Soho House Melbourne was close to becoming a reality, but plans for the exclusive members-only club have fallen through after a development request has been denied by the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT).
This sees Sydney take the southern state’s place as the location for the first Soho House in Australia, promising a new hot spot for the city’s blue-blooded elite in the backstreets of Darlinghurst.
The intended location of Soho House Melbourne was one of the most spectacular mansions in Melbourne’s blue-chip suburb of South Yarra, which has now hit the market as the project shifts to Sydney. The iconic Poolman House mansion has listed with a price guide of between $21 million and $23 million after the VCAT rejection of a proposed $12.5 million development to transform the property.
Purchased off-market in 2021 by the investment arm of the Smorgon family – also responsible for the recently refurbished InterContinental Sorrento – Poolman House was intended to serve as the hub of the “internationally renowned private members club” complete with a three-story new residence, 12-suite hotel, indoor garden dining area, resort-style pool lounge, and a 21-car underground garage.
However, the heritage listing and historical significance of the property meant VCAT did not approve the plans and Soho House will now open in Sydney.
With hopes for Poolman House to be transformed squashed, its owners have returned the property to the market where it will continue its life as a well-heeled private family residence.
The sale of Poolman House is being managed by Marshall White Stonnington with expressions of interest in the mansion to close on March 15th.
