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Stasia’s Surry Hills Development Adds to Growing Commercial Hub

Surry Hills is set for a new commercial development as Stasia Holdings pushes forward with its plans for a 10-storey office tower at 232-240 Elizabeth Street.

Despite initial delays, the project has gained momentum with adding an extra level, bringing the total commercial space to over 6,300 square metres.

The proposal, designed by Candalepas Associates, recently underwent community consultation with the City of Sydney following a Gateway Determination. This extra storey boosts the floor space by 2000 square metres and significantly increases the building’s capacity.

A new laneway will connect Reservoir Street with Foster Lane, adding to the development’s appeal and improving pedestrian access and connectivity across the site. The project will also see the demolition of five existing terrace buildings, which have been heavily modified over time to accommodate a strip of shops.

The development’s location within a designated employment cluster further strengthens its potential. The Surry Hills area is already known for its concentration of businesses in sectors such as health, education, creative industries, and professional services.

This project marks another significant investment in Surry Hills by Stasia Holdings, which has been actively developing properties in the area. Their portfolio includes projects at 117 Flinders Street, 163-171 Oxford Street near Darlinghurst, and The Porterhouse at 233 Riley Street.

The company recently completed Foveaux HQ, a commercial space leased to Safety Culture, a software start-up. Safety Culture’s founder has admired established tech companies like Atlassian and Canva, which have a strong presence in the area.

Canva’s new headquarters on Kippax Street, with its unique design reflecting the company’s culture, was unveiled earlier this year. Meanwhile, Atlassian’s Tech Central tower is being built, with minor modifications underway.

Stasia’s Elizabeth Street development joins the growing number of commercial projects reshaping Surry Hills. As Tech Central welcomes its first tenants, this latest addition is poised to solidify the suburb’s status as a thriving business hub.

Published Date 01-October-2024

Ellison Studios Launches ‘The Rental’ at the Historic Edwards & Co Building

A furniture brand has launched “The Rental,” an innovative loft-style space in Surry Hills. Occupying an entire floor of the heritage Edwards & Co building, this immersive living experience marks a significant pivot for the social media-savvy brand.

Read: $5.2-Million Revamp to Transform Former Surry Hills Church into Culinary and Business Hub

The Rental transforms the 1926 Edwards & Co building into a contemporary haven that pays homage to its industrial past while embracing modern design sensibilities. As visitors step out of the elevator directly into the living room, they are immediately struck by the space’s New York loft-like ambiance.

Ellison Studio’s design team has masterfully utilised the building’s existing architecture, incorporating nooks and hidden staircases to maximise the floor plan and create distinct living areas. The colour palette draws inspiration from the urban landscape, with rich browns and terracotta tones enveloping the space and complementing the glow of city lights visible through expansive windows.

Tactile experiences are at the forefront of The Rental’s design philosophy. Warm, inviting materials such as natural wool, walnut, and faux furs have been carefully curated to encourage human connection and comfort. These elements work in harmony to create an environment that feels both luxurious and lived-in.

Coinciding with The Rental’s launch is the debut of Ellison Studios’ latest furniture piece, the Stack sofa. This playful design, inspired by childhood pillow forts, exemplifies the brand’s commitment to functional yet whimsical home furnishings.

Leigh McKeown, CEO and co-founder of Ellison Studio, emphasised that The Rental represents a significant shift for the brand. She revealed this was their first foray into a more offline presentation.

“While sharing content online is amazing, sharing this space with our friends, collaborators and clients is bringing with it a deeper sense of connection and community. In a way, it’s our modern-day share house – though much nicer than the ones I experienced when I was younger. Though temporary, we very much hope this space will leave lasting memories for all who visit,” McKeown shared.

Read: Surry Hills Welcomes Bistronomie by OK: A Parisian Dream on Crown Street

For design enthusiasts and potential customers, The Rental offers an exclusive opportunity to preview upcoming Ellison Studios pieces before they hit the market. With new items set to launch from October onwards, visitors will have a front-row seat to the brand’s latest innovations in home furnishings.

Published 30-September-2024

Moore Park Entertainment Plans Scaled Back After Resident Backlash

Ambitious plans to revitalise Moore Park’s Entertainment Quarter have been significantly downsized following a wave of objections from nearby residents.

The proposal, which initially envisioned hosting community markets, live music events, and food stalls with a capacity of 8,000 people, has been reduced to accommodate just 3,000 attendees.

The project, run by the well-known businessmen John Singleton and Gerry Harvey’s Carsingha Investments, aimed to give the Entertainment Quarter’s underused areas new life.

Moore Park — *Photo Credit: Screengrab from Google Map*

This response has drawn criticism from those who believe the concerns are overblown.

City of Sydney Cr Lyndon Gannon expressed his disappointment, highlighting the proximity of the Entertainment Quarter to the Sydney Cricket Ground, a venue accustomed to hosting large-scale events. He emphasised the need for Sydney to regain its vibrancy and argued that restricting entertainment options is counterproductive.

Melissa Neighbour, co-founder of Sydney YIMBY, also expressed surprise at the negative feedback, particularly given the area’s relatively high average income. She suggested that a desire for quiet evenings may contribute to Sydney’s nightlife’s decline.

In response to the objections, the City of Sydney engaged in discussions with Carsingha Investments and reviewed numerous public submissions.

With its reduced capacity, the revised proposal is expected to be approved at a council meeting, subject to strict conditions. These conditions include a 10 pm curfew for music, a ban on subwoofer speakers, and requirements for crowd control measures to minimise disruption to the neighbourhood.

Michael Hodgson, CEO of The Entertainment Quarter, remains optimistic about finding a resolution that satisfies all parties. He stressed that the proposal aims to create more daily activities and attractions within the precinct.

Published Date 27-September-2024

Surry Hills Bistro Serves Up the Best Burger in Australia

Photo Credit: The Gidley/ Instagram

A seemingly simple burger from a beloved Surry Hills bar has been named the best in Australia and the ninth best in the world.

The Gidley Burger, found at The Rover, a bustling neighbourhood venue on Campbell Street, has garnered a loyal following despite its minimalist approach—a double beef patty, cheddar cheese, and pickles nestled in a milk bun.

The Rover, part of the Liquid & Larder group, has been a Surry Hills staple for over a decade. Known for its warm and inviting atmosphere, the venue boasts a cosy, dimly lit interior, a copper-topped bar, an extensive drinks menu featuring classic cocktails and a curated wine list focusing on organic and biodynamic drops.

Executive Chef Pip Pratt, the creator of the Gidley Burger, believes the key to its success lies in its simplicity in this charming setting. He explained that the focus is on quality ingredients and careful preparation rather than an overload of toppings that can result in a messy eating experience.

He highlighted that the beef patties are sourced from Liquid & Larder’s butchery, ensuring complete control over the flavour profile.

The Gidley Burger takes approximately four minutes to prepare. The patties are cooked in rendered beef fat for an added depth of flavour. While the $26 price tag might raise eyebrows for some, Chef Pratt emphasises the premium quality of the ingredients and the thought behind the burger’s construction.

Hundreds of Gidley Burgers are sold weekly at The Rover and its sister establishment, The Gidley, a testament to its popularity. Despite its seemingly basic design, the Gidley Burger has struck a chord with Sydney’s burger enthusiasts.

Published Date 27-September-2024

Swans vs Lions: Dominant Sydney Look to End AFL Grand Final Woes

Minor premiers Sydney Swans will look to cap off their dominant season with a grand final victory against a resilient Brisbane Lions outfit on Saturday, 28 September, and break their recent grand final curse. Swans vs Lions kick off 2:30 p.m. at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Read: Surry Hills to Host Free Street Festival as Part of Sydney’s Neighbourhood Celebration Series

One for history

This year’s grand final marks a significant milestone in AFL history—a rematch 125 years in the making. The last time these two clubs faced off for the flag was in 1899, when they were known as South Melbourne and Fitzroy.

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Now, as the Sydney Swans and Brisbane Lions, they’ll battle for supremacy in the first grand final since 2006 to not feature a Victorian team.

The pre-game entertainment, headlined by international pop star Katy Perry, is expected to start between 1:00 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. Fans can catch the action live on Channel Seven and 7Plus.

Swans vs Lions

The Swans have been a force to be reckoned with throughout the 2024 season, finishing with an impressive 17-6 record and claiming the minor premiership in dominant fashion.

Their preliminary final performance against Port Adelaide showcased their full potential, with a commanding 14.11 (95) to 8.11 (59) victory against a team that finished just four points behind.

While the Swans enter as minor premiers, they’ll be wary of their recent record against the Lions. Brisbane has won the last three encounters, including a narrow two-point victory earlier this season.

An All-Australian midfield trio

The Swans’ midfield hydra of Isaac Heeney, Chad Warner, and Errol Gulden has been the lynchpin of the team’s success. All three earned All-Australian selection and have combined for an impressive 82 goals this season.

Sydney’s performance in the grand final hinges on the trio, with the Swans boasting a 15-2 record when the bevy scores three or more goals collectively.

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However, Sydney faces a significant blow with captain Callum Mills ruled out due to a hamstring strain. Coach John Longmire made the difficult decision on Wednesday not to risk Mills, leaving the Swans without their on-field leader for the grand final.

Read: Surry Hills Rises: $41m Hotel to Emerge from Ashes of Historic Hat Factory

Both teams carry the weight of recent grand final defeats. The Swans are looking to bounce back from their 2022 loss, while the Lions aim to overcome their heartbreaking four-point defeat in 2023.

While the Swans have a more recent premiership than the Lions, having won in 2012, they’ve experienced the sting of defeat in three deciders since then. This match presents a golden opportunity for Sydney to break their grand final voodoo once and for all.

Published 25-September-2024

Surry Hills to Host Free Street Festival as Part of Sydney’s Neighbourhood Celebration Series

Surry Hills residents and visitors will enjoy a day of festivities, live music, and alfresco dining on Crown Street as part of the Sydney Streets festival series this spring.

The event, scheduled for Saturday 2 November, is one of seven free one-day celebrations across Sydney neighbourhoods aimed at showcasing local venues, businesses, and products. From 11am to 10pm, Crown Street will be closed to traffic, transforming into a pedestrian-friendly space filled with community activities and entertainment.

Local Business Participation

Several Surry Hills businesses are set to participate in the event. YO-CHI will offer DJ performances and kids’ games, while Tucano’s plans to set up a pop-up bar with live music. For those interested in health and wellness, Central to Health Chiropractic will provide free spinal screenings. Masala Theory will join the festivities by operating a food stall on the street.

Crown St Surry Hills — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

Sydney LM Clover Moore AO expressed enthusiasm for the event series, stating, “We started these neighbourhood celebrations to help local communities get back on their feet after the pandemic, and they’ve become more and more popular.”

“Sydney Streets gives a boost to local businesses and helps create thriving and connected communities,” she added.

Other Participating Suburbs

The spring Sydney Streets festival series will also feature events in six other Sydney suburbs:

1. Haymarket (21 September)

2. Potts Point (28 September)

3. Glebe (12 October)

4. Darlinghurst (19 October)

5. Pyrmont (9 November)

6. Redfern (16 November)

Each location will showcase its unique character through various activities, food offerings, and entertainment options.

Traffic and Transport Information

For all events in the series, surrounding streets will be closed to traffic from 9am to 11:30pm, with special event clearways in place. Residents and visitors are advised to check livetraffic.com for full road and traffic details to plan their travel accordingly.

The Sydney Streets festival series aims to encourage locals and visitors to explore the city’s diverse neighbourhoods while supporting local businesses and fostering community connections as Sydney embraces the spring season.

Published 23-Sept-2024

Surry Hills Rises: $41m Hotel to Emerge from Ashes of Historic Hat Factory

Photo Credit: D/2019/1292

A massive fire 16 months ago devastated a historic hat factory in Surry Hills, setting it up for a phoenix-like transformation into a multimillion-dollar hotel.

The City of Sydney has approved a nine-storey development to replace the former Hendersons Hat Factory, bringing new life to the site that was once a bustling hub of Sydney’s millinery industry.

The $41.4 million redevelopment at 7-15 Randle Street will feature a 123-room hotel, two restaurants, a bar, and a cafe. It will also pay homage to the site’s industrial heritage by incorporating salvaged remnants of the fire-ravaged factory, including charred wood and brickwork.

The City of Sydney’s approval of the plans underscores the development’s alignment with the area’s desired future character and its efforts to restore elements crucial to the site’s heritage significance. The site owners welcome this decision, as the fire tragically interrupted their previous redevelopment plans.

The approved plans showcase a thoughtful approach to preserving the site’s history. A public and interpretative digital art strategy will commemorate the 112-year-old hat factory’s legacy. The new structure will integrate charred timber posts, beams, and an original fire bell salvaged from the inferno.

Before the fire, the factory was well-known for its role in Australia’s domestic and international production of felt and straw hats. R. Henderson, a manufacturer of ladies’ hats, had the factory built in 1912. C. Henderson, the factory operated for about 40 years before closing in the 1950s, reflecting the broader decline of Sydney’s millinery industry.

The redevelopment also includes landscaping, pedestrian links, and streetscape improvements. While the fire caused the evacuation of hundreds of nearby residents and businesses and led to charges against two 13-year-old boys, the focus now shifts to the future.

The transformation of this landmark site into a vibrant hotel complex signals a new chapter for Surry Hills, blending historical preservation with modern development.

Published Date 20-September-2024

Paddington Icon Faces Closure: Chauvel Cinema on the Brink

The curtain may soon fall on the heritage-listed Chauvel Cinema in Paddington as deteriorating conditions and poor box office takings threaten its existence.

Just months after the closure of the Verona, Palace Cinemas’ last remaining venue on Oxford Street is, according to chief executive Benjamin Zeccola, nearing its final days.

He stated that he doesn’t believe it will remain open past the end of September unless something significant changes.

The Chauvel, located within Paddington Town Hall, has been an art-house institution for over four decades. Palace Cinemas, which assumed the lease in 2006 following a “Save the Chauvel” campaign, once operated three cinemas on Oxford Street.

However, the Academy Twin closed in 2010 due to a rental dispute, and the Verona shut its doors in February for a planned redevelopment. Palace opened a new venue, Palace Moore Park, at the Entertainment Quarter.

The potential closure of the Chauvel would be another blow to the once-thriving retail and entertainment strip. Zeccola cited “paltry” attendance figures this year and the lack of long-discussed renovations with the Sydney City Council, which owns the Town Hall, as contributing factors.

*Photo Credit: Screengrab from Google Map*

Nine years ago, Palace proposed a joint funding arrangement with the council for upgrades, including new seats, carpets, toilets, and improved exterior signage, estimated at $675,000. In return, Palace sought a 10-year lease and future rental discounts.

Zeccola expressed frustration that years had passed with repeated requests for updates, only to be told that progress was always imminent. In April, he emphasised the situation’s urgency, stating that they needed to know the plans for the cinema.

He highlighted the cinema’s deterioration, including water damage and other infrastructure issues, and the need for “a couple of million dollars of investment.” The Chauvel’s condition has led to the Sydney Film Festival and Antenna Documentary Film Festival no longer wanting to use it for screenings.

Zeccola admitted that customer feedback echoed these concerns, with patrons opting for other cinemas until improvements are made. He conceded that Palace might consider keeping the Chauvel open for a few more years if the council upgraded the seats, carpets, and toilets.

However, he expressed his frustration with the council’s lack of progress, stating that he had lost confidence that anything meaningful would actually happen due to the council’s indecisiveness over a long period.

Lord Mayor Clover Moore acknowledged the Chauvel as “a much-loved institution on the famous strip”. She assured that council staff were meeting with the cinema to discuss ways to ensure its continued success. Moore also emphasised the City of Sydney’s commitment to revitalising Oxford Street through building refurbishments and new planning controls.

A City of Sydney spokesperson confirmed that Palace had written to the council in May requesting a lease extension beyond 2026. The council had indicated plans for capital works upgrades to Paddington Town Hall in the short to mid-term.

City staff and Chauvel operators are scheduled to meet next Friday to discuss further steps. The spokesperson also noted that the Palace is responsible for the upkeep of the cinema’s interiors, including seats and carpets, as part of its lease agreement.

Published Date 12-September-2024

Surry Hills Fave, Warike, Announces Closure After Economic Downturn

Warike, a beloved fusion eatery in Surry Hills known for its unique Peruvian-Japanese cuisine, has declared it will cease operations due to the rising cost of living challenges.

Warike opened its doors during the peak of Sydney’s COVID-19 lockdowns, quickly earning a reputation for its specialised dishes such as oysters, kingfish, and ceviche. Despite receiving high praise and accolades, including listings as one of the best restaurants in NSW by the Good Food Guide and in Surry Hills by Time Out Sydney, the economic pressures have led to its impending shutdown.

Warike Restaurant — *Photo Credit: Warike/Google Maps*

The restaurant’s team expressed pride in their achievements and their community role.

“The proudest achievement of all is to have been a safe space for our team to come together, learn, grow, and feel motivated to look after each other and do their best.”

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The announcement has left many patrons and local food enthusiasts disheartened.

Several customers shared their disappointment, with one noting, “Warike was on my list of restaurants and destinations to visit in Sydney. I’m gutted this won’t happen anymore.” The sentiment was echoed by others who praised the restaurant’s high-quality service and innovative menu.

The closure of Warike follows the shutdown of its sister venue, Lima Nikkei, in Walsh Bay in January 2024. Co-owned by Luis Guzman, Valeriya Finogeeva, and Hector Chunga, Warike was more than a commercial venture; it was a passion project that brought together flavours from Japan and Peru, reflecting Chunga’s culinary background.

Despite the economic downturn affecting the hospitality sector, Warike’s impact on Sydney’s culinary scene has been significant, introducing a novel fusion that captivated many.

As Warike prepares for its final service on 14 September 2024, the owners have invited their supporters to enjoy one last meal at their establishment. They have thanked their regulars, guests, and neighbours for their steadfast support over the years.

Fans of the restaurant have vowed to cherish their memories of the venue’s spectacular dishes, highlighting the profound loss to Sydney’s diverse food community.

Published 11-Sept-2024

170 Grammi Brings Carbonara Pizza to Surry Hills

Love carbonara? Love pizza? If you’re a fan of both, you’ll want to check out 170 Grammi Pizzeria in Surry Hills, where they are serving up a buzz-worthy carbonara pizza that’s turning heads.

Read: Humble Bakery in Surry Hills Voted Best Finger Bun in Australia

Specialising in crispy Italian Roman-style pizzas, 170 Grammi is putting a modern spin on traditional favourites. Their carbonara pizza is a prime example, featuring a white base topped with Pecorino Romano, guanciale, free-range egg yolk, and black pepper. It’s a clever reimagining of the classic pasta dish that you didn’t know you were craving.

Carbonara Pizza (Photo credit: 170 Grammi/Facebook)

For those seeking a more loaded option, the Ortolana pizza is a veggie lover’s dream. It’s piled high with San Marzano tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella, sautéed mushrooms, grilled eggplant and capsicum, marinated artichokes, fresh basil, and finished with a drizzle of Coratina extra virgin olive oil.

Don’t leave without trying their authentic Italian desserts. The homemade Maritozzi – fluffy, cream-filled buns – are a must-try. For a shareable treat, opt for the Angioletti: lightly fried dough sticks served with Nutella and fresh strawberries.

The mastermind behind 170 Grammi is Luigi Esposito, a chef with over 35 years of experience. Inspired by his wife’s Roman heritage, Esposito set out to create a pizzeria celebrating Rome’s unique, crunchy pizzas. This marks his third Sydney pizza venture, following the success of his famous Neapolitan pies at Via Napoli.

Wondering about the name? Every pizza at 170 Grammi starts with a precisely measured 170-gram dough ball, ensuring the perfect balance of thin crust and toppings.

Breakfast at 170 Grammi

Starting this week, early birds can enjoy breakfast at 170 Grammi from Friday to Sunday, beginning at 6:00 a.m. It’s the perfect opportunity to kickstart your day with a Maritozzi and espresso at the counter.

Read: The Great Surry Hills Ramen Ruse: How a Living Room Pop-Up Fooled Sydney Foodies

With its innovative takes on Italian classics and commitment to quality ingredients, 170 Grammi Pizzeria is shaping up to be Surry Hills’ new go-to spot for pizza lovers and adventurous foodies alike.

Published 5-September-2024