WEBSTERS BAR | KING ST. NEWTOWN | SYDNEY
Websters Bar
A vibrant venue steeped in history, offering a unique journey through the decades.
Nestled on the iconic King Street in Newtown, Websters Bar is a vibrant venue that pays homage to Sydney’s rich past while embracing its modern charm. Once known as Zanzibar, the space has been thoughtfully transformed to offer a unique experience. It features a classic street bar ambiance with a central bar and a cozy parlour, a quirky RSL-inspired lounge perfect for performances and dining, and the renowned rooftop, which captures the laid-back essence of an Australiana backyard.
Client Brief:
The initial brief focused on upgrading the pub to include a lift for wheelchair accessibility and to meet modern construction standards. During the design process, it became evident that the pub's interiors were also due for an upgrade. Additionally, a new awning was proposed to provide weather protection and serve a dual purpose: shielding patrons from the elements and attenuating noise, allowing the rooftop to operate until 3 am on weekends. Despite no objections from neighbors, the proposal was initially rejected by the council. The decision was appealed in the Land and Environment Court, where we successfully won the case in 2022.
Layers of History. It is essential to appreciate and understand the building's evolution—from its modest Victorian origins as the Oxford Hotel to the preserved Art Deco style that defines it today.
Existing and Proposed. The proposed scheme was eventually approved in the Land Environment Court. The construction of the scheme is currently on hold.
Mood boards: Ground Floor: classic street bar ambiance with a central bar and a cozy parlour. First Floor: a quirky RSL-inspired lounge perfect for performances and dining
Early Concept Sketch (Ground Floor)
The deep layout of the space, coupled with the existing bar along Eliza Street, restricted natural light from entering the interior. Our proposal repositioned the bar to a central location, creating a more inviting flow that draws people in from the street. This arrangement also allowed the windows to illuminate the parlour and snug areas while maintaining convenient service access from the bar.
Early Concept Sketch (First Floor)
Embracing a retro 1970s Australian lounge aesthetic, the design reimagines the space for both dining and entertainment. To address the oversized feel of the area, we introduced booth seating for a more casual dining experience and designated a performance area complete with a stage and painted backdrop, separated by a curtain for flexibility and atmosphere.
Early Concept Sketch (Rooftop) :
The rooftop captures the relaxed charm of an Australian backyard, offering an inviting outdoor vibe. To ensure comfort in all weather conditions, a custom-designed awning was introduced, providing protection from both sun and rain. Inspired by Art Deco design, the awning features fan-like elements that trace the building’s perimeter, complementing and enhancing the original two-story solid Art Deco pub below.
3D Colour scheme and early option for the rooftop. Council were adamant that any awning should not be seen from the street so this idea got scrapped very early on!. We feel it is still the best design and if anything enhances the art deco character of the historic ground and first floor.