In contrast to traditional sports stadia, the Club Stand presents itself in the round. In doing so it captures the spirit of the promenading which enhances enjoyment of a day at the races. The sweeping curvilinear forms promote this unique movement and energy.
The design acknowledges site context in which the theatre of horse racing is played out on all sides - mounting yard, track and members’ lawn to the south; parade ring and day stalls to the east; betting ring to the north; existing grandstands and winning post to the west.
The new Club Stand occupies virtually the same footprint as the Members’ Old Grandstand, but will provide increased capacity and more diverse venues and facilities in response to contemporary expectations. For race-goers the new building will ensure an enhanced experience with improved hospitality offerings, internal circulation and amenities. Operationally the building will provide staff and caterers with state-of-the-art facilities to ensure that safe and efficient services support the member experience.
The spaces inside the building are to be imbued with a sense of history without feeling beholden to it - featuring elements of the past, but interpreted with clean and sophisticated lines in a modern style and using warm materials.The story of Flemington Racecourse and the VRC is to be woven into the fabric of the building through material, pattern, pictorial and artefact reference and displays.
The Club Stand is designed to build on the existing heritage at Flemington, and in turn to be an iconic part of the heritage of Flemington’s future.
Read the press: The Age, Racing Network, Sky Racing
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