For months, the most buzzworthy figure on the Brunswick–Coburg border hasn’t been a musician or creative, but a statue.
Now, ALH’s Moreland Hotel has confirmed that the fate of David the statue is secure, and he isn’t going anywhere. Instead, he’ll take pride of place inside the venue’s sweeping $5.9 million redevelopment.
Reopening last weekend, the revamped Moreland Hotel signals a bold new chapter. Gone are the tired interiors, replaced by a vibrant, industrial-inspired garden retreat that captures the character and creativity of Melbourne’s inner north.
Designed by BSPN Architecture in collaboration with Five One Group, the transformation centres around an expansive indoor beer garden crowned by a skylit arched roof. Flooded with natural light, the space offers a lush, all-weather haven for locals to gather throughout the year.
Breaking from convention, the hotel also introduces a dog-friendly outdoor beer garden that opens directly onto Sydney Road, with the idea of embracing the energy of the street rather than retreating from it.
While David watches over the Corner Bar from his new position, the rest of the venue has been softened with natural finishes, cobblestone-style floors, and statement indoor greenery set against raw, industrial textures.
The food offering has also been redefined, with a menu built around stone-baked pizzas, pub favourites, and share plates tailored for both easy midweek dinners and lively weekend catch-ups.
Beyond the physical transformation, the redevelopment has delivered a boost to the local community, creating more than twenty jobs for locals.
To mark the reopening, the Moreland Hotel will host a community launch this weekend. Saturday’s celebrations will feature live music, flash tattoos, an e-bike raffle supporting Brunswick Neighbourhood House, and complimentary tote bags for the first 150 guests.
Sunday shifts focus to families, with doors opening at 12pm for roaming entertainment, games, free ice cream, and additional giveaways.
Venue Manager Michael Taylor led the transformation of the historic site.
“Our vision was to breathe life back into this legend by leaning into what made it weird and wonderful, then layering in warmth, quality design, and a genuine focus on the community,” he says.
“We aren’t just a pub; we’re a community living room.”
