Hurley Hotels has announced completion and unveiling of the new-look Arkaba Hotel, following a massive $12 million year-long renovation.
Peter and Jenny Hurley’s group is a family-owned business that has been operating in South Australia for over 40 years. In 1991 they acquired the Arkaba Hotel, which was established in 1966.
Plans for the makeover were released a year ago, heralding the popular pub’s first major renovation in 60 years.
Last August the new Lounge, Restaurant, and refurbished Top of the Ark segments were the first to resume trading.
Later in the year the new look ‘Sportys’ came online, featuring an innovative 360-degree wraparound LED screen dubbed ‘The Funnel’ that can show up to six different events simultaneously. The unrivalled viewing experience was the first of its kind in Australia, and positions the pub to be the ultimate destination for live sports in Adelaide.
The comprehensive renovation is now complete, bringing “a contemporary look and feel”, employing over 120 staff and marking the first time the entire venue has been open in 12 months.
South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas joined team Hurley for an official re-opening of The Arkaba, which now also boasts an updated hotel reception area, as well as additional function spaces, equipped with state-of-the-art technology for both corporate and social events.
Jenny Hurley says their goal was to make the Arkaba a venue “for all occasions” where people enjoy live music, sport, food, and drinks.
“We can now see that for generations to come in our revitalised spaces.
“The renovations have breathed new life into the Arkaba Hotel while maintaining the integrity of the original design of this iconic building.”
Hurley Hotels holds a portfolio predominantly in South Australia, including the Kensington Hotel, Marion Hotel, Port Lincoln Hotel, Pretoria Hotel, Hotel Royal, Tonsorama, Torrens Arms Hotel, Ivory Waterside, and currently under construction, the new Panorama Hotel.
The Arkaba trades seven days, from 7am until late.
“It’s a very special space that has played host to countless unforgettable memories over the past 60 years for patrons and staff alike,” adds Jenny.