Utopian luxury first past the post in Flemington’s exclusive enclosure

PREPARE to be dazzled if you are lucky enough to be invited to the new three-­storey Lexus marquee taking prime position on millionaire’s row in the exclusive Birdcage at Flemington this year. Here’s why.

GUESTS lucky enough to be invited to the new three-­storey Lexus marquee taking over prime position on millionaire’s row are in for a luxurious experience unseen in the exclusive Birdcage at Flemington.

Lexus Australia chief executive Scott Thompson said the 2018 Lexus Design Pavilion would welcome guests to experience an unprecedented level of excellence, from design to culinary, during the Melbourne Cup Carnival.

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“Our new pole position within the Birdcage celebrates the Lexus Melbourne Cup as the fourth-ever principal partner of the Victoria Racing Club in its 157-year history. It reaffirms our pledge to progressive luxury and amazing experiences,” Mr Thompson said.

Lexus Design Pavilion creative director Bruce Keebaugh said Lexus was working with world-class Australian collaborators to celebrate the brand’s philosophy of master craftsmanship and Japanese warmth.

“The new Lexus Design Pavilion structure is bold and black, but when guests enter the space they’re transported to Utopia — the theme for the 2018 pavilion,” he said.

First look of the build site of the new three-level Lexus marquee. Picture: David Caird

Lume owner and chef Shaun Quade is creating the restaurant menu with some of his chocolate truffle balls. Picture: David Caird

The three-storey structure features a grand staircase, expansive balcony, bespoke lighting and furniture pieces.

On level one, new ­Melbourne restaurant Future Future will serve reinterpreted Japanese favourites. It will feature an outward-facing sparkling iced tea bar for passers-by in the Birdcage.

Neil Perry will provide an informal offering to guests on level two.

The Lexus Design Pavilion on level three will house the largest seated dining room within a Birdcage pavilion, holding up to 76 guests at one time, ­enjoying a four-course meal directed by chef Shaun Quade of Lume.

Rebecca Harding and Georgia Connolly. Picture: Alex Coppel

(Clockwise from top) Laura Wood, Anna McEvoy, Cassie Gardner, Grace Connolly, Georgia Connolly, Lucy McIntosh and Caris Tiivel relax in a mock bird bath at Flemington. Picture: David Caird

But the luxury and fun will not be restricted to the fortunate celebrity and corporate guests in the Birdcage, with the VRC launching the first walk-in Members Bar.

The Bird Bath Bar will make its Birdcage debut, offering VRC-only members the chance to enjoy a drink without a marquee invitation.

The VRC’s Caroline Ralphsmith said the Bird Bath Bar took its inspiration from the poolside glamour of the iconic mid-century designs of Palm Springs, and would be a celebration of bright colour and geometric patterns.

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