Floriana Boutique Hotel

Prominently located on Cairns’ Northern Esplanade, the heritage-listed Floriana Guesthouse exemplifies the careful balance of historical preservation and modern functionality. Designed in 1939 by architect Edwin R. Orchard for Maltese immigrant Paul Zammit, this interwar Art Moderne landmark embodies the fusion of traditional Maltese influences with Queensland’s tropical vernacular, adapting European aesthetics to the demands of the region’s climate. The building’s elevated living spaces and extensive use of windows maximised natural ventilation and views to Trinity Inlet, while the ground floor’s expansive timber-floored ballroom offered a flexible social space suited to both the climate and the community.

The restoration process commenced with a comprehensive analysis of the building’s architectural and historical elements. Floriana’s symmetrical façade, characterised by curved lines, streamlined forms, and restrained ornamentation, was carefully restored. Intrusive services were concealed, and external finishes, including render and painted detailing, were revitalised, ensuring alignment with the building’s original aesthetic.

Internally, the restoration reinstated the original spatial logic, while preserving and enhancing the building’s heritage features. Intricate plasterwork, including cornices and ceiling medallions, was painstakingly reconstructed using traditional methods to maintain historical integrity. The decorative staircase, a centrepiece of the design, was fully restored. Its timber balustrade and concrete detailing showcase the exceptional craftsmanship of the era and serve as a visual and functional focal point within the central hallway.

A newly installed French-patterned marble terrace provides an elegant outdoor space for guests. This addition harmonises with the guesthouse’s architectural language, offering a modern amenity that respects the property’s historic integrity.