A major refurbishment planned by Maben Group for David Jones’ former menswear building on Bourke Street, Melbourne, will see it house several major retail brands.

In a major makeover, the building – acquired by Newark Capital in 2020 during the lockdown – will be redeveloped into a retail store and premium office space.

Once completed, the building’s ground and first floors will be occupied by Mecca, while Rodd and Gunn will launch its Lodge Bar and Dining concept facing Little Collins Street.

The upper floors – primarily used as storage for decades – will be transformed into loft-style office spaces. Media agency group Clemenger will occupy all five upper floors and a new rooftop terrace will be added.

Newmark Capital’s GM of property, Angus Machutchison, said: “Through a comprehensive tender process, Maben Group demonstrated a high-level understanding of the project and an impressive capability across their business to ensure a successful outcome.”

Damien Marasco, director of Maben Group, said the redevelopment combines the refurbishment of the entire building alongside the restoration of its heritage elements.