This iconic Melbourne bookshop is on the move – 120 metres up the road
The three-storey heritage-listed property at 86 Bourke Street changed hands in April last year for $5.3 million, according to commercial real estate agent JLL.
At that point, owners Diana and Duncan Johnston were hopeful they could remain. But on January 7 this year, they were told they would have to vacate.
New owner Qian Yu intends to open a Chinese restaurant in the space. He was contacted for comment.
The Johnstons purchased the Hill of Content – with silent partners Liz and Trevor Watt who owned Collins Booksellers in Sale – in 2005. The Watts will not continue in the relocated business.
After months looking, the Johnstons found a site that fit the bill – historic, in the same area, the size they wanted and needing some TLC – just up the road towards parliament at 32 Bourke Street. Once home to 24 hour cafe Fast Eddys, it was more recently a convenience store. It is currently being renovated and will open on July 12.
Although their friends say they are slightly mad taking on such a massive project in their 70s, the Johnstons are adamant they want to continue.
The new Hill of Content will feel a lot like the current store, says Diana Johnston, but with some changes. 'Same, same but different,' she quips. The floor space is similar to that at the current site and many of its fittings will be used, including some of the original shelving. A bigger dedicated children's area, a stage and a ramp for better accessibility are some of the key additions.
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