L.U. Simon Builders was named Master Builder of the Year for its meticulous work reimaging the former site of the historic Palace Theatre at the top end of Bourke Street.  

Opened in March, the venue is already touted as one of the city’s most popular hotel destinations.  

It was among a string of projects and building companies recognised as part of the prestigious gala which showcased the efforts of the Victorian industry.

Chief Executive Officer Michaela Lihou said the annual awards underlined the strength and resilience of the sector.  

“The 2023 Excellence in Construction Awards showcase the kind of projects that have set the bar,” Ms Lihou said.  

“These are projects that don’t just stand as a testament to the strength of the local industry – but continue to define our national reputation as quality builders.  

“Whether they are an employee on the tools, behind the wheel or behind a computer screen – it is a reflection of the hard work which continues to strengthen the framework of the Victorian industry.  

“As we move forward, let’s continue to collaborate, innovate, and advocate for a stronger, more resilient, and more sustainable future for the building and construction industry in Victoria”  

Established in 1955 by Professor Leo Simon, L.U. Simon Builders is responsible for more than $12 billion in major projects across the commercial, industrial, institutional and residential sectors.  

The latest hotel venture features 235 rooms, including executive suites across 12 floors, as well as a restaurant, bar, café, function rooms, a gym and rooftop pool with sweeping views across Parliament and the MCG. |

The art deco façade of the historic building was retained while designers and developers paid homage to the buildings previous use as a theatre, cinema and nightclub.  

Meanwhile, Nicholson Construction scooped the award for Regional Builder of the Year for its work on the Warrnambool Learning and Library Hub.  

Integrated construction and service group Harris HMC employee Kabir Sidhu was recognised as Young Builder of the Year.   

The inaugural Homes Victoria Excellence in Social Procurement award was won by indigenous-owned and operated building group, Wamarra, for its work to deliver landscaping between Bell and Preston train stations.  

 It was credited with creating a space which tells a story and engages the community through native planting, with a kilometre of shared user path, street furniture installations and play equipment. 

Board President Geoff Purcell said the winners across each category showcased unmatched professionalism.  
 
“The Victorian building and construction sector continues to push ahead on a path of success,” Mr Purcell said. 

“We acknowledge it has been a tough time for our industry but let me assure you – the future looks bright. 

“The scope of work is tremendous. The outcomes for consumers continue to be spectacular.   

“Master Builders Victoria will continue to advocate for policies that support the building and construction industry through innovation, investment and training.  

 “Together we can achieve our shared goals and make a positive impact, building a brighter future and empowering each other to build a better world.”  

Master Builders Victoria 2023 Excellence in Construction Awards 

  • Excellence in Fitout under $5M – Plan Group (L1 Capital)
  • Excellence in Fitout $5M-$10M – Construction Engineering (Adina Hotel fitout)
  • Excellence in Fitout over $10M – SHAPE Australia (BHP Melbourne office consolidation)
  • Excellence in Construction of Commercial Buildings Under $3M – Colbrico (T/as Searle Bros Building Contractors) (Central Goldfields Art Gallery)
  • Excellence in Construction of Commercial Buildings $3M-$5M – Maben Group Pty Ltd (Highpoint aesthetic upgrade, phase two) 
  • Excellence in Construction of Commercial Buildings $5M-$10M – Harris HMC (Firbank Grammar School) 
  • Excellence in Construction of Commercial Buildings $10M-$15M – SJ Higgins (St George's Church Redevelopment / St Michael's Grammar School Performing Arts Centre)
  • Excellence in Construction of Commercial Buildings $15M-$20M – Figurehead Construction (Centre For Higher Education Studies)
  • Excellence in Construction of Commercial Buildings $20M-$30M – Building Engineering (St Joseph's College)
  • Excellence in Construction of Commercial Buildings $30M-$80M – L.U. Simon Builders (Le Meridien Melbourne) 
  • Excellence in Construction of Commercial Buildings Over $80M – Maben Group Pty Ltd (Department of Transport Ringwood Office) 
  • Best Specialist Contractor – Construction Engineering (Air Apartments Southern Wall Reconstruction) 
  • Homes Victoria Excellence in Social Procurement – Wamarra Pty Ltd - Bell to Preston Landscaping 
  • Best Sustainable Project – Hacer Australia Pty Ltd (Nightingale Village Project) 
  • Excellence in Mediumrise Apartment Building – Flux Construction (835 High) 
  • Excellence in Highrise Apartment Buildings – L. U. Simon Builders (Domain House) 
  • Excellence in Construction of Industrial Buildings – Icon (CSL Aurora) 
  • Excellence in Health and Safety – Kane Constructions (Iglu Russell Street, Student Accommodation) 
  • Excellence in Civil Construction under $10M – Stokes Rousseau Pty Ltd (Supreme Court Victoria Laneway Security Gate Upgrade) 
  • Young Builder of the Year – Kabir Sidhu (Harris HMC) 
  • Regional Builder of the Year – Nicholson Construction (Warrnambool Learning & Library Hub) 
  • Master Builder of the Year – L.U. Simon Builders (Le Meridien Melbourne) 

To view images of all the winning projects click here. 

Master Builders Victoria CEO Michaela Lihou is available for comment.

Media: Aaron Langmaid 0409 985 428 [email protected].