The Resilient Revival of Surry Hills Hat Factory: From Ashes to Heritage Hotel

Following the devastating inferno that consumed a hat factory in Surry Hills, a developer has submitted a $42-million proposal to build a hotel in the area.

Despite the destructive fire that decimated the factory in May 2023, Hanave is committed to resurrecting the site, staying true to the original design approved back in late 2019. Salvaging existing bricks for future use and incorporating remnants from the fire’s aftermath into the hotel’s interior design, including charred timber posts and the original fire bell, adds a unique touch to the restoration.

Surry Hills Hat Hotel — *Photo Credit: D/2023/1170*

The amended plans for the hotel reveal a comprehensive vision for the site’s transformation. Within the heritage-listed hat factory building, a nine-storey hotel will emerge, offering 123 rooms, providing a blend of modern comfort and historic charm. Alongside the guest rooms, the hotel will feature two restaurants and a bar and cafe, providing a range of dining options for visitors and locals alike.

Plans for the “Hat Hotel” are currently open for public exhibition until 6 Feb 2024, inviting the community to engage and offer input on this ambitious restoration project.

History and Significance of the Hat Factory

Built in 1912 for R. C. Henderson, a renowned ladies’ hat manufacturer, the hat factory is special in local history, having contributed significantly to the Australian production of felt and straw hats. The factory’s closure in the 1950s marked the decline of the millinery industry in Sydney, symbolising societal changes and women’s emancipation. Restoring its brick facade, proportions, patterns, and detailing will honour its historical importance.

Frank Howarth, Chair of the Heritage Council of NSW, commends the adaptive reuse of old buildings into hotels, citing successful examples like the Capella Hotel and Kimpton Margot. Such projects, when executed well, contribute positively to heritage preservation.

The Tragic Fire and Legal Proceedings

In August, two 13-year-old boys were charged for the fire that engulfed the abandoned Surry Hills building, creating a spectacle visible on national TV networks. Legal proceedings are ongoing.

Situated near the new Central Metro station’s eastern entry point, the site’s redevelopment aligns with the broader transformation of Central Station and the Tech Central precinct. This promises to attract more investment to the Surry Hills area, making it a hub of activity and development.

Published 10-Jan-2024