PROJECT | White Horse
LOCATION | Sydney, New South Wales
ARCHITECT | Farago-Han Studio
PHOTOGRAPHY | Gavin Green
Rejuvenating the White Horse Hotel
Farago-Han Studio has breathed new life into the White Horse Hotel in Surry Hills, transforming it into a contemporary and vibrant venue. The iconic pub now boasts a renewed presence in Sydney’s pub scene, blending warmth and luxury.
While the heritage white facade remains intact, the interior has undergone a dramatic transformation. The Crown Street pub now features a ground-floor restaurant, an upstairs public bar, an outdoor garden terrace, and an intimate function room. Director Craig Hemmings collaborated with Farago-Han Studio, known for their work on The Waratah, to completely redesign the space, aiming for a refined yet inviting atmosphere.
Farago-Han Studio has successfully reimagined a Sydney institution, giving each space within the White Horse Hotel a unique identity while maintaining a cohesive overall design. The result is a sophisticated and dynamic venue where guests can relax and enjoy themselves.
Product Focus. Ground Floor Restaurant
The ground floor, previously home to the public bar, has been converted into the main restaurant. This area is characterised by a minimalist design with subtle touches of colour and texture, inspired by the sandstone bedrock of Surry Hills.
The furniture, influenced by Scandinavian design, includes the J39 chairs by Fredericia. Designed by Børge Mogensen in 1947, these chairs are Danish design icons known for their minimalist elegance and robust craftsmanship. Often referred to as the "People's Chair," they feature a solid wood frame and a handwoven paper cord seat, making them both durable and comfortable.
Product Focus. Upstairs Public Bar
The public bar, now located on the upper level, exudes a vibrant and moody ambiance. Bathed in a neon pink glow, the bar features a green-tiled counter and a dark green Bizanto brushed quartz marble bar top, complemented by bold artworks on the walls.
The seating includes playful and luxurious pieces, such as the Molloy Chair by nau and the Daumiller Armchair by Gubi. The Molloy Chair, designed by Adam Goodrum, features fluid detailing inspired by nature, with a sculptural form and solid timber construction that make it a standout piece in any setting. The Daumiller Armchair, designed by Rainer Daumiller, is known for its robust construction and timeless design. Made from solid pine, it combines strength with ergonomic comfort.
The bar area is also enhanced by the Parade Table Lamp by Hay and the Como Light by &Tradition. The Parade Table Lamp is a sculptural piece with a square base and an arched top made of coloured glass, providing ambient light that can be dimmed to suit the mood. The Como Light, also used throughout the ground floor restaurant, adds a touch of elegance with its sleek design and warm lighting, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Product Focus. Outdoor Garden Terrace
The bar extends into a terraced garden and an expansive event space, characterized by a dark palette of bold colours and blue hues. The outdoor terrace offers a light and airy escape from the interior's drama, with organic seating arrangements and a mix of off-white, peach, and muted green tones, enhanced by lush greenery for a coastal vibe.
The terrace features the Tropique Dining Chair by Gubi, created by Mathieu Matégot. This chair combines material simplicity with a decadent aesthetic, featuring a stainless steel frame and distinctive curves that make it a stylish choice for outdoor settings.
Additionally, the Terrazzo Table by Hay, designed by Daniel Enoksson, adds to the terrace's charm with its terrazzo base and powder-coated steel top, offering durable construction and a striking appearance ideal for outdoor use.
By carefully selecting and placing these pieces, Farago-Han Studio has not only rejuvenated the White Horse Hotel but also created a series of spaces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Each area within the venue has its own distinct character, yet all are unified by a commitment to quality and design excellence.
