Howard Smith Wharves will undergo a significant redevelopment, with plans to replace Felons Barrel Hall with a nine-storey boutique hotel as part of preparations for the 2032 Olympics.
The Artemus Group, the developers behind the proposal, announced that the precinct will see a host of new additions, including a 77-room hotel, a theatre, retail spaces, and a stunning pool deck overlooking the Brisbane River. The project aims to elevate the already thriving area into a world-class destination in time for the Olympics. The development application (DA) will be lodged and will go through a code-assessable process.
New Vision for a Riverfront Destination
Central to the redevelopment is constructing a nine-storey boutique hotel, which will replace the existing Felons Barrel Hall. The hotel’s ground floor will feature retail outlets and a theatre, preserving the venue’s role as a place for live music and cultural events. Public spaces will also be enhanced, with two new cliff lifts improving access to the site, and additional open areas planned for locals and visitors to enjoy.
In addition to the hotel, the proposal includes creating an overwater pool deck that will offer panoramic views of the river. This deck will also serve as a new bar and dining precinct, adding to the already diverse culinary options at the Wharves.
Key Features
- A 77-room, nine-storey hotel with ground floor retail and a theatre/music hall, replacing the existing Felons Barrel Hall
- A stunning pool deck with an overwater pool, bar and dining precinct, offering unparalleled river views
- A revitalised Bougainvillea House, featuring a two-storey, landscaped design
- Improved public access, with two new cliff lifts and additional open spaces
- Twelve beverage storage tanks across three locations, supporting sustainability by reducing packaging waste and traffic movements
- Enhanced riverfront public spaces, pathways, parklands and boardwalks, designed to align with Brisbane’s “Buildings That Breathe” guidelines.
Focus on Sustainability
The redevelopment has been designed with sustainability in mind. Twelve new beverage storage tanks will be installed across three precinct locations to reduce packaging waste and traffic congestion. The design also incorporates Brisbane’s “Buildings That Breathe” guidelines, with rooftop gardens, facade greenery, and subtropical landscape elements.
Architect Mark Damant, involved in the project, emphasised the importance of sustainability in the redevelopment. He noted that the design would help position Howard Smith Wharves as one of the most sustainable precincts globally, ensuring it remains a welcoming and accessible space for everyone.
Enhancing Brisbane’s Appeal for the Olympics
Artemus Group Founder and Director Adam Flaskas expressed excitement about Howard Smith Wharves’ potential to showcase Brisbane on the world stage during the 2032 Olympics and Paralympics. He highlighted that the redevelopment will connect locals and tourists to some of Brisbane’s best experiences, including dining, shopping, and access to Queensland’s iconic natural landmarks.
“This project is about celebrating Brisbane’s heritage, landscape, and natural beauty,” said Flaskas, noting that the Brisbane River remains a key feature of the city’s identity. “We’re creating a hospitality and tourism gateway that will bring people closer to the best of what Brisbane has to offer.”
With Bougainvillea House’s planned revitalisation and new public spaces set to be incorporated into the development, the Wharves precinct will become even more of a community hub, enhancing both liveability and Brisbane’s cultural scene.
The project marks the next chapter in Howard Smith Wharves’ growth, which has become one of Brisbane’s premier destinations since its opening in 2018. It continues to offer a unique blend of dining, entertainment, and leisure activities on the Brisbane River’s edge, and the new development is set to take it to the next level in time for the global spotlight of the 2032 Olympics.
Published 24-Sept-2024
