AUSTRALIA | Watsons Bay Hotel has revealed its AUD 3 million Top & Mid Deck transformation in time for Summer.
Sydney’s iconic harbourfront Watsons Bay Hotel is set to unveil its fully renovated Top and Mid Decks on October 29, marking one of the most significant transformations in the venue’s 190-year history. The AUD 3 million upgrade, guided by the vision of Laundy Hotels’ Danielle & Shane Richardson and Etic Design, has redefined how the decks are used, creating versatile, contemporary spaces that showcase the hotel’s legendary harbour views and elevate every event, from intimate gatherings to full-scale celebrations and weddings.
“The Top Deck has always been a special part of our venue, it’s where locals and visitors have gathered for years to enjoy those incredible harbour views,” said Danielle Richardson.
“With this renovation, we’ve enhanced what was already great about the space while solving practical challenges that allows us to better serve our community and guests who have made this venue a Sydney institution.”
The seamless indoor-outdoor connection was central to the redesign vision. Wrap-around bifold windows now connect the Top Deck to the outdoors, allowing the space to breathe and flow seamlessly into the harbour setting. A new dry bar along the windows, lined with high stools, ensures that every guest can enjoy the million-dollar views, whether stopping by for a quick drink after work or settling in for a leisurely afternoon.
The Top Deck, with capacity for 102 seated or 150 standing, now includes a dedicated internal entrance and direct bathroom access, improving functionality for weddings and special events, a long-standing request from the hotel’s events team. Accommodating up to 60 seated, the Mid Deck has also been fully transformed, with new decking, banquette seating along the southern side, and a suite of new furniture designed for both style and comfort.
“We’ve focused on creating spaces where people feel they can stay for hours,” said Emilie Delalande, Director of Etic Design.
Across both decks, a palette of soft coastal blues, deep harbour tones, and warm neutrals keeps the spaces visually connected to the surrounding water.
The mid-level Sunset Room & Bar has also received a full refresh, including new flooring, updated bathrooms, and redesigned bar styling. The space maintains its familiar Hampton’s, beachside charm while improving flow, functionality, and versatility for year-round use.
Lighting was also central to the refurbishment. Oversized pendant fixtures anchor each space with sculptural presence by day and a warm, intimate glow by night, creating a dynamic atmosphere that evolves naturally with the light. Textural details like rattan, micro-cement, and a crazy paving bar top layer depth, without overwhelming the eye.
“We wanted a palette and furniture selection that felt naturally connected to the harbour but elevated beyond predictable nautical themes,” Delalande continued.
“It’s relaxed sophistication, coastal in spirit but timeless in execution.”
Head Chef Damian Heads has introduced a new summer menu inspired by Sydney’s coastal waters, showcasing the hotel's fresh seafood offer, including Watson’s signature Chilled seafood platter alongside grills and, of course, Sydney’s best pub classics. There’s something for every guest. This menu is complemented with the new signature cocktail menu for summer, great wines and Sydney’s best beer on tap. The popular Bottomless Brunch continues every Saturday at 12 pm.
Watsons Bay Hotel is also set to transport Sydneysiders to the Mediterranean this summer with the launch of Club Amalfi, Sydney's first authentic waterfront beach club experience. Once a month through summer, the newly transformed Top Deck will be reimagined as a sophisticated European coastal paradise, complete with uninterrupted Sydney Harbour views that rival those of the Amalfi Coast and South of France. Guests will enjoy a curated menu of Mediterranean-inspired shared plates paired with magnums of premium wines, designed for long, leisurely Sunday afternoons.
Club Amalfi promises to deliver the ideal European beach club atmosphere with its signature blend of serviette-swirling celebrations, dancing, and the unmistakable joy of Sydney summer days spent overlooking the Sydney Harbour.
"Club Amalfi represents the next evolution of Sydney's waterfront dining and entertainment scene," said Richardson.
"We've created an experience that captures the essence of Mediterranean beach culture while celebrating our iconic harbour location."
The AUD 3 million transformation of Watsons Bay Hotel's Top and Mid Decks represents a significant investment in Sydney's hospitality landscape.
"We've reimagined these spaces to effortlessly transition from casual social gatherings to corporate functions and dream weddings," concludes Danielle Richardson.
“This isn't merely a renovation, it's a complete reimagining that enables guests to create unforgettable moments, whether they're enjoying sunset cocktails or celebrating life's most significant milestones against one of the world's most spectacular backdrops."
More news here.
