SMC conference centre closes from 17 December 2018 and is set to re-open in May 2019
SMC Conference & Function Centre proudly unveils the program for capital works that amount to the single biggest investment in the centre’s forty-year history. General Manager Paul Davison says the multi-million dollar renovation plans improve and increase SMC’s event spaces and delegate capacities whilst paying respect to the architecture and spirit of the landmark building.
“This is the most exciting update to the iconic Sydney Masonic Centre in its forty-year history. Interior styles and palettes have been carefully designed to blend harmoniously with the Brutalist architecture of the original building, adding to the sophistication and grandeur of the monumental interiors. As Sydney’s original purpose-built conferencing venue, the transformation will ensure that SMC remains at the forefront of the Business Events sector and retains its place as a landmark building amongst Sydney’s cityscape,” says Davison.
To complete the renovation program, SMC will close on 17 December 2018 and is expected to re-open in May 2019.
Wall panelling detail - visualisation by Incorp
What to expect…
Sign in area – visualisation by Incorp
Internationally renowned architectural solutions group Incorp has conceived interiors that evolve the original design and enhance SMC’s facilities. The renovations add two new fully accessible event spaces capable of hosting 140 guests each, and refurbish adjoining meeting rooms and break-out areas on the same level. Incorp’s approach makes the most of natural daylight with portal style windows framing Sydney’s south. Operable walls allow for numerous event formats and flexible room configurations. With direct access from the ground floor, leading audio-visual services, superior technology and dedicated kitchen facilities and catering, the update creates a ‘conference centre within the Centre’ that provides clients and delegates with a brand-new contemporary meeting space in the middle of Sydney’s CBD.
Features and finishes…
Off-form concrete and timber textures in new conference rooms – visualisation by Incorp
The materials and palette of the original structure carries through the interior design plans. Off-form concrete finishes will be used internally to reference the exterior treatment. Curved timber battened walls echo the concrete curves of the built form. Timber textures continue throughout with oak framed glazing and bespoke oak furnishings. Complex geometries of the sculptural lighting grid in the Banquet Hall find fresh expression in geometric wall-panelling and fixtures. This considered design aesthetic brings the mid-20th century Brutalist style into a luxurious 21st century experience.
21st century technology and sustainability…
Architectural lighting solution | Geometric patterning | wall panel detailing – visualisations by Incorp
Building on impressive sustainability credentials, SMC is also installing a new state of the art environmentally friendly air conditioning and building management system throughout the venue that allows each room to be independently controlled, saving energy and reducing waste. SMC’s advanced architectural lighting solution provides one-touch control for an impressive array of lighting states to suit different event styles. Other new features include new digital wayfinding and a ‘Digital Concierge’ that offers in-house support and connection to dedicated event managers. As previous winners of the NSW Business Chamber Awards for Excellence in Sustainability for the Sydney City region and as a member of the NSW Office of Environment & Heritage’s Sustainability Advantage program, these initiatives reinforce SMC’s industry leadership in and commitment to sustainability.
Enhanced experience and flexibility…
Once completed, the renovated and refurbished Level 4 gives event organisers the opportunity to book rooms individually or together. Combine the new Remington and Northcott rooms with the Rawson room and Boardroom for a self-contained conferencing level that uses the foyer for registrations and informal entertaining.
“SMC has long been renowned for exceptional customer service and the exciting upgrades will deliver a 5-star architectural venue experience to match,” says Davison.
Sales and event planning teams are available during the closure to help with new enquiries and confirmed bookings. New bookings for 2019 events between May and the end of July will benefit from 2018 pricing.
“With upgrades that weave SMC’s architectural DNA through the interiors, we are reinventing our conference and event spaces to enhance the experience for discerning event organisers and their delegates. By booking now for events from May to the end of July 2019, guests will enjoy great value and experience a new level of luxury and sophistication that – together with our first-class service – creates a lasting impression of sophistication and authenticity,” says Davison.
Register your interest at https://www.smcfc.com.au/smc-reopening-famil.html for a ‘first look’ at the renovated SMC in 2019.