First built in 1932, The General Gordon Hotel in Sydenham has historical and heritage-listed significance, originally designed by Architect Sidney Warden.
Devastated by a fire in 2018, the new hotel design was undertaken by Anthony Vavayis Architects, a multi-disciplinary architectural firm focused on design excellence while being committed to delivering professional services tailored to their client’s needs.
The Hotel Design Brief
It was JDA Hotel’s vision to rebuild this iconic pub to respect the original fabric of the building, the history and to create a dynamic venue for social and community interaction and entertainment. The sports bar, dining lounge, alfresco, gaming and accommodation rooms offer the local community wonderfully eclectic, mixed-use spaces.
The historical narrative of the establishment is reflected in the material selections whilst also considering suitability: charred wood for bar fronts, terrazzo floor tiles, timber floors, brightly coloured mosaic tiles and ceiling moulding.
The fabric choice is naturally all fit-for-purpose to withstand the rigours of a popular and busy venue. Durability and flame retardancy are key for hotel design.
“Working with Materialised you have this amazing wealth of industry knowledge at the core of the collaboration”, says Ruth Harris, Interior Designer for AVA. “Their creative, passionate and patient team are always able to push the boundaries and exceed expectations.”
Materialised Products
AVA sought inspiration from a traditional fabric and we helped them create a modern fresh interpretation of this with a custom check to reflect the vibrancy of the project. The custom design has a great scale, proportion, colour and sense of fun and has become one of the key elements in this venue. It was printed on waterproof, stain resistant, antimicrobial Crypton Savanna Stucco and upholstered by Identity Furniture on their custom-designed, Australian made furniture.
“Along with Materialised’s amazing custom design opportunities, their fabric options are endless. We love how the Sina Pearson outdoor fabrics pop in the fresh alfresco space,” says Ruth.
Lawson Ochre faux leather was also selected. With its antimicrobial properties and ink resistant technology it’s the perfect solution for the gaming lounge upholstery.
The restricted hotel room dimensions led to a fun minimalist design approach and the Serendip ombré sheers add a beautiful soft layer. A custom colour was developed for the gradient, to work back with the carpet and printed on Brooklyn White.
- Serendip gradient ombré, custom colour printed on Brooklyn White
- Custom check upholstery printed on Crypton Savanna Stucco
- Single Chairs, Sina Pearson Serape 365 Guadalajara
- Banquette seating backs Sina Pearson Serape 365 Chihuahua
- Single Chairs Sina Pearson Patio Stripe 268 Orange Camel
- Chairs in games room: Lawson Ochre
The Future
AVA are excited to be working on several projects including another historic pub, a residential refurbishment in Bondi and a day surgery in Norwest’s new timber building ‘The Bond.’
The General Gordon Hotel was completed in March 2021.
The Team & Credits
- Design: Anthony Vavayis Architects
- Client: JDA Hotels
- Builders: Rohrig Group
- Furniture: Identity Furniture
- Lighting Designer: Malaya Blonde
- Photography: © David Curzon, DC Photographic Designs
