DA Analysis: Ambitious Plans for Howard Smith Wharves Redevelopment 2.0

Brisbane Development I Last updated: 26/09/24

Artemus Group Unveils Ambitious Plans for Howard Smith Wharves Waterfront

Artemus Group today announced plans to transform Brisbane’s riverfront, submitting a code-assessable development application (DA) unveiling the next stage of innovation for the Howard Smith Wharves precinct.

The code-assessable DA sets out Artemus Group’s grand vision to redefine the city’s waterfront experience. This proposal includes the construction of a 77-room hotel, enhanced public spaces and sustainable innovations that celebrate Brisbane’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.`

Analysis of Lodged Development Application

A development application has been lodged by HSW Nominees Pty Ltd for the comprehensive redevelopment of the eastern portion of Howard Smith Wharves, located at 5 Boundary Street, Fortitude Valley. The proposal includes a nine-storey hotel, upgraded public spaces, and enhanced pedestrian connectivity across this iconic riverside precinct.

Designed by Little Boat Projects, the hotel’s architecture features a distinct arched form that integrates with the natural rock face of the Brisbane cliffs. The building will include a mix of public and private spaces, from the green rooftop to the extended boardwalk along the Brisbane River.

Hotel Building

The hotel will feature 77 luxury rooms, designed with a heritage woolstore-inspired brick facade. This facade will utilise brick detailing, paying homage to Brisbane’s historic brick and stone architecture found in nearby New Farm and Teneriffe.

The arches mirror the monumental pylons of the Story Bridge, while the hotel’s masonry is intended to complement the local environment. In addition, the hotel will have a custom glass canopy marking the main entrance, providing a visual anchor for the structure.

The hotel would also include a two-level Music Hall, located within the prominent archways of the building, intended for public events and performances. The hall features a performance stage, seating areas, and a mezzanine balcony with tiered seating to accommodate audiences.

It would serve as a venue for various cultural events, accessible from both the eastern and western parts of the precinct and also feature a car lift. Bar and lounge facilities would also be integrated into the hall, providing additional amenities for visitors.

The hotel also features a dedicated wellness spa on level 4 designed to provide guests with high-end relaxation and fitness amenities. The spa will include treatment rooms, a sauna, steam rooms, and a state-of-the-art fitness centre. The wellness spa would provide relaxation and health services for both hotel guests and day visitors.

On level 9 of the hotel, a rooftop pool deck is proposed featuring cabanas, a large restaurant accessible by a public and hotel lifts, bar areas, and a retail space.

Basement level 1 is designated for guest vehicle drop-off and pickup for hotel guests. This level also includes valet services and access to the hotel’s staff amenities and back-of-house facilities. The second basement level serves as additional parking for the broader precinct and will include public parking, loading, and storage areas .

Rivershed

The Rivershed precinct is set to undergo a significant transformation, including the installation of an overwater pool with a fountain at its centre. This pool will be surrounded by bars and leisure spaces, primarily serving patrons of the nearby restaurants and bars but also offering public access via the riverfront.

The existing Rivershed building will be raised by one storey, allowing for a larger ground-floor restaurant area and expansive function spaces on the upper level. Visitors would enjoy panoramic views of the Brisbane River, Story Bridge, and city skyline from the new rooftop terrace.

Bougainvillea House

The existing Bougainvillea House will see an additional level added to the structure, transforming it into a multi-use space that blends seamlessly into the surrounding cliffs. The facade will be covered with trellises and landscaping, helping the building blend with the natural environment. The outdoor terraces on the ground floor will provide an ideal space for dining and events.

The Howard Smith Wharves redevelopment is planned to be completed ahead of the 2032 Brisbane Olympics. The various stages of the redevelopment would be delivered incrementally, ensuring the precinct remains operational during construction.

Additional Key Features

• Cliff Lifts: Two additional lifts will be installed, doubling the current capacity and providing better access for visitors, and commuters between the riverfront and nearby areas such as New Farm and Fortitude Valley.

• Drink Storage Tanks: Three sets of four new drink storage tanks, each standing at 16 metres high, will be installed to support operations at the west, central and east of the site. On top of the central set of tanks will be prominent Felons signage expected to be a notable visual landmark, illuminated at night.

• Floating Felons Brewhouse: The redevelopment includes the expansion of the Felons Barrel Hall with a floating brewhouse situated adjacent to the river. This has been proposed in a separate development application which has now been approved.

• Custom Glass Canopy: The hotel’s entrance will be marked by a custom glass canopy, which serves both functional and aesthetic purposes, enhancing the arrival experience.
• Basement parking: The development will include substantial staged basement car parking and vehicle access across the precinct.

The redevelopment of the Howard Smith Wharves precinct is expected to generate over 2,500 jobs during and after construction, contributing significantly to the local economy. This includes jobs in construction, hospitality, retail, and ongoing operational roles once the development is complete.

Development Rundown

DA Application Link

A006618899

Given the location of the Howard Smith Wharves precinct within a Brisbane River flood planning area, the redevelopment has incorporated several flood mitigation measures to ensure the safety and durability of the structures. The Stormwater Management Plan and Hydraulic Report have detailed the development’s compliance with flood immunity standards.

Features such as the overwater pool deck and bar have been designed to withstand storm-tide inundation and coastal erosion. The overall design also aligns with State Code 8 for coastal development, ensuring resilience against future climate change impacts.

Adam Flaskas, Founder and Director of Artemus Group, said: “Positioned along the iconic Brisbane River, the precinct is already a thriving destination. 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.”

“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. We have always had the goal of creating the world’s most sustainable precinct right here on the river’s edge. This project incorporates world firsts in its design, materials, innovation and creativity to support us in achieving this vision and building something truly beautiful, ” Mr Flaskas said.

Project architect Mark Damant said: “This project puts people at its heart. The design is welcoming, comfortable and engaging, creating a space that is truly for everyone.”

“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,” Mr Damant said.

CEO of Artemus Group Luke Fraser said: “As Brisbane grows into a global city, this precinct will set a new standard in design and sustainability. We’re proud to present a vision that will play a pivotal role in shaping Brisbane’s future.”

“Howard Smith Wharves has always been about community, and this next stage is about continuing to provide exceptional spaces and experiences for locals and visitors to enjoy our beautiful city and some of the very best experiences Queensland has to offer.”

The code-assessable DA will follow the standard approval process, and the Artemus Group is excited to bring this exceptional project to life and create a vibrant new space for all Brisbane residents and visitors to Queensland to enjoy and experience.

Selected Hotel Plans

Selected Rivershed Plans

Author: Brisbane Development