From humble beginnings over a century ago, to its stylish boutique transformation, the Vulcan Hotel's journey reflects a history I’m proud to preserve. This photographic retrospective offers a unique glimpse into its architectural evolution and the vibrant history that has shaped its character, starting from 1894.
As Harvey Ord, co-owner of the Vulcan Hotel, I invite you to embark on a visual journey as we trace its evolution, from its early 20th-century origins to its present day modern boutique elegance. Throughout my time as co-owner I’ve collated these photographs, spanning from the 1930s to the present day, capturing the architectural transformations and enduring spirit of this Ultimo landmark.
Even in the 1930s, its Victorian façade brought character to the busy industrial heart of Ultimo, serving travellers and workers alike with its signature warmth.
This is a beer sales record sheet for the Vulcan Hotel, dating from 1929 to 1939.
This type of document would have been used to monitor the financial performance of the hotel and its beer sales, as well as to track the terms of different licensees and their agreements. It provides a historical snapshot of the hotel's operations during this period.
Just after WWII in 1949, the Vulcan remained a steady presence in a rapidly modernising city - unchanged on the outside, but full of post-war stories within.
The exterior of the Vulcan Hotel in 1960 remained a proud reminder of 19th-century architecture as Sydney's skyline began to grow around it.
In an era of transformation and modernism, the Vulcan Hotel stayed true to its heritage roots, with its iconic red brickwork and arched windows still welcoming guests in 1970.
Balloons and streamers decorate the Beer Courtyard, where rooms 101 and 102 now reside.
Before the Vulcan Café was the bar. The iconic fireplace that resides in the café today has been covered up, and the kitchen is yet to be built.
Our Café Vulcan’s cozy design in the early 2000’s, providing diners with delicious meals in a venue with fantastic natural lighting. Our promotional ‘Breakfast at Vulcan’ poster played on the classic, heritage-listed charm of the building.
The Sydney Morning Herald printing facilities and journalists moved from Wattle Street 30 years ago, which presented a challenge as the Vulcan Pub went from one of the best performing pubs in Sydney in 1995, to one of the worst. Spencer’s, pictured alongside, was a cocktail bar and restaurant, and an integral part of the hotel.
Around 2000, the Vulcan Hotel, with its classic Victorian features, stands as a well-maintained landmark in Ultimo, blending historical charm with modern hospitality.
After some renovations, the Vulcan’s updates garnered more acclaim and attention. We received awards, including the City of Sydney Business Award for Best Boutique Hotel in Sydney in 2008. Later in 2012, an article from The Sydney Morning Herald discussed the smooth union of old and new in historic hotels being turned into affordable, boutique accommodation - including The Vulcan Hotel.
To keep up with increasing demand for rooms, we demolished the terraces of the hotel and replaced them with 16 new 4-star hotel rooms, a penthouse, and a lift.
Our Balcony Studio Room from 2015 is shown in the first image, followed by a picture of the same room today. The adjustments showcase our commitment through the years to retaining the hotel’s heritage layout, combined with modern amenities and thoughtful design for comfort.
In November 2024, we decided the hotel should undergo facade painting to refresh its colour and help protect the building against the elements.
Lovingly restored and thoughtfully modernised, our Vulcan Hotel today blends its 1894 Victorian charm with boutique luxury - still standing proudly in the heart of Ultimo, just minutes from Sydney’s CBD.
Book your stay at the Vulcan Hotel today and experience authentic boutique hospitality.
