The Oaks at Neutral Bay gets in a polish in upstairs redo

THE leafy courtyard is a magnet at The Oaks — but a beautiful 1930s refit of the upstairs bar gives a reason to climb the stairs.

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STEP back in time by simply climbing the stairs at The Oaks.

The upstairs bar in the iconic Neutral Bay venue has enjoyed a 1930s themed makeover celebrating the building’s heritage.

Interior stylist Sibella Court created the transformation over six months, finishing in September.

The rooms now have paintings on the walls, bright upholstery and colourful carpets.

Alex Cooper says customers love the new look. Picture: Carly Earl

And there are still plenty of tables for the regulars to play a few games of pool on blue baize.

“Because the tree is such an iconic attraction we wanted to create a space that would give people a reason to also mingle upstairs,” said licensee Alex Cooper.

“The tree is such a magnet and we needed something to give our customers another option.

“There are a lot of people who have been coming here for years and didn’t even know we had an upstairs.”

A gorgeous old world bar. Picture: Courtesy of The Oaks

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The beautiful blue hallway.

Photos of The Oaks from its early days hang proudly on the walls alongside heritage posters, plans and advertisements.

There’s also beautiful views of the oak tree from above on a terrace.

Functions have increased upstairs thanks to the makeover and the team have enjoyed positive feedback.

“They’ve absolutely loved the place, especially the terrace,” he said.

“It’s just inviting and fresh.

“I think it keeps true to the heritage of the place ... it’s what we had, polished.”

Relax in this green armchair upstairs. Picture: Courtesy of The Oaks

The courtyard is a perfect place for a party. Picture: Courtesy of The Oaks

The Oaks is a family run business and was established in 1885.

On weekend nights more than 700 people pack the venue and it also has a popular restaurant.

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