Bondi Pavilion readies for its grand redesign

“We absolutely love Bondi Pavilion, but know the grand old lady needs a lot of love and work to restore her to her former beauty,” mayor Sally Betts said.

The design, by heritage architects Tonkin Zulaikha Greer, also boasts a new 200-seat theatre, expanded community areas, and changes to the building’s first floor to allow for a cafe or restaurant overlooking the beach.

“Let’s talk about the toilets,” Cr Betts said. “There are more toilets for everyone. Women’s public toilets have doubled in this design. There are more change rooms and more family spaces.”

The council is stumping up $14 million for the project and hopes to secure the remaining funding through state and federal grants. It has already received a $1 million heritage grant from the federal government.

A historical view of the Pavilion. Photo: Supplied

“Commercial income from the building can also assist in funding the project,” a council spokeswoman said.

Award-winning architect Peter Tonkin said the concept design would reinstate much of the structure’s heritage character and removed “intrusive” modern additions.

“At the same time, we want this building to be a vibrant hub for the community, whether that’s visiting art exhibition spaces, relaxing in the beautiful courtyard gardens, dining at a restaurant or enjoying a theatre performance,” Mr Tonkin said.

An artist’s impression of the proposed upgrade of Bondi Pavilion. Photo: Supplied

Council will consider the concept plan when it meets on Tuesday before community consultation begins on December 18, running through to February 14.

Development and heritage applications are expected to be lodged in April or May, the spokeswoman said.