It’s lights, camera and plenty of action in Richmond’s most sought-after pocket as one of Australia’s leading retirement enterprises, Keyton, announces the completion of its first highend Ardency retirement project in Victoria.
Located on the former Nine Network site, Ardency Kennedy Place is named as a nod to ‘The King’ of Australian television, Graham Kennedy, and brings a new standard of living for retirees.
Designed by award-winning architecture practice, Bates Smart, the nine level, 116-apartment residential development boasts a stunning 210sqm rooftop terrace with uninterrupted city views, a double-height lobby and arrival lounge reminiscent of a 5-star luxury hotel, a largescale indoor pool and wellness centre, a central alfresco courtyard, library and plenty of other function and activity spaces devoted to connection and wellness.
Ensuring the site’s glamorous screen heritage is not forgotten, Ardency Kennedy Place also features a magnificent 30-seat cinema and the ‘Kennedy Club’ residents lounge, sure to bring smiles from over 70 residents who have already moved in this month.
The development is the latest addition to Keyton’s portfolio of 76 retirement living properties and villages across Australia, and is without doubt a unique offering. It brings a level of luxury not yet seen in retirement living in inner-city Melbourne, together with a contemporary design that acknowledges the rich site history, integrated within an intergenerational precinct spanning residential, retirement and in future, proposed aged care.
“Ardency redefines retirement living with five-star personal services and amenities at the heart of a vibrant and connected community. We have embraced heritage in more than just name, honouring the site’s legacy in our design by creating a precinct with onsite café and provedore, together with the Richmond Community Learning Centre, for families and friends to gather,” said CEO Nathan Cockerill.
“Ardency Kennedy Place’s location brings everything residents are looking for within reach – the CBD is only four kilometres away with just a short walk to trams and Burnley Station, and the Yarra and its beautiful riverside walks are a within strolling distance for a nature break.
The proximity to public transport, city, parks and gardens helps residents maintain their independence and provides an opportunity to stay close to family, friends and their existing social and support networks,” Cockerill said.
Built in 1908, the site was originally home to Wertheim Pianos, before being bought by Heinz and then reinvented as the Nine Network studios. Externally, the architectural design of Ardency Kennedy Place draws inspiration from the iconic Federation-era red brick of neighbouring Bendigo Street, while paying homage to the Nine studio’s colourful past.
The mix of one, two and three bedroom apartments (currently priced from $990,000) are spacious, flooded with natural light and feature colour palettes that blend neutral tones with warm textures and luxurious fittings. An incredible seven penthouses (two of which are already sold) enjoy both city and leafy aspects with terraces spanning 25 to 105sqm.
“The design approach for Ardency Kennedy Place was to blend functionality, comfort and aesthetics, catering specifically to individuals in a retirement context. The generous proportioned apartments mimic a family home environment where the warm and neutral tones allow for layered personal expression and individuality of residents,” said Mark Healey, Director at Bates Smart.
On site health, wellbeing and beauty services are complemented with a 12-hour daily concierge service, 24 hour emergency call system and room service are also planned – ensuring this boutique, community lifestyle living will rival the experience of a hotel. Private transport, including minibus, will operate daily.
For more information or to book a personalised tour, call 1800 550 550 or visit Ardencykennedyplace.com.au. A complimentary interior design masterclass by Coco Republic will be hosted in the brand new display apartment on 16 November from 3-5pm.
Ardency Kennedy Place amenities:
• Gym, library, art and craft workshop, yoga and Pilates studio, wellness centre, heated indoor swimming pool, 30-seat cinema, hair and beauty salon
• ‘Kennedy Club’ rooftop residents’ lounge with Wertheim grand piano, city views terrace, teppanyaki grills as well as rooftop vegetable and herb garden
• Café and provedore now open and operating
• A variety of on-site Allied Health services including Physiotherapy, Podiatry, Nutritionist and Remedial massage are available to optimise general wellbeing. The following classes are currently available: Yoga, Pilates, Aqua Aerobics and Fitness (one-on-one and group)
• Concierge service from 8am to 8pm, 7 days a week. A dedicated team assists with a wide array of services, including pharmacy pick-up/delivery, dry cleaning and laundry, parcel receiving and storage, travel/tour planning and bookings, and private event management for occasions such as resident birthdays and anniversaries.
• 24-hour emergency call system, onsite medical services, in-room dining options, private bus transport, dedicated Ardency manager and gardener
About Ardency:
Ardency is the premium brand from Keyton (formerly Lendlease Retirement Living), who for more than 30 years, has evolved to become a leading developer, owner and operator of vibrant purpose built communities for independent seniors. Keyton is committed to creating environments that empower people to lead enriching lifestyles and pursue whatever makes them happy.
* Photo by Peter Clarke: peterclarke.com.au
