V-Leader commences construction at landmark office and retail development – 189 Toorak Road, South Yarra

Leading private developer V-Leader has commenced at construction at 189 Toorak Road, South Yarra, a project that promises to redefine the commercial landscape of this prestigious Melbourne precinct. The developer has awarded the construction contract to Ironside, a respected builder known for delivering high-quality projects across Melbourne.

This significant milestone marks the beginning of a transformative development that blends the rich history of the site with a visionary design led by the Melbourne studio of world-renowned architecture and engineering firm, Skidmore, Owings C Merrill (SOM).

The project, which has already seen 80% of its Net Lettable Area (NLA) pre-leased, will be anchored by The Commons, a premier coworking space provider. The development comprises seven levels of state-of-the-art office spaces, set above a unique multi-storey retail experience that is poised to become a new focal point for the community.

“We are excited to breathe new life into 189 Toorak Road, a site with deep historical significance in South Yarra. With the expertise of SOM and the commitment of Ironside as our building partner, we are confident this development will set a new standard for commercial spaces in Melbourne,” said Andy Zhang, Managing Director of V-Leader. “The strong pre-leasing interest, particularly from The Commons, underscores the counter-cyclical demand for high-quality, office space in this vibrant pocket of Melbourne.”

The design of 189 Toorak Road is a modern reinterpretation of the site’s historical façade, combining SOM’s global expertise with a deep understanding of Melbourne’s unique character.

“The transformation of the South Yarra Coffee Palace into a creative workplace represents the kind of boutique offering we see increasingly sought after worldwide,” says SOM Partner, Scott Duncan. “The sculptural lattice structure evokes the minimalist feel of a concrete loft while preserving the character and articulation of the historic building.”

189 Toorak Road represents a new chapter for South Yarra which will reimagine the streetscape of Toorak Road. The development is expected to be completed by Q3 2025.

For more information visit 189toorakrd.com.au