Balfour Brisbane
Heritage-meets-Art Deco boutique; feels more like staying at a stylish friend's house than a hotel. Warm, understated, personal service. Quiet sophistication without stuffiness.
The rooftop bar is also available for private events — worth asking about for a special occasion
Why It Matters
One of Brisbane's few genuinely boutique city hotels with real architectural character across two distinct buildings. The combination of Queenslander heritage and Art Deco design gives each room its own personality. The Balfour Kitchen & Bar is a standalone neighbourhood draw — not just a hotel restaurant. Strong sustainability credentials including motion-sensor lighting, composting, and a zero-plastic policy.
An award-winning boutique hotel spread across two distinct heritage buildings in New Farm — a restored Queenslander and the adjacent 1940s Art Deco Simla building. Seventeen suites total, each genuinely individual. Sits 3km from Brisbane's CBD, close enough to walk to Howard Smith Wharves and James Street, but quiet enough that the street feels like a neighbourhood rather than a hotel precinct. The Balfour Kitchen & Bar has its own local following well beyond hotel guests. No pool on-site, though guests get complimentary access to a nearby rooftop pool at Lina. Adults only.
Where You'll Stay
5 room types available
Accessible Balfour Suite
Wheelchair-accessible version of the Balfour Suite in the Art Deco Simla building. Same lead-light windows, high ceilings, and separate sunroom. En-suite with rain shower and underfloor heating adapted for accessibility.
King (or twin on request) · 38 sqm
Accessible Executive Queen Room
Wheelchair-accessible version of the Executive Queen Room. Same antique furnishings and European styling, with a queen-size bed and walk-in rainfall shower adapted for accessibility. Cannot be configured as twins.
QueenBalfour Suite
Located in the 1940s Art Deco Simla building — a separate structure from the main Queenslander. Lead-light windows bathe the room in natural light. High ceilings, a separate sunroom, and a well-appointed en-suite with walk-in rain shower, bathtub, and underfloor heating. The design is richly embellished with bold Art Deco textures. Feels more like a stylish apartment than a hotel room. One accessible version available.
King (or twin on request) · 38 sqmExecutive King Room
In the original Queenslander building. Stylish designer antique furnishings with a king-size bed, large en-suite with walk-in rainfall shower and a separate bathtub. More space than the Queen rooms. Can be configured as twins on request.
King (or twin on request)
Executive Queen Room
Located in the original Queenslander building. Antique furnishings alongside modern décor. European-inspired aesthetic with queen-size bed and en-suite with walk-in rainfall shower. Windows that open for fresh air — a deliberate touch. Cannot be configured as twins.
QueenThe Property
Eat & Drink
2 venues on property
Restaurant
Spa & Wellness
Treatment Menu
On Property
How you'll actually spend your days.
Guided Art Deco architectural tours in New Farm and surrounds, available through the hotel.
Signature monthly high tea at The Balfour Kitchen & Bar. Pre-booking essential. A curated selection of sweet and savoury treats in the hotel's verandah or courtyard setting.
A scenic helicopter flight over Brisbane, bookable through the hotel as a curated guest experience.
The Brisbane Riverwalk and New Farm Park are on the hotel's doorstep — an easy morning walk or evening stroll.
Guided full-day tour exploring Mount Tamborine's finest wineries, arranged through the hotel.
Complimentary access for hotel guests to the rooftop pool at nearby Lina — a good substitute for the hotel's lack of an on-site pool.
Brisbane River cruise experience, bookable through the hotel's concierge.
Bespoke perfume-making masterclass available as a curated guest experience.
Amenities & Practical Info
The details that matter for planning.
Wheelchair accessible throughout public areas. Accessible Queen Room and Accessible Balfour Suite available.
Small boardroom for meetings of up to 16 delegates. Audio-visual equipment available. Event catering can be arranged.
High-speed wireless internet complimentary in all rooms and public areas.
Motion-sensor lighting, food-waste composting programme, and a zero-plastic policy in operation throughout the hotel.
Dedicated concierge for bookings, activities, and transfers.
In-room dining available for guests.
Dry cleaning and laundry services available at an additional cost.
Rooftop bar and terrace with views of the Story Bridge and Brisbane skyline. Available for private hire.
Secluded leafy courtyard scented by frangipani, used for al fresco dining and outdoor relaxation.
A cosy, book-lined library lounge where guests help themselves to drinks and settle up on the honour system. One of the more charming features of the property.
Select Balfour Suites in the Simla building are pet-friendly. Contact hotel directly to confirm availability and any fees.
Bicycle hire available for guests to explore New Farm and surrounds.
Airport transfers available at additional cost.
Free self-parking to the rear of the hotel. Valet parking also available. Rare for an inner-city boutique. Note: some guests report a Sunday surcharge.
BUILD YOUR SPICERS BALFOUR BRISBANE PLAN
Rooms, dining, spa, and resort experiences — organized into one trip plan.
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