Circa 1928
History
This grand Art Deco building in the heart of Albury has always served the public, albeit in a very different way before becoming a hotel. Since 1863, the site upon which CIRCA 1928 sits was used for a community bank - owned by the Australian Joint Stock Bank (later to become Bank of New South Wales, and Westpac). In 1928, the Commonwealth Bank of Australia then purchased the site for 5,800 pounds and commissioned a new bank building for the site. An image of prosperity and strength, it’s also an example of how architecture reflects our society: during the Great Depression, the Government invested heavily in building projects such as these to stimulate the economy.
The building was sold in the 1970s and changed hands several times, with its interior sadly impacted over the years. In 2019, when hosts Ririn and Kevin Yaxley took ownership, it was but a shell of its former glory. Many of the Art Deco interior fittings had been removed; however an original terrazzo staircase remained hidden under layers of carpet and linoleum. A complete basement to ceiling restoration was undertaken - the staircase restored, along with careful restoration of horsehair cornice in two of the original banking chambers, now the guest lounge and an art gallery for guests to enjoy a collection of artworks from emerging local Murray Riverina artists.
Skillfully designed thanks to Ririn’s creative flair, CIRCA 1928 is now a uniquely special art hotel, and a masterclass in luxury accommodation. Situated in the tree-lined Paris end of Dean Street, the bold heritage-listed facade with its iconic entry columns create a sense of grandeur and drama as you arrive. And with the additional benefit of a day spa onsite, along with a focus on delivering 19th century service, 20th century style, and 21st century facilities, it’s no wonder CIRCA 1928 consistently receives five star reviews.
Accommodation
CIRCA 1928 has just three uniquely designed, luxurious suites and studios, providing an exclusive feel to the hotel. In keeping with the hotel’s celebration of art and culture, each was cleverly named after renowned artists born the same year CIRCA 1928 was built. All rooms feature their own luxurious ensuite bathroom, with walk-in showers, stunning deep bathtubs built for two, and bathing products from Australian natural skincare brand Hunter Lab. Well-stocked mini bars with chocolate, snacks, leaf teas, alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
The Hart Suite, named after Australian artist Pro Hart, is a spacious 54 sqm. Sleeping up to 4 guests, families of two adults and two children are also welcome. For the adults, there’s a sumptuous king bed with premium linens, and two daybeds, one cleverly cantilevered over the old staircase, which children love.
The Warhol Suite, named of course after Pop Art superstar Andy Warhol, is also a generous 54 sqm. With striking artwork, an explosion of colour and decorative stained glass windows, this suite has a tangible atmosphere of fun and frivolity. Along with a copper bath, this suite also features a large, fully-accessible bathroom with walk-in shower.
The Diddley Studio at 35sqm, is named after the American rock ’n’ roll guitarist Bo Diddley. You’ll feel like a rock star yourself in this characterful studio suite with its eclectic, quirky decor - complete with firebird red, Gretsch G5810 Electromatic guitar on the wall - along with luxe detailing from the queen bed, bedhead handmade by Ririn, relaxation chair, and signature deep bath with oversized rain shower.
During your stay, no details are overlooked. Enjoy a delicious continental breakfast delivered on an Art Deco trolley, and complimentary pre-dinner drinks daily between 5-6pm. Relax in the guest lounge with cocktails, or retire to the library for some quiet reading time. And for the complete experience, select from a range of treatments at The Spa, including facials, massages and luxurious bathing experiences.
“Perfect in every way. I cannot recommend Circa 1928 highly enough. The styling, comfort, amenities, location and hosting are second to none. This is the best hotel I’ve stayed at in Australia.”
Your Exclusive Offer
Stay three nights and receive a 30% discount off the third night’s tariff. Simply mention Historic Stays at time of booking.
Special Features
Pre-dinner drinks
Breakfast Included
Romantic
Original Artworks
Things To Do
You may wish to simply enjoy your surrounds at Circa 1928, relax in the lounge, and fully unwind with treatments with an afteroon at the day spa. However, Albury has much to offer - just a short walk from the hotel is MAMA, the Murray Art Museum Albury, featuring an extensive private art collection with over 2,400 items, and contemporary feature exhibitions.
Take a longer walk to explore The Wagirra trail and Yindyamarra sculpture walk, with 15kms of trails through wetlands & red gums, with First Nations artwork sharing ancient stories along the way. And exploring the five different wine regions surrounding Albury makes for a pleasant day trip, with many offering gourmet tasting experiences at cellar doors & craft breweries.
