Artisan Hospitality’s reinvention of the Valley GPO features three major venues

One of Fortitude Valley’s most recognisable entertainment venues is weeks away from opening after a $9m refurbishment. See the photos.

The historic GPO which has undergone a $9m rejuvenation.

The $9m rejuvenation of one of Fortitude Valley’s most renowned heritage-listed buildings is nearing completion, with two of its three venues expected to be open in early June.

Space Cubed Design studio director Arran Woollams said there has been no compromises on any details of the design, which has resulted in both timeline and budget extensions of the GPO precinct at 740 Ann St.

“With a project of this magnitude, and a job requiring such impeccably high standards, we wanted to ensure every detail was carefully executed, from hand beaten copper detailing, one-off chandeliers to glass art installations,” he said.

“It was recognised from inception that no expense would be spared to ensure the precinct was designed and constructed in line with the rising expectations of the Brisbane hospitality scene.”

An artist's impression of The Tax Office bar at the GPO.

Space Cubed Design Studio has worked in close collaboration with The Royal Historical Society of Queensland, Brisbane City Council, heritage architects and Zero9 Builders on the project.

The original 1887 Victorian Italianate facade, balconies, stairwells, and ceilings have been carefully preserved, with heritage paint tones featured considerably throughout, following a meticulous colour study of the build.

An artist's impression of the contemporary restaurant TAMA at the site.

The interior has been restored to its original decadent design, with contemporary,

high-end finishings - complete with exposed beams and brick, grand fireplaces and surprise and delight features.

Artisan Hospitality’s reinvention of the GPO precinct will feature the TAMA, The Gatsby and The Tax Office.

An artist's impression of the upscale bar The Gatsby.

TAMA has been described as a charismatic dining experience, with a distinctly modern flair for indulgence. The ground floor will house TAMA which features stunning natural light from double storey windows and soaring ceilings.

It will have an expansive ground floor restaurant and a mezzanine that can play host to private dining for 40 guests, and more intimate rooms for parties of six to eight.

An artist's impression of The Tax Office bar at the GPO. No expense was spared in the makeover.

Nestled on the upper level will be upscale bar and lounge The Gatsby, which will feature the original 1887 vault, which has been carefully restored and primed for private tours after opening.

An artist's impression of the upscale bar The Gatsby.

Partner, Alan Hunter, said the cocktail and whisky bar is the late-night haunt for after-work drinks, or for those looking to keep the indulgences going after an early lunch or dinner.

An artist's impression of the contemporary restaurant TAMA.

“It feels like you’re being thrown back into the soirees of the 1920s golden age — it’s an incredibly unique venue,” he said.

One-off chandeliers are part of the revamp. Above is an artist's impression of the TAMA at the revamped GPO in Fortitude Valley.

The TAMA and The Gatsby are anticipating an early June 2023 opening.

The Tax Office, with its island bar and lounge area is focused on the midweek dinner and after work tipples crowd.

TAMA and The Gatsby will open in June.

General manager Ross McFarlane said: “Due to the nature of construction and subsequent delays, we aren’t able to unveil exactly what The Tax Office will bring to Brisbane’s evolving hospitality scene, but we look forward to showcasing the vibrant offering over the coming months.”

The Valley GPO was a hotel and nightclub for many years before closing down and not reopening during the Covid-19 lockdowns in 2020.

The property was bought in 2021 for $6.15m plus GST by an investment vehicle controlled by businessman and Sydney Roosters chairman Nick Politis.