The Inkwell, c. 1907
History
Built in 1907, at the height of the industrial boom in South Australia, The Inkwell was initially the headquarters of The United Paint Co., which later became Dulux. The former paint factory is next door - an impressive, handsome red brick building with ghost signs from the past. The office, now The Inkwell, belonged to A. E. Clarkson, one of Adelaide’s most forward-thinking businessmen. Clarkson was a well-respected pioneering merchant of industry, who welcomed leaders in business from around the globe. It was Clarkson’s combination of integrity and commercial aptitude that drew owner & host Kate to the property, and inspired its transformation.
Accommodation
Uniquely set over two levels, The Inkwell is a cosy escape for couples or solo travellers, with Port River and Port Adelaide’s rich history on your doorstep. Entering through grand double doors, The Inkwell is a carefully considered balance of old and new. With an industrial feel, there are original wooden beams and polished floors, tall arched windows, roof trusses and columns, paired with contemporary finishes.
The Inkwell’s moody palette gives this loft-style apartment an urban luxe edge. The open concept lower level incorporates the old vault, queen bedroom featuring indulgent French linen bedding, a cosy study nook and living area. With vintage furniture and treasures, it’s a lovely space to sip endless cups of tea, unwind with a good book…or allow your creativity to take over and put pen to paper.
The modern bathroom is accented with black fixtures, industrial signage, and a colour scheme inspired by the Prison Bar Guernsey worn in the early days of the Port Adelaide Football club: there’s even a team photo from 1956 on the wall. Enjoy a rain head shower, organic cotton towels, and Hunter Lab’s hair & body wash.
Overlooking treetops, the galley kitchen is located on the upper level, as part of an open plan living and dining area. Morning light floods this space through beautiful arched windows. The kitchen is well-equipped, so you can whip up your favourite meals, and gourmet, locally-produced pantry essentials are provided - including Fleurieu Peninsula Olive Oil, Port Adelaide roasted coffee, local organic artisan loose leaf teas, and Adelaide Hills sparkling water.
And after a day spent discovering Port Adelaide’s history, wandering charming streets with impressive heritage architecture, return to your accommodation for a pre-dinner drink from your very own gin bar. Stocked with local South Australian gins, boutique tonic, local craft beer, Barossa fortified, and organic dried citrus to garnishing your evening cocktails, your first drink is on the house!
A luxurious city pad that's steeped in history, The Inkwell invites you to step back to an unhurried time, and allow yourself to create, reconnect and relax.
Special Features
Heritage Precinct
Fully Equipped Kitchen
WiFi
Vintage Decor
Things To Do
The Inkwell is located in the heart of Port Adelaide’s heritage precinct, with its oldest building dating to 1849. Enjoy wandering the heritage streets, admiring brick and stone buildings, century-old signage and old entry ways. Discover the area’s vibrant cafe scene, hidden bars, and award-winning restaurants - we recommend breakfast at The Banksia Tree cafe on Vincent Street.
The South Australian Railway Museum is across the road, along with the South Australian Maritime & Aviation Museums all within walking distance. Visit the iconic Port Adelaide lighthouse, or take a bike ride to the white sands of Semaphore, one of Adelaide's best metropolitan beaches. And some of Australia’s best wineries in the Barossa, Adelaide Hills or McLaren Vale, are all easy day trips from The Inkwell.
Images - Sophie Moss Photography
