Engaged by Example for Epochal Hotels, we led the interior styling scope for the restoration of The Old Commodore Hotel. Centered on the legacy of local figure Billy Blue, the design transforms a traditional pub into a layered, museum-like experience. Through vintage sourcing, layered styling, and collaborations with local artisans we’ve injected soul, patina, and a rich sense of storytelling into this historic North Sydney landmark.

“To ground the contemporary redesign of the Commodore Hotel in soul and history, we turned to the art of craftsmanship. Weaving together specialist trades, found and commissioned artworks and objects, and patinated finishes allowed us to bring the story of Billy Blue to life.”

- Sian Evans

Team:

Interior Styling, signage & wayfinding: Full Cream Studio

FCS Lead: Sian Evans

Architecture / Design: Paul Kelly Design

Photography: Declan Blackall

Materials Used:

Styling, Finishes, Signage & Murals:

Custom stairwell mural – Steady Hands Studio

Custom lift mural & column art – Neil Mallard

Handpainted signage & wayfinding – Lynes & Co.

Graphic design (signage & wayfinding) – Hepacan&Co.

Custom mirrors – Lynes & Co.

Banquette upholstery – Warwick Fabrics

Artwroks (there were many, so will only call out some):

Commissioned Billy Blue Artwork above bar & bird artwork – Leanne Xiu Williams via Saint Cloche

Ceramic sculpture - Hayley A West

Chain art - Georgina Davies

Hand-carved timber shelves - Elise Cameron Smith

Ceramic plate - Issy Parker via Craft VIC

Mirors & oar – Coastal Vintage

Commissioned seascape artworks – Littlescapes

Various sculptures - Micheal Reid

Various artworks – Etsy

Ceramic artwork - Britt Neech

 Ceramic artwork – Jan Vogapel