Prince Public Bar

This iconic St Kilda pub has been reborn, with a reconfigured interior architecture that restores its former glory and celebrates its storied history, while also laying the foundation for a bright future.

Prince Public Bar features a vibrant street view with outdoor seating and passing scooters.

The refurbishment of the Prince Public Bar is part of a wider program of work at St Kilda’s Prince Hotel, which includes the Prince Dining Room and Little Prince Wine. But in some ways it’s the most important part, given its prominent location and direct connection to life on Fitzroy Street.

Time had not been kind to the bar, so we set about restoring original art deco features that had been removed or concealed, reorienting aspects of the floor plan to create greater connection between interior spaces and, by replacing windows in the front facade with doors, opening the interior up to the street.

2020
St Kilda, Boonwurrung Land

Patrons

180pax

Floor Area

435m²

Previously sectioned off into a public bar and queer friendly bar, the space is now unified around a single large bar that reimagines the original open layout. The pride flag that once hung on the dividing wall is remembered in the rainbow sheen of a dichroic glass bottle shelf.

Modern interior of Prince Public Bar featuring minimalist decor and framed artwork on the walls.

Modern interior of Prince Public Bar with seating and wall signage for dining, hotel, and deck.

Modern restaurant interior with open kitchen view at Prince Public Bar.

A central block of toilets was moved to the rear of the building, opening up the floor plan and creating space for a new bistro-style dining zone. Research into the history of the building revealed that the European manufacturer of the hotel’s original floor tiles is still in operation, so similar tiles were sourced and laid in a new pattern that defines the bistro as well as hallways and access points.

Black and white image of Prince of Wales Hotel facade and interior refrigeration cabinets, related to Prince Public Bar.

Colorful posters and chalkboard in Prince Public Bar showcasing drink specials and vibrant decor.

Flyer for "Prince Public Bar" featuring bands like I Spit on Your Gravy and Died Pretty.

In addition to restoring the bar’s period features, we’ve also honoured the rich cultural history of the place, with photographs, posters and visual artifacts that document the different ways the space has been used, from grand seaside hotel to sticky-floored rock venue.

Interior of Prince Public Bar with patrons at a green-tiled counter.

The interior is given a contemporary edge with a palette that includes natural timbers and rainbow-finished steel; robust materials that are practical for the busy pub environment, and that will patinate over time, adding character and personality.

Modern bar stool and table with wine glasses at Prince Public Bar.

Cozy seating area with wooden stools and colorful tables at Prince Public Bar.

The Prince Public Bar now recreates the classic pub environment, with a diverse range of options for patrons. For example, standing at the central bar, perching on a stool at a high table, lounging on a banquette, or having a meal in the bistro.

This reflects the broader strategy at the Prince Hotel, to offer a menu of experiences that meet different needs and different moods, from hotel accommodation and formal dining, to a pub meal or a quick glass of wine. And bringing these all together, one final piece of engineering work: the relocation of a back-of-house stairway to provide a direct connection between the hotel lobby and the pub.

Modern interior of Prince Public Bar with stylish seating and framed wall art.

Stylish interior of Prince Public Bar featuring modern tables and chairs against tiled walls.

Modern bar interior with gin bottles on display at Prince Public Bar.

Not long ago, the front facade of the Prince Public Bar was seemingly impenetrable and intimidating to all but the most seasoned locals. Now it’s open and hospitable, a contemporary pub that welcomes everyone.