The story of the era has been enhanced using large graphic panels and memorabilia, and leaving a few of the unearthed signs and orginal columns clad in rubble to show the history of the building.
Steve specified four custom carpet designs to flow through each of the spaces using a synergy of colours, both positive and negative for the large open plan style. Lighting is all energy effecient with the use the latest of LED's and fluorescent technology.
Many fittings were hand made to create a warm and aged style.
Furniture features warm solid rustic timbers, stone, leathers and quality leather look vinyls for their textures.
"I convinced my client of the need for great washrooms, where I have created a system of no entry doors to the washrooms and the use of electronic taps makes more for a hygienic environment to avoid recontamination," added Steve. "Female bistro toilets feature makeup area and lounge area."
The main focus of design was to arrive at a main bar and branch off to each of the designated areas, each of which has their own bars some 27 metres of bar made from backlit Onyx and solid spotted gum timbers from sustainable forests.
The smoking area features a custom designed and manufactured 3m x 3m steel laser cut rusty tree and the use of acoustical treatment wall designs to minimalise sound to neighbours which were a strong part of the councils requirements on noise.
"My role as head designer was to see the implementation of the design philosophy and concept using a team of independent creative people who through their talents, made the hotel what it is today," said Steve. "Much of the design was based on daily decisions to keep the very tight programme moving along. There was very little time for full documentation of interiors much of this was fast tracked."
The hotel had original safes built into the walls which are now being used to hold travellers luggage whist enjoying a cool ale before their journey on the train and bus station over Spencer St. These safes were recommissioned and are fully workable.
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