The essence of Camberwell is best exemplified by its eclectic dining scene. Old-school institutions that have witnessed generations share the streets with edgy new cafes and sophisticated bars and restaurants – an effortless blending of old and new for which this suburb has become renowned. In the morning, coffee spots are abuzz with the sound of satisfied patrons, skilled baristas and sociable waiters. Hibiki on Toorak Road is the closest cafe to Fordham, doing Japanese-inspired brunch and speciality coffee with finesse. Just a stone’s throw from home, The Baker’s Wife is the culinary hero of middle Burke Road, serving up hearty brunch classics amid a rustic yet contemporary setting.

Within the junction, a host of avant-garde eateries is also at your beck and call – highlights include Light Years Cafe, Legacy and My Other Brother.

When the sun dips, a bevy of sought-after restaurants open their doors to the Camberwell community. Institutions like Elyros, Fiorelli and Italy 1 offer traditional, authentic fare with the European hospitality to match. If you’re in pursuit of somewhere contemporary, East End Wine Bar is a homey cellar and pantry boasting an impressive drinks menu and a gourmet selection of charcuterie boards, pizzas and tasty share plates.

When people think of Camberwell, they think of its markets – both food and rotary – securing its reputation as one of Melbourne’s leading shopping destinations. The 85-year old Fresh Food Market is a haven of quality produce, premium meats, deli items, fresh fish, baked goods and more, making it easy to tick off all your groceries in one place. Every Sunday, the iconic Rotary Market can also be found on Market Place, where everything from vintage clothing to crockery is yours to peruse, set to the soundtrack of lively buskers.

In the retail realm, the junction abounds with coveted boutiques, including quintessential Aussie brands like Country Road, Seed, Trenery and Witchery.

If you’re looking to adorn your new home in high-end homewares and beautiful textiles, Abode Living is also located here, a spacious, light-filled store that sells clothing too.

Camberwell is as much an entertainment epicentre as it is a shopping one, epitomised by the historic Rivoli Cinemas on Camberwell Road. Built in 1940 and refurbished in 2000, the building is a stunning example of Art-Deco architecture, and transforms a regular trip to the movies into a night of old-world glamour. The rooftop plays host to a vibrant cocktail bar for a pre or post-movie drink, boasting striking views over the surrounding streetscape.

Starting with its iconic, tree-lined streets, Camberwell is best known for its natural beauty, flanked in greenery from end-to-end. Here, you’re never more than a short stroll from some of the most sublime parks and gardens Melbourne has to offer – and with this abundance of greenery comes an inimitable aura of calm.

Fordham Gardens is within walking distance of home, an idyllic picnic spot for moments of outdoor repose and rejuvenation. Even closer is Back Creek Reserve, a shady expanse where magnificent birdlife can be seen at play in tall, leafy gums.

For resident bike riders, joggers, dog owners and lovers of leisurely strolls, the Anniversary Trail will undoubtedly become your go-to walking path. Meandering from Kew right down to Hughesdale, the Camberwell leg of the trail is just a 600m-walk from Fordham. Enjoy spectacular displays of native flora and fauna as you explore your picturesque milieu and factor in a workout. Anderson Park is also just a stone’s throw away, comprising a vast, green oval, a walking path and an array of sporting amenities. Boasting striking views out to the city skyline, the park is most beautiful at sunset.

When it comes to education in Melbourne, Camberwell sits at the vanguard, comprising some of the most prestigious schools in the state. For the little ones just starting out on their schooling journey, Camberwell Primary and Camberwell South Primary are both excellent, nurturing options within close proximity of Fordham. For older kids, Camberwell High is considered to be one of the best public schools in Melbourne. Providing world-class facilities and a progressive curriculum, living within the zone is a desirable attribute.

In the private sector, there’s Camberwell Grammar and Camberwell Girls' Grammar – two highly-regarded institutes with phenomenal VCE results – as well as Bialik, an esteemed Jewish school with a strong commitment to student wellbeing. And while you may have everything you could ever need in your convenient, culturally rich enclave, if ever you need to head out and about, Camberwell’s efficient public transport systems have you covered. The 75 tram stop is just a 5-minute walk from your doorstep, dropping passengers off at the junction before stopping in vibrant Richmond, elegant east Melbourne and the CBD. For a more streamline journey into the city, Hartwell Station is also just a 9-minute walk from Fordham, facilitating a 20-minute venture to Flinders Street station.