AVC is evolving the celebrated former Crafty Squire in Melbourne’s CBD into a new four-level pub with an old name, through a lavish $6.5 million transformative renovation and new Carlton Draught bar.
The Crafty Squire has been a landmark venue, on the bustling corner of Melbourne’s Russell and Little Collins Street, since 2015.
It was built in the 1870s, originally known as Hickens Hotel, in recognition of its manager and landlord, the once infamous British boxer and Australian champion, Ebenezer “Abe” Hicken.
Australian Venue Co (AVC) makes regular practise of multi-million-dollar refurbishments, and following one of its biggest budget projects to date is poised to reopen Hickens this winter as a multi-levelled watering hole heroing live sport and casual socialising.
A complete transformation of the existing ground and first floors ushers in Australia’s first Carlton Draught bar, as a key element for patrons in what is touted as a high energy and diverse experience.
AVC operates over 200 venues, including some in partnership with international craft beer doyens BrewDog, but the Carlton concept is a very Melbourne affair.
“We’re excited about our collaboration with Carlton Draught and what it will bring to the multi-level pub offering we’re creating at Hickens,” says Paul Waterson, AVC CEO.
“It will be the ultimate destination in the heart of the city.”
The Carlton Lounge is a first for the famous Victorian beer and will woo beer-lovers with ‘Brewery Fresh’ Carlton Draught piped directly from a shining copper tank, amid the retro charm of a 70s rumpus-style space adorned with archival memorabilia, pool tables and social seating.
“This venue is more than just a bar – it’s a tribute to Melbourne’s rich brewing heritage that we’ve been part of since the 1860s,” offers David Stingl, sales director of Asahi Beverages – proud custodian of Carlton Draught.
“We’re excited for our iconic lineup to have its own home at Hickens Hotel.”
Accompanying the Lounge is an approachable restaurant, bar and terrace on level one, geared for casual dining and drinks, and a brand-new second level provides guests a bar for live sports and entertainment, with large LED screens, comfortable booth seating and arcade games.
And perched atop Hickens is an all-new rooftop space showcasing inner-city views, aimed at post-work drinks, weekend golden hours and general celebrations – with a cocktail in-hand.
Hickens Hotel is now taking bookings for functions, and Waterson says it will soon open for high-energy sports, rooftop delights, private events “and everything in between”.
