Club 23 is a luxurious “ultra lounge” located atop Crown’s Mahogany Room extension on Level 3 of Crown Towers. Bates Smart was briefed to design Melbourne’s chicest lounge, inspired by the world’s most alluring clubs and showcasing the spectacular nightscape of the river promenade and city beyond.

Access to the Club from the entry lobby has immediate impact: intricate metallic screens open into a charismatic space with mesmerising iridescent wall sculptures created by artist Anne-Marie May. The gold mosaic host desk and dazzling courtyard backdrop of illuminated trees forecast the glamorous retreat beyond.

A significant planning challenge was to build an inviting new link, nearly 50 metres across the existing roof, from the hotel threshold to the venue’s northeast corner position. The resulting link is an unforgettable visual experience leading guests to their ultimate

destination. A sequence of narrow bay windows and large glazed panels was created to punctuate the journey. Giant spot lit woven fabric tassels alternate with layered shimmering string window coverings to provide glimpses of the alluring city views.

A striking sculptural wall treatment of leather, fabric and gold tubular forms appears to unravel as it draws visitors along the corridor, around a serious of sensuous curved walls and finally to the spectacular vista that awaits their eventual arrival in the prestigious lounge.

On arrival into the main space a stunning four metre high handcrafted light feature is the focal point of the space and hovers above a delicate tower of cut crystal vessels sculpted by artist Corinna Berndt. The lounge, bar and private rooms open onto expansive outdoor terraces affording the best views in Melbourne from both inside and outside.