Andrew Forrest earmarks hotel for Indiana teahouse site
A four storey hotel would be developed behind a renovated Indiana teahouse under plans by Andrew and Nicola Forrest’s property arm, Fiveight.
The site redevelopment also includes a promenade dividing the two buildings, which will accommodate an alfresco dining area.
An undercover public plaza, subterranean spa, rooftop pool and upgrade of the Cottesloe Surf Life Saving Club is planned too.
The Forrests, via their diversified investment company, Tattarang, acquired the Indiana’s leasehold two years ago from the Town of Cottesloe.
Shortly after, four concepts which would have seen the c1996 building demolished were put to the public for a vote.
The chosen design then failed at council – about which time the Heritage Council of WA listed the precinct for permanent protection.
The existing structure is said to be Perth’s most photographed property.
New chapter for Indiana site
Council is now reviewing the Indiana site proposal.
Penned by Woods Bagot, it would be fit out for a bar, cafés, kiosks and restaurants (story continues below).
The hotel, fronting Marine Parade, would contain 31 suites.
“The next chapter for Indiana must be one that respected the history of the site while delivering a sustainable future that allowed for much needed improvements to be delivered,” Tattarang director Nicola Forrest said.
“As the committed custodians of this important site, we believe Indiana can, and should, play a more meaningful role in the lives of locals and visitors alike, and our ambitions are clear: we want to deliver the best beachside precinct in Australia; one for all Western Australians to enjoy,” according to the executive.
Tattarang chief executive officer Andrew Hagger added the proposal will assist council realise its vision for the wider foreshore, deliver new public facilities and enhance the area’s character.
The group, via its lifestyle division, Z1Z, recently opened a Latin-themed pop-up, Indigo Oscar, within the building’s restaurant area.
Five weeks ago, the Forrests snapped up the leasehold to Lizard Island – about 240 kilometres north of Cairns – for $42 million.
In October, the pair paid a consortium including Olivia Newton-John c$30m for Byron Bay’s Gaia retreat.
Fiveight made its maiden property investment 13 months ago, outlaying $55m for an office at 190 St Georges Terrace in the CBD.
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