Chris Lucas flips historic building after a year
Chris Lucas has quietly sold the city’s historic Maria George Building.
The restaurateur only bought 179-181 Flinders Lane mid-last year, for $14 million.
The off market disposal is for an as yet undisclosed price, speculated to be above that.
The buyer is Kayely Marriner, a director with brother Jason, of Marriner Group, owner of two neighbouring theatres – the Forum and Regent.
Another trophy Marriner building
Mr Lucas bought the Maria George Building from Jackalope founder Louis Lu.
Developed in 1911, it contains 1308 square metres over five levels.
The site spreads 337 sqm.
It neighbours another historic warehouse converted commercial building, 175-177 Flinders Ln – the ground floor which houses Mr Lucas’ Kisume eatery – which the restaurateur bought for $23.5m in mid-2023 and retains.
It is also opposite BHP’s headquarters.
Cushman & Wakefield’s Daniel Wolman, Oliver Hay and Leon Ma previously sold the asset.
Mr Lucas holds other city real estate including a collection of Bourke Hill buildings housing Maison Batard.
In 2023 the executive bought two strata office suites to use as a headquarters for the Lucas Collective (formerly Lucas Group) business.
Part of Golden Age Group’s 130 Little Collins St, which replaced a Uniting Church site, they cost $13m.
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