Hotel, music hall and overwater pool bar – Howard Smith Wharves rolls out new vision

Artemus Group, the masterminds behind riverside precinct Howard Smith Wharves, has just revealed details on its next chapter.

James Frostick

Sep 23, 2024, updated Sep 23, 2024

A recently lodged development application includes details of the group’s plans for the heaving hub, including the construction of a 77-room hotel, a dining pavilion with a pool deck and an overwater pool, and a raft of brand-new public amenities. Here’s what we know …

When Howard Smith Wharves opened to the public in 2018, it was a landmark moment for Brisbane. The world-class precinct reinvigorated our riverside dining scene, with resident institutions like Felons Brewing Co., Stanley, Greca and Yoko becoming bona fide institutions.

While one might be content pulling off one paradigm-shifting development, Artemus Group – the real estate and hospitality group behind Howard Smith Wharves and Sydney’s Manly Wharf precinct – is looking to keep in step with The City’s ongoing evolution, revealing plans for the next stage of HSW’s evolution.

Artemus Group has submitted a code-assessable development application (DA) that sets out the vision for the future of the waterfront precinct. The plans involve substantially reconfiguring the New Farm end of the hub, replacing existing structures with new amenities and a refresh of public spaces.Headlining the DA are plans for a brand-new 77-room, nine-storey hotel, which will replace Felons Barrel Hall and will boast ground-floor retail and a theatre/music hall. Second, the Rivershed and the Ciao Papi glasshouse will also be converted into a new bar and dining pavilion, featuring a pool deck and an overwater pool.Bougainvillea House, HSW’s Mediterranean-inspired private-event space, will also receive a new lease on life courtesy of a new two-storey, landscaped redesign. In order to better align with Brisbane’s ‘Buildings That Breathe’ guidelines, Artemus Group will enhance the precinct’s public spaces, pathways and boardwalks, while also improving public access via two new cliff lifts and additional open spaces.

Twelve beverage storage tanks will be installed in three locations in order to improve sustainability by reducing packaging waste and traffic movements.

In a statement, architect Mark Damant of Little Boat Projects revealed that the project aims to put “people at its heart”. “The design is welcoming, comfortable and engaging, creating a space that is truly for everyone,” says Mark. “Artemus Group’s vision positions Howard Smith Wharves as the most sustainable precinct in the world.

“The design incorporates subtropical landscape elements, integrating rooftop gardens and facade greenery, while world-first initiatives focus on reducing environmental impact and enhancing liveability.”

“We believe this next chapter at Howard Smith Wharves will play a central role in the Brisbane 2032 Olympics and Paralympics, where the river is our stage to showcase Brisbane and Queensland to the world,” adds Artemus Group founder and director Adam Flaskas.

“Our goal is to deliver something truly world-class for Brisbane; a destination that celebrates our city’s heritage, landscape and natural beauty. We are creating a hospitality and tourism gateway that will connect locals and visitors to some of Brisbane’s best experiences including exceptional dining and access to the world’s largest, pristine sand islands. Brisbane River is our city’s superpower and this development maximises its potential.”

The development application will follow the standard approval process – keep your eyes peeled for updates on its progress.