HASSELL, a leading international design practice with studios in Australia, China, South-east Asia and the UK, has recently completed the interior of the Coppersmith Hotel, in Melbourne, Australia.
HASSELL”was given a simple brief for the Coppersmith Hotel: deliver a contemporary hotel and hospitality destination while preserving an historic landmark in South Melbourne.
Previously the old Cricket Club Hotel – first licensed in 1870 – the structure has undergone a renaissance, now emerging as a boutique hotel complete with 15 guest rooms, a gastronomic bar and dining room, and a rooftop retreat.
The owners of the Coppersmith Hotel happen to be experienced and well-respected hoteliers, with a keen interest in the history of South Melbourne. As such they wanted to create a ‘home away from home’ for travellers, whilst ensuring that the Coppersmith was also a neighbourhood hang-out, a place where the guest is “invited to become a local”. Luxury, on an intimate scale, is thus the theme explored throughout the venue.
“At the Coppersmith Hotel, we had to appeal to local people who knew and loved the historic building and travellers who demand modern amenities in a comfortable guest room,” says Susan Standring, HASSELL principal. “That is the key to a successful business for the owners.”
In light of this, preserving the structure’s historic facade – which sits within a Victorian-era streetscape – was key to delivering on the client’s brief. Neglected brickwork on the building’s exterior, as well as an inefficient layout did, however, make this a difficult task.
HASSELL”met this challenge by creating what is effectively a new building behind the historic facade. The designers added a third storey and a timber rooftop deck to the building, but set them both back behind the original decorative parapet so they cannot be seen from the street.
“Referencing the existing building fabric, Victorian features have been reinterpreted into a modern design within the interior spaces,” says Susan.
Behind the facade, arched windows, painted existing brick walls and timber batten detailing echo the original hotel design, while the use of materials such as wood, copper and leather add to the environment.
Through the selection of artisan furniture and fittings, the team aimed to support local Melbourne design and craftsmanship. The result is a modern building, offering the comfort and amenities expected by hotel guests and diners today, with a welcoming ambiance and, crucially, a strong connection with the history of South Melbourne.
