The family owned Calamvale Hotel, built in 1984 is a local favourite situated in the southern suburbs of Brisbane.

The client’s brief was to refurbish the tired interiors whilst redefining the outdoor bar and dining component  to the existing hotel. Brand + Slater were to maintain an existing outdoor shaded area previously utilised as an overflow to the existing dining area with an interest in preserving an alfresco feel but in a formalised and predominantly internal space.

Brand + Slater’s challenge was to create a fresh and unique bar and dining extension that articulated the indoor outdoor connection whilst protecting the patrons from the busy adjacent roads. These  parameters influenced the building form unveiling  a series of exposed steel portal frames that clip onto the edge of the existing building allowing a voluminous and flexible interior opening to a landscaped forecourt . The western length of the building is enclosed by an oblique enfolding wall shielding patrons from passing traffic and afternoon sunlight. The interior shifts seamlessly from inside to outside as it opens to the north by means of a glazed bifolding wall. Gardens extend internally from beyond the northern landscaped court contributing to a natural and vibrant interior that is intimate with a sophisticated edge.

The arrival is delineated by a black tiled blade wall and timber batten canopy encasing a ramped approach, dividing new from old. The palette of materials extends internally as you pass through the entry doors revealing the bar, drenched in natural light and filtered by layers of translucent polycarbonate roof sheet and timber battens soffits.

The space is divided between bar, lounge and dining, separated by custom designed banquette seats doubling as privacy screens. These are easily relocated to cater for a variety of functions – including individual dining, small parties and large functions utilising the entire space. The glass fronted main bar cleaves to the black tiled wall to further support versatility of the space.