Mermaid Beach Tavern

This landmark pub fronting the busy Gold Coast Highway had been a loved family venue for decades but needed a total reinvention. Rohrig was engaged on a design and construct basis and worked with JDA hotels and Paul Kelly Design architects to bring new life to the venue.

Rohrig was engaged early, after completing 7 previous projects with JDA, to help with initial cost planning while the project was being DA approved, allowing multiple design options to be explored.

The redevelopment of the Mermaid Beach Tavern included a new sports bar, gaming room, kitchen, lounge, bistro, public bar, courtyard areas, beer garden and retractable roof.

The most challenging element of the project was managing the existing structure, which had to be strengthened and extended to add new floor area. A new set of internal stairs, air-conditioning and extensive sound-proofing also had to be added within the existing building. The venue had a very low head-height and some excavation under the existing structure was needed to create more space.

Rohrig’s expert food and beverage team designed the bar and kitchen areas, which were also road-tested with full-size mock-ups.

COVID restrictions added an additional layer of complexity to the project with many subcontractors and suppliers affected by border restrictions. Meetings and site visits for the client were often via video links.

With a collaborative approach, Rohrig completed the project on time, and added lasting value to the client’s and architect’s vision. The venue now welcomes a diverse community with great food and drink, in a light and airy design that interprets Gold Coast nostalgia in a contemporary way.