The upgraded Highpoint Shopping Centre in Melbourne was unveiled to the public earlier this week, revealing a world-class retail development worth over $300 million.
The event also included the launch of the new Fashion Mall by co-owners GPT Wholesale Shopping Centre Fund (GWSCF), Highpoint Property Group and The GPT Group, along with the new mall’s marquee tenant David Jones, which is the first to open in Melbourne’s west.
The new Highpoint David Jones is spread over two levels and 14,000 square metres, and will share the complex with other big retail names such as Vince Camuto, Tommy Hilfiger; local fashion label Sass & Bide, Gorman, Country Road, Seed, Alannah Hill and Chanel.
The complex will also see global mega-brands Zara and Topshop share one roof for the first-time.
Commenting on the highly-anticipated launch, CEO and managing director of GPT Michael Cameron said the development had been delivered on time, on budget and featured the biggest names in Australian and international retail.
“Highpoint is now one of the largest shopping centres in the country. The 100 additional retail offerings take the total number of stores to around 520 and the number of parking spaces to more than 7000,” he said.
“This expansion has been years in the planning and we knew it would work because we went out to the community and asked them what they wanted, well before the first load of concrete was laid.
“They told us the development should reflect the surrounding environment, the creative and resilient spirit of the west. In response GPT has delivered a stunning architecturally designed mall featuring natural materials, exposed beams and celebrates the site’s history as a quarry with use of Bluestone in the floors and furniture.
“By far the most striking design feature is the floating roof structure, which was inspired by the Maribyrnong River. The transparent roof, which has been designed to bring in natural light and fresh air, flows throughout the mall before opening up to a grand new entrance and public space.”
To view photos from the event, go to ragtrader.com.au's Facebook page.