The first stages of the Victoria Racing Club’s (VRC) interior architectural plans for its outstanding new Club Stand have been unveiled, underlining Flemington’s future as a world-class entertainment and sporting venue.
The release of the highly anticipated designs from celebrated architects, Bates Smart for the Lobby and Lounge, Lawn Bar, Paddock Bar, Courtyard Bar, Betting Ring and the Owners and Trainers Area provide a sensational preview of how the $128 million Club Stand will come to life.
Chief Executive Officer, Simon Love said the VRC has worked alongside the team at Bates Smart to design interiors that will provide experiences unrivalled by any venue in Australia or around the world.
“We are setting a new benchmark with the Club Stand’s design to enhance the raceday experience at Flemington,” said Mr Love. “There is no similar building in the world, which makes this dynamic and exciting development a landmark destination ensuring Flemington and Melbourne remain the global home of sport and entertainment.
“The Club Stand marks the exciting next step in our renewal plans at Flemington and the Victorian Government, Racing Victoria and Tabcorp have supported the project to ensure the racecourse retains its position as a ‘must visit’ world-class sporting, entertainment and tourism venue in Australia,” said Mr Love.
Currently under construction, the state-of-the-art facility has created an estimated 350 full-time equivalent jobs and will be delivered by Multiplex in time for racegoers to enjoy at the 2018 Melbourne Cup Carnival.
The Club Stand should secure the ongoing future prosperity of Flemington and ensure the VRC’s considerable contribution to the Australian economy continues to grow. Last year’s Melbourne Cup Carnival generated more than $427.1 million in gross economic benefits to Victoria alone, which is unrivalled by any other sporting event in the country.
The new Club Stand forms part of a $135 million project at Flemington Racecourse, reinforcing the VRC’s commitment to continually invest in infrastructure and technology that enhances the raceday experience for Members, event patrons, industry participants and the local community.
Creating an Architectural Landmark
Designed by Bates Smart, the breathtaking curvilinear façade of the Club Stand creates a sense of movement that is synonymous with the excitement of Flemington.
The architectural design of the Club Stand draws inspiration from Flemington’s garden setting, with the shapes and forms of flowers and petals echoed in the building.
Imbued with a sense of history, the heritage of Flemington will be evident throughout the Club Stand’s interiors in sophisticated and subtle ways, reminding Members of the rich tradition and legacy of the Club, while championing its evolution.
The five-level Club Stand offers sweeping 360-degree views; the Mounting Yard, race track and Members’ Lawn to the south; Parade Ring and day stalls to the east; Betting Ring to the north; and, existing grandstands and Winning Post to the west.
Enhancing the Raceday Experience
The sculptural exterior of the Club Stand sets the scene for the elegant interiors beyond. To be built with premium materials, crafted with the finest details and boasting incredible dining experiences, the Club Stand will become an aspirational destination to entertain guests and enjoy the exciting sport of racing.
An incredible variety of hospitality options will be available across five levels, with seven unique casual dining options, three restaurants offering world-class dining experiences and eight diverse bars.
A grand entrance lobby and lounge that celebrates the heritage of Flemington will warmly welcome guests with a central, curved sweeping staircase and clear views to the active scenes on the Members’ Lawn.
The energetic atmosphere on the Members’ Lawn will become even more vibrant with the stylish Lawn Bar where guests can walk-up and order take-away beverages to take to their favourite vantage points.
Guests who frequent the front lawn near the Mounting Yard will be able to head to the informal walk-up Paddock Bar, where there will be a strong nod to Flemington’s racing traditions.
Significant upgrades to the Betting Ring will see undercover access from the Club Stand with weather protection canopies introduced; fresh new food and beverage options, including the casual al fresco Courtyard Bar; and enhanced technology will improve Wi-Fi and audio visuals to ensure racegoers enjoy a connected, comfortable day out no matter the weather.
The two-level Owners & Trainers Area will see industry participants revel in direct access to and from the Mounting Yard and enjoy premium viewing of the action on the track and Melbourne’s growing city skyline. On the ground level, a Racing Press Room will provide industry media with the most contemporary multi-media facility and enhanced access to horse areas.
Over the next few months, the VRC will continue to release more details about its exciting plans for the remaining elements of the Club Stand including the Members’ Lawn, Members’ Bar, Seating Deck, Mounting Yard, Champagne Bar and Rooftop.
