The Old Clare by Ode Hotels

Imagine a place where rugged industrial aesthetics meet sophisticated modern design—this is exactly how The Old Clare can be described. Located in the colorful Waverley district, this property is a true gem that Australia has gifted to travelers. It is not just a boutique hotel, but a living architectural monument that combines two historic buildings: a vintage 1940s pub and a former brewery administrative building.

The Old Clare. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

Inside The Old Clare, guests will find a stunning space where each of the 62 rooms possesses its own unique character. Architects masterfully joined the two structures with a glass lobby, turning a former narrow alleyway into a striking link between past and present. The interiors are filled with vintage furniture, exposed brickwork, and polished wood elements, creating a warm yet stylish atmosphere.

The place is further charmed by unusual details, such as an original dentist's chair at the reception or preserved elements of the old brewery. This space attracts those who appreciate authenticity and want to feel the rhythm of the modern city without losing touch with its rich history.

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A visit to The Old Clare is not only an opportunity to see unique architecture but also a chance to immerse yourself in a vibrant cultural scene. Be sure to head up to the hotel rooftop, which features an outdoor pool with panoramic views of the city skyline. There is also a stylish bar where you can relax with a cocktail while watching the sunset in one of the city's trendiest spots.

For history and design enthusiasts, exploring the interiors is a real treat. Look out for the original hatches for delivering beer kegs and the ancient brick walls, which have been carefully preserved. If you're hungry, the restored Art Deco pub offers an excellent selection of drinks and food in the atmosphere of a classic Australian brewery, but with a modern flair.

Step outside, and you'll find yourself on the famous Kensington Street. This is the perfect starting point for a walk through the Chippendale neighborhood, known for its art galleries, creative spaces, and the Spice Alley food court. Here, you can spend hours admiring murals, visiting contemporary art exhibitions, and sampling street food from around the world.

Located at 1 Kensington Street, this iconic landmark is situated in the heart of the Chippendale district. Getting here is easy, as the building sits on the corner of the busy Broadway and the pedestrian-friendly Kensington Street.

For those who prefer public transport, the ideal option is a train to Railway Square, which is located in the immediate vicinity of the entrance. You can also quickly reach the hotel from anywhere in the city or from the international airport by taxi or popular ridesharing services.

If you are already in the city center, a walk to The Old Clare will be a pleasant addition to your itinerary, as the neighborhood is very pedestrian-friendly and filled with interesting visual details.

The history of The Old Clare is a fascinating narrative of industrial heritage transformation. The hotel combines two iconic structures: the famous County Clare pub, built in 1940 by architect Sidney Warden, and the majestic Carlton & United Breweries administrative building, dating back to the late 19th century.

During the restoration process, architects from Tonkin Zulaikha Greer set an ambitious goal: to preserve authenticity without resorting to excessive polish. That is why you can see original brick walls, old fire escapes, and even restored safes. The hotel reception is now located where a gambling room once stood, and the former pub bar continues to serve its historical function.

One of the most impressive spaces is the CUB Suite. This room, spanning over 100 square meters, is housed in the former brewery's boardroom. It even features the original "executive" bathroom with a porcelain urinal from the beginning of the last century, highlighting an ironic and respectful approach to history.

This project was the first Australian venture for the international group Unlisted Collection. Its opening played a key role in transforming Chippendale from a purely industrial zone into one of the most creative and fashionable districts, where the past harmoniously coexists with modern art.

For those who stop by just to admire the unique architecture and have a cup of coffee or a glass of craft beer in the historic bar, 2–3 hours will be sufficient. This is enough time to explore the lobby, appreciate the design solutions, and soak in the industrial atmosphere of the place.

If you plan to fully relax, enjoy the rooftop pool, and have dinner at one of the local restaurants, it is worth setting aside at least half a day or staying overnight. Don't forget to allow a couple of extra hours to explore Kensington Street itself and the neighboring art galleries—this neighborhood is worth exploring at a leisurely pace.

As befits a modern hospitality hub, The Old Clare is open to visitors 24/7. You can drop by at any time of the day or night to appreciate the lobby architecture or use the hotel's services.

However, if you plan to visit a specific restaurant or the rooftop bar, it is recommended to check their operating hours on the official website in advance, as service times in the dining areas may vary depending on the day of the week.

The surroundings of The Old Clare are literally steeped in an atmosphere of creativity and history. A stroll through the adjacent streets will allow you to discover many interesting locations, from cozy bars to architectural monuments.