THE REDFERN SURF CLUB | BOTANY RD, ALEXANDRIA | SYDNEY
The Redfern Surf Club
A subtle nod to beachside vibes in the Urban Heart of Sydney. Blending surf culture with a dynamic urban edge for a one-of-a-kind dining and social experience.
The Redfern Surf Club offered patrons a relaxed yet stylish environment to enjoy drinks, dining, and social events. Once celebrated with the Time Out People’s Choice Award, it became a local favorite in Sydney’s bustling hospitality scene. Drawing inspiration from surf culture, hus.studio reimagined the traditional concept with a modern, urban twist. The venue combined raw industrial materials, natural textures, and surf-inspired aesthetics, creating a space that felt both grounded in Redfern’s urban landscape and reminiscent of Australia’s coastal charm. Sadly, due to the impact of COVID-19, The Redfern Surf Club has since closed its doors.
Client Brief:
The brief called for a venue that would seamlessly blend Redfern’s industrial heritage, originally embodied by the CBA bank built in the early 1900s and the former Chicken Grill, with the relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere of beach culture. The client envisioned a space that felt both casual and upscale, fostering a welcoming environment for locals and visitors alike. Functionality was essential, with adaptable areas designed for various events and dining experiences. The design needed to feel fresh, approachable, and authentically Australian, aiming to create a space that felt like a comfortable local hangout while incorporating enough distinctive details to stand out as a memorable hospitality destination in Sydney’s competitive scene.
The original steel beams, brick walls, and heritage sash windows were meticulously restored to showcase the building’s industrial charm. These elements were seamlessly integrated with modern design features, creating an authentic blend of old and new that reflects the space’s urban roots.
Custom booths were strategically positioned between the windows and heritage frames to maximize seating while preserving the venue’s architectural integrity. This thoughtful design offered a cozy and intimate experience without obstructing the character-defining features of the space.
Flexibility was central to the venue’s design, featuring fixed seating along the perimeter and loose furniture in the center. This layout allowed the space to adapt easily for intimate dining or larger music events, with the central bar serving as a focal point to enhance the overall guest experience.
Indoor plants were incorporated to soften the raw industrial materials, introducing a sense of calm and natural beauty to the environment. Playful nods to surf culture, including references to Point Break, were subtly woven into the decor, achieving a quirky balance between nature and urban kitsch.
