Marina Mirage demolition imminent as developer prepares for $500m luxury hotel transformation
Marina Mirage's famous rooftop sails will live on as the $500m transformation of the Gold Coast shopping centre ramps up after farewelling its final retailers before demolition.
The demolition of the Marina Mirage shopping centre will begin within days after its final retailers closed their doors ahead of its $500m redevelopment.
Hoarding has begun to be placed around the 1980s-era complex as its developer Makris Group reveals its expanded plans for a new mixed-use hotel, residential and retail complex which will open in 2029.
Under the revamped plans, it will have:
• A 126-room five-star hotel branded under The Luxury Collection by Marriott International;
• 38 residential units which are expected to be put on the market before Christmas;
• Seven chef-led restaurants
• Eight retail boutiques;
• 1000sq m of events space and;
• A 2000sq m wellness hub.
Makris Group Jason Makris said the closure of the Christopher Skase-built shopping centre marked the end of an era and the beginning of another.
“It’s all coming to a close but this marks the transformation of Marina Mirage into Australia’s riviera,” he said.
“We have made some changes to meet the demand domestically and internationally and the aim for us is to have a precinct which remains current for a long time.
“The world of retail has changed (since the shopping centre opened in the 1980s) and both the Gold Coast and Marina Mirage need to evolve and this will be the best outcome.”
The existing waterfront restaurants at Marina Mirage will continue to operate through the summer until the end of January, while the marina also remains open.
The Makris Group redevelopment of the complex was initially greenlit by the council in 2023 with a signature restaurant, functions and events space, rooftop bar and beauty centre.
The revised plans, which increased the number of hotel rooms, restaurants and offerings, also retain the existing building’s famous rooftop sails.
Mr Makris said it was important to pay tribute to the past while looking to the future.
“The sails have been a landmark for 38 years. It is part of the history which will continue with this new form,” he said.
“We are establishing the benchmark in Australia for a destination that embodies the sophistication of a riviera lifestyle yet feels unmistakably Australian.
“Residents and visitors will move effortlessly from their yacht to their villa, to fine dining, curated retail, and world-class leisure and wellbeing experiences.
“This builds on the vision of my father, Con Makris, who recognised early the Gold Coast’s potential as a world-class coastal destination.”
Construction of the project is expected to put $865m into the economy and create 2500 jobs.
Once operational in 2029, it is tipped to annually put $120m into the economy and maintain 400 jobs annually.
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