The Astor Hotel Motel in Albury is undergoing a major revamp in preparation for the expected domestic tourism boost stemming from COVID-19 international travel bans.

Delivered through Technē Architecture + Interior Design, in conjunction with hotelier Peter Griffiths, the upgrade will transform the 1960s buildings into a Palm Springs-style oasis and incporporate work to the bar, restaurant, beer garden, function spaces, gaming area, as well as the exterior and interior of the 45-room motel.

Technē director Nick Travers told WILLIAMS MEDIA now was the perfect opportunity to be developing and regenerating regional areas.

At a glance: 

• The Astor Hotel Motel in Albury, NSW will undergo a major upgrade at the hands of Technē Architecture + Interior Design, in conjunction with hotelier Peter Griffiths.
• The Palm Springs-style redevelopment will include work to the bar, restaurant, beer garden, function spaces, gaming area, as well as the exterior and interior of the 45-room motel.
• The hotel's new look is slated for completion in September, with the first stage due to re-open in July.

“The news of the Astor’s transformation has been welcomed by the local community in Albury as nothing like this currently exists in the area," he said.

"The extensive refurbishment will offer an elevated destination for all, drawing on the origins of the building with some distinctive Palm Springs flair.

“Motels are noteworthy in Australia’s architectural and accommodation history so hopefully the projected regional tourism boom can see more of these revitalised across our country.”

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Source: Technē Architecture + Interior Design

Motels and their architectural significance have been gaining attention in Australia, with comedian Tim Ross event staging a series of shows centred on the accommodation typology.

Mr Travers said they were looking forward to bringing their expertise and ability to make venues appeal to a broad audience to a regional centre, something they have already applied across notable Melbourne venues including The Espy and Village Belle Hotel.

“We build flexibility in our designs and are catering to a broad demographic of patrons, from locals to visitors as well as everyone in between," he said.

“I’ve been inspired by my own travel to Palm Springs last year and it’s the perfect opportunity to be bringing a slice of this to Australia through the project’s design."

techne_astor_render2.jpg

Source: Technē Architecture + Interior Design

Mr Griffiths from Pub Funds Pty Ltd, who acquired the property in mid- 2019, said he was excited to work with Technē to bring something unique to the area.

“I undertook an extensive process to determine the most suitable architect and, after visiting their most recent projects in Melbourne, Techne became the obvious choice as the clear market leader," he said.

“The plans will see the venue fully reimagined, and will enhance the area with a design outcome that leverages the building’s existing fabric and architectural origins.

MrGriffiths also plans to acquire other regional pubs, in addition to his existing portfolio which encompasses multiple venues.

The Astor Hotel Motel is slated for full completion in September, with the first stage due to re-open in July.

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