AJ Batra is the Founder and Managing Director of Above Zero, a design-led property development company creating spaces defined by enduring quality, obsessive detail and a deep understanding of how people live.

With over a decade of experience across residential, commercial and mixed-use developments, AJ combines strategic discipline with a genuine passion for thoughtful, site-specific design. His approach is grounded, collaborative, and focused on leaving a legacy of well-resolved, quietly exceptional places.

Under his leadership, Above Zero has delivered a portfolio of carefully crafted projects in Melbourne’s most established suburbs—each one shaped by considered architecture, refined materiality and a hands-on development process that prioritises long-term value over short-term gain.

AJ is also a co-founder of the xWise Group, where he plays a strategic role across development, capital, construction and sales. His broader commercial experience complements the Above Zero philosophy, bringing a rare blend of rigour and creativity to every project.

At the heart of AJ’s work is a set of clear values: integrity in process, clarity in vision, and a belief that great design has the power to elevate the everyday.

Anthony brings nearly a decade of experience across real estate, valuation and development—having held senior roles within the property sector, including time at the world’s largest real estate firm.

At Above Zero, he plays a leading role in shaping each project from the outset—identifying opportunities, guiding feasibility, and ensuring every site aligns with the business’s design values and long-term vision. His involvement continues through planning, design development and stakeholder engagement, providing consistency and clarity across each stages of the project lifecycle.

Anthony brings a thoughtful, measured approach and a strong appreciation for architecture and spatial quality. He understands that exceptional outcomes are not only commercially sound but deeply considered in the way they’re experienced.

Known for his composed leadership and collaborative spirit, Anthony plays a pivotal role in Above Zero’s pursuit of development that is intelligent and refined.

As Operations & Executive Manager at Above Zero, Rachel Bergstrom brings clarity, coordination, and momentum to every part of the business. With a background spanning executive support, team leadership, and operational delivery, she excels at creating structure in fast-paced environments and turning strategy into action.

Rachel plays a key role in aligning people, processes, and priorities, ensuring Above Zero’s high standards are upheld across every project. She thrives in the details, supports cross-functional collaboration, and keeps a steady hand on the levers that drive exceptional development.

Warm, intuitive, and solutions-focused, Rachel is known for her friendly, can-do attitude and commitment to achieving results.

Outside of work, she draws inspiration from interior design, global cultures, and time in nature – passions that shape her appreciation for considered environments and well-lived spaces.

As an Assistant Development Manager at Above Zero, Kitty supports the financial and strategic delivery of bespoke residential and mixed-use developments. Her role spans feasibility analysis, strategy implementation, and project execution, ensuring every project is grounded in commercial insight and design precision.

With a background that includes venture capital, marketing, and impact-driven roles, Kitty offers a multidimensional perspective that balances creative ambition with financial rigour. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Business from the NYU Stern School of Business and is currently completing a Master of Property at the University of Melbourne.

Kitty believes that thoughtfully designed spaces can elevate daily life and contribute to long-term value. She is proud to support projects that embody Above Zero’s dedication to detail, craftsmanship, and enduring quality.

Outside of work, she enjoys hunting down the best ingredients at South Melbourne Market, sipping boba in the city, and playing golf with new and old friends.

Oscar is an Assistant Development Manager at Above Zero, where he works across boutique-built form projects. His role spans the full development cycle, from planning and design coordination through to approvals and project delivery.

With a Bachelor of Design (Property) from the University of Melbourne, Oscar brings a commercially grounded, detail-focused approach to every stage of the process. He works closely with consultants, authorities and internal teams to help navigate complex requirements, maintain project momentum and ensure quality outcomes.

Outside of work, Oscar can usually be found on a futsal court, playing competitively both in Melbourne and abroad, or tracking down the best food spots around the city.

Chris is an Assistant Development Manager at Above Zero where he guides projects from site acquisition through to practical completion. His responsibilities encompass market research, feasibility modelling and multidisciplinary coordination, ensuring each development is underpinned by robust analysis and clear strategic direction.

Chris holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from Northeastern University and is currently pursuing a Master of Property at the University of Melbourne. His prior roles in venture capital and banking in Hong Kong have honed his financial expertise, which he now applies to every stage of the development process.

Driven by the conviction that thoughtfully designed spaces enrich daily life and foster stronger communities, Chris contributes to Above Zero’s reputation for meticulous detailing, refined materiality and enduring built form. He takes pride in shaping environments that deliver both daily enjoyment and long-term value.

In his spare time, Chris can be found discovering Melbourne’s latest dining hotspots, playing a friendly round of golf, or walking his dogs around Albert Park.