After acquiring the Imperial Hotel in Eumundi twelve months ago, Comiskey Group have completed the first stage of its overhaul of the pub.

Comiskey Group has completed the first of three stages of renovation for the Imperial Hotel in Eumundi, which it acquired in October 2023. The famed Sunshine Coast pub is undergoing a comprehensive overhaul with the assistance of KP Architects and interior design studio CTRL Space.

The first stage, which is now open, comprises a striking new front bar, gaming room and TAB. This section of the pub is also anchored by a massive HD LED screen for sports viewing.

The Imperial Hotel’s initial opening showcases the design direction, blending traditional pub aesthetics with a nod to the venue’s 112-year history. Comiskey Group director, Rob Comiskey, is excited to celebrate the hotels rich history throughout the renovation.

“From the very start, the brief remained the same; we wanted to celebrate the history of the pub. The Imperial Hotel is over 100 years old, and that is, and always will be, the most unique part about it! It has changed owners throughout the years and has been reimagined numerous times. But one thing has remained the same – it’s been a local favourite watering hole.

“As the new custodians of this incredible property, we want to keep it that way. We have put a lot of effort into the renovation and have plenty more to go! We are very much looking forward to seeing the community enjoy the space.”

Home to Eumundi Brewery, visitors can now enjoy a locally made beer at the newly designed front bar, featuring pressed metal ceilings, heritage tiles, brass details, antique mirrors and wood panelling on the walls – adding a cosy, old English ambiance to the space. The walls are also decorated with historical photos of Eumundi town and the hotel.

The pub’s gaming room has been relocated and expanded to more than three times its original size, creating a spacious and elegant area. Brass-finished sputnik chandeliers hang from the pressed-metal ceilings, contrasting with the tartan carpet that honours the hotel’s heritage.

The opening of the first stage was celebrated on 21 September, with director David Comiskey undertaking a ceremonial wooden keg tapping at the party. David Comiskey is a Sunshine Coast resident, and with a background in architecture plays a hands-on role in all of the group’s construction projects.

Comiskey Group directors David (left) and Paul Comiskey tapping the ceremonial keg at the Imperial Hotel’s stage one opening party.

“Our construction team gave it their all; they’re the best in the business and we appreciate all their efforts. We briefly put our tools down to enjoy a Eumundi Lager in the new front bar together, but we’re now back to work on the rest of the hotel!” stated David.

“We have more than double the work ahead of us and we estimate another six months to complete the extensive renovation. It’s a challenge but we are excited to take it on! There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing the results of our hard work; and after such positive feedback from the community regarding stage one, we are more motivated than ever to give it our all.”

Stage two of the renovation is set to begin almost immediately, featuring the construction of the Sunshine Coast’s largest kids’ games room, along with a new restaurant, beer garden, bar and band room.

“We are excited to invite you to preview the new Imperial Hotel! What we’ve showcased so far is just a glimpse of what you can expect throughout the entire project. Next, we will be renovating the hotel’s beer garden and restaurant, and transforming the space formerly known as The Bunker into the largest kids’ games room on the Sunshine Coast! The Imperial Hotel will soon be an exciting place for local families to visit, and a destination tourists are willing to travel for,” added Rob.

The Imperial Hotel’s full renovation is expected to be complete by March 2025.

Vanessa Cavasinni

Vanessa Cavasinni is the managing editor of Australian Hotelier and Club Management, trade publications for the pub and club sectors respectively. Vanessa has been at the helm of Australian Hotelier since...

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