Eastbourne Project Commenced On Former Dallas Brooks Hall Site

Signaling a new era for Melbourne’s former Dallas Brooks Hall site, Mirvac have commenced construction of its flagship East Melbourne project, The Eastbourne.

Developed in partnership with Freemasons Victoria and designed in collaboration with Bates Smart, the luxury apartment building will comprise approximately 250 residences on the doorstep of Fitzroy Gardens and will include a new headquarters for Freemasons Victoria.

The developer will now commence construction on the 13-level terraced building, which features a statement penthouse, enjoying a substantial 50 metres of frontage overlooking the gardens.

The project will also contain resident amenity reminiscent of the world’s most luxurious hotels when construction is completed, which is expected in 2019.

The demolition of the former Dallas Brooks Hall has been gradually completed since September 2016, with ground works commencing this month.

The start of construction was heralded with a commemoration of the original foundation stone laying in the Fitzroy Gardens, the future ‘front garden’ for residents, highlighting the site’s former significance.

The original foundation stone together with the historical trowel that laid it on the site 50 years earlier by Freemasons Victoria was on display during the ceremony by Governor of Victoria, The Hon. Linda Dessau AC.

The construction commencement coincided with the 50th anniversary of the laying of the Dallas Brooks Hall foundation stone by Freemasons Victoria in 1967.

“The construction milestone is a celebrated date for Freemasons Victoria, who will see this site as their new headquarters, surrounded by the beauty of the gardens, timeless architecture, and immediate proximity to the best of Melbourne’s arts and culture,” Freemasons Grand Master Don Reynolds said.

“Working together with Mirvac, we have the confidence that this landmark building will be an elegant addition to East Melbourne and the pride of the suburb."Touted as an ‘inner city eden’, The Eastbourne is expected to be an exceptional architectural statement and home for its residents, and a reimagining of urban life.

Beyond the grand porte cochere entrance, a double-height lobby sets the tone for resident amenity which includes a cinema room, business centre, dining room with entertainer’s kitchen, and a wellness centre with gym, yoga area and 20-metre lap pool.

Residents in premium apartments will also enjoy exclusive access to The Masters Club, comprising a fireplace and wine cellar among its features.

Launched mid-2016, The Eastbourne, located at 280 Albert Street, East Melbourne achieved strong sales, with $300 million worth of sales over the opening weekend alone. Its appeal has resonated with the local medical community, political figures as well as a range of successful Melbourne business people.