By Susan Schwartz
The eastern end of James Street is about to be transformed into a slick new retail, dining and office precinct, with two new major developments in the pipeline.
Leading the transformation is James Place, a major six-storey “timeless and connected” destination development by Forme at 75-85 James Street, next to the former Agnes Bakery.
The project replaces a 1980s apartment building, home of the old flower market and two pre-1911 workers cottages.
It will be joined by a second development by Graya at 54 James Street, currently home to Bed Bath n Table. While plans are yet to be finalised, this smaller site is expected to deliver a high-end retail, hospitality, and office destination.
Forme Managing Director David Calvisi said his firm had spent years acquiring 12 individual titles, paying just over $26 million for the 2600sq m site.
Designed by architects Richards & Spence (the team behind The Calile Hotel), the six level James Place will feature an open-air plaza layered with landscaping, textured materials and natural finishes.
The upscale precinct will include a sophisticated mix of fashion, hospitality, and wellness brands across 4200sq m; alongside 4500sq m of office tenants – plus a rooftop venue offering sweeping city views
Construction is underway with the 200-car basement nearly complete. The slab on the ground is expected to be poured within weeks, with overall completion anticipated in late 2026.
Mr Calvisi said the goal was to build on James Street’s established momentum, while introducing a curated mix of established and emerging brands, and hospitality groups “known for delivering exceptional service and creating atmosphere.”
“James Street is arguably Australia’s leading retail precinct – it’s vibrant, distinctive and virtually without vacancy,” Mr Calvisi said.
“There’s clear demand for premium retail, but also a lack of commercial office space that meets the same elevated standard. James Place responds to that.
“It offers a new kind of work environment, one that is connected, refined and calm, while remaining fully in sync with the energy of the street.”
Mr Calvisi said Graya’s appointment as the builder was a natural choice to construct James Place.
“Rob (Gray, Graya managing director) is a good friend, and we share a mutual respect for what it takes to bring something like this to life, and that’s been evident throughout the process,” Mr Calvisi said.
Meanwhile, just a block down the street Graya is working on its own project to bring the old Bed Bath n Table site to life.
Graya recently purchased the landmark 943sq m site for more than $20 million after a competitive bidding war with multiple parties from Australia and internationally.
Plans for the site are yet to be finalised, but Mr Gray said his vision was to deliver a world-class development that would further elevate James Street’s reputation as a premier lifestyle destination.
“Sites like these are truly once-in-a-lifetime opportunities, and will cement Graya’s legacy in South-East Queensland,” Mr Gray said.
“Our plan is to create a landmark building that will enhance James Street as a destination for high-end food and beverage, luxury retail, and office space.”
