Future Food worked alongside NH Architects (lead consultant), providing a multi-stage scope of work that responded directly to the brief. The collaborative scope of work was formed to meet the needs of a diverse stakeholder group, including Melbourne Park, Delaware North (Incumbent Caterer), Tennis Australia, Development Victoria and NH Architects. The redevelopment concentrated on the Café, Function Centre and Media Centre immediately adjacent to Rod Laver Arena, a very high-profile location. The venue would become to

be known as “CENTREPIECE at Melbourne Park,” opened in alignment with the Australian Open (AO) 2022.

Designed with flexibility in mind, the venue’s three levels each host vastly different experiences across the AO fortnight. In AO Mode, the 2,000 square metre Grand Hall is used for premium dining and hospitality experiences for guests, including the exclusive Founder’s Club and Penfolds Bistro & Restaurant, while the ground floor café houses both public and premium offerings, including the iconic Rockpool Bar & Grill. Level 3 is a media hub, housing all local and international media, as well as the various networks from around the globe, showcasing the venue’s cutting-edge broadcast facilities for the first time.

The stunning 250-seat Auditorium acts as the main press conference room for the tournament, additionally, the

Pre-Function Area, Outdoor Terraces and other Meeting Rooms & Studios within the venue house off-court interviews and events for players, VIPs and clients. While the Australian Open has been a core inspiration for the construction of CENTREPIECE, the venue has also been designed for private events and functions capability outside of AO mode.

The successfully appointed operator brings with them a wealth of local commercial experience from their portfolio of businesses including a local café, catering company and coffee roastery business, which will combine to create a fabulous addition to this new Aquatic Centre. 

Customised Food & Hospitality Services

• Food & Hospitality Scheme Review & Initial F&B Strategy

• Fit for Purpose F&B Environments - Providing research to incorporate operational F&B strategies into the building at the design stage.

• Food & Hospitality Vision & Positioning Statement - Aligning the diverse stakeholder group with a collective vision for hospitality in the precinct.

• Contribution to collaborative workshops and design focus groups.