Google “iconic Melbourne pubs” and The Standard Hotel, Fitzroy is mentioned on every list that comes up. Concrete Playground, Urban List, Beat, even Good Food Guide pay homage to Fitzroy’s largest (and possibly Melbourne’s most well-known) beer garden. So when the owners approached us to renovate part of it, naturally we jumped at the chance!

It was our dream opportunity to reinvigorate an iconic part of Melbourne pub culture (established in 1865) and landscape one of our favourite beer gardens. It would be judged by allegiance-pledged locals, seen by thousands of visitors and rated by every guide-book-pub-blogger researching a Top 10 list… no pressure there at all…

Our aim was to create a beer garden with a modern feel and flexible seating arrangements which also complemented the gritty character and established charm of the pub. The most important question in designing the space was “How can we update such an iconic beer garden and still honour its quintessential heritage?” Recycled brick work was mixed with Melbourne’s recognisable bluestone pavers. Modern underplanting and garden lighting were used under floating benches. Recycled wood and rusted steel products were softened with plants and climbers.

The jewel in the beer garden’s crown is a with a fully automatic retractable awning system by Melbourne Awning Centre. Impressive Oregon beams were shipped down from a demolished century old copper mill in NSW and recycled into trusses. Custom-made powder-coated steel brackets enhance the aged, industrial feel. The awning system will protect punters from Melbourne’s wet winters but easily adjust coverage throughout summer too.

Working with incredible subbies and suppliers such as Recycled Timber Specialists, Norik & Yarrawood Constructions, Prestige Surfaces, Drummond Steel, Better Exteriors and Plantmark was essential in delivering this exciting project that we are truly honoured to bring to life.

Long live the local… and Boony for PM!