Q&A with Elie Maroun: Managing a Narrow Site Build in the Sydney CBD

We sat down with Elie Maroun, Managing Director of Buildland, to discuss the delivery of their boutique hotel project on York Street, Sydney—a highly complex site situated in the heart of the CBD. With limited frontage, high pedestrian activity, and zero margin for error, the project demands meticulous planning, stakeholder coordination, and absolute discipline on site.

Here’s how Elie and the team are navigating it.

Q: What are the key challenges of building in the Sydney CBD?

Elie:
CBD construction presents a very specific set of constraints. You’re dealing with confined access, restricted working hours, constant pedestrian and vehicular traffic, and limited opportunity for on-site material storage. On York Street, the site is extremely narrow, so equipment movement, deliveries, and sequencing all need to be tightly managed. Add to that the sensitivity of the surrounding heritage buildings and utilities, and you’re operating in a highly controlled environment from day one.

Q: How has Buildland approached those challenges on York Street?

Elie:
It comes down to detailed logistics and disciplined execution. We’ve implemented a just-in-time (JIT) delivery system to eliminate unnecessary on-site storage, relying on trusted subcontractors and suppliers we’ve worked with over many years. We’ve also incorporated prefabricated and modular elements where possible to reduce labour intensity and streamline the program. Internally, we run weekly coordination meetings across our site team, trades, and key stakeholders to keep things co-ordinated and forward-moving.

Q: What specific systems or strategies have been essential for managing site logistics?

Elie:
We developed a comprehensive site logistics plan from the outset—covering everything from crane positioning and material staging to pedestrian management and access routes. Vertical space has been optimised through engineered hoardings and scaffold-integrated storage zones. We also operate a rolling traffic and pedestrian management plan, coordinated with council and local authorities, to ensure minimal disruption during key construction activities like concrete pours. Safety, compliance, and control underpin every decision we make on this site.

Q: How do you manage communication and coordination with external stakeholders in such a high-profile location?

Elie:
Stakeholder communication is a critical part of our delivery strategy, particularly in a live CBD environment. We maintain consistent engagement with nearby businesses, building managers, and local authorities to provide clear notice on works, access changes, and key milestones. We also work closely with engineers, certifiers, and consultants to ensure compliance is maintained across every phase. At Buildland, we treat communication as a risk mitigation tool—it helps us minimise disruption, stay aligned, and deliver with confidence.

Interested in working with a construction team experienced in complex CBD builds?
Get in touch with Buildland to discuss your next project.