Completed
Reimagining a community favourite in an iconic bushland location.
Located adjacent to the Royal National Park on Sydney's southern fringe, Club Heathcote was an institution with locals. With the closure of the local pub, the Club saw an opportunity to reinvent itself to cater to the evolving needs of the community. Hence The Arbour was born.
Our brief was to create an inviting and dynamic space that draws influence from the bush surrounds, making The Arbour a vibrant but relaxed place for people of all ages to gather and socialise.
Concept & Design
Our approach redesigned the two-storey layout of the Club to make the most of the incredible views from the first-floor food, beverage and entertainment areas. We also expanded the reception area to make it more welcoming, while adding a safety link to the car park.
On the ground level, we created a new public room to be used by the community, providing a perfect home for live music and allowing The Arbour to operate with minimal staff in quiet times.
Experience and nature were the key themes guiding our design. We drew inspiration from the dramatic sandstone and eucalyptuses of the National Park, with a statement mural inspired by the charcoal drawings of the traditional landowners, the people.