The Buchan group reached the end of a decades-long journey of retail reinvention after unveiling the first stage of the Chadstone $660 million redevelopment.
With the aim of creating a centre unlike anything Australia has ever seen, the latest revamp of the premier shopping and lifestyle destination delivered over 100 new retailers, two new dining precincts, a Hoyts digital cinema complex, the Southern Hemispheres first LEGOLAND Discovery Centre and a Tesla Motors dealership.
The development has been under construction for more than two years and is set to mark one of the largest milestones in Chadstones 56 year history when it is completed in mid-2017.
The new premium retail, entertainment, dining and luxury offerings will deliver another stage of the master plan envisaged over 30 years ago.
The Buchan Group worked in collaboration with The Gandel Group, Vicinity Centres and CallisonRTKL on the centre's transformation and began the redevelopment work in the early 1980s.
"It has been truly remarkable watching the centres growth over the years and we are extremely proud to have played a leading role in the Chadstone story," Buchan Principal Andrew Mackenzie said.
"Our relationship with The Gandel Group, Vicinity Centres and CallisonRTKL has been both enduring and enjoyable, and has ultimately resulted in the delivery of a phenomenal centre founded on world class architecture.
"The introduction of a four-level mixed-use gallery creates a dynamic central hub catering to everything customers need with family-focused entertainment, major international retailers and upscale dining options," he said.
"The new ground-level mall is set to deliver one of the best fashion precincts in Australia with its dramatic double height shop fronts hosting iconic brands such as H&M, Uniqlo and Sephora."The redevelopment included a 7,000 square metre grid shell roof that arches over the atrium, soaring some 30 metres above the ground.
"The new mall creates the heart of the centre, providing an interactive public space and redefining the shopping experience with its immersive and memorable architecture and premium customer offer," Mr Mackenzie said.
"Throughout every stage of the centres transformation we have strived to stay one step ahead of global retail trends to create a truly unique and remarkable centre, an icon for Australia and a development that competes on an international scale."