After nearly 70 years, Australia’s largest liquor retailer has returned to the very site where the founder, Daniel Francis Murphy, opened his first store back in 1952, Prahran Arcade in Melbourne.
After completing an award-winning project for Dan Murphy’s in Sydney, they recently chose us as their construction partners for a historic move back to Prahran Arcade.
Working under 17 conditions from Heritage Victoria, our team preserved the authenticity of this building, ensuring every detail aligned with its original fabric, with final finishes approved by Heritage VIC.
Restoration works included reinstating the interwar shopfront, removing paint to reveal original brickwork and timber ceilings at the arcade entrance, and retaining the Victorian-era subfloor. Protection of heritage signage identified on pilasters was also a key component of the conservation effort.
Spanning two levels, the flagship store now features the most extensive fine wine and imported wine collection across the entire Dan Murphy’s network. A highlight of the lower ground level is a tribute to Daniel Francis Murphy himself, showcasing heritage memorabilia and antique bottles from the brand’s early days. The premium spirits section also introduces a discovery bay and central tasting table, inviting customers to explore and connect with the product in new ways.
Although the Prahran Cellar made its return to the suburb in 2016, this year marks the full restoration and reopening of the adjoining building, officially bringing Dan Murphy’s back to its original Prahran Arcade address.
Location
282 Chapel Street, Prahran
Size
1,200 sqm
Partners
Artro, Nordon Jago Architects
Delivery Method
Design and Construct
Heritage buildings come with their complications, but luckily, our team are masters at turning challenges into successes. MPA Project Manager Jack Kennedy reflected on the process.
“This project came with a unique set of challenges, from navigating strict heritage conditions to coordinating intricate details in a 130-year-old-building. But that’s what makes it so rewarding, finding solutions, respecting the history of the space, and delivering an outcome that our client and the community can be proud of.”
Jack Kennedy
MPA Project Manager