Woods Bagot and Ralph Wheeler Architects have been appointed to redevelop the Caulfield Racecourse grandstand as the “cornerstone” of the wider Caulfield masterplan announced 2019.
Works on the grandstand form part of the wider $570-million masterplan at Caulfield Racecourse, as the most significant upgrade in the club’s 150-year history. The new grandstand will serve as an “activator” and “landmark” of the new precinct, helping to “cement” the racecourse as a world-class venue, the club said.
Woods Bagot principal Sarah Ball said the architects’ ambition is to recreate the “Caulfield experience” for the next generation while injecting contemporary relevance into the club.
The architecture will reference the tradition of horse racing while reimagining the typology of the grandstand as a “series of terraces”, introducing modern energy into the historic precinct.
The redesign will increase the diversity of spaces, with viewing decks, hospitality spaces and activated grounds in which to feel connected to nature.
“Surrounded by nature, augmented by technology, and layered with experiences, this is a building that will rejuvenate the Caulfield experience,” said Woods Bagot principle Bruno Mendes.
“It will activate the everyday, evolve with the times, surge with the crowds, and be electrified by the thrill of the race day.”
Caulfield Racecourse is one of three Melbourne Racing clubs, alongside Mornington and Ladbrokes racecourses.
Source: Architecture - architectureau
