A much-loved piece of Artarmon history has been given a new lease on life. The former Artarmon Bowling Clubhouse has been transformed into a modern, welcoming pavilion, creating a vibrant new community space right beside one of the area’s best playgrounds.
The transformation of the former Artarmon Bowling Clubhouse is now complete, with the new pavilion ready for community use.
Whether it’s hosting community workshops, celebrations, or simply enjoying a coffee while the kids play nearby, the space is designed to bring people together and make the most of this beautiful local setting.
Saved by the community
Back in 2017, concerns were raised about plans to demolish the 1950s clubhouse, which served for decades as a vibrant hub of post-war social life. Local residents rallied together to protect the site, recognising its cultural and social significance.
Mayor Tanya Taylor said, “The Artarmon Bowling Clubhouse is more than just a building; it is a landmark of our local social history. By choosing adaptive reuse over demolition, we have preserved the ‘can-do’ spirit of the original members while creating a modern, accessible and inclusive space that meets the needs of our families and community groups today.”
In 2020, an independent heritage review confirmed the site met key heritage criteria, leading to a decision to preserve and repurpose the building rather than demolish it.
The result is a space that the whole community can now enjoy.
What’s inside the new pavilion?
Willoughby Council has carefully preserved the building’s unique modernist character. Key heritage features, including the iconic blade wall, curved canopy, ABC crest plaque and original timber flooring, have been carefully restored.
New features include:
- A large multi-purpose room for events, meetings and activities
- A well-equipped kitchen
- Modern public bathrooms
- Accessible ramps connecting the building to the playground and surrounding parklands
Every detail has been designed to make the space inclusive, practical and inviting for a wide range of community uses.
The facility will be the Council’s newest hireable space, including 80 square metres of indoor space and 50 square metres of deck space. It will be available Monday to Saturday, 7am to 9pm, and Sundays, 9am to 7pm.
Want to check it out?
Locals are invited to celebrate the opening at a free Family Fun Day hosted by Willoughby City Council.
- When: Saturday, 21 March 2026
- Time: 10:00am – 1:00pm
There’ll be face painting, games, a sausage sizzle, a plant stall and more – plus a great chance to explore the new space with the family. Children can dive into a range of outdoor games while adults explore the heritage features of the reimagined space.
Essential Details: Artarmon Bowling Clubhouse
- Where: 1A Burra Road, Artarmon NSW 2064
- More information: willoughby.nsw.gov.au
