History Meets Modernity: The Reinvention of a Heritage Hotel

History Meets Modernity: The Reinvention of a Heritage Hotel

A beautifully converted 1890s pub, the Australian Contingent Hotel, now reimagined as a four-bedroom, three-bathroom home, is a study in finding the perfect balance between heritage charm and design-led luxury. Incorporating considered colours and sleek silhouettes that transcend seasons and trends, the design epitomises Coco Republic’s contemporary elegance – but with the property’s historic details carefully stitched within.

Oriented around recreating the convivial, intimate atmosphere of pubs of its time, the layout is anchored by a combination of entertaining areas, cosy nooks and retreat-like spaces. Reclaimed timber and handcrafted stonework – key features of the building’s original construction – are celebrated through a refined material palette that honours the hotel’s rich history while distilling it through a modern lens.  

Framed by the arresting curves of the original staircase, our design team brought cohesion to the living space by incorporating sculptural silhouettes, sumptuous textiles and a calming colour scheme. The Westwood Sofa was upholstered in a beautifully textured white fabric and topped with beige-hued cushions in an assortment of tactile finishes. Nearby, the Atelier Slipper Chair — with its structural oak frame and curvaceous cushioning — adds intrigue, while the Carmel Round Coffee Table ties the space together thanks to its harmonious blend of honed marble and wire-brushed oak 

In the kitchen, natural materials, considered details and spatial elegance pay homage to the hotel’s storied past. Underpinned by a striking marble island and refined shaker-style cabinetry, the space is enriched with soft-touch texture and warm tones through the addition of our Cara Counter Stools in camel coloured hand-tipped leather. Downstairs, in the 1,000-bottle wine cellarformerly the pub’s keg room – the Parisian-inspired Mimi Dining Chairs offer a comfortable setting for family meals and dinner parties that continue late into the evening 

Heritage features meet contemporary comfort in each of the home’s four bedrooms. Plush, tufted bedheads, like the Chamonix Bedhead, set a warm, welcoming tone, while the cocooning shapes and graceful curves of our occasional chairs, such as the Norfolk Swivel Chair and Oscar Dining Chair, invite moments of rest and reflection.  

In restoring the historic Australian Contingent Hotel, the vision was clear: to blend the charm of the past with the sophistication of the present. The result is a warm, inviting residential space that seamlessly combines modern luxury and timeless elegance.  

If you're interested in exploring the beauty of this Sydney home by private appointment, please contact Sara at SOHO Urban Property on 0417215429.   

Whether you’re styling to sell or creating your forever home, our interior designers are experts in curating inspirational indoor and outdoor spaces.  


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