Monday 16 November 2015

The new Northbridge

Located on the fringe of Perth's Central Business District, Northbridge has undergone an extensive transformation in recent times. At its heart is the Perth Cultural Centre (PCC) – a place where the arts, culture, community and knowledge come together.

Home to the Art Gallery of WA, WA Museum, State Library, Perth Institute of Contemporary Art, Blue Room Theatre and the State Theatre Centre, the PCC has been refreshed and transformed into a dynamic and lively outdoor space thanks to a project by the State's Metropolitan Redevelopment Authority.

New additions include an Urban Orchard, a wetland, an outdoor screen, green spaces and free WiFi. During summer, the area hosts events such as the Fringe World Festival and the Perth International Arts Festival, as well as Rooftop Movies and a variety of markets, stalls and food trucks can be found throughout the year.

On the border of the PCC is William Street. Here, unused heritage buildings have been given a new lease on life, and the street is now synonymous with cutting-edge fashion, independent retailers, creative industries and cosy small bars, and it continues to evolve. There is an enthusiasm that exists around the area, with collectives such as On William promoting the street's offerings and hosting a yearly street festival.

The area has welcomed two new hotels within the space of months, following the openings of the Alex Hotel and The Nest on Newcastle.

Located on William Street between the Perth Cultural Centre and CBD, the 74-room Alex Hotel is described as a 'hotel crafted by locals, thoughtfully designed for inquisitive travellers', and is independently owned and operated by West Australian hospitality entrepreneurs Adrian Fini, Nic Trimboli, David Martin, Miles Hull and Howard Cearns – the team behind WA's very successful and iconic Little Creatures Brewery in Fremantle.

It features a lobby café, mezzanine lounge with honour bar and evening cocktail service, rooftop garden terrace with city views and a European style eatery, the Shadow Wine Bar and Dining Room.

The Nest on Newcastle, located on Newcastle Street, offers guests a comfortable and homely experience with 20 individually styled rooms. Nestled behind a 115-year-old heritage house which houses The Old Crow restaurant, the Nest has a rooftop terrace, undercover parking, smart TV's, and most rooms have private balconies.

Meanwhile, the bar and restaurant scene in Northbridge has expanded significantly and new names include Northbridge Brewing Company, Darlings Supper Club, Pleased to Meet You, The Standard, Sneaky Tony's, Alabama Song, No Mafia, Joe's Juice Joint, Lot 20 and Lucky Chan's.

Northbridge is easily accessible with public transport close by, and it will become even closer to the city when the Perth City Link project is completed.

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