Howard Smith Wharves, also known as Brisbane Central Wharves were originally built c. 1934 to 1940. The heritage listed area is being rejuvenated with a $110 million spend and the results are amazing! We’ve updated this content – keep reading down to find out what is now open in 2020!
How will the Howard Smith Wharves be rejuvenated?
Low scale development and a $17 million landscaping budget will turn Howard Smith Wharves into a new riverside meeting place for residents and visitors with grassed play areas, gardens, a walking track and dedicated cycle path.
A range of events will be scheduled to make the open space an active destination.
An educational program is planned around the history of the site and sustainable urban practices.
Improved lighting, CCTV and activation will improve public safety in the area
Key features of the design include:
- A dining, retail and tourism centre utilising the existing heritage-listed buildings.
- New public open spaces that may be used for markets and festivals.
- 164 rooms in a five-star Art Series Hotel.
- A hotel facade that blends into the cliff face with natural tones and textures to keep the iconic Story Bridge as the main focus.
- Underground car park for 359 vehicles.
- 33 employee bicycle spaces and a further 50 bicycle spaces for visitors throughout the parkland.
- Parkland and public open spaces including lifts linking the site to the top of the cliffs.
- A 1500 square metre exhibition space.
Restoration projects
Brisbane City Council has undertaken a series of restoration works at the Howard Smith Wharves site, the last remaining wharf site in Brisbane’s city centre.
Wharf rehabilitation
Council completed construction of the new 170 metre long timber wharf beneath Story Bridge in March 2013. The wharf restoration included structural repairs which make the area safe for public access. The restoration captures the site’s history as a working wharf.
Heritage building repairs
Minor repair works to two heritage buildings were completed in February 2011. The remaining wharf buildings are rare evidence of the pre-1940s Port of Brisbane. They have been vacant and derelict for more than 20 years.
The repairs restored the structural integrity of the buildings to prevent further damage.
Cliff stabilisation
The cliffs surrounding the Howard Smith Wharves site have undergone stabilisation to ensure the safety of the public during and after the restoration. It will also protect the five World War II air raid shelters which have been damaged over the years by falling rocks. Stabilisation works were completed in 2010.
Now open!
Since originally bringing you news of the redevelopment in 2018, a lot has happened at Howard Smith Wharves, with restaurants and the hotel now open!
The Fantauzzo – Howard Smith Wharves’ hotel
The Fantauzzo – now open – is a masterful blend of architecture, nature and art. This six-storey hotel includes 166 suites, spectacular views, rooftop pool, bar, gym, and function rooms. Next time you’re looking for a luxury romantic stay in the city, take a look at The Fantauzzo
Dine and drink
The number of restaurants at Howard Smith Wharves is now into double figures! Offering everything from fine international cuisine to gelato and burgers and chips, you can dine indoors or out in this stunning riverside setting. Find your favourite place to eat at Howard Smith Wharves here.
Events at Howard Smith Wharves
There’s always something special happening at Howard Smith Wharves, from free community yoga to entertainment to special dining events. The Wharves can also host your private event. Click the link to find out What’s On.
