Photography courtesy of Alex McIntyre Photography

Joining the already long line-up of pubs undergoing a full renovation on the Central Coast is none other than the Empire Bay Tavern.

Working with Toowoon Bay-based architectural studio, Fabric Architecture, the Empire Bay Tavern has been transformed into a lush, modern green oasis.

Having built a reputation for being a great gastro pub in the area, the goal for this renovation was to match the space to the quality of the food. 

With the design anchored in the local area, colours and patterns featured throughout reflect the local Bouddi National Park.

The bespoke carpets take cues from the peeling bark of the surrounding angophora trees. The shape of those trees can also be seen in the two large-inverted parasol-style light installations set into the bar.

Keeping some original elements throughout, the 13-metre-long bar is still standing, but now finished in glazed terracotta-coloured tiles, topped with a terrazzo bench and metal fins along its front.

You’ll also spot colour choices like the deep burgundy velvet and eucalypt green-hued leather – chosen for the new built-in banquette seating. Oak-framed tables with the same eucalypt green tops continue the colour palette.

Visitors to Empire Bay Tavern now have the choice of a more traditional pub environment or the new bistro offering, designed to reflect the menu which is filled with local produce and high-grade pub fare.