Completed

The Arbour, Club Heathcote

Reimagining a community favourite in an iconic bushland location.

Generous bar connecting the bistro, alfresco and sports areas
Generous bar connecting the bistro, alfresco and sports areas

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.

Strong natural material details of the bar
Strong natural material details of the bar
Strong natural material details of the bar

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.

Texture in natural materials invites a connection to space
Texture in natural materials invites a connection to space
Texture in natural materials invites a connection to space
Sports lounge with large tree-lined windows
Sports lounge with large tree-lined windows
Stone details of the bistro
Stone details of the bistro
Stone details of the bistro
A morning coffee or an afternoon vino. At home among the gum trees
A morning coffee or an afternoon vino. At home among the gum trees
A morning coffee or an afternoon vino. At home among the gum trees
Modern amenities with hints of classic details and original materiality
Modern amenities with hints of classic details and original materiality
Modern amenities with hints of classic details and original materiality
Bespoke carpet connects gaming spaces
Bespoke carpet connects gaming spaces
Bespoke carpet connects gaming spaces

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.

Ground elevation - front facade
Ground elevation - front facade

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.

Ground elevation - foyer and sign-in desk
Ground elevation - foyer and sign-in desk
Level 1 elevation - bar
Level 1 elevation - bar
Level 1 elevation - bistro
Level 1 elevation - bistro
Level 1 elevation - sports lounge
Level 1 elevation - sports lounge