The Guildford Hotel known for its character and belvedere tower, has an incredible history. The original site was purchased in 1880 for £600, two years after the Freemantle-Guildford railway was built. The original hotel was
constructed and licensed shortly after. The Gold Rush in the late 1800’s saw the addition of accommodation facilities and in 1913 a grand, new façade was completed.
By 1980 more renovations were carried out to add a bottle-shop, restaurant, three bars and 26 rooms. In 1991 the hotel was condemned due to structural problems but was rescued only weeks before scheduled demolition and added to the State Heritage Register. In 2008 a devastating fire tore through the hotel leaving only a shell. For many years the remnants sat alone and derelict. Now in 2016 the hotel is one of Publican Group’s most recent projects. The building has seen a complete refurbishment, including the addition of apartments at the rear, bringing it up to modern standards, yet throwing a nod to its history.
The architects Fratell Group chose to leave much of the charred remains in place as a feature. The interior has been rebuilt using a mix of rich hardwood and weathered brick. To support the old character the bars feature a patchwork of whimsical tiles, vintage leadlight window decor and a mix of industrial and classic furniture. Ben Strijk from Practical Products created the custom bars and kitchen stainless, choosing to install Williams remote Cameos and Opals in the fit-out.