THE BRIEF

Tattersalls Club in Brisbane was formed in 1865 and is housed in a heritage listed building in the CBD. Tattersalls Club is one of Brisbane's most prestigious social and sporting clubs, welcoming women into the membership within the last decade. Studiospillane has been working with the Club since 2020 to update their spaces, creating new life within a 1990s extension that offers a light and bright space that contrasts with and compliments the traditional spaces adjacent. The refurbishment projects are conceived to balance the needs of new members with the traditions of the Club, and to honour the longevity of the institution and its members.    

The original heritage listed art deco building was built in 1926, designed by local architects Hall and Prentice (later Hall and Phillips), and extended by the same architects in 1938 (now trading as Phillips Smith Conwell). In 1994 the Club extended the building into adjacent land, working with Robin Gibson Architects to build hotel levels, a retail arcade, administration, hospitality spaces, and the 2 levels of pool and gym that have now been upgraded to become the newly renovated Health and Wellness Centre. 

The refurbished space includes a reception and entry foyer, amenities and change spaces, a state-of-the-art gym and weights area, and new Pilates and Yoga studio. With views overlooking the Queen Street Mall, and Queen Street’s only heated 25m swimming pool, Tattersall’s Health and Wellness Centre provides its members with spaces to workout, refresh and recharge. 

OUR APPROACH

Studiospillane aim for the new precinct was to reference and leverage the design aesthetic employed within the Conservatory dining room, creating a contemporary feel that references the wood panelling of the heritage building with a lighter palette.  

THE RESULTS

The front of house areas are lined with blackbutt timber panels, turning what would be utilitarian into spaces that are warmer and more suitable for a Club facility. The make-up benches, ottoman seats, and details within the locker rooms add the understated luxury that is synonymous with the building.  

A new yoga studio was added adjacent the pool, enveloped in sheer curtains to create a calming environment.