REIMAGINING CLUB HEATHCOTE: A FUSION OF HISTORY, NATURE, AND COMMUNITY
Club Heathcote has long been a cornerstone of the local community, yet as times change, so too must the spaces that serve it. When DACCA Architecture was commissioned to reimagine Club Heathcote, they embarked on a journey that delved deep into the town’s rich history, the stunning bushland of Heathcote National Park, and the evolving needs of the local demographic. The result is a venue that seamlessly blends past and present—a place where community, entertainment, and natural beauty converge.
From the outset, the design process was guided by a deep respect for the land’s origins. The Gweagal people, the traditional custodians of the area, have left a lasting imprint on the landscape. Charcoal drawings of kangaroos can still be found in rock shelters along Myuna Creek, a testament to the deep connection between the land and its original inhabitants. This narrative informed the approach to the redesign, inspiring the artwork adorning the back bar and the naturalistic design elements that permeate the space. Heathcote National Park, with its dramatic sandstone plateaus and meandering creeks, provided the ideal palette from which to draw inspiration for materials, colours, and textures.
The club had long needed revitalisation. A potholed car park, dark interiors, and a fragmented layout did little to invite the community in. Additionally, the closure of the local pub left a void that needed filling. Enter The Arbour—a new concept designed to reconnect the club with its surroundings while serving as a vibrant social hub. Through extensive research and a collaborative design process, a venue was shaped that embodied experience, nature, and community. Earthy tones, raw materials, and expansive vistas ensure that the space is both welcoming and reflective of its bushland setting.
The focus on local inspirations and connection to the interior design solution paves the way for a strong and recognisable brand for the club and differentiates them from other local venues.
One of the most significant changes was reconfiguring the club’s layout to better align with its visitors’ needs. The original two-level structure felt disconnected, with scattered elements that failed to create a cohesive experience. The solution was to relocate gaming to the ground floor, freeing the upper level for a food-and-beverage-focused experience. This strategic move not only improved functionality but also capitalised on the panoramic views of Heathcote National Park, making dining and socialising an immersive experience.
The revitalised first floor now boasts a diverse range of offerings designed to appeal to different demographics. A new café, bistro, and entertainment area overlooking the treetops, fostering a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere. Meanwhile, sports enthusiasts can enjoy dedicated viewing areas for TAB, sports screenings, and alfresco seating facing the street. The venue remains true to its live music roots, a key element of its identity, with a space dedicated to performances—a nod to the famous bands that have graced its stage over the years.
The materiality and aesthetic of the new Club Heathcote, The Arbour, were heavily inspired by the surrounding landscape. The repurposed existing timber flooring ensured sustainability while preserving the club’s character. The flooring is complemented by cobbled stone tiling, adding a tactile, organic quality to the space. The colour palette draws directly from nature—the deep greens of eucalypt forests, the muted greys and beiges of tree bark and bushland, and the warm pinks and reds of clay and sandstone. Even the bistro ceiling was carefully retained, reinforcing the venue’s live music legacy.
Externally, the club’s façade was reimagined to create a more cohesive and inviting presence. Rather than replacing structures wholesale, the designers repainted and reworked existing elements, ensuring continuity with the past while introducing a fresh, modern identity. The arrival experience was further enhanced with statement art pieces and murals, weaving the story of Heathcote’s history and landscape into the very fabric of the building.
Club Heathcote’s transformation into The Arbour, is more than just a renovation—it is a reawakening of the space’s potential. By embracing the area’s natural beauty, its deep cultural roots, and the evolving needs of the community, DACCA Architecture has created a venue that is not only a place to gather but a destination in itself. Nestled among the treetops, The Arbour stands as a testament to thoughtful design, where history and modernity coexist in perfect harmony.
To discuss design options for your venue, contact Architect Tony Maluccio
Ph: 02 9081 9736
