Wrest Point was Australia’s first legal casino and has never looked better, with Modieus flooring creating the beautiful custom carpet designs in each of the distinctive spaces…
Wrest Point opened its doors in 1973 in the suburb of Sandy Bay in Hobart, Tasmania. Fast-forward to 2023 and Wrest Point has marked its 50th birthday with a make-over. Sydney-based firm Altis Architecture, one of the major design groups behind the $65m renovation chose to work with Modieus flooring to create the bespoke carpet designs we see woven into the design narrative.
“I have loved working with the inspirational team at Altis Architecture,” said Leah Manwaring, Design Manager, Modieus, “Each area on this project is distinctively different, so we’ve been able to showcase the best in flooring design.”
Image credit: Modieus
No refurb would be complete without a grand entrance area. This contemporary space incorporates a three-pod arrangement. A stylish double-height suspended chain screen feature encircles a modern pendant style chandelier. The Art Deco heritage of the original building is perfectly reflected in the custom carpet and interior design, creating an impressive entry to the Wrest Point Tower and Casino.
“Altis have worked with Modieus for many years and have been greatly inspired by their collaborative and creative approach to flooring design,” added Julia Amos, Associate, Altis Architecture. “We are very proud of the final outcomes and are impressed with the unique results achieved for every space. It has been a pleasure working together with whole the Modieus team to help bring our interior visions to fruition.”
Image credit: Modieus
The Riviera Casino has been transformed into beautiful inviting space, complete with a new cocktail lounge, casino bar and gaming area. The unique and dramatic carpet design has an Art Deco influence, which is also mirrored in the superb ceiling design with sweeping curves, beaded and sheer curtain features and linear backlighting throughout.
Image credit: Modieus
The ambitious new Birdcage bar and lounge space was originally a popular nightclub in the Casino. Inspiration was derived from the existing heritage murals by famous artist, Charles Billich, featuring dancing cabaret girls wearing peacock style outfits. The bar was relocated to allow for more lounge space, whilst opening and activating the adjacent thoroughfare. The glamourous feel has been achieved through the selection of rich contrasting colours and materials. Altis commissioned artists to create bespoke decorative pieces and worked with Modieus on the distinctive carpet design, which reflects the peacock theme.
Image credit: Modieus
The $65m renovation and refurbishment also includes a complete relocation and expansion of member gaming facilities. The members only Forte space includes the creation of private VIP gaming areas including a French café, new bar and lounge. The space also features bird sculptures by Clarita Brickerhoff, tapestry artworks by US artist Leroy Neiman and bespoke carpets from Modieus.
Image credit: Modieus
The Showroom is a historic treasure, established in 1973, the world-famous Cabaret show retained at The Showroom, has been enjoyed by the Royal family and various international stars. Fittingly, the corridor has been completely transformed into a dramatic viewing and exhibition space. It commemorates and showcases the historic costumes, actors, musicians and famous visitors to the venue over the 50 years with an interchanging exhibition of the rich history of Wrest Point entertainment.
Image credit: Modieus
As well as the bar and casino areas, guests can enjoy Wrest Points hospitality at the new Longhorn Smokehouse. Bespoke Texan Longhorn sculptures are featured throughout the space by Texan artist Jim Mundorf, an inspiration for both the name and theme of the venue. Intelligent design enabled this once large area to be divided into four smaller areas, creating intimate dining zones. The Southern American inspired menu utilises the finest Tasmanian produce, including the local highly sought-after Robbins Island Wagyu. A palette of timber, aged leather, metal studs and collected antique objects work perfectly with the textured carpet design from Modieus, to create an inviting yet rustic atmosphere.
Image credit: Modieus
Wrest Point is part of the Federal Group, a family-owned business operating across the tourism, hotel and gaming industries. They are the oldest continually operating hotel group in Australia and Tasmania’s largest private sector employer with employees located right across the entire state. “Wrest Point, with Altis and Modieus, have been on this journey for a few years now, ” stated Evelyn Wong, Project Manager at Federal Group. “We started our relationship back in 2017, and it has been a joy to be working with such inspirational and talented designers at the height of their craft.”
Popular with tourists and locals alike, Wrest Point Casino and Hotel offers a wide range of facilities, including a casino, restaurants, bars, accommodation, and event spaces. Part of this impressive complex is the Riveria Building which dates back to 1939. The outstanding refurbishment reflects the buildings historical and architectural significance, as the circular Art Deco building design is echoed in the corridors and guestrooms carpets.
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Main image credit: Modieus
