Tucked away on Mount Cotton Road in Capalaba, Capalaba Outpost has quickly become the Redlands’ best-kept secret. This boutique gourmet grocer and café, brought to life by co-owners Mark Brennan and Natalie McLaughlin, fills a much-needed gap in Brisbane’s bayside. With a family history spanning three decades, the property now boasts a rustic yet inviting space where locals can enjoy expertly crafted coffee, seasonal salads, homemade desserts like mango cheesecake, and a curated selection of gourmet pantry staples. From artisanal cheeses to farm-fresh eggs and freshly baked bread, Capalaba Outpost offers something for everyone.
Our role in this transformation was to help navigate the unique challenges presented by the project. The existing building had longstanding use rights as a shop, but the current City Plan didn’t envisage this use continuing. To complicate matters further, the Council wasn’t supportive of extending the premises beyond its original footprint, though they allowed renovations to the structure within its existing boundaries. This meant we had to carefully balance compliance with innovation, ensuring that the updated design fit seamlessly into the vision for the Outpost without triggering compliance issues.
To safeguard the project, we worked closely with the Council to obtain written confirmation that the proposed renovations wouldn’t increase the scale or intensity of the shop’s existing use. This step was crucial—it meant Mark and Natalie could confidently invest in their dream without fear of unforeseen compliance challenges. By collaborating with all stakeholders, we delivered a solution that honoured the property’s heritage while elevating it into a modern, welcoming hub for the community.
The results speak for themselves. Capalaba Outpost has become a go-to destination for locals seeking a relaxed atmosphere, premium produce, and quality coffee. This project was particularly close to our hearts, not just because of its stunning outcome, but because we’ve had the chance to enjoy their excellent coffee ourselves—a true perk of the job!
Your report covers:
Zoning, heritage & character housing
Flooding, bushfire, noise & vegetation overlays
Easements, stormwater, sewer & water