Honouring the Past, Thriving in the Present, and Shaping the Future

For more than thirty five years, McGees Property Brisbane has proudly managed 93 Edward Street, one of Brisbane’s most historically significant heritage listed commercial properties. Positioned prominently on the corner of Edward and Mary Streets in the heart of the Brisbane Central Business District, the building has been a landmark since 1910. Our involvement began in 1990 when the new owners acquired the asset from the Kytherian Association, recognising its long-term investment potential.

Over its lifetime, 93 Edward Street has reached several important milestones, including heritage listing, transfer of development rights, and achieving 9B classification for education use. When the original ownership group chose to realise their investment, McGees Property facilitated the sale and was reappointed by the incoming owner to continue delivering strategic asset management and premium commercial leasing solutions.

As Brisbane’s Central Business District continues to evolve with major precincts such as The Queen’s Wharf Brisbane and the Waterfront Brisbane project, 93 Edward Street is well positioned to benefit from rising activity, increased demand for boutique heritage office space, and renewed commercial opportunities. McGees Property continues to preserve its historical charm while enhancing its functionality for modern tenants.

The History of 93 Edward Street

Constructed in 1910, 93 Edward Street has remained a strong example of Brisbane’s early commercial development. Originally known as the Youngs Building, it was developed by Horris Edward Brouton Young and Charles Earnest Young, who acquired the former Commercial Hotel site in 1909. Their redevelopment created a striking timber frame brick warehouse costing sixteen thousand pounds, rising three storeys with a four storey corner section.

Across its history, the building has been occupied by tobacco merchants, cigar distributors, corporate offices, arts and crafts suppliers such as Eckersley’s, and later, by hospitality venues including the Players Brisbane Club and Universal Lounge. Its varied tenancy history reflects the transformation of the surrounding precinct.

Added to the Queensland Heritage Register on 22 February 1995, the building is recognised for its architectural character and for its contribution to the established streetscape of lower Edward Street.

The Present

Today, 93 Edward Street offers a distinctive blend of heritage character and contemporary functionality. The property is owned by Pellegrino Group Australia following its acquisition from an investment entity previously known as Whitman and Others.

Managing an asset of this age requires careful stewardship. From preserving architectural elements to coordinating modern upgrades, McGees Property plays an important role in protecting the building’s heritage while ensuring it meets current market expectations. Recent improvements by the landlord include:

• Major refurbishments to lower ground, upper ground, second, and third floors
• High grade commercial office tenancies on upper levels
• Upgraded external entry points aligned with a contemporary vision for the asset

The building continues to attract a diverse mix of tenants, each contributing to its evolving identity.

The Future

As one of Brisbane’s most notable State Heritage Listed assets, 93 Edward Street is entering an exciting new stage of revitalisation. The owners intend to enhance its historic charm while maximising its commercial potential.

Upcoming plans include:

• A premium fine dining offering on the lower levels to strengthen its presence within the retail and hospitality precinct

The long-term vision is to establish 93 Edward Street as a signature destination within Brisbane’s expanding food and beverage scene, merging heritage, culture, and modern commercial utility. Located near the Eagle Street waterfront redevelopment, the building is ideally placed to attract premium tenants and visitors seeking a unique historical environment.

Pellegrino Group Australia remains committed to preserving the building’s historic aesthetic while meeting the needs of modern occupiers. The goal is to honour its heritage, enhance its amenity, and secure its relevance in Brisbane’s future commercial landscape.

Conclusion

From its origins in the early twentieth century to its current role within a dynamic and growing city, 93 Edward Street stands as a powerful example of successful long-term asset management. McGees Property has been privileged to guide its evolution for more than three decades.

Our experience with properties of this nature demonstrates our ability to deliver sustainable value for investors. Whether navigating complex heritage requirements, coordinating capital works, or aligning an asset with market opportunities, we provide practical advice and measurable outcomes.

As Brisbane continues to grow, 93 Edward Street remains a symbol of resilience and opportunity, proving that heritage, commercial performance, and future potential can coexist.