practice, and found herself caught on the threshold — fascinated by the next phase of the project, but not yet part of it.

“What frustrated me most was watching a project pass from my hands as it moved into construction — the part that had always fascinated me.”

Now completing a Master of Construction Management at the University of Melbourne and on track for first-class honours, Navya is part of Figurehead’s Cadet Program — where her academic insight is met with real-time complexity, and theory is measured against material.

“Architecture let me imagine what was possible,” she says. “Construction makes me ask if it will work.”

That distinction sits at the core of how she thinks. For Navya, construction isn’t a departure from creativity — it’s where creativity is tested, constrained, and made legible.

“It’s creativity under pressure,” she explains. “Material, cost, and time are the tools you use to solve problems.”

Working under Design Manager Jules Crivelli, Navya is gaining exposure to the choreography behind project delivery — feasibility studies, procurement logic, cost planning, and material selection. These aren’t abstract lessons. They’re lived — across timelines, disciplines, and real decisions.

“Jules has been a constant knowledge resource,” she says. “She’s helped me see that design isn’t just about how something looks — it’s about whether it can be built, and whether it makes sense to build. That kind of logic gives me confidence.”

Navya’s trajectory reflects the ambition behind our Cadet Program: to shape capability from the inside. Not as an internship, or a branding exercise, but as a way of integrating future leaders into the systems, decisions, and relationships that shape the built environment.

Her story also speaks to a broader truth we’re invested in: that construction is not an endpoint, but an active, thinking discipline. It draws from design, yes — but also from economics, psychology, scheduling, labour, and restraint. To work in construction is to work with constraint. And constraint, handled well, becomes clarity.

“I’m learning to think critically, take ownership, and see my growth in real time,” Navya says. “That’s what makes this opportunity invaluable.”

At Figurehead, we’re not just delivering projects. We’re building the people who will shape them. That means creating space — for learning, for dialogue, and for future leadership to emerge with purpose.

Every Figurehead project begins with a moment of intent — a tradition we call Sign and Sip. It marks the formal start of a build, but more than that, it’s a moment to pause, recognise the work ahead, and celebrate the relationships that make it all possible.

Some of these moments feel more like a homecoming. And our recent rooftop gathering at 116 Rokeby for Central Park II was exactly that.

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Familiar Faces, Shared Standards

Central Park II will deliver 27 premium residences to Malvern East, designed with restraint, refinement, and a deep understanding of place. It’s a project that reflects the values we hold close: quality in every detail, clarity in communication, and respect for the process.

The project brings together a team we know well — and trust deeply.
Developer Roulston and development partner Moda have long shared our commitment to creating considered, enduring homes.
Ewert Leaf, as lead architects, bring a thoughtful design approach that aligns with our own standards for buildability and precision.
And Jack Merlo, once again, shapes the landscape with his signature balance of structure and softness.

Behind the scenes, this project is also supported by a skilled and experienced team including O’Neill Group, Red Fire Engineers, Salta Properties, PAX Project Management, Buxton Group, and Floreancig Smith Building Surveyors. Each plays a critical role in bringing this vision to life.

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The Value of a Good Start

The event wasn’t about fanfare. It was about alignment — setting the tone for the build ahead. It reminded us why relationships matter: when the right people come together, the process becomes not just more efficient, but more rewarding.

There were a few questionable construction stories (as always), a lot of laughter, and shared optimism for what’s to come. The kind of night that confirms: the job ahead is in the right hands.

We look forward to delivering Central Park II — and to doing it with a team that knows what quality really takes.  

We’re pleased to share that Figurehead is now part of the Built Environment Channel — a curated national network of leading construction, architecture, and property professionals, sharing ideas and projects that shape how we live, work, and build.

BEC delivers industry-led content across more than 5,000 screens in architecture studios, construction offices, site sheds, client boardrooms and developer spaces — connecting ideas from site to screen in real time.

For Figurehead, this is more than just visibility. It’s about participating in a broader conversation: one that values depth, collaboration, and the intelligence of good building. It’s a chance to contribute meaningfully to the way our industry sees itself — through the quality of our work, the rigour of our delivery, and the way we think about construction as part of a larger system.

As a Melbourne-based builder, we’re proud to be recognised for the way we work — and to stand alongside those raising the standard across the built environment.

This isn’t just a conversation. It’s a call to action.

For International Women’s Day 2025, Figurehead is taking a raw, self-reflective approach to the realities women face on construction sites. In this powerful video, real stories from women are read aloud by the men on our team. These aren’t just words; they are lived experiences that demand acknowledgment, accountability, and action.

“It’s been an honour to build a culture where we protect our own, but I’m taken back, and I’m unsettled with the truth women on our sites have bravely shared.
The trepidation of our women as they tackle their professions saddens me.
I want our industry to be better. I want us to be better. No more empty approaches.”
—Joe Grasso, Founder & Managing Director, Figurehead Group

The stories are real, unfiltered experiences from women who have worked on construction sites, including at Figurehead. These stories shed light on the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated industry, covering instances of harassment, exclusion, bias, and unsafe situations. Some of the content may be confronting or distressing, but these experiences need to be heard. While some of the individuals responsible are no longer on Figurehead sites, the impact of these moments still lingers, and the cultural issues they highlight remain real today. We share these stories not to dwell on the past, but to drive change, demand accountability, and ensure that no one else has to experience them. If we want better workplaces, we need to acknowledge the reality, listen, and take action. If you find any of this distressing, please seek support. You are not alone.

Beyond IWD and the Video - what Figurehead are doing:

• Compulsory Toolbox Talks – Every active site is stopping to have real conversations about respect, inclusion, and accountability. Change starts where it matters: on site.
• Pledge for Coffee Initiative – A small action with a big impact. Site teams are committing to real cultural change, whether that’s calling out poor behaviour, making space for women’s voices, or actively supporting female colleagues.
• Appropriate Behaviour Training – Every Figurehead staff member will undertake tailored in-person training with Mariah from Flawless HR, ensuring our entire team understands what’s acceptable, what’s not, and how we all contribute to a better workplace.
• Industry Engagement – We’re pushing the conversation beyond our own sites, working with industry bodies leaders to create real, lasting change across construction.
• Internal Voting for Investment in Change – We’re letting our team decide where Figurehead should invest in driving gender equality. Staff will vote on initiatives aimed at building pathways for women, as well as practical training to equip men with the tools to support and advocate for women in construction.
• Measuring Progress Beyond IWD – The work doesn’t stop here. We’re tracking our progress, holding ourselves accountable, and ensuring that the momentum continues well beyond a single day. Cultural change takes action, commitment, and consistency—and we’re in it for the long haul.

Our industry belongs to everyone. Will you step up?

 

Thank you to our collaborators:

• Video: Ryan Gasparini
• Graphic Design: Becc Sharrock Design

For Jules, it started on the Tools

When Julian Sanfillipo first stepped onto a Figurehead site, he was a contracted carpenter, working on flux projects like Hawthorn House, Kew RSL, and Canning Street (Private Residence). His focus was clear—deliver high-quality work, problem-solving on-site, and ensure each detail was built to last.

But Figurehead saw something more—an ability to lead, coordinate, and think beyond the tools.

Julian wasn’t just building; he was managing. He was already making on-the-ground decisions, working closely with trades, and driving site productivity. Six years ago, Figurehead offered him a full-time role as a Site Supervisor, recognising his ability to balance technical expertise with leadership and communication.

"I was running sites, making decisions, and before I knew it, I was stepping into site management," Julian recalls. "It all just evolved pretty naturally."

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From Carpenter to Site Manager: Growth at Figurehead

Julian’s builder’s mindset has always shaped his approach.

"If I’m on-site, there’s a tape measure clipped to my waist—it’s a habit I’ve never shaken."

Attention to detail, a deep understanding of materials, and a practical way of thinking set him apart early on. But transitioning from working with the tools to managing full-scale builds required a broader perspective.

"I always looked at things through a builder’s lens. Now, I’ve had to widen that perspective—seeing not just the structure, but the sequencing, the teams, and the process of bringing everything together."

Now, Julian is a key player in the delivery of Lyons Place in Ballarat, working alongside Project Manager Caleb McGrath to bring the city’s soon-to-be tallest residential building to life.

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Delivering a Landmark Project in Ballarat

As Site Manager, Julian is responsible for the on-site execution of Lyons Place, a landmark development that will redefine Ballarat’s skyline.

The project has presented unique challenges, requiring careful planning, adaptability, and strong coordination between teams, trades, and consultants.

"Without a tower crane, we’ve had to rethink everything—mobile cranes, multiple setup locations, constant recalibration. You’ve got to be adaptable and think ahead."

Just as he did from the beginning, Julian approaches every challenge with a grounded, solutions-focused mindset—one that Figurehead recognised early on. His ability to work closely with consultants, contractors, and clients has made him a key part of the project’s success.

A strong working relationship with Hygge, the developer behind Lyons Place, has ensured a collaborative approach, clear communication, and shared focus on quality.

"The people here are proud, and word spreads fast. I’d like this project to feel like it’s always been here, a natural part of the streetscape."

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Investing in People, Building Stronger Teams

Julian’s story is a testament to Figurehead’s belief in recognising and fostering internal talent.

At Figurehead, site managers aren’t just hired—they’re developed. The company’s approach to investing in people, providing opportunities, and trusting emerging leaders has created a team where people like Julian can step up, take ownership, and evolve alongside the projects they deliver.

As Figurehead continues to grow its presence in Ballarat and beyond, Julian is a key part of that expansion—ensuring that every project is built with precision, efficiency, and a long-term vision.

While the tools may still be close by, his role today is about something bigger—bringing teams together, driving projects forward, and shaping the future of Figurehead’s construction leadership.

Building Momentum in Ballarat

Reaching the highest point of a build is a defining moment. It marks the transition from structure to space, from plans on paper to something tangible. At Lyons Place, this milestone was recognised at the Topping Out Ceremony—a moment to pause, reflect, and acknowledge the dedication of everyone involved.

Caleb McGrath, our Ballarat Local Project Coordinator, took to the podium to speak about what this stage represents: the hard work of countless hands, the collaboration driving the project forward, and the future we’re shaping together.

We cracked open the Zero champagne and raised a glass—not just to progress but to the relationships we’re building along the way

Why Ballarat?

Ballarat is growing. With a strong local economy, a rising demand for well-designed spaces, and a deep historical and cultural fabric, it’s a city with an exciting future.

For us, it’s not just about delivering quality builds. It’s about embedding ourselves in the community—partnering with local trades, fostering long-term relationships, and contributing to projects that shape the city’s future. Lyons Place is just the start.

More Than Buildings

At Figurehead, we build with intent. Beyond the physical structures, our work is guided by principles that define how we operate:

• Winning with purpose – Setting high standards and delivering quality outcomes.
• Making an impact – Creating spaces that serve the community long-term.
• Being resourceful – Finding smarter, more sustainable solutions.
• Applying rigour – Maintaining attention to detail and execution.
• Fostering cohesion – Working together with a shared commitment to excellence.

These values are the foundation of every project we undertake. And behind them is a team driving progress forward—including the women leading on-site, shaping the industry, and bringing fresh perspectives to the built environment.

A Shared Future

Our commitment to Ballarat is just getting started. We’re here to grow, collaborate, and contribute to the city’s future.

To our team, our partners, and the wider community—thank you for being part of this.

Here’s to what’s next.

We’re proud to announce our appointment by Pask to deliver the Edition Townhomes within Rowville’s Bankside Precinct — a project that brings together intent, precision, and enduring quality.

To mark the occasion, we hosted Sign & Sip on the rooftop of our 116 Rokeby office — stepping away from the traditional boardroom to bring project partners together in a more open, reflective setting.

Alongside Pask, we welcomed Jackson Clements Burrows Architects (JCB), HGW Projects, Measure Engineering, and WRAP Consulting Engineering for an afternoon of shared insights, alignment, and a few well-earned toasts.

Edition represents the kind of collaboration we value most — where architecture, urban planning, engineering, and construction are considered as one. With Figurehead leading the build, we’re focused on delivering a townhome precinct shaped by smart sequencing, clear methodology, and high-quality execution.

The groundwork is now laid — and the work begins.

Learn more about Edition Townhomes →

 

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We’re proud to celebrate the success of the Centre for Higher Education Studies (CHES) in South Yarra — a project that continues to receive national and international recognition for its contribution to contemporary education environments.

Delivered in collaboration with Brand Architects and Fieldwork Architects, CHES was completed in 2022 for the Victorian School Building Authority. The facility spans five levels and was designed to support high-achieving Victorian secondary students, providing access to advanced, university-level learning across a range of disciplines.

Located on Chapel Street, the project balances architectural sophistication with educational intent — from the light-filled atrium and considered materiality to the bespoke studio spaces and high-performance lighting solutions.

Since its completion, CHES has been recognised with multiple major industry awards:

2024

• Winner, New Campus with Educational Facilities – Learning Environments Australasia Design Awards

2023

• Winner, New Educational Campus – LEA VIC/TAS Chapter Awards

• Winner, Best School Project Above $10 Million – Victorian School Design Awards

• Winner, Learning Space of the Year – FRAME Awards

• Winner, Educational Architecture – Victorian Architecture Awards

• Winner, Best of State Commercial Design (VIC) – Australian Interior Design Awards

• Shortlisted, Educational Architecture – National Architecture Awards

• Shortlisted, The Learning Space – INDE. Awards

• Shortlisted, Education & Research – Sustainability Awards

The success of CHES reflects the strength of collaboration across design, engineering, and delivery — with a shared commitment to quality, clarity, and purpose.

We’re proud to have delivered this milestone education project — one that sets a new benchmark for academic environments in Victoria and beyond.

Empowering Women in Construction: Figurehead’s Trip to Ballarat

In Victoria’s construction industry, women make up just 14% of the workforce, with only 2% in onsite roles. At Figurehead, we’re working hard to change those statistics. With 24% of our team being women—including 12% in onsite roles—we’re proud to be setting a higher standard for inclusivity and opportunity in construction.

Our recent overnight trip to Ballarat exemplified this commitment, bringing together women from across the business for an inspiring day of connection, learning, and empowerment. The trip offered a unique chance to gain firsthand insights into our projects while continuing to strengthen the inclusive culture we’re building at Figurehead.

"Being surrounded by like-minded women who support, share experiences, and inspire each other was refreshing. The support from the women at Figurehead has deepened my dedication to advancing in this field." —Ramya Alamuri, Project Coordinator

The journey began with a visit to Bradmill Yarraville, where Site Manager Richard Herbert shared the progress of the exciting townhouse Development, where Figurehead are responsible for delivering the very first stage of a landmark infill Project in Melbourne's inner west.

Day 2 featured a site visit to Lyons Place, a residential project developed for Hygge in Ballarat. Site Manager Julian Sanfilippo led an in-depth walkthrough of the site, offering an engaging and detailed overview of the project. The tour highlighted the intricacies of delivering Figurehead’s first project in Ballarat, showcasing not only the architectural and construction details but also the critical learnings gained from navigating the unique challenges of working in a regional area. Julian shared insights into the logistics of managing local supply chains, fostering relationships with regional subcontractors, and maintaining Figurehead’s high standards of quality and efficiency in a new geographic market.

Our women learned how adapting to the dynamics of a regional environment—such as material availability, workforce coordination, and community engagement—plays a pivotal role in the project’s success.

The site tours highlighted not just the technical complexities of these projects, but also the opportunities for women to contribute to every aspect of the construction process. For many of our team, seeing these projects up close reinforced the importance of diverse perspectives in driving innovation and achieving excellence.

"I returned from the trip with a deep sense of unity and belonging, having spent purposeful, enriching time with the incredible women of Figurehead. I felt proud, inspired, and more committed than ever to my role in this industry." —Tilly Field, New Business Coordinator

But this trip was about more than just buildings. It was about empowering our female employees with real-world insights and fostering a sense of belonging in an industry where they remain underrepresented. Sharing experiences, learning from each other, and seeing the tangible outcomes of their contributions helped build both confidence and camaraderie.

At Figurehead, we believe that diverse teams drive better outcomes, and we’re proud to be creating pathways for women to lead and succeed in construction. The Ballarat trip was another step forward in that mission—a chance to celebrate our progress while looking ahead to an even more inclusive future.

Together, we’re not just building projects; we’re building a stronger, more equitable industry.

Figurehead Celebrates Topping Out Ceremony at The Trentham, Sandringham

Figurehead is pleased to announce the successful topping out of The Trentham in Sandringham, a major milestone celebrated alongside project partners OneToAnother Retirement Living, Buxton Group Australia, and PAX Project Management. This significant occasion marks a key point in the construction process and brings us one step closer to delivering an exceptional retirement living environment in the heart of Sandringham.

The topping out ceremony is a long-standing tradition in construction, symbolising the completion of the building’s structure and celebrating the collective effort of everyone involved in bringing the project to life. Held on-site with breathtaking views over the local area, the ceremony acknowledged the hard work, dedication, and skill of the entire team.

As part of our commitment to excellence and client satisfaction, Figurehead has worked closely with OneToAnother and all project partners to ensure that every detail of The Trentham meets our high standards for quality and functionality. This collaboration has been essential to maintaining our focus on providing a residence that prioritises comfort, convenience, and long-term value for future residents.

Joe Grasso, Managing Director at Figurehead, expressed appreciation for the teamwork and shared vision that has driven the project forward. “The topping out ceremony is a moment to pause and reflect on the progress we’ve made, recognising the effort and expertise of everyone involved. Reaching this stage reaffirms our dedication to delivering an outstanding living space for residents of OneToAnother Retirement Living, as well as our commitment to quality, client relationships, and community enrichment.”

With structural works now complete, the project team will shift focus to interior finishes and finalising key details to bring this thoughtfully designed development to completion. When finished, The Trentham will feature contemporary living spaces, high-quality amenities, and landscaped areas tailored to suit the needs of the retirement community.

The Trentham Sandringham represents Figurehead’s dedication to delivering high-quality, purpose-driven residential developments that enhance the lives of residents and strengthen communities. As the project nears its final stages, Figurehead is committed to upholding the high standards that have been integral to the journey so far.

 

Sod-Turning Ceremony Celebrates the Start of Bradmill Yarraville’s Transformation

A significant milestone was reached this October at the Bradmill Yarraville site, as Figurehead joined Frasers Property Australia and Rothelowman in marking the beginning of construction for the highly anticipated Pioneer Townhomes. This sod-turning event symbolises the start of a new chapter for the historic site, which once housed a bustling textile manufacturing plant until its closure 17 years ago.

Key representatives from Figurehead, Frasers Property, and Rothelowman gathered to celebrate this milestone, each bringing essential expertise to this ambitious redevelopment. As the builder for the initial stages, Figurehead is honoured to contribute its knowledge and skills to a landmark project set to transform this long-neglected site into a vibrant community.

The Bradmill Pioneer Townhomes are the first residences to be constructed within Bradmill, with 44 homes scheduled for completion by the end of 2025.
These townhomes pay homage to the site’s rich history with thoughtful industrial design details, such as kitchen benches inspired by the steel-framed garment tables once used by Bradmill workers, and industrial-style brushed nickel tapware that nods to the site’s past.

As the construction of Bradmill begins, Figurehead is honoured to play a key role in bringing this vision to life, marking the start of what promises to be an exciting future for Bradmill Yarraville. We forward to continuing their partnership with Frasers Property and Rothelowman, and to sharing more milestones as this transformative project progresses.

To learn more about Bradmill Yarraville, please visit Frasers Property Australia’s Bradmill project page.

 

We’re proud to share that our DECJUBA Head Office project was recognised at the 2024 Master Builders Association of Victoria Awards, taking home the award for Best Sustainable Project Under $30M.

Originally conceived as a brutalist concrete structure, the project underwent a significant transformation through close collaboration with our consultant team. The final result is a 5 Star Green Star-rated hybrid structure that integrates green concrete with locally sourced cross-laminated timber (CLT) and glue-laminated timber (GLT), demonstrating a shared commitment to sustainability and innovation in commercial construction.

Project Team

• Architect: Jackson Clements Burrows Architects (JCB)

• CLT Supply: XLAM

• GLT Supply: Australian Sustainable Hardwoods (ASH)

• Client-side Project Management: SEMZ

We were also proud to be named finalists in the Commercial $20M–$30M category for two additional projects:

• Everlane by MONNO

• Osprey — our own boutique low-rise apartment development

Congratulations to everyone involved. These acknowledgements reflect the care, creativity, and technical excellence that define our approach across all sectors.

We are excited to announce that Figurehead Construction has been appointed by Frasers Property Australia to build the first residences in the Bradmill Yarraville community, a significant project that marks a new chapter for this iconic Melbourne site.

We will commence with the construction of 44 Pioneer Townhomes in Stage 1, followed by an additional 47 townhomes in Stage 2. Construction is set to begin in September 2024, with the Pioneer Townhomes expected to be completed by September 2025.

The Pioneer Townhomes, designed by Rothelowman, feature two- and three-story layouts that pay homage to the site's history as a textile factory. The design incorporates elements inspired by the old factory's heritage, including joinery using frames and timber reminiscent of the garment tables, and brushed nickel tapware that reflects the style of the era.

With more than half of Stage 1 already sold, the remaining townhomes are priced from $1,295,000 to $1,650,000, offering a range of three to four-bedroom homes with varying configurations and amenities.

Figurehead Construction has a proven track record of delivering exceptional projects across Melbourne, including the expansion of Clifton Hill Primary School, the transformation of Prahran’s historic Station Hotel into 41 apartments, and the construction of Decjuba’s striking headquarters in Cremorne. Our commitment to quality and innovation has been recognized with multiple awards, including the 2024 Excellence in Construction Innovation award from The Urban Developer and the 2023 Excellence in Construction of Commercial Buildings award from Master Builders Victoria.

Joe Grasso, our founder and managing director, expressed his enthusiasm for the project: “We’re thrilled to bring our skills and craftsmanship to Bradmill Yarraville. This is exactly the kind of project we aspire to build—one that respects heritage, incorporates sustainable principles, and enhances the community.”

Bradmill Yarraville is set on a 26-hectare site, just 2.6 kilometres from Yarraville railway station and village, a neighbourhood recognized as one of the world’s coolest by Time Out in 2020. The development will feature preserved heritage buildings, including the iconic boiler house, and will be complemented by a 1.5-hectare linear park, retail and dining precincts, and a range of community amenities.

Upon completion, Bradmill Yarraville will include approximately 680 townhomes and up to 750 apartments, accommodating around 3,500 residents in a vibrant, sustainable community that has already earned a 6-star Green Star Communities rating.

Stay tuned for more updates as we begin construction on this exciting project.

 

Links: Bradmill builder announced | Maribyrnong & Hobsons Bay (starweekly.com.au)
Builder chosen for first homes on Frasers Property’s historic Bradmill site
Frasers Reaps Harvest of Western Corridor Demand | The Urban Developer

At the start of his career, Joe Grasso might have been surprised to hear he’d be asked to comment on sustainability in 2024.

However, with 16 years as Founder and Managing Director of Figurehead Construction, Joe says business has always been about integrity in every interaction. This principle guides Figurehead's approach to staff, clients, contractors, consultants, and the end users of building projects.

At The Urban Developer's Urbanity 2024, Joe discussed the practical challenges and strategic initiatives required to achieve net-zero emissions in the property development sector. He drew from Figurehead's experiences, particularly the development of their new office, 116 Rokeby.

The office aims to set a benchmark for environmental responsibility in the construction industry. At the conference, Grasso clarified that pursuing sustainable development in the short term posed financial risks. Flipping the mindset with a long-term perspective on the asset's value, Figurehead embraced these challenges, recognising the essential nature of sustainability credentials for future viability.

Read more: Net-Zero Nation Building: Industry Push or Policy Shove? | TUD

116 Rokeby: Figurehead's Innovative, Net Zero Headquarters in Collingwood

116 Rokeby, located in Collingwood, was designed with a clear focus on sustainability. It features state-of-the-art design innovations such as a double-skin façade and all-electric energy systems.

These innovations, along with the use of renewable energy sources, significantly contribute to the building's energy efficiency and carbon neutrality. The development has attained high sustainability ratings, including a Platinum WELL Certification and a 5.5-Star NABERS Energy rating for Carbon Neutral operations, setting a new standard for commercial buildings in Melbourne.

Read More: How Melbourne's City of Yarra is pioneering zero-carbon commercial developments
Video Feature: 116 Rokeby by Carr & Figurehead - The Local Project
Offices Now Leasing: 116rokeby.com.au

 

Best Sustainable Commercial Project Under $30M: Decjuba's Greenstar Office in Cremorne

Innovations in building materials and techniques are making sustainable building more achievable. Advances such as green concrete, which reduces the carbon footprint associated with traditional concrete, are paving the way for more environmentally friendly construction sites. Decjuba, a renowned Australian fashion retailer, has transformed its approach under the guidance of its visionary leadership at the final hour.

What started as a brutalist concrete design was completely reimagined to meet 5-star Greenstar standards.

Figurehead worked closely with consultants to incorporate green concrete, which has a much lower carbon footprint, and locally sourced cross-laminated timber (CLT) and glue-laminated timber (GLT). These materials aren’t just better for the environment—they also add a warm, natural aesthetic to the building. E.g., instead of sticking to a full concrete structure, we used CLT for the floors and walls, and GLT for the columns. This not only reduced the carbon impact but also sped up construction since these timber elements were prefabricated off-site. And we didn’t stop there. The building’s energy efficiency was boosted by conducting airtightness testing to ensure it meets top-tier standards for energy performance and indoor air quality.

Master Builders Victoria recognised the project in their 2024 Excellence in Construction Awards.

Pictured: Figurehead Site Manager Richard Herbert, Project Manager Adrian DiCosmo & Director Joe Grasso

Read more: 2024 Master Builders Victoria Excellence in Construction Awards

Joe Grasso expressed, "There's definitely alignment with Decjuba as both our companies strive towards similar goals. We're proving that sustainable practices are not only good for the planet, but also for business. It’s about setting a precedent that, we hope, will inspire others in our industry and beyond."

When Figurehead took on Clifton Hill Primary School, the project was at 70% completion, but critical challenges remained. Construction defects, delays, and structural concerns needed to be addressed before the school could open its doors to students. Engaged by the Victorian School Building Authority (VSBA), our role was to rectify outstanding issues, restore progress, and ensure a high-quality, fully operational learning environment.

This was more than just delivering a finished building—it was about ensuring the school was built to last, meeting the needs of students, staff, and the wider community.

The Challenge: Rebuilding More Than Just a Structure

With construction stalled, Figurehead inherited a complex landscape of unresolved issues, the most pressing being significant water damage to the Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) structure. Timber that should have been strong and resilient had absorbed moisture, jeopardising its integrity and longevity. Left unchecked, this could have compromised not just the project timeline, but the safety and quality of the building itself.

Beyond the physical challenges, the project had also lost momentum. Subcontractors had withdrawn, stakeholders were uncertain, and trust needed to be rebuilt. A school is not just a building; it is a foundation for growth, learning, and community. Every decision we made was with the students, staff, and families in mind.

Our Approach: A Blueprint for Progress

Delivering Clifton Hill Primary School the Figurehead way meant adopting a strategic, solutions-focused approach, balancing technical precision with strong leadership and proactive stakeholder engagement.

1. Restoring the Structural Integrity of CLT

We implemented a meticulous moisture control strategy to bring the timber back to structural compliance. Using industrial dehumidifiers over 12 weeks—including an accelerated works program during the Christmas period—we dried out the timber, ensuring it met strict quality and safety benchmarks.

2. Re-engaging Subcontractors & Rebuilding Trust

Many subcontractors were hesitant to return after the project’s earlier disruptions. To restore confidence, we met with each team individually, revised their scopes of work, clarified project expectations, and established a transparent, collaborative process. With strong communication, clear deliverables, and leadership that put problem-solving at the forefront, we reassembled a committed workforce and regained project momentum.

3. Accelerating the Program Without Compromise

The school had a clear deadline—students were waiting, and delays were not an option. We took a proactive approach to scheduling, increasing collaboration with VSBA, and implementing an accelerated program that saw key milestones met without sacrificing quality.

By working through the Christmas period, increasing on-site resources, and tightening coordination between all stakeholders, we delivered a school that was not just completed—but completed to the highest standard.

The Outcome: A School That Stands for More

Clifton Hill Primary School is now a fully realised, multi-level vertical campus, designed to integrate seamlessly with its surroundings while providing students with a dynamic and forward-thinking learning environment.

With state-of-the-art classrooms, flexible breakout spaces, a rooftop garden, and a gymnasium, the school is more than just a place of education—it is an inspiring environment where students can thrive. Sustainability was embedded into the project, with Passivhaus principles and energy-efficient systems ensuring the school is built for long-term resilience and performance.

This project stands as a testament to Figurehead’s ability to overcome adversity, drive quality outcomes, and deliver spaces that genuinely impact communities.

Because at the heart of every project we build, it’s never just about the structure—it’s about the people, the purpose, and the future it shapes.

Figurehead | Built for the Next Generation.

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Published 27 June on Urban.com.au

Golden Age has appointed Figurehead Construction to construct its second Glen Waverley project, Floret.

Figurehead have already kicked off construction of the 77-townhouse project on Ferntree Gully Road, which was approved by the local council just over a year ago.

Golden Age has sold 80 per cent of its Stage 1 release with new park front lots brought forward to cater to demand. Within a day of release, 40 per cent were snapped up, demonstrating the need for architecturally-designed townhomes in the growing suburb.

Designed by leading architectural firm Rothelowman, the Floret townhomes are designed to be sensitive to the site’s existing context, while capitalising on an opportunity to deliver an outstanding architectural response that will set a new standard for townhouses within the area.

“Their commitment to a conservative and robust design and delivery model aligns with our obligation to our key stakeholders, the end users of our product," Grasso said.

“Figurehead Construction has specialised in the delivery of townhomes since its inception in 2007, and for us, it’s important in this challenging climate that we partner with a reputable team, and take on projects we have a track record of delivering to a high standard."

Golden Age Founder and Managing Director Jeff Xu said Figurehead Construction is known for producing results of the highest calibre, something Golden Age Group strives for in the final product of their developments.

 

 

“Figurehead has an extensive and diverse portfolio of more than 100 completed projects, all with unwavering quality," Xu said

"Collectively, we are eager to deliver a thorough and proactive approach to this project as it is one that will lift the standard within the area."

By using the same architecture and landscape team (Aspect Studios) as Sky Garden, Golden Age's first project in Glen Waverley above The Glen Shopping Centre, Golden Age’s project will seek to put the community at the heart, offering an array of resident amenities, complemented by extensive gardens in a secure neighbourhood that is ideal for raising families.

 

 

The layouts of each townhouse are conducive to multi-generational living with ensuite ground-level bedrooms featuring courtyard access for greater privacy, while the kitchen and living areas serve as connection points.

In response to post-pandemic lifestyles which see more professionals working from home, the three-level townhouses offer much-needed separation from the ground-floor offices and higher-level living areas.

Construction is scheduled for completion in Q1 2025.

 

 

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Building for what’s next

The Centre for Higher Education Studies (CHES) is a facility for high-performing senior secondary students, designed to bridge the gap between school and university. Built in Melbourne’s South Yarra for the Victorian School Building Authority, CHES delivers on a bold pedagogical brief: create a place that feels rigorous, open-ended, and future-facing.

For us, it was also a technical challenge. A narrow block. A complex easement. High-voltage lines running the street frontage. And a structure that had to carry architectural intent, while negotiating a high-rise directly on the title boundary.

The kind of job that doesn’t offer shortcuts—just steady progress, and the need to think clearly at every step.

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Light, structure, and clarity

The heart of the design is a full-height atrium—a vertical volume that draws daylight deep into the footprint, enabling every level to breathe. A Raico hybrid timber-aluminium glazing system wraps the internal façade, lined with Victorian Ash. Above, an ETFE roof system—lightweight, double-skin, and imported from Germany—delivers thermal control and diffused natural light without overloading the structure.

It’s not decorative. It’s deliberate. On a site like this, light is structural too.

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A material education

CHES isn’t finished in a traditional sense. Much is left visible on purpose—timber columns, concrete slabs, galvanised ductwork, electrical runs, and fixing systems. Students don’t just use the building; they learn from how it’s made.

The structural system balances laminated timber with concrete to reduce embodied carbon. Compressed fibre-cement wall panels and Woodwool ceilings add acoustic warmth. Floor finishes shift in tone from level to level, creating subtle visual cues to aid orientation.

It’s an environment that respects detail—down to the way light lands on a handrail or the shift in underfoot texture between teaching and breakout zones.

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Anchored in site, open to the street

The ground level sets the tone. A generous lobby opens into a reception, café, and shared student hub, connecting CHES with its public interface on Chapel Street. A 275-seat auditorium—equipped for lectures, assemblies, and community use—opens onto a west-facing terrace that links directly to the adjacent Melbourne High School.

Externally, the pre-cast concrete façade is softened with integrated planting, giving the building a presence that’s civic without being performative. Views out are framed by greenery. Views in are partial—just enough to suggest the activity within, not reduce it to display.

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Designed to adapt

Each learning space is positioned around the central void, ensuring equal access to light, air, and outlook—whether across the atrium or toward the street and terrace. State-of-the-art AV systems enable hybrid and remote learning across the state. Breakout nooks and transition spaces are treated with the same care as classrooms, enabling students to move between focus and rest with ease.

Up top, a roof terrace offers outdoor learning and teacher breakout space, shaded by a solar-panel pergola feeding energy back into the building.

Across every level, CHES was built to accommodate learning modes that haven’t been invented yet. Its systems are future-proofed. Its logic is legible. Its finish is robust without being severe.

Built to endure

There’s no flourish here for flourish’s sake. No detail that doesn’t carry weight.

CHES is a building that supports the work of education without distracting from it. And for us, that’s the real reward: turning a complex site and a high-spec brief into something that feels resolved, lasting, and quietly ambitious.

We’re proud to have built it.

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Rethinking the Beach House: Architectural Marina Apartments

The Beach House is loved for providing relaxation, escape, and a place to connect with loved ones and nature–but they can be extravagant and require constant upkeep. This was the experience that inspired Osprey Apartments: a collaboration between Figurehead Construction and Wolveridge Architects.

Two and Three-bedroom coastal apartments with secure parking and storage options, lift access, and maintained gardens offer Osprey residents their own piece of breathtaking architecture and landscape, without personal toll.

An exciting feature of these apartments is the ‘lightwell breezeway’ entrances to each of the boutique apartments. This architectural technique provides crossflow ventilation and access to natural light–as well as a place for shoes and towels, at the same time preserving security.

“We wanted to offer Martha Cove apartments that utilise sophisticated design and construction practices to feel light, bright, and use space better. Quality architecture shouldn’t be reserved for oversized homes only,” says Joe Grasso, Founder and Managing Director of Figurehead Group, developer and builder at Osprey, Martha Cove.

 

 

Figurehead are an industry-leading builder with a reputation for delivering award-winning outcomes of exceptional quality, including Martha Cove’s The Moorings, Wheelhouse, and two Boat Storage Facilities for Boatyard by d’Albora.

 

For more information on Osprey Coastal apartments, from $865K-1.6M.
Contact Ian Ross: 0404868470

 

ospreymarthacove.com.au

Figurehead Construction have achieved the Australian Government’s certification as a Climate Active Organisation.

“Our business employs 70 people and is responsible for circa $100million of construction projects each year including residential, commercial, industrial and government; but our entire team is motivated to help our community beyond those buildings,” said Joe Grasso, Figurehead Group Founder & Managing Director.

Acknowledging the construction industry’s impact on the environment and wanting to do better – Figurehead have spent the last 24 months undergoing emissions testing and assessment and investing in adequate offsets to achieve Climate Active Carbon Neutral Organisation status.

“We believe it’s the right thing to do, and hope that the rest of our industry follow suit,” Joe continues.

 

What is Climate Active?

Certification under Climate Active is made by the Australian Government against best practice carbon accounting standards and remains the most robust measure to publicly disclose carbon neutrality in Australia.

“We engaged Energy Consultants ARUP to provide advice on how to start this process – and Climate Active was the most reputable way to understand our impact and ultimately do better,” he says.

 

 

From offsetting to reductions: calls for major change in construction

Reducing emissions in the construction industry is complex, with supply and manufacturing of materials a key contributor.

Building and construction are responsible for 39% of all carbon emissions in the world[1], (including manufacturing of materials); emphasising incredible opportunity in this sector.

Construction industry volatility, “particularly around increasing costs to our supply chain, which has been shaken by international events creates real risk for builders,” Grasso says, “you only have to Google Australian Construction Industry to see the challenges we are facing today,” he continues.

“Addressing climate change can seem far less urgent than pure survival, so you can see why builders might be resistant. Our team are passionate that we need to do something about this right now, from junior to senior staff.”

“We need to start somewhere. Offsetting our impact and encouraging subcontractors to use materials more efficiently, reusing and recycling products as well as minimising waste is within our direct control right now, and that’s what is important to Figurehead,” he said.

Limiting climate change will require major transitions, critically analysing the way we build, and having Government support to assist with supply chain issues and encourage production of sustainable materials that are economically viable.

For basic materials, including steel, building materials and chemicals, low- to zero-greenhouse gas production processes are at pilot stage, so it will take some time to become viable and economical for the industry to utilise, given the importance of Australian building and safety standards.

 

 

Achieving Sustainable Development Goals

 

Accelerated and equitable climate action in mitigating and adapting to climate change impacts is critical to sustainable development.

116 Rokeby is a symbol of Figurehead’s recognition of the urgency and ongoing requirements for a more sustainable future, and its enduring commitment to deliver high-quality architecture that minimises its environmental impact.

Inspired by the Traditional Owners of the land, the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung, and their prevailing commitment to sustainability, this benchmark project harnesses Wurundjeri Elder, Uncle Bill Nicholson’s powerful mantra, “not harming so much”.

From the outset, Figurehead has worked closely with ARUP — experts in sustainable development — to define a building concept that has the capability to meet and exceed the latest building design and performance standards for a mixed-mode building.

“This has been one of my favourite projects in recent years, with a beautiful outcome that delivers an all-electric, double skinned, mixed-mode, zero carbon in operation boutique office building.”– Richard Stokes, Sustainable Buildings Leader, ARUP

In addition to environmental impact and sustainability, impact on the traditional owners of the land has been a consideration Figurehead, who commenced cultural awareness training for staff and will proudly display an Aboriginal art commission in consultation with the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation.

“Representing the traditional owners of the land we are developing at 116 Rokeby reinforces our purpose to consider all aspects of the building,” says Figurehead Property Investments Manager Joe Allman, “involving Elders and making a permanent statement of respect and inclusion for future generations of First Nations people is another way to create a positive impact at our future office,” he said.

The art commission will be a collaboration between Lowell Hunter and Gerard Black in consultation with Uncle Bill Nicholson of the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation.

116 Rokeby has commenced construction by Figurehead Construction in Collingwood with completion targeted for early 2024.

 

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Located in an emerging pocket of thriving Collingwood, 116 Rokeby, an 11-level office building has been designed exclusively for design, property and construction companies who share a passion for premium spaces and a commitment to considered impact.

An understanding of the changing needs of an office building informed the Carr design of ‘a breathing space,’ where work, sustainability and lifestyle converge. The “vertical village” at 116 Rokeby features a communal rooftop with kitchen and ground floor café offering, and premium end-of-trip facilities redefine the role of the office to create a series of flexible spaces for changing needs of office workers.

“We’ve created a building that deeply considers work-life integration,” explains Rebecca Trenorden, Carr Associate Director.

“One of the main things COVID showed us is the deep need for social connection and great amenities, and this ability to have a building community where likeminded tenants share a space that’s so connected is very rare.”

Figurehead Group are the developer and builder of 116 Rokeby, with Figurehead and Flux Construction teams set to occupy two floors of the building.

Joe Grasso, Founder and Managing Director, Figurehead Group has a vision for the building to become a hub for like-minded professionals who appreciate design and innovation.

“We want the space to be inspiring, and motivate people to come and do their best work,” Joe says.

“Our business is focused on continuous improvement, ensuring we produce a product that’s the absolute best in market.

116 Rokeby is a part of this story, and the building features spaces to support innovation and ensure the office is a great place to work.”

Sustainability and Innovation

Sustainability has been deeply considered in every aspect of 116 Rokeby — inside and out — to set a new benchmark in environmental and wellness credentials in this emerging commercial precinct. Targeting Platinum WELL™, 5.5-Star NABERS and Climate Active Carbon Neutral Building Certification, 116 Rokeby is an exemplar of how considered design can have a positive impact on the environment and the people that interact with the space.

A key inclusion is the double-skin northern façade. An exemplar of both form and function, utilising automatic sensor-controlled blinds and a plenum to perform an impactful chimney stack effect with great impact on energy saving. It naturally heats and cools the building, whilst improving internal amenity through clear glazing and an abundance of natural light.

“The diaphanous northern façade at 116 Rokeby has environmental sustainability innovation at its core,” says Stephen McGarry, Carr Associate Director.

First Nations Collaboration

Another first, 116 Rokeby will also have a commissioned artwork imprinted into the concrete southern façade as a respectful acknowledgment of the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people and a representation of Figurehead’s journey and commitment to reconciliation. The artwork, ‘Reflections of a Breathing Space’, is a collaboration by two First Nations artists: NAIDOC Creative Talent of the Year in 2022, sand artist, Lowell Hunter, and painter, illustrator and digital artist, Gerard Black.

"The intention of this artwork is to respectfully acknowledge the Traditional Owners of this land, of which 116 Rokeby St Collingwood resides upon today,” First Nations Sand Artist Lowell Hunter says of the artwork collaboration with Figurehead.

“By committing to working respectfully with First Nations people you start to develop a deeper sense of the rich and strong culture that exists within our communities - this is something that we should all embrace and be proud of,” he continues.

Construction at 116 Rokeby has commenced; with completion due in early 2024.

There will be seven floors available for lease; details available via request at 116rokeby.com.au