The International (25 Martin Place – MLC Centre)

MBM Project Lead

David Madden

Client Name

The Point Group (TPG)

Sector

Timeline

Aug 2024 – Dec 2024

Project Value

$6m

MBM Project Team

  • David Madden – Founding Director
  • Georgia Brady – Executive Quantity Surveyor

Services Provided

Our team provided full cost management support throughout the delivery of The International, covering all stages from early costing through to completion. Our scope included:

  • Site Visits
  • Preliminary Costing
  • Builder’s Cost Plan Review
  • Final Cost Review
  • Monthly Progress Reporting
  • Assessment of Variations

Project Background and Scope

The International is a standout dining destination located in the iconic 25 Martin Place (MLC Centre) in the heart of Sydney’s CBD. The International was created to bring something truly special to the city’s food and hospitality scene.

The venue brings together three unique experiences under one roof:

  • The Grill – a fine dining restaurant led by award-winning chef Joel Bickford, known for top-quality produce and elegant dishes.
  • The Wine Bar – a stylish but relaxed spot offering a great selection of wines and a menu perfect for casual dining or after-work catchups
  • The Panorama Bar – a rooftop space with stunning views over Sydney, ideal for cocktails and evening events.

The International is more than just a dining space—it’s a key part of the 25 Martin Place renewal, adding vibrancy, sophistication, and life to one of Sydney’s most recognisable buildings.

Project Challenges

  • Complex Fit-Out in an Iconic Landmark: Delivering a high-end hospitality space within the constraints of a major commercial building undergoing a $170M transformation.
  • Multiple Venues, One Location: Coordinating cost planning and delivery across three distinct venues (The Grill, The Wine Bar, The Panorama Bar) with different design and service requirements.
  • Premium Quality Expectations: Ensuring finishes, materials, and services met luxury hospitality standards while managing cost efficiency.
  • Ongoing Site Constraints: Managing construction activities in a busy CBD location with limited access and active commercial tenancies.
  • Programme Restraints: The project was on a strict and fast tracked programme which meant all parties were under pressure to meet tight deadlines while still providing quality results.

MBM Solutions

  • End-to-End Cost Management: MBM provided support from preliminary costing through to final cost review and handover, ensuring cost certainty and control.
  • Rigorous Financial Monitoring: Delivered monthly progress reporting to maintain financial transparency and stakeholder confidence.
  • Builder’s Cost Plan Review & Variations Assessment: Reviewed contractor cost plans and assessed variations and EOTs to ensure fair value and avoid cost overruns.
  • On-Site Engagement: Conducted regular site visits to stay aligned with construction progress and support issue resolution in real time.
  • Tax Depreciation Services: Provided a detailed tax depreciation schedule to support post-completion financial planning.