Yves Saint Laurent store proposed for Sydney’s Queen Victoria building

Sydneysiders’ appetite for couture is being met with a flashy fashion chain to open its fifth store in the city, and in one of the country’s grandest arcades. Here is what we know.

A new Yves Saint Laurent store is proposed for Sydney.

A Yves Saint Laurent store has been proposed for the historic Queen Victoria Building.

Platinum Planning Solutions has recently launched the development application to Sydney City Council on behalf of construction company Ramvek.

The French luxury brand specialises in designer couture, leather accessories and footwear. It was founded in 1961 by Yves Saint Laurent and his partner Pierre Bergé.

The rectangular store fitout is being proposed for the lower ground floor, shop 42 in the George St landmark and is estimated to cost $937,145.

The site has an area of about 5300sq m.

There are already four YSL stores in Sydney.

The proposed shop front.

Platinum Planning Solutions stated the business would contribute to the economy and serve the workforce, visitors and the wider community.

There are four YSL stores in Sydney – at Westfield and David Jones in the CBD, Westfield Bondi Junction and Sydney Airport.

Having a YSL store at the QVB would encourage shoppers to travel there by public transport, walking or cycling, Platinum Planning Solutions stated.

The proposed works will not impact on the heritage significance of the major shopping centre.

The Queen Victoria Building, which was constructed between 1893 and 1898, mostly contains upmarket boutiques and brand-name shops.

The building was designed in the Federation Romanesque Style by architect George McRae and was named in honour of Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee.

The building originally had 200 tenancies comprising shops, studios, offices and workrooms occupied by traders, dealers and artisans but reached its maximum tenancy rate in 1917.

Sydney City Council is accepting comments on the proposal until April 12.