This article is from the Australian Property Journal archive
ICONIC Melbourne restaurant Donovans has appointed Leeda Projects, the original builders from almost two decades ago, to rebuild parts of the beachfront venue damaged recently by a fire.
Owners Kevin and Gail Donovan told PropertyReview Australia that they are excited to engage and work with Leeda Projects again, who were the original builders in 1997.
The couple, ranked two of the world’s best restaurateurs, said Leeda Project will return the restaurant to its familiar setting.
“We didn’t want to rebuild and change the restaurant, because Melbournians are familiar with the Donovans’ friendly and comfortable setting. We want them to still feel like they are coming to our home,” they said.
Prior to Donovans, the restaurant was originally Jean Jacques by the Sea, which opened in 1986.
In 1995, the Donovans along with their partners took over the restaurant and renamed it Pavilion St Kilda.
Fast forward two years to 1997, and the Donovans rebranded the restaurant and engaged Leeda Projects to build the iconic beachfront restaurant.
The Donovans restaurant was Leeda’s first large scale restaurant and eatery project and the company won the MBVA Excellence in Construction award – (Existing Buildings) in 1998.
Following that project, Leeda has become one of the most recognised restaurant construction companies in Australia.
Property Review Australia
