The client, Arthur Laundy, a publican with more than 60 years’ experience, gave FDC the brief to build a high-end hotel in Marsden Park, the highest growth area in NSW. The aim was to build the “perfect pub” from scratch, with every element of the design ensuring maximum efficiency, flexibility to respond to changing market tastes and maximise future capacity for the next 100 years of operation. Arthur believed that western Sydney patrons were under-served for high-quality hospitality establishments and deserved a high-quality regional venue.
The final project resulted in one of the largest hotels in Sydney, designed and licensed to be occupied by 2000 patrons concurrently and to hold 400-person events in the upstairs function rooms.
Further, the brief called for a 25-beer-barrel Brewhouse brewery to be the centrepiece of the venue. The aim of the brewery was to produce high-quality craft beers at affordable prices for patrons. The Brewhouse needed to be exposed and celebrated as an item of visual interest throughout the pub, while at the same time maintaining operational efficiency and safety.
The pub is divided into several zones, giving each demographic an area to call their own. The spaces are the Family Pavilion, Tonda Pizzeria, Kids’ Playground, Samuel Marsden Room, the Brewhouse, the Public House Sports Bar, The Parlour, Whiskey Bar, Gaming Room and Outdoor Terrace.
This bespoke pub was delivered on time and on budget. The high standard of finish and attention to detail has resulted in a complex building that has responded well to community requirements.