The glamour and sophistication of the spring racing season was matched this year by the newly renovated Medallion Bar at Caulfield Racecourse, which opened its doors to delighted Melbourne Racing Club members in time for the Underwood Stakes Day.

The iconic space has been synonymous with the racing experience for members since its establishment over 40 years ago. Acting as a social hub throughout the year where members can watch the races, a game and enjoy a snack, it transforms into a thriving hive of activity during the racing season.

Looking to enrich the member experience through a more contemporary and functional space, Techné Architecture + Interior Design took inspiration from the classic art deco Australian pub to create a design that was chic and modern while still showcasing the history of the venue.

“We wanted to honour the era of the building with an interior and experience which had a defining character, rich in texture and pattern and an overall elegance appropriate for MRC members” explains Senior Interior Designer Dana Hutchins.

Dark oak paneling features throughout the venue, contrasted by custom Terrazzo tiling and brass light details for an unmistakable nod to art deco styling. This inspiration is most evident in the elegant island bar that forms the centerpiece of the space and features beautiful curved lines characteristic of the period. The overall look creates an atmosphere of relaxed luxury that perfectly reflects the glamour of race day.

The design also playfully incorporates elements of the surrounding racetrack with sleek gold ceiling features mimicking the railing that runs around the track. A custom Axminster carpet brings warmth to the room with a rich colour palette and design inspired by the traditional steel windows of the Caulfield Racecourse.

These stylish elements work to visually break up the large space, which has been divided into functional zones using dry bars and a variety of seating options. Members will never miss a minute of the game, with TV’s visible from every seat in the house while remaining unobtrusive thanks to clever integration into the joinery.

Techné has taken full advantage of the Medallion Bar’s premium trackside location with a new thin profile steel frame façade that floods the room with natural light and opens up the bar to unprecedented views of the track and finish line, securing the Medallion Bar as the only place you want to be to watch your colours cross the finish.

Brodie Arnhold Chief Executive of Melbourne Racing Club has been encouraged by feedback from Caulfield customers; “We’ve had a lot of very positive feedback from our members at Caulfield who are thrilled with the result of the fantastic redevelopment in the Medallion Bar, which is particularly important for us as the Club is committed to providing our members with first class facilities to enjoy the best sporting entertainment.”