Big win for Retractive
Posted: November 2025
Big news for Retractive Consulting!
We’re thrilled to be appointed as Civil Engineer for the 104-Townhouse Gillwell Road Development in Lalor — a significant multi-unit infill project contributing to Melbourne’s urban renewal.
Our role will include full civil design, stormwater management, sewer, water and authority approvals, ensuring a sustainable and efficient design outcome.
This milestone reinforces Retractive Consulting’s growing presence in multi-unit, subdivision, and mixed-use development projects across Victoria.
A big thank you to our client and partners for their trust in our capability and innovation.
Civil Design Excellence | Engineering Innovation
New Hydro Spheres Logo Filed
Posted: July 2025
※ Introducing the New Hydro Spheres Logo!
We’re proud to reveal the new Hydro Spheres logo — representing innovation, modular strength, and our commitment to sustainable stormwater management. 🌧️💧⚙️
📩 Direct Message, email me at joev@retractconsult.com.au to gain early access to the Hydro Spheres pitch pack.
📄 Note: NDA required for full technical details via a password protected portal.
New Website Launched!
Posted: June 2025
Welcome to the new online home of Retractive Consulting! Our refreshed website showcases our growing civil engineering portfolio, product innovations, and project updates. It’s built to better connect with developers, builders, architects, and innovation partners. Explore our services, see our latest work, or get in touch for your next project.
New Townhouse Development Underway, 24 Millicent Street, Rosanna
Posted: June 2025
We’re pleased to announce our involvement in the civil engineering design for a boutique townhouse development at 24 Millicent Street, Rosanna. With development approval now granted, this project will deliver six architecturally designed 3 and 4-bedroom townhouses over two levels, tailored for modern suburban living in Melbourne’s northeast.
Retractive Consulting has provided full civil design services, including:
-
Site grading and drainage strategy
-
On-site detention and stormwater management
-
Driveway access and crossover design
-
Coordination with council and authority submissions
Construction is scheduled for completion in late 2025, and we’re proud to be contributing to a high-quality residential outcome that integrates seamlessly with the surrounding character of Rosanna.
Hydro Spheres Prototype Finalised – Seeking Partners
Posted: May 2025
Our innovative underground stormwater solution, Hydro Spheres, has officially moved from concept to prototype. This modular, interlocking system is designed to replace traditional crushed rock backfill and create usable water detention volume beneath paved areas. We are now actively seeking expressions of interest from potential licensing partners, manufacturers, or investors. If you’re passionate about sustainable urban design—reach out to learn more.
Innovation Throwback: The Fanaway Story
Posted: April 2025
Before founding Retractive Consulting, Joe Villella invented the Fanaway® retractable ceiling fan—a product that went from a sketch on paper to global distribution via Beacon Lighting. Fanaway was featured on ABC’s The New Inventors and is now sold worldwide. This story remains a key part of our innovation journey and proves what can happen when good design meets determined execution.