Asian Pacific Group is set to open The Johnson in Brisbane on September 16 following a three year renovation of the heritage listed ‘Main Roads Building’ in Spring Hill.
Located on the fringe of Brisbane’s CBD, the mix use property will attract visitors and locals alike to stay, work, dine and play at the property that is dedicated to master colourist and abstract artist Michael Johnson.
The modernist property, originally designed by influential architect Karl Langer, will house a signature Art Series boutique hotel, residential apartments, serviced offices, a 50m Michael Klim designed rooftop pool and terrace, and adjoining restaurant, bar and café; Tumbling Stone.
“We are pleased to be on track to open the doors next week and finally unveil all The Johnson has to offer to the local community and guests,” said Asian Pacific Group’s CEO, William Deague.
“We have no doubt there is something for everyone to enjoy, and will set a new benchmark for design inspired hotels.”
The industrial undertone of the building provides the perfect gallery styled space to showcase Johnson’s work, with guests offered the opportunity to experience signature originals and giclee prints including ‘Oyster Line 2012/2013’ portraying Johnson’s fascination and close observation of the sea – including ripples in the water, reflections of light and the glow of phosphorescence creatures.
Heritage-listed artwork has also been restored, including ‘The Red Cube’, a large metal sculpture at the entrance of the property, commemorating its original opening.
The opening marks a pivotal milestone for the Art Series Hotel Group in expanding their dedicated art inspired offering across Australia. The first Queensland hotel will consist of 87 suites and two elegant penthouses with uninterrupted views. Each open-planned, self-contained suite includes kitchenette facilities, free WiFi, Foxtel played on state of the art 42” LCD screens and iPod docking stations. Suites start from $180 per night in a Studio Suite Balcony.
The boutique hotel will have a myriad of communal spaces including a resort-style 50-metre pool designed by Olympic gold medalist and friend of Art Series Hotel Group Michael Klim, BBQ area and sundeck. The pool will be located on level five with beautiful north facing views, along with a deck bar and state of the art gymnasium.
The hotel’s conference and events facilities, Galleries one to five, will be available to book individually or amalgamated into one space that will hold up to 60 classroom style.
Art experiences at The Johnson will stretch far beyond the building’s walls as The Johnson will encapsulate all of the Art Series Hotel Group’s signature amenities including their renowned art tours, dedicated art channels, artist documentaries and art libraries. Branded Smart Cars and vintage Lekker bicycles will be available to explore all that Brisbane has to offer and further afield.
The Johnson hotel also offers short term art inspired residences for those who wish to linger for longer. All suites are available from 28 days and are fully furnished and serviced with free Foxtel, utility bills and 24-hour concierge and security.
Perched on the doorstep of The Johnson, Tumbling Stone Restaurant and Bar will celebrate the quintessential outdoor Queensland lifestyle, with a relaxed vibe and a shared grazing style of dining. Dedicated to one of Johnson’s beloved paintings; Tumbling Stone, that is featured on one of its walls, the all-day dining restaurant seats up to 160 diners.
Highlights on the seasonally changing menu designed by Executive Chef Gavin Lewis, include Blackened Belly of Bangalow Sweet Pork, Sautéed Hervey Bay Scallops, Fenugreek Spiced Squid and Poached Rhubarb Crème Brulee with Ginger Snap for dessert.
Tumbling Stone’s sister café; ‘Stepping Stone’ will be open weekdays to serve takeaway dining and coffee.