Press Club
16 National Circuit
Barton ACT 2600
02 6121 2199
www.npc.org.au

The National Press club of Australia has undergone a transformation with the complete renovation of the first floor and the introduction of Club Lounge. Club Lounge aims to be the first choice for members when looking for a relaxed but sophisticated atmosphere to gather latest information, impress clients, or network with colleagues and friends, over lunch or at the end of the working day.

New features of the Club Lounge include a sophisticated décor that is welcoming and relaxed and conducive to both business and social interaction. There is an improved beverage selection from imported ales to international cocktails along with affordable tap beer and house wines. The award-winning kitchen team has introduced a new tapas-influenced menu and afternoon tea. There is also complimentary internet access with WiFi and also computer stations in the reading room plus there is free parking for members.

Long-standing Club President Ken Randall reflected that “It has been a long slog. In my time as president we have eliminated debt of more than $3 million, expanded our sponsorship income dramatically, expanded membership, consolidated a sustainable business plan and – as of last week – completed a thorough refurbishment of our main member areas, the first-floor Club Lounge.”

The design of Club Lounge was a collaborative effort by a group of passionate professionals. Architects Dub Design, Interior specialist C4 Interiors and Builders Bellevue Constructions worked closely with club management to create the final product.

The new interior for the Press Club is sophisticated and inviting. It caters for members wishing to conduct business or for social occasions.

The custom made fixtures and specially selected furniture and pieces has given the interior a unique and interesting decor.

There is an extensive use of timbers throughout. The deep colour of Laminex Tribal Macasar is contrasted with Golden Fineline on walls, tables and the bar counter and the floors are Boral Silkwood Victorian Ash.  In the reception area and reading area, stunning Ambro timber and resin wall panels, which are back lit, are a special feature –manufactured by the Gibbon Group. 

The Kingston glassworks were commissioned to create special objects, a centre piece for the bar counter and a screen on the reception desk. Custom made drum lights from Satelight, beautiful crystals pendant lights and a modern chandelier in the Reception area by Yellowgoat add interest to the ceilings.

A large gas pebble fire place features in the gallery bar area, where patrons can sit and admire photographs and memorabilia of visiting guest celebrity speakers and a large hand carved timber mirror supplied by Kim Snow is a feature outside the Boardroom.

The pressed metal ceilings provided a palette of nostalgia and charm – and painted in gold added a hint of eccentricity, perfectly offsetting the buildings historic charm.

Vintage recycled lighting (sourced by the owners) subtly, yet evocatively adds to the décor, highlighting the classic features of the bar and completes the ambiance of Damask perfectly.