Canberra Labor Club has unveiled its new venue, Central Social Club, in the heart of the national capital at City Walk. With an overall design by Pelle Architects, construction by local Braddon builder Fore Group, and interiors by CTRL Space with furniture by James Richardson Furniture and BCI Furniture, the club group’s 40,000 members now have a new home.
The slim space features Hamptons-esque blonde wood panelling, a pastel palette and gingham fabric accents. Inside, the central bar opens onto a long restaurant and café space with bench seating, separated dining spaces and a wall of frosted glass for privacy.
“The design concept reflects the nostalgic touches of the classic club environment, while providing a refreshing new experience for first-time visitors,” interior designers CTRL Space said. “The interior has been designed to enable a comfortable hospitality moment, incorporating high-seated bar options with an impressive central bar, through to cozy and private dining spaces for dinner and lunching options.”
“Large upholstered banquettes are presented throughout, complimented with fluted wall panels and herringbone oak timber floors. A curved tiled entry lounge greets its visitors, while an impressive double-height void in the main bar enables natural light to flood into the interior.”
Last year’s AHA ACT Chef of the Year, Sam McCarthy, has stepped in as Executive Chef, creating an all-day dining menu. Offerings include braised Cowra lamb shoulder pappardelle, triple-cooked Buffalo-style chicken wings with blue cheese to go with a selection of local ACT and NSW wines, plus three “knockout” desserts including a salted caramel dolce de leche tart with lemon sorbet.
The casual space is in design that evokes a sense of pause and play, where singles, couples or groups can spend an afternoon or evening enjoying social interaction, plus a meal and beverage.
The new decor and all-day dining, with table ordering by CleverQ, has been a huge drawcard since opening, said club manager Jim Webster, who has been with the group for 15 years.
“Our membership applications have increased fourfold,” he said. “It’s very modern, with lots and lots of glass,” he said. “When you are looking over to City Walk the sun just streams in, it is beautiful.”
Breakfast is available from 9am-11.30am on weekdays and 10am-11.30am on weekends, with lunch and light meals available 11.30am-5pm and dinner service from 5pm-9pm.
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