Modieus worked with leading interior design studio X+O to deliver a versatile Axminster flooring solution for the newly refurbished Markets Club in Sydney – the brief was to create a welcoming environment for both local residents and the Sydney Markets community, encouraging them to relax, stay longer and return regularly…
The architecture and material finishes specified in this collaboration between Modieus and studio X+O are used to create distinct zones, which include a bar and lounge. The dark, layered palette of black timber, terrazzo, black metal and custom Axminster carpet tiles enhance the moody ambience.
Image credit: Modieus
Director and Green Star Associate at X+O, Rebecca Vulic, explained: “From the outset, our vision for The Markets Club was to create a venue that feels opulent yet warm, a place where members and guests feel comfortable settling in and staying longer. We leaned into warm interior colouring to build richness and atmosphere, because warm toned spaces naturally feel more inviting and layered. The carpet pattern was inspired by the lucky number eight, expressed through rounded, interlocking forms that we carried through into architectural features such as the screens, creating a consistent design language across the project. We specified an Axminster construction for its premium finish and robust performance in high traffic hospitality environments. Using carpet tiles provided valuable installation flexibility and is especially beneficial for ongoing maintenance, allowing individual tiles to be replaced easily in high wear areas. The felt backing further enhanced acoustic comfort, supporting a softer, more welcoming ambience throughout the venue.”
Image credit: Modieus
Modieus supplied 1m x 1m Axminster tiles with felt backing. The tile format enabled precise pattern execution while also offering practical advantages in installation and future maintenance, critical in a live hospitality setting. Axminster construction is particularly well suited to demanding hospitality environments due to its pattern clarity, depth of colour and long term resilience under heavy footfall.
Acoustic performance was a key consideration throughout the project. Alongside sound-check plasterboard ceilings, acoustic timber wall panels and integrated acoustic detailing within gaming machine screens, the felt-backed Axminster tiles contributed to enhanced sound absorption, supporting guest comfort across bar, lounge and gaming areas.
Image credit: Modieus
“As flooring specialists, our role is to help designers transform creative vision into flooring solutions that are distinctive, durable and fit for purpose in demanding hospitality environments,” commented Xander Okhuizen, Founder of Modieus. “At the Markets Club, Axminster was the natural choice for its richness and resilience. Specifying it in a tile format added flexibility in installation and long-term maintenance, supporting both the design outcome and the operational needs of the venue.”
Commissioned by Holman Barnes Group, the 330-square-metre redevelopment united three ground-floor tenancies and connected them seamlessly to the existing level one venue, while maintaining live operations throughout. Since reopening, the club has reported a significant uplift in patronage and has received industry recognition for its interior design excellence.
Modieus is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
Main image credit: Modieus
