The Sydney Arcade

400 George Street - King Street - Sydney 

Designed by Thomas Rowe and built in 1881, The Sydney Arcade was a lesser known rival to the neighbouring Strand Arcade. Forming an unusual L-shape from 400 George Street to King Street, it was a 2 storey building with about 78 shops and offices over the 2 levels. The vaulted glass ceiling presented a light and ventilated arcade with an architectural difference to the other arcades in Sydney at that time. I'm still trying to work out when it was demolished.

The Strand Arcade is a historic shopping arcade located in the heart of Sydney, Australia. It is renowned for its architectural beauty, Victorian-era design, and role as one of Sydney's premier shopping destinations. Here's an overview of the history of the Strand Arcade:

Construction and Design:

• The Strand Arcade was built during the late 19th century and officially opened on April 1, 1892.
• The arcade was designed by architect John Spencer, who aimed to create a grand and sophisticated shopping space that would cater to the growing affluent population of Sydney.

Elegant Victorian Architecture:

• The Strand Arcade is characterized by its ornate and elaborate Victorian architecture. It features a glass roof, intricate iron lacework, and decorative tiles.
• The use of natural light from the glass roof was a novel feature at the time and added to the arcade's unique atmosphere.

Commercial Evolution:

• From its inception, the Strand Arcade was home to a variety of high-end boutiques, shops, and businesses catering to a discerning clientele.
• Over the years, the arcade has housed a diverse range of businesses, from fashion boutiques to cafes, jewelry stores, and specialty shops.

Resilience Through Time:

• The Strand Arcade has weathered various challenges and changes in consumer preferences over the decades. It has managed to maintain its charm and appeal, becoming a beloved fixture in Sydney's retail scene.

Renovations and Restoration:

• The arcade has undergone several renovations and restoration projects to preserve its historical features while modernizing its facilities.
• Efforts have been made to maintain the original design elements while accommodating contemporary shopping needs.

Heritage Significance:

• The Strand Arcade is listed on the New South Wales State Heritage Register, recognizing its architectural and historical significance.
• It is considered one of the few remaining examples of Victorian-style shopping arcades in Australia.

Modern Shopping Experience:

• The Strand Arcade continues to offer a unique shopping experience, blending the elegance of the past with contemporary retail offerings.
• The arcade attracts both local shoppers and tourists, drawing them in with its combination of heritage and modernity.

Cultural Landmark:

• The Strand Arcade has become more than just a shopping destination; it is a cultural and architectural landmark that contributes to Sydney's identity and history.

Today, the Strand Arcade stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of timeless architecture and the role of historic structures in shaping the character of a city. Its rich history and ongoing commercial success make it a cherished part of Sydney's urban fabric.

 

The Lord Dudley Hotel - 1895 - Woolahra - New South Wales 

Enjoying a pint outside the Lord Dudley in Woollahra, the late, great Anthony Bourdain fell in love with a uniquely Aussie tradition. "Daytime drinking is really underrated," Bourdain observed. 

And we agree, few things are better than a pint of ale on a sunny Sydney afternoon and there are few places better than this eastern suburbs classic. 

Since 1895, this Tudor-like pub with creeping-vine exterior has been a drinker's paradise (a foodie's too, with scotch eggs, 

Guinness pies and lamb-fry). And if the sun ain't shining then park yourself by the ornate wooden bar, the dartboard or the open fireplace.

Historical Pubs And Hotels - Sydney

 

The Lord Wolsley Hotel - 1881- Ultimo - Pyrmont - Sydney - NSW 

Gone are the days when this Ultimo institution was frequented by the movers and shakers of Sydney's criminal class. 

Now it's all craft beer and garden jazz on Sundays in New South Wales' narrowest pub.

 Standing tall since 1881, The Lord Wolsley boasts a killer bistro and a leafy ambiance brought to life with classic wooden finishes and suitably blood-red carpet.

Historical Sydney Hotels

The Carlisle Castle Hotel - Newtown - Sydney - New South Wales

 

The Carlisle Castle Hotel - 1876 - Newtown - Sydney - New South Wales 

Somewhat sheltered from the madness of Sydney's most eclectic suburb,

 if you're lucky enough to stumble across the Carlisle Castle then prepare to be floored by Australia's best-looking old-school bar.

 Built in 1876, the Carlisle was refitted by Reschs in the twenties to include a glorious (and damn expensive) marble bar from Italy. 

It became the centrepiece of a hotel long adored by artists, musicians and locals. 

There's also a pool table, a dartboard, a piano parlour and more often than not, 

a dog on a stool enjoying a pint (of water). 

It's perfectly, unashamedly, Newtown.

Historical Sydney Hotels

 

The Bald Rock Hotel - 1876 - Rozelle - Sydney - NSW

Complimenting the tranquility of its native Rozelle, 

The Bald Rock is a delightful pub designed to spend an easy and unassuming afternoon. 

Built in 1876 in the Victorian-classical style, the hotel retains its original sandstone interior, 

which gives it a bygone feel you just can't fake.

 With a storied history of booze-smugglers and drunken horses, 

it's now a family-friendly venue with a leafy courtyard and a high-quality bistro. 

Historical Sydney  Hotels

 

The Nags Head Hotel - Glebe - Sydney - New South Wales

 

The Nags Head Hotel - 1865 - Glebe - Sydney - New South Wales 

Glebe might be the finest suburb in Sydney for a pub crawl, and if you're so inspired be sure to finish at The Nag's Head. 

Built in 1865 and named for God-knows-what reason, 

the true essence of the Nag is found on the second-floor balcony while enjoying a schooner. 

With its elegant front bar, a wonderful bistro and regular live music, 

if this ends up being your local then you're doing better than the rest of us.

Historical Sydney Hotels

The East Sydney Hotel - Cathedral Street - Woolloomooloo - East Sydney

 

The East Sydney Hotel - 1856 - Cathedral Street - Woolloomooloo - East Sydney

 it's a wonderful place to indulge yourself on an afternoon, 

especially since they offer up their own craft beer and have revitalised their bistro.

 Dating back to 1856, it's a landmark pub in a suburb of landmark pubs, 

but what stands out is its simplicity. 

No bells and whistles here, 

just a genuine nineteenth-century inn, 

with a commanding wooden bar,

copper nail floorboards and an interior decked out like the Parisian Salon. 

It's a bush poem come to life.

Historical Sydney Hotels

“The Shakespeare” Hotel - Devonshire Street - Surry Hills

 

“The Shakespeare” Hotel - 1879 - Devonshire Street - Surry Hills 

Rising out of the backstreets of Surry Hills like a pirate ship run ashore, the Shakespeare is a Sydney treasure. 

Built in 1879 there's a kegful of charm here, be it the blue tiles cascading down the bar or the Victorian-style rooms above, every nook and cranny has a story worth telling.

 Famed for journalists, skaters, actors and all the bohemians Surry Hills could conjure, 

it's the kind of place where you can bring your dog, 

have a Reschs on the street and a schnitty at the bar — everything a pub ought to be.

Historical Sydney Hotels

 

“The London” - Hotel - Pub - Balmain - Sydney 

Once the local of literary heavyweights Germaine Greer and Clive James, Balmain's London Hotel is among the finest examples of convict-era pubs. 

With its sandstone exterior, an interior decked out in South Australian timber and a brass-lined bar, 

it doesn't matter where you pull up a stool, you're bound to be enchanted. 

If you manage a piece of Sydney's finest real estate

 you'll soon understand why this 1857 landmark is the jewel of Darling Street

Historical Sydney Hotels

 

The Marble Bar - Pitt Street - Sydney - Historical Significance

Believe it Or Not The Marble Bar Was Once Above Ground….
Now It Is Well Below Ground. 
Just This Example Alone Clearly Shows How Much Of What Sydney Is Today As In The Footpaths, Streets And Buildings…. 
It’s  All Been Dramatically Built Up From The Original Ground 
The Marble Bar is a rare story of development done well. And the sad thing is it has been done well. It’s such a shame that this standard has not been applied to all the other Significant and Historical Sites around Sydney 
 Built in 1893 by man-about-town George Adams, it would eventually be dismantled and reassembled underground when the Hilton arrived in 1973. Crafted from the finest marble in Africa and Belgium, it cost a fortune but it gave Sydney something it lacked — an establishment to rival the finest saloons of Paris and London. Liza Minnelli once battled through a schooner here but I'd opt for a cocktail. A martini or a sazerac for the finest room in Sydney.

Historical Sydney Hotels

The Marble Bar in Sydney, Australia, is a historic and renowned establishment that has been an integral part of the city's social and cultural scene for over a century. It is located within the Hilton Sydney hotel and is known for its opulent décor, unique architectural features, and vibrant history. Here's an overview of the history of the Marble Bar:

Origins and Construction:

• The Marble Bar was originally constructed in 1893 as part of the former Government Savings Bank building, which is now the Hilton Sydney hotel.
• The bar was designed by the architect John Clouston, and its name is derived from the opulent marble used in its construction.

Unique Decor and Features:

• The Marble Bar is characterized by its ornate and lavish interior, which includes intricately designed marble pillars, stained glass windows, and decorative plasterwork.
• The bar features an array of unique architectural styles, including Victorian, Gothic, and Art Nouveau elements, reflecting the eclectic design trends of the late 19th century.

Transported from London:

• The bar's mahogany fixtures, including the arches and columns, were initially created for London's Criterion Hotel and transported to Sydney.
• The Marble Bar's design was intended to showcase the wealth and prosperity of Sydney at the time.

Prohibition and Adaptation:

• In the early 20th century, the temperance movement led to the introduction of prohibition in New South Wales, which restricted the sale of alcohol.
• The Marble Bar responded to this by adapting its offerings and focusing on food and non-alcoholic drinks.

Preservation and Restoration:

• Despite changing trends and societal shifts, the Marble Bar's unique design and historical significance were preserved over the years.
• Efforts have been made to restore and maintain the bar's original features, ensuring that its opulent atmosphere endures.

Cultural Significance:

• The Marble Bar has been a gathering place for locals, visitors, and prominent figures throughout its history.
• Its historic charm and luxurious ambiance have made it a favored location for social events, celebrations, and gatherings.

Modern Day:

• The Marble Bar remains a beloved institution in Sydney. It continues to serve as a vibrant bar and live music venue within the Hilton Sydney hotel.
• The bar's historical significance and unique architecture make it a sought-after destination for those looking to experience a piece of Sydney's past.

The Marble Bar's rich history, opulent design, and ongoing popularity have made it a cherished part of Sydney's cultural heritage. Its ability to adapt to changing times while retaining its historical charm has contributed to its enduring appeal as a cultural and social hub.