Maison Bâtard

Street view of a historic brick building with arched windows and decorative architectural details, a large tree with autumn leaves in front, outdoor seating area with black chairs and tables, green shrubs, and shadows cast on the facade.

An elegant outdoor restaurant patio with round marble-topped tables, black chairs with white piping, and small lamps on each table. There is greenery and black columns, with large open windows and a lantern-style ceiling light.

Sunlit street corner with a historic red brick building, modern high-rise buildings in background, and shadows of tree branches on the building facade.

Elegant restaurant dining area with dark wood paneling, tables set with white napkins and glassware, small lamps, and a large window with light curtains.

A staircase with black metal railing, illuminated by a hanging lantern-style light fixture, in an elegant interior space.

Interior of an elegant restaurant with a mix of blue and red chairs, tables set with glassware and napkins, large windows, plants, and classic artwork on the walls.

Interior of a stylish cafe or restaurant with black walls, gold trim, marble tables, black chairs, and large windows letting in natural light.

Inside view of a restaurant with large glass windows showing the outdoor patio with tables and chairs, and trees with autumn leaves.

Elegant restaurant interior with large open glass doors leading to a lush outdoor garden. Round tables with black chairs are set up, decorated with small lamps. A table in the foreground holds a silver ice bucket with wine bottles. The space features warm tones, large potted plants, and decor that combines modern and classic elements.

Dimly lit restaurant with red velvet chairs, curtains, and lamps, featuring a cozy and luxurious ambiance.

Upscale bar and restaurant with dim red lighting, a well-stocked bar with various liquor bottles, and cozy table settings with red lamps

Maison Bâtard reimagines two heritage buildings on Bourke Street’s eastern end, transforming them from underutilised structures into a vibrant four-storey hospitality destination. The design preserves key heritage features, including original façades, chimneys, and structural details,while integrating modern amenities, flexible layouts, and sustainable materials. A strong shopfront presence activates the street, reinforcing community connection.

Sustainability drives the design: retention of the existing building fabric and reuse of brickwork reduce waste and carbon impact, while improved insulation, maximised natural light, energy-efficient systems, and wood-fired kitchen equipment enhance environmental performance. Rooftop and courtyard landscapes extend the experience with biophilic design, providing shade, natural cooling, and green spaces that improve comfort and reduce urban heat effects.

Maison Bâtard not only enriches Melbourne’s hospitality scene but also secures the cultural and architectural legacy of two important heritage assets, ensuring they remain active, sustainable, and celebrated for years to come.