_Longchamp Revamp

Collie was engaged to assist Longchamp in obtaining multiple heritage and planning approvals for the proposed new shop fit out for the existing Longchamp store in the Austral Buildings at the ‘Paris End’ of Collins Street, Melbourne. 

The Austral Buildings are included on the Victorian Heritage Register and Heritage Inventory and are affected by Heritage Overlays in the Melbourne Planning Scheme.  The building is significant for its architectural and historical importance as an early example of the English Queen Anne Revival style in Melbourne and was a centre for professional activity and innovation. 

The main consideration for the applications was the heritage significance of the building and whether the proposed changes respected the heritage qualities of the building and the broader precinct. 

Collie worked with Arkhe Tekhne in seeking Heritage Victoria approval to changes to the façade on Collins Street and a new sign on the George Parade façade.  Additionally, repairs to the cement render along the façade were also proposed to conserve and enhance the character of the Austral Buildings. 

The Collie role included:

• review of the relevant provisions of the Melbourne Planning Scheme and Heritage Victoria Permit Exemptions and advice to Longchamp and Arkhe Tekhne;
• developing an appropriate proposal which responded positively to the site and surrounding area;
• preparation and submission of a heritage impact statement and detailed planning report to Heritage Victoria and Melbourne City Council (Council);
• monitoring of applications, consultation and negotiation with Heritage Victoria and Council to achieve a well-resolved design proposal;
• ongoing liaison with Heritage Victoria, Council, Arkhe Tekne and Longchamp to resolve an appropriate design.