In an exciting development for Sydney’s architectural landscape, the Australian Turf Club (ATC) has recently submitted a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for a seven-story boutique hotel at the iconic Royal Randwick Racecourse. Designed in collaboration with the renowned architecture firm WMK, and with Inspired Exteriors at the helm of integrated landscape architecture, this project promises to be a remarkable blend of luxury, heritage, and sustainable innovation.
Royal Randwick Racecourse, located 6 km from Sydney’s CBD symbolises elegance, entertainment, and sporting excellence. The ATC stands committed to expanding its role as a global cultural and entertainment hub, enriching the experiences of both racegoers and tourists in remarkable ways.
At the heart of this project is a landscape design that integrates native planting combinations, green roofs, landscaped terraces and the preservation of existing trees. This sustainable approach incorporates water-wise landscaping to conserve precious resources, as well as increasing green infrastructure on site to combat the urban heat island effect by increasing the number of mature trees and canopy cover. The surrounding landscape will also offer opportunities for identifying local flora and fauna, engaging with the indigenous community, and providing effective wayfinding.
Additionally, with a focus on pedestrian flow, usability, and visitor interaction it will also enhance the Alison Road streetscape by creating a lush vegetated buffer that speaks to its existing character.
One of the project’s standout features is its close collaboration with the Bidjigal Elders. This collaboration not only pays homage to the traditional owners and their rich history but also guided choices in planting, materiality, and storytelling. The result is a landscape that seamlessly merges the built environment with the natural surroundings, offering a unique and immersive user experience that distinguishes it from the rest of the site.
Designing alongside architectural visionaries, WMK Architecture and project management experts, Mostyn Copper, the ATC is on its way to turning this grand vision into a reality. Stay tuned for updates as this transformative project unfolds and Sydney’s landscape architecture reaches new heights.
