Plans for a multi-million dollar redevelopment of St Kilda’s Village Belle Hotel have been given the go ahead.

Techne Architecture and Interior Design, who have completed redevelopments for a number of iconic Melbourne venues including The Prahran Hotel, The Bridge Hotel and The Terminus Hotel, have been engaged to spearhead the project. The redevelopment will see the venue transform into a double-storey winter beer-garden facing the southern end of Acland Street, with adjoining apartments on the Smith Street frontage.

Tim Angus, Technē architect and team leader on the project says that the firm worked closely with a heritage consultant to create an architectural expression that sits harmoniously with the heritage pub.

“Creating an architectural language that sits next to a heritage structure requires a great degree of care and finesse,” says Angus.

“Working with heritage buildings can also be like opening up a can of worms and there have been numerous surprises within the existing structure… It’s about achieving a balance between the old and the new.”

The space will be framed by a contemporary concrete structure with custom-made steel framed windows and operable glazed walls. An industrial mechanism with pulleys will move the windows, allowing the climate to be controlled according to changing weather and seasons.