No community like this: Redefining community living in Melbourne’s oldest suburb
Once Melbourne’s first seaport town, Williamstown is now home to a connected, walkable community that offers everyday convenience while preserving the suburb’s distinctive character.
As the demand for lifestyle focused communities surge, Waterline Place by AVJennings, as part of AVID Property Group (AVID), has found the right balance of offering independence, connection and convenience for the broad community that resides in Williamstown.
Long term Williamstown resident Chris Dent moved to Waterline Place as a downsizer, drawn in by its location which offered her a sense of community connection and convenience.
“When I downsized, it was important to have a home that still gave me space to live the way I wanted, including room for guests and, importantly, a dedicated sewing room which is something I really love,” Chris said.
“What makes Waterline Place special is the sense of community here – it isn’t just an apartment building, we have all formed strong friendships with social groups and regular dinners at local restaurants, so there is always an opportunity to connect.
“I feel incredibly safe and secure here, and the 360 views from the rooftop terrace of the water and the city give me something different to look at all the time.”
AVID General Manager Victoria Penny Forrest said Chris’ experience reflected growing demand from downsizers and over 50s buyers seeking well-located homes that support lifestyle, connection and long-term liveability.
“The communities that resonate most strongly are those that make daily life easier while also giving people a genuine sense of place,” Ms Forrest said.
“At Waterline Place, that has meant drawing on Williamstown’s past while planning for how people want to live now - close to amenities, connected to neighbours and part of a community with its own distinct identity.”
The development placed a strong focus on respecting the nostalgia and heritage of the area, while understanding the local market to deliver thoughtfully planned public spaces and future conveniences such as ground floor access to boutique retail and grocery offerings.
Ms Forrest said Waterline Place had been carefully planned to respond to Williamstown’s history while supporting the needs of residents now and into the future.
“Williamstown has such a strong identity, and a major focus for us was the importance of creating a community that felt genuinely connected to its setting,” Ms Forrest said.
“While not designed to solely cater to the downsizer and retiree market, we’ve seen significant demand from these buyers for Waterline Place due to its prime positioning and amenities which offer residents convenience and a sense of community.
“With the majority of ‘Generation X’ to hit preservation age in the next decade and look to retirement, the demand for over 50s living and communities tailored for this stage of life is only set to rise.
“Through Vantage, our new resort-style land lease communities, we are planning to grow our over 50s offering across Victoria and nationally, with a focus on locations where residents can access the amenity, services and social connection that support a more active and convenient lifestyle.”
With only a few residences remaining, visit the Waterline Place website.
