Melbourne’s luxury scene is stepping into a new era this October as Rodd & Gunn prepares to open its most ambitious project yet – a four-storey global flagship at 280 Little Collins Street.
The New Zealand brand will take over the southern wing of the heritage-listed Harry Norris designed building, which recently welcomed Mecca’s new Bourke Street flagship in its northern wing. Together, the two launches mark a striking new chapter for one of the city’s most architecturally significant addresses.
Once the site of the original Cole’s store and later David Jones Men’s, the landmark is instantly recognisable for its gothic façade, terracotta cladding and Art Deco details. Rodd & Gunn has reimagined the space as a fusion of fashion, dining and hospitality, blending heritage with contemporary design.
“This building holds a special place in Melbourne’s history, and we wanted our flagship to honour that legacy at every turn,” says CEO Mike Beagley.
The flagship experience spans four levels. The lower ground Cellar Retail & Caffetteria evokes Cole’s Cafeteria with checkerboard floors and booth seating, alongside a Cocktail Laboratory by Matt Bax (Bar Americano).
The ground floor will be home to Rodd & Gunn’s refined retail offer, while the mezzanine features a Member’s Bar reserved for loyalty clientele. Crowning it all, The Lodge Dining Room brings Michelin-starred chef Matt Lambert and James Evangelinos together with Master Sommelier Cameron Douglas for a produce-led menu and world-class wine program.
“While New Zealand will always remain Rodd & Gunn’s spiritual home, the opening of our Melbourne flagship is our way of giving back to a city that has supported Rodd & Gunn from the very beginning,” says Director Josh Beagley.
From Cole’s to Couture: Rodd & Gunn Joins MECCA at 280 Little CollinsThe Rodd & Gunn Retail Store and Cellar Retail & Cellar Caffetteria will open in early October, while the Member’s Bar and The Lodge Dining Room will open in late October. For more information visit www.roddandgunn.com/au
