Stella Maris: Geelong's most expensive apartment

Acclaimed developer MONNO has officially completed Stella Maris, its landmark luxury residential development in Rippleside, marking a defining moment for high-end living in regional Victoria. 

Centred around the heritage-listed St Helens mansion, designed by Rothelowman, and delivered by IBC, the exclusive waterfront address delivers 52 refined apartments and three townhomes, setting a new benchmark for architectural excellence, lifestyle amenity and contemporary coastal sophistication in Geelong.

MONNO managing director Geno Hubay said Stella Maris represented a once in a generation opportunity for
Geelong.

“Stella Maris introduces a new calibre of contemporary refined and sophisticated living to Geelong, redefining
expectations through a curated and informed vision for luxury, lifestyle and long-term liveability, it's the
culmination of years of meticulous planning, collaboration and craftsmanship,” Geno said.

Externally, Rothelowman’s vision responds directly to the development's waterfront position, with contemporary, minimalist lines and sculpted forms that are both confident, and restrained. 

Layered façades combine considered materiality, including concrete and timber, to capture light, frame expansive views and gently blur the transition between building and landscape. 

Referencing the natural tones and textures of its coastal setting, the architecture balances solidity and openness, creating a sense of permanence while remaining visually connected to Corio Bay and the Rippleside neighbourhood.

Rothelowman principal and regional local Chris Exner said the design approach was centred on balancing
contemporary architecture with the enduring presence of the heritage-listed St Helens mansion.

“From the outset, the heritage-listed St Helens mansion set the tone for the entire development,” Chris said.

“Our challenge was to introduce contemporary, world-class architecture that could sit confidently alongside a
building of such historical significance. 

"Rather than compete with it, the new forms are deliberately restrained - responding to its scale, materiality and prominence - while still bringing a modern, globally informed aesthetic to the broader development. 

"It’s a thoughtful balance of old and new, where the architecture respects the past while reimagining how people live on the site today.”

The interiors are defined by a restrained, coastally informed palette that prioritises light, texture and a sense
of escape. 

Soft timber floorboards reference the simplicity of beachside living, while clean, white minimalist walls and muted natural stone finishes create a timeless canvas for everyday life.

Expansive windows invite natural light and frame views across Corio Bay, complemented by subtle, intentional
lighting that enhances the home’s warmth and tranquillity. 

Together, these elements allow the interiors to transcend expectations of apartment living, resolving as calm, considered homes that feel both restorative and enduring.

Landscape architecture by Acre further strengthens this connection to place, with communal gardens thoughtfully designed to embrace the site’s mature heritage trees and coastal environment. 

Existing foliage has been purposefully retained and complemented with new plantings, creating green spaces that feel both established and contemporary.

Brett Robinson, founder and creative director of Acre, said the landscape architecture was conceived as an
extension of the site’s natural and historical character, shaping a series of gardens that feel both timeless and
restorative.

“Our ambition was to create landscapes that feel as though they have always belonged here. 

"The site’s mature trees and coastal setting provided a powerful foundation, so the design focused on carefully preserving that maturity while introducing new layers of planting that enhance the experience of living at Stella Maris.

“These gardens are intended to offer moments of quiet retreat and connection, reinforcing the development’s
resort-style atmosphere while honouring the natural rhythms and history of the place,” said Brett.

Wellness is a central pillar of the Stella Maris experience and a defining element of MONNO’s broader
development philosophy. 

Residents enjoy access to a dedicated wellness centre featuring a 20-metre lap pool, fully equipped gymnasium, steam room and spaces for yoga and Pilates. 

Select wellness features extend into private residences, reinforcing a holistic approach to wellbeing that supports daily rituals of rest, movement and balance without leaving home.

Stella Maris also delivers a comprehensive suite of functional amenities designed to support modern, future-
focused living. 

A secure basement car park incorporates car and dog wash facilities, extensive bike storage and EV charging infrastructure, while concierge services, secure access systems and contactless parcel lockers provide both convenience and peace of mind for residents.

“We set out to create something truly enduring for Geelong, and seeing residents move in is an incredibly
proud moment for our team. 

"This project establishes a new benchmark for luxury living in the region and one that cannot be replicated,” said Geno.

Stella Maris now 80% sold, with a limited selection of exclusive residences now on the market. 

Sales are being managed by John Moran of Whitford Property and Jodie Bliss of Jodie Bliss Real Estate.

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