[1] In the 1890s, in the wake of the Western Australian gold rush, American-born mining investor and hotelier John De Baun (1852–1912) moved to Perth with the intent of investing in real estate.

[1] On 20 September 1898, Grace Lannin, the licensee of the hotel, was the first person charged for selling liquor after 11 pm without a permit; she was fined 20 shillings, equivalent to A$181 in 2022.

The company engaged the architectural firm of Oldham Boas Ednie-Brown to undertake the renovations, which included a western extension of the Hay Street frontage to match the existing structure.

The renovations occurred from 1994 to 1995,[1] and included the restoration of the cantilevered balcony, together with the grand timber staircase and decorative ceilings, to their original splendour.

The facade has a painted stucco finish, round-headed timber windows and door openings arched with false stonework, attached columns, pilasters, triangular pediments and projecting mouldings, all in Federation Free Classical style.