THE large retail space adjacent to the Ace Cinema in Subiaco has finally found a tenant with a bit of domestic magic – a Kitchen Witch.
THE large retail space adjacent to the Ace Cinema in Subiaco has finally found a tenant with a bit of domestic magic – a Kitchen Witch.
And with a proposal for a Hans Cafe in the restaurant space facing Alvan Street currently before council, the cinema complex has finally found a little magic of its own.
Both commercial spaces have remained vacant since the complex was opened four years ago.
Managing agent Ross & Associates owner David Ross said a previous proposal to install a pool hall at 500 Hay Street was abandoned when it failed to achieve the support of the Subiaco City Council.
“We’re currently negotiating with a tenant for the restaurant facing Alvan Street,” Mr Ross said.
“A proposal for a Hans Cafe on the site is before the council at the moment, which would be very good for the area.”
It’s hoped kitchenware retailer Kitchen Witch and the restaurant will draw people down Hay Street from Rokeby Road.
Kitchen Witch in Subiaco is owner Chantal Roger’s second store, with the original Kitchen Witch opening in Joondalup just 14 months ago.
Kitchen Witch is a dream come true for Ms Roger, who came to Australia from France, the home of fine cuisine, 18 years ago.
The 507 square metre space has undergone a significant refit, including installation of a fully functioning kitchen in one corner of the store for cooking demonstrations and cooking classes.
“I was looking for something with parking available around the shop and with a window on Hay Street,” Ms Roger said.
The size of the retail space Ms Roger was seeking cut down the number of suitable properties in the area.
Both Kitchen Witch stores are about four times the size of an average retail outlet. Ms Roger’s initial investment of $500,000 and her extensive experience as a department store buyer have proved a formidable combination.
“I can compete pretty well with the department stores because I’ve been a department store buyer and I have a very privileged relationship with my suppliers,” Ms Roger said.
And Kitchen Witch’s expansion is far from over. With plans for a regional Kitchen Witch in the next 12 months, shoppers outside of Perth will be able to peruse the stores extensive range of kitchenware before too long.
