The team behind Merrifield – Barry Murphy, MDG Landscape Architects

A key feature of Merrifield will be its beautiful urban planning and landscaping. Barry Murphy of MDG Landscape Architects has extensive experience in urban design – including at Aurora Estate in Epping and Sanctuary Lakes in Point Cook – but he is particularly excited about Merrifield.

“The scope is huge at Merrifield which is really exciting,” said Mr Murphy. “We’re responsible for the urban design or overall layout of Merrifield Living, as well as the landscape architecture that will include the streets, parks and other open spaces.”

Developers MAB Corporation and Gibson Property Corporation have been clear on the main “theme” for Merrifield’s landscape.

“It is simple – a luscious, green environment,” said Mr Murphy. “This leads to all sorts
of possibilities but the focus is urban and contemporary landscaping which emphasises Merrifield’s beautiful, vast open spaces.”

Mr Murphy said that Merrifield may just look like paddocks at the moment but the vision for the
development is impressive and well considered.

“We give great thought to how residents will want to live and engage with their community,” said Mr Murphy. “An example is that we have designed the streets to include off-road cycle paths that will allow families to move easily between the parks, without having to ride on the road with their kids. It is simple but important.

“It’s all about arranging things so that future residents can have a high quality environment and lifestyle.”

The planning of neighbourhood parks and open spaces is a priority said Mr Murphy.

“Our parks will cater for a family barbecue, kick to kick with the kids, taking your grandchildren for a play in the playground, having a quiet read in a beautiful environment, soaking up a few rays, meeting the girls after playgroup for a chat while the toddlers are happily ensconced in the playground – essentially all sorts of things,” said Mr Murphy. “By getting these elements right, our parks become places where you can meet your neighbours, find new friends and generally become part of the Merrifield community.”

Mr Murphy said that over the next 6-12 months, the key priorities are constructing the Merrifield entrance and first neighbourhood park.

“Landscape works should start mid-2014
and since there is quite a bit of work, the construction is likely to take up to five months,” said Mr Murphy. “But by the end of the year, we’ll have a beautiful entrance boulevard, complete with a unique artwork, and an amazing park with a huge playground that caters to all ages and abilities, a substantial picnic shelter and barbecue facilities as well as a flexible grass area for more active pursuits.”

“I am really excited about bringing these plans to life.” – Barry Murphy