Figurehead has been appointed to deliver Carpe Group’s Derby No.32, an exclusive collection of 32 architecturally designed residences in the heart of Collingwood. With construction set to commence in September, we gathered to celebrate this milestone and raise a glass before works begin.
Made in Collingwood
Developed by Carpe Group in partnership with INT.RE Kajima Group, Derby No.32 brings together architecture by Warren and Mahoney, interiors by Edwina Glenn and construction by Figurehead.
"On behalf of Carpe and the development department at Intre Kajima, I'd like to thank Joe and Dylan for hosting everyone today and bringing all the teams together," reflected Stuart Kacir, Carpe Group Co-Director. "It really feels like there's a strong alignment of cultures in the room, and we got that sense right from the start. We've been very impressed with the Figurehead team and we're looking forward to getting started. "
The project nestles into its surroundings with a light-brickwork facade, offering a contemporary take on Collingwood's rich industrial history. The frontages on Cambridge, Derby and Langridge streets promise to maximise daylight and view corridors for all apartments in the 811sqm site, located mere minutes away from the construction partner's award-winning HQ 116 Rokeby, built by Figurehead. Internally, the residences feature generous planning, custom joinery, natural stone and a considered selection of finishes across 2- and 3-bedroom offerings.
Signed & Underway
Ahead of construction commencing, Carpe Group, Figurehead and key project partner teams came together for a Sign & Sip event to mark the builder's formal appointment and celebrate the next stage of Derby No.32. An afternoon of conversation and shared anticipation as the project prepares to move from design into delivery.
Figurehead New Business Manager, Dylan Mercer and Carpe Group Director Stuart Kacir each shared a few words before signing a commemorative contract to celebrate the partnership.
"At Figurehead we really value our relationships and we we like to build a strong relationship from the start of the project, working diligently together to ultimately deliver something we're all really proud of," shared Dylan. "Carpe Group, Stuart and Tim, have done a great job assembling this team, and we can't wait to have a project where we can see the crane from our office in Collingwood. Thank you for trusting us with this project - we hope it's the first of many together."
Stuart added,
"I’d like to acknowledge Sarah Stock and the Three Sixty° team for achieving the sales they have in the current market. It’s a real testament to the work Nick Deans and the architects, the interior design team, and the broader consultant team have done to bring the project to where it is today. I’d also like to acknowledge John Jorgensen, who has been our contract referee throughout the process.”
A Strong Multi-Residential Portfolio
Derby No.32 will draw on Figurehead's extensive capability in delivering high-end multi-residential projects, translating ambitious architectural visions into refined, enduring built outcomes. This expertise is demonstrated through a strong track record of premium residential projects across Victoria, including Central Park 2, Lyons Place, Osprey and Rondure House. This project's complex inner-city setting and exacting architectural design will require the Figurehead construction team to work collaboratively with the developer, consultants and trades to deliver Derby No.32 as a building of lasting quality.
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."
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.
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."
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.