The project aims to add extra vibrancy by providing flexible short and medium term lease options for entrepreneurial businesses to test the market.
As was the case with other inner Melbourne retail strips, Carlisle Street experienced vacant shopfronts due to impact of COVID-19 lockdowns and changing commercial conditions.
Ideally located near tram and train routes, this village-feel destination is preparing to bounce back through initiatives including this project to encourage exciting new businesses to fill vacant shopfronts.
Adding to the diverse offering already provided by the street’s passionate traders, these newcomers are yet another reason to drop by Carlisle Street.
While available properties are limited, interested businesses can still apply via
We are particularly keen to hear from a suitable hospitality business keen to take up a vacant shopfront with a fully fitted out kitchen/restaurant.
Now open for business …
STOREHOUSE GALLERY, Beller House, 283B Carlisle Street
Storehouse Gallery’s intention is to be highly discerning in its selection of unique products which have inherent worth and are created ethically.
Originally established in South Gippsland, the extensive and diverse fine art collection is created by exceptional, internationally recognised and emerging local artists. The close relationships with these artists support strong connections to the works and rare creative collaborations.
Everything offered is intended to become a favourite and loved for a lifetime.
Owner Thomas Burge
“I’m excited to be involved in the Carlisle Street revitalisation program with the opening of Storehouse Gallery. Being a Port Phillip resident for some time, Carlisle Street has long had a reputation for innovative and artisan producer offerings on a bustling high street.
Being part of this supportive and vibrant community seemed like a perfect fit for my gallery, which focuses on local fine art, sculpture and artisan made products. The response from my costumers, new and existing, has been overwhelmingly positive.”
Storehouse Gallery
NEISHA CLOTHING, 238 Carlisle Street
Neisha is a one woman show, from the production of the garments, the content you see on her platforms and the shoots that are curated.
Each collection is lovingly and painstakingly curated in her home studio in Northcote with the utmost attention to detail. She celebrates the diversity of a woman’s shape and is able to do customised fittings upon request.
All the pieces tell a story through the fabric, the pattern and the process of putting together a timeless piece to embolden and celebrate women. The beautiful fabrics she uses for her creations are sourced from all over the world.
Owner Neisha Smith
“As an independent fashion designer, having a space large enough to house my workroom and a shopfront to sell my clothing is an absolute dream! It allows me to test new garments on the market and provide on the spot alterations.
My brand has been based in the northern suburbs for over ten years and the Port Philip activation program has allowed me to connect with and grow my bayside audience. In a time where we are seeing many iconic Melbourne brands and boutiques close due to global recession, these activation programs are giving creative businesses the opportunity to flourish.”
Neisha at Neisha Clothing.
VUELO VINTAGE CLOTHING, 234 Carlisle Street
The Vuelo team comes from far-flung locations and time zones – Goa, Mumbai, Las Vegas, Sydney, Adelaide and San Francisco. Their combined backgrounds include online media, tech, fashion and graphic design.
After establishing Vuelo Eyewear in 2014, the vintage goods line was created.
The vision for Vuelo Vintage Goods stems from the desire to create a place to shop for ethically sourced vintage goods that embody the functionality and style of yesteryear.
Owner Ully Tiwari
“We started Vuelo Vintage with a four-week pop-up inside South Melbourne Market in May 2022, which we ended up extending for three months. We really love the Port Phillip area.
From the local cafes, barbers and shop owners around the street, the street has embraced us with open arms, which is something we haven’t experienced before or expected. Everyone working in the store is a local and loves being part of the community and is really looking forward to seeing Balaclava grow into a shopping destination for vintage.”
STAY TUNED…
Our next Divercity will feature details of Balaclava Boogie, the Carlisle Street Traders Association’s new three day free music festival. The event will be held in the Carlisle Street precinct from 24-26 November 2023.
We will also soon share news of People of Balaclava, an exciting new Urban Canvas mural project which has seen the everyday faces of Balaclava painted on the upper facade of several Carlisle Street businesses.
