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Nestled comfortably within Adelaide’s inner-eastern landscape, St Peters is a testament to the amalgamation of cultural richness and serene suburbia. This welcoming enclave is characterised by its leafy streets, historic architecture, and a close-knit community that echoes the charm of yesteryear while embracing modern sophistication. With the River Torrens at its doorstep and the city centre mere moments away, residents and visitors delight in the blend of serenity and urban accessibility. A gem within the City of Norwood Payneham & St Peters, this suburb offers a vibrant lifestyle amidst lush parks, artisan cafes, and a wide array of local amenities. Whether you’re contemplating a visit or considering making St Peters your home, this guide aims to provide an insightful look into the heart of this quaint suburb.
St Peters stands as one of Adelaide’s most prestigious suburbs, boasting a rich tapestry of history dating back to the 19th century. The area is renowned for its well-preserved Victorian and Federation homes, which line the wide streets canopied by an array of old trees, and the iconic St Peters Cathedral accentuating the suburb’s skyline. Regarding amenities, the St Peters Town Hall and Library Complex is a significant community hub, offering residents and visitors many services ranging from literary resources to heritage and cultural events. The suburb also benefits from excellent education facilities, including St Peter’s College—one of the country’s leading private schools. A diverse demographic is drawn to this picturesque section of Adelaide, where the old-world charm melds seamlessly with contemporary living.
The suburb’s green heart is encapsulated in the St Peters Billabong and River Torrens Linear Park for those who appreciate nature and outdoor living. The billabong, a natural wetland, provides an idyllic spot for birdwatching, leisurely walks, and a peaceful escape from the urban rush. Further enhancing St Peters’ allure is the Linear Park Trail, a haven for cyclists and joggers, which meanders along the River Torrens and connects the suburb to the Adelaide CBD and the scenic Adelaide Hills. The area uniquely appeals to those seeking a luxurious and tranquil lifestyle, with the added conveniences that come with proximity to a metropolitan centre. St Peters presents an unparalleled proposition for anyone looking to enjoy the harmony of a laid-back, community-focused setting that doesn’t compromise elegance or accessibility.
Delving into the storied past of St Peters, one discovers its foundations in a time when Adelaide was a burgeoning colony. The Kaurna people originally inhabited the area that would become St Peters before European settlement began in the 1830s following Colonel William Light’s plan for Adelaide. During the mid-19th century, St Peters started gaining prominence by establishing St Peter’s College in 1847, pivotal in shaping the young colony’s educational landscape. As the suburb grew, so did its reputation as a bastion of genteel living, attracting influential figures and fostering a sophisticated community culture.
Over the years, St Peters has been part of Adelaide’s broader historical narrative, reflecting the social and economic changes of the times. The construction of St Peters Cathedral, which began in 1869 and was completed in stages, is a significant milestone, with its Gothic Revival style architecture becoming a visual beacon and a symbol of the area’s Anglican heritage. The 20th century has ushered in the development of civic infrastructure, such as the Town Hall and the Norwood Library, which further anchored the suburb’s status as a cultural and educational hub. This rich tapestry of academic excellence, architectural grandeur, and community development has shaped St Peters into the esteemed suburb it is recognised as today.
Residents and visitors often express an affection for St Peters, Adelaide, that transcends the aesthetic appeal of its tree-lined streets and heritage homes. It is the suburb’s distinctive vibe—an ideal blend of community warmth, cultural engagement, and recreational variety that truly captivates. Fine dining avenues, charming cafes, and boutique shopping options sprinkle the locale, offering an intimate and upscale commercial experience. The St Peters Bakehouse & Coffee Shop, an institution in its own right, is a local favourite, renowned for its pastries and community feel. Together with the vibrant Farmer’s Market that provides fresh, organic produce, these facets of daily life in St Peters exemplify the perfect marriage of convenience and quality that residents cherish. For those searching for leisure, the array of local parks, playgrounds, and the Linear Park Trail offers many options for families, fitness enthusiasts, and nature lovers to savour the outdoors.
Equally notable is the feeling of safety and the close-knit community spirit that St Peters nurtures, rendering it a desirable destination for individuals searching for a welcoming and supportive neighbourhood. This sense of belonging is paramount for individuals and families, and St Peters delivers it in spades. Festivals and events organised by the community, such as the beloved St Peters Fair, embody the collective joy and participation energising the suburb. This, coupled with the accessible public transport and the peace of mind that comes with living in one of Adelaide’s safest areas, rounds out the many reasons why St Peters is not just seen as a place to live; it is a place to thrive. Whether one is seeking solace in the serenity of the billabong, the intellectual stimulation offered by local book clubs and workshops, or the effervescent laughter of children at play in the numerous green spaces, there is a universal agreement: St Peters, Adelaide, is a place where life is lived well and cherished daily.
The suitable time to experience St Peters, Adelaide, in all its grandeur, is during the spring months from September to November. This season in St Peters is nothing short of magical, with the suburb’s numerous parks and gardens bursting into full bloom, presenting an awe-inspiring palette of colour and life. The climate is pleasantly moderate, allowing for comfortable exploration of its charming streets and architectural marvels. Springtime also coincides with notable events, such as the St Peters Fair, held annually in November. This event showcases community spirit and provides a feast for the senses with live music, artisan stalls, and family-friendly activities.
As an alternative, visiting in the cooler months of autumn, from March to May, presents a different but equally enticing experience. The foliage in St Peters transforms into a fiery display of oranges and reds, providing a picturesque backdrop for outdoor pursuits. This time of the year is perfect for those keen to avoid the summer heat and enjoy the suburb’s offerings in a more tranquil setting. Moreover, events like the Adelaide Festival and Adelaide Fringe, although not held in St Peters itself, take place in nearby locales during March and are considered some of the most significant art events in Australia, drawing international attention and providing an array of entertainment options within proximity to St Peter’s.
St Peters, Adelaide, is geographically positioned at 34.9090° S latitude and 138.6102° E longitude, nestled just northeast of Adelaide’s central business district. The suburb covers an area of approximately 3 square kilometres, making it a cozy and manageable community for residents and tourists alike. The terrain here is mostly flat, contributing to the ease of navigation through its beautiful streets and parks. Lying at an elevation of 44 meters above sea level, St Peters avoids the prone-to-flooding valley floors yet benefits from the nearby River Torrens, which meanders along the suburb’s northern boundary.
The most noteworthy geographical feature of St Peters is the Linear Park Trail. This serene pathway follows the natural course of the River Torrens and provides an excellent route for joggers, cyclists, and families out for a stroll. The trail is a part of Adelaide’s extensive cycling network, which connects the suburbs and city. Moreover, the suburb is conveniently located close to higher-elevation areas such as the Adelaide Hills, which are less than a 30-minute drive away and offer many recreational activities, including bushwalking, mountain biking, and visiting wildlife parks. Within St Peters, the plentiful parks and the significance of the waterway form a haven for local wildlife. They are favourite sites for recreational activities, reinforcing the suburb’s charm as an urban oasis.
“Selecting the ‘right’ builder for the Montpelier Estate Development was one of, if not the most important decision. Normus was selected as the builder for the initial eight dwellings not just based on their reputation for quality and service, but on feeling the most comfortable with the Normus team after meeting with them and numerous other builders.
The selection and retention of Normus as the builder for the final stages of the Montpelier Estate, 24 dwellings, was a very simple decision.
With the successful development of Stage 1, Normus proved the trust we placed in their capabilities, communication, project management, pricing honesty and build quality was well founded. The feedback we received from the market, purchasers and tenants was ‘glowing’.
As a developer we wanted a quality designed and constructed product in the area, creating a new ‘benchmark’ in liveability, with the varied home options. The inclusions, build size and quality could be achieved without exceeding purchaser affordability due to Normus’ competitive pricing and their ability and honesty to honour the pricing in a rapidly changing housing construction market.
Before and during construction ‘we’ were confronted with challenging weather, COVID issues, the demand for trades, rising costs and significant South Australian and Eastern seaboard fires. Any delays, none of which were significant, were always communicated to us and handled efficiently. Due the changing market Normus recommended we change from timber to steel framing; this solution and decision was critical in enabling the project to be completed in a timely manner.
The Montpelier Estate Development proved a very successful project with all stakeholders working well together, resulting in happy owners and tenants. The project sold out before slab pour and all homes valued well above contract price.
The success of the project and resultant quality end product I believe has meant Normus has met their (and my vision), “to develop and construct exceptional homes and communities where people want to live”. I wouldn’t hesitate in recommending the Normus team.”
Stephen Townsend
Director, Triumph Developments
“To say that Normus have been great to work with would be an understatement.
The whole team have been fully invested in the project from concept plans to final handover, a true partnership approach. Not only was nothing too hard, the team really wanted to help and had a genuine sense of pride for the outcome. The thoughtfulness for the end user, the value adds and the attention to detail have been noticed and appreciated by all of Junction and our tenants.
Thank you for everything Normus, we look forward to continuing our relationship into the future.”
Brad McKenzie
Senior Development Manager, Junction Australia
“Normus Urban Projects has been working together with Believe Housing Australia on a number of construction projects, including a design and construct project in Mansfield Park. The project comprises the construction of 16 two-bedroom units in Hampshire Road, Mansfield Park.
Normus Urban Projects worked closely with Believe Housing Australia and its team of consultants to finalise the concept plan for the site, develop the full set of working drawings and achieve Building Rules Consent. Normus Urban Projects was proactive in coming up with cost effective solutions to resolve site constraints (e.g. stormwater and services infrastructure) and provided a number of constructive suggestions to improve the floor plans for the units to suit future tenants who will be aged over 55 years. The site was successfully completed on the 10/12/2020. This was slightly later than the original completion date but in a COVID-19 environment Normus was able to manage trades and supplies to ensure successful completion and delivery of the project within budget.
Normus Urban Projects has proven, based on Believe Housing Australia’s experience to date, to be highly professional and proactive with a clear focus on building relationships and working in the best interests of their client.”
Gino Bria
Development Manager, Believe Housing Australia
“Normus Urban Projects were commissioned to provide construction of 8 units in Lightsview for clients who have a disability. Normus have proven experience for disability housing, to work with stakeholders and deliver successful projects in a timely manner. They have consistently considered innovation and environmental sustainability in their approach to developments.
The project was complex as each unit required specific designs and specifications to meet the individual needs of clients. In addition, Normus were asked to work closely with our preferred Assistive Technology provider to deliver an infrastructure backbone.
Normus were very accommodating and approachable throughout, offering solutions to client variations. Their workmanship and quality of construction was of a high standard, providing attention to the detailing and ensuring a robust, visually attractive development was delivered.
The house required bespoke detailing and finishes to accommodate clients who have varying disabilities. At all times, Normus demonstrated their understanding of the facilities future operation to provide a home that would withstand heavy use with a built form enhancing the lifestyle and livelihood of the residents.
The project team enjoyed working with Normus who provided an approachable and professional service throughout, allowing the project to be delivered successfully meeting the specific needs of the individuals and the project requirements.”
Simon Smith
Program Manager – Project Delivery, Renewal SA
“It was a pleasure working with Normus throughout this specialised disability housing project. From contract execution through to handover professionalism on site and from the office was maintained to a high level.
Greg Ensor ensured a detailed understanding of our unique specification early in the project and delivered it precisely in a calm, communicative and professional manner. It was clear Greg had respectful working relationships with his various trades.
Belinda Radbourne administered the contract in a diligent, communicative and professional manner. She responded to queries and variations to the contract with detail and timeliness. This allowed me as the principles representative to make fast informed decisions to keep the project moving and within budget.”
Alistair Trethowan
Project Manager, Property Development, inhousing
“Normus Urban Projects has proven to be an excellent team to work with on Montpelier Estate. The development process for Stage 1 has run as smoothly as possible. Normus was selected as the builder for the development based on their reputation for quality and service, and we definitely haven’t been disappointed.
Feedback on the first stage has been nothing but “glowing”, and the quality finished homes have assisted in purchaser (and developer) confidence in the next stage of the Estate. Thank you, we look forward to continuing to work together.”
Stephen Townsend
Director, Triumph Developments
“ECH is a leading provider of integrated aged care services and retirement villages in South Australia. Through its relationship with Normus Urban Projects, ECH has developed new independent living villages to liveable design guidelines gold standard, ensuring its units support independence at home.
Normus has further demonstrated its capabilities by undertaking alteration and addition works to our existing units comprising extensive internal renovations to enhance our range of affordable accommodation.
The relationship with Normus is one of building collaboration, trusted partnership and shared values to not just deliver projects within quality, budget and time parameters, but great homes for older South Australians.”
Dorothy Nycz
Chief Operating Officer, ECH Inc.
“Normus Urban Projects were chosen to design and construct 25 dwellings within Stage 2 of The Square at Woodville West development. From their initial appointment, through the design phase, delivery and completion Normus’s attention to detail was exceptional.
The design involved the construction of a series of different types of homes in a higher density site of 63 dwellings per hectare (net), which in itself provides many challenges and a high level complexity. The planning and implementation during the delivery was well considered and thoroughly executed including the communication of progress and any issues that arouse back to us as a client.
The final product was of a good quality with little concerns post completion, getting it right the first time is always the best outcome. I would highly recommend Normus for any projects of a similar nature.”
Terry Menadue
Senior Project Manager, Renewal SA.
We embarked on our building journey with Normus Homes with the highest of expectations, and not only were our expectations met, they were surpassed.
Normus Homes has delivered us a beautiful home, and it has been delivered via a wonderful building experience. The difference in our opinion has been their open communication, authentic care for us, and genuinely high standards.
We have built previously with another builder, however this time we felt more involved in the process and were given more opportunity to collaborate. We requested some variations along the way, and they were all met with ease.
Building a home was an emotional process for us, and I am sure for many, to expect not to have a few unforeseen issues along the way is unreasonable, however it is the way in which these issues are managed that makes the difference, and Normus simply does it well.
To Belinda, Greg, Darrell & Team, our thanks for building us a beautiful home.
Brett & Lubinka, Somerton Park
This is our first custom built home and we hadn’t heard of Normus homes before, so we didn’t know what to expect. But as soon as we walked through the doors and got the process started we were blown away with the customer service, the staff were professional and knowledgeable, we knew from that point we were confident that Normus would build the home of our dreams.
Our beautiful custom home was even better than what we expected and we are now living a life of luxury in our beautiful new home. We highly recommend Normus Home to anyone who is wanting to building their forever home.
Thank you Normus for our dream home.
J & C, Vale Park
From inside to out, Normus designed a house that just flowed seamlessly. It’s a great entertainment home – but also a very functional home. We wanted a home that offered a big open plan hub for general living, that flowed into an outside area, and I think that’s certainly been achieved.
Normus stood out for us, as they actually built a relationship with us. They cared about us as the customer, they thought about what our needs were and they took our wishlist and made it a reality. That was really fantastic, because we’ve had friends who’ve really told us of the nightmares of not being able to get hold of supervisors, or something hasn’t been fixed and they’re still trying to get hold of the company to fix something that’s not working or wasn’t right.
We found that we could always contact Normus and they would deal with the issue – not just during the build. We had a problem with our roof six months after the build had finished, they supported us in resolving that issue and I think that’s really fantastic.
Because I work from home, my home office has worked out exactly as I had planned. It gives me my area to run my business and then close my office doors, and walk into my beautiful home, where eight years later I still love living. We still have clients and friends walk in here and say how much they love it and how beautiful it is.
Normus were so good with us and we were so impressed with them overall, that we would truly recommend them. We are thinking of downsizing in the next couple of years and building again – and Normus will be one of our first phone calls that we make.
Valerie & Paul, Hove
We have always been very cautious about building, especially when family members have had bad experiences in the past with such projects. Thus, when we first approached Normus, it wasn’t without trepidation. However, our first meeting with the directors, planners and administration manager was impressive – highly professional, thorough and informative – and we soon found that our fears were fruitless. We were even shown other projects undertaken by Normus so that we could view first hand the high quality of their work. Our experience with Normus has been nothing but seamless and they have been a joy to work with.
From the onset, with the exception of unavoidable delays outside of Normus’ control (such as delayed council approvals and inclement weather) everything is set to a planned schedule which is strictly adhered to. Communication with our delightful administration manager is frequent, with weekly to fortnightly reports on the progress of the building. Even the outbreak of
the COVID virus has done little to impede this.
All variations to the original design were catered for (and we had quite a few) and nothing is left to chance, with all variations consulted with us prior to their installation – and this is often done more than once. Furthermore, we have frequent visits to the building site to view its progress and to further confirm that everything is as we expect it to be.
Normus has also greatly impressed us with the professionalism of their team. From the site supervisor to the tradespeople, we have encountered at our building site, and the reputable companies they utilise in the construction of their houses.
We would highly recommend Normus, in a heartbeat, to anybody looking to build a home. We have not looked back since we first walked in through their doors. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you, Normus.
Roberta & Gary, Somerton Park
The first time I met with Normus Homes was at one of their show homes with a Normus Homes consultant. It initially started with an introduction followed by a tour around the property. We walked through each room with the consultant, detailing the fixtures and design with vivid detail. We were able to experience first-hand the build quality and the attention to detail that went into a Normus Homes design. We then went through the design and build process step by step, each question was answered in detail and each step was clearly outlined. I came out of the initial meeting with the feeling that Normus Homes would be able to produce a home that would meet our expectations and vision.
Consultation
We already had our plans drafted by an Architect and provided, with the help of the consultant, an itemised specification of our inclusion for our dream house. The consultant also suggested some alternative options which were thoroughly appreciated – some of which we took onboard as it maintained the same style and quality but was more cost effective. Normus Homes gave us a realistic quote and was able to outline each item in detail. There were no hidden fees or costs, each item was transparent and explained in a manner we could understand. Our thought process was we would rather be quoted accurately than to be underquoted and later on find out that there would be additional costs to adhere to our specifications. Normus Homes definitely delivered on the former, providing us with realistic figures that we could accurately budget for.
Selections
When it came to the selection process, both my partner and myself were time poor. Due to the nature of our occupations we were unable to meet each supplier during the weekday. The consultant was kind enough to organise Saturday appointments with each of the suppliers which was a major bonus for both of us. The selection process was exciting as each supplier was helpful in guiding us through the process as well as answering our questions. The service provided gave us confidence that Normus Homes could build our dream home.
Tian & Lisa – Hallett Cove
Normus were able to take our ideas and aspirations and create a dream home on an extremely difficult site for us. With Normus, we felt heard and that we were in good hands.
By creating a custom home they were able to see opportunities for us to take advantage of our unusual site and use their expertise to optimise lighting, views and space.
We always felt like our build was a priority and that care and attention to detail was taken. They were extremely accommodating, even to changes in design during the construction process and they went above and beyond to ensure we felt comfortable and happy with the process. We were able to trust Normus to be responsive (even post-handover) and to do their best for us.
With Normus, they were professional and highly organised, but never lacked a personal touch.
Candice & Marc, Windsor Gardens