Riverfront Motel

Architect: John Anderson

The mid-century mecca next to Mona!

What happens when a 1960s motel survives long enough to become a piece of living history?

Step inside the Riverfront Motel and discover a remarkable slice of Glenorchy’s post-war past, when the new Brooker Highway was bringing travellers, industry and a new suburban energy to the northern suburbs.

Built in 1960 on the banks of the River Derwent, the motel was part of a fascinating mid-century landscape. Nearby were Claudio Alcorso’s Moorilla property, with houses designed by Roy Grounds, the Electrolytic Zinc Company’s smelting works and Cadbury’s Art Deco chocolate factory and workers’ housing estate.

Look closely and you’ll discover that the Riverfront was never quite an ordinary roadside motel. Its buildings and interiors capture the optimism and distinctive design language of the period, including a large mid-century house designed by architect John Anderson.

Then there is the sign. In 1961, the owners installed an extraordinary Googie-style double catenary arch at the entrance. Originally created by Glenorchy businesses to celebrate the 1954 Royal Visit, the futuristic structure had spent several years in a nearby park before finding a new home at the motel. Structural problems have recently forced its removal, but the owners hope to repair and reinstate this much-loved local landmark.

The motel grew again in 1970, with a major extension adding a bar, function room, dance floor and another storey. It became a popular venue for weddings, school leavers dinners, fundraisers and community celebrations throughout the 1970s and 80s.

After some less glamorous decades, the Riverfront is now entering a new chapter. The Beck family, who purchased the property in 2003, are undertaking a gradual refurbishment with local design studio BOYDE, carefully revealing and retaining original features throughout the restaurant, guest rooms and house.

Come and have a look, explore the surviving mid-century details and discover the stories behind one of Glenorchy’s most unexpected architectural survivors.

A motel, a house, a futuristic sign and a whole lot of history. The Riverfront has plenty of stories to tell.

Tours: Sat 7 Nov, 11.00am, 12.00pm and 1.00pm (Bookings required)