The Paddo Tavern in Paddington is set to undergo a significant redevelopment, transforming it into a four-level venue with a new rooftop and modernised facilities aimed at supporting the local community and welcoming visitors ahead of Brisbane’s 2032 Olympics.
Expansion and New Facilities
The renovation plan (DA A006642907), designed by Brisbane-based Craig W Chandler Architects, will add a fourth level to the Paddo Tavern, increasing its total floor area by nearly 50 per cent to 5,112 square metres. The new layout will include three function rooms, each approximately 148 square metres, designed to accommodate private events, corporate functions, and community gatherings. A large bar and lounge area will span 303 square metres, while a spacious 480-square-metre breakout area will connect to the function rooms.
The expansion includes updated accessibility features, with a new lift and escalators, and a redesigned facade along Given Terrace and Campbell Street. The tavern’s street presence will also be enhanced with a “green wall” featuring cascading plants, adding a subtropical touch to the venue’s exterior. The updated facilities aim to position the Paddo Tavern as a central location for community events and gatherings, with the ability to host larger groups and a broader range of events.
Historical Preservation and Sustainability
The Paddo Tavern has a long history dating back to the 1870s, and the current structure, built in the 1980s, has been a key landmark in Paddington. The redevelopment plans include reusing much of the existing structure, reducing the environmental impact of the project and preserving some of the tavern’s historical elements. Additionally, the well-known Sit Down Comedy Club venue will remain, ensuring the Paddo Tavern continues to support local arts and entertainment.
Across the street, another development aims to further revitalise the Paddington area. A new boutique unit and short-stay accommodation project, led by local landowners the Vidakovic family, is under construction at 208-220 Given Terrace. This development will feature two mid-rise buildings housing 12 luxury apartments and 31 short-stay accommodation suites.
A new laneway, named Hanlon Lane, will connect the site to Given Terrace and offer a mix of retail spaces, including cafes, restaurants, and restored character shops. This mixed-use project is expected to attract more foot traffic to Paddington’s retail strip, enhancing the area’s appeal for both locals and visitors.
Community Impact and Future Events
The redevelopment of the Paddo Tavern and the nearby Given Terrace project are part of a broader effort to prepare Paddington for upcoming major events, including the 2027 Rugby World Cup and the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. By expanding its facilities and enhancing its community spaces, the Paddo Tavern aims to continue serving the Paddington community as a central meeting spot for both locals and tourists. Nearby residents and business owners have the opportunity to provide feedback on the development, as the tavern’s expansion plans are open to appeal through the planning court.
With these changes, the Paddo Tavern and surrounding area are set to grow into a hub for community engagement, providing improved amenities, event spaces, and social venues to serve the evolving needs of Paddington’s residents and visitors alike.
Published 4-Nov-2024
