The original Bondi Surf Bathers' Life Saving Club will now serve as a surf museum to celebrate the club’s rich history. A parkland will utilise forgotten areas in the rear of the building, increasing public space, whilst a new courtyard invites community engagement.

The proposal removes intrusive additions and additional bulk to reveal the original 1934 building. A new open public laneway accentuates and complements the Bondi Pavilion, creating a visual connection between both buildings. Modern lightweight additions highlight the club’s heritage character. The current roof will be replaced with materials referencing the Bondi Pavilion, maintaining material continuity and respecting the site’s character.

Lockhart-Krause Architects has established key relationships with Approvals Committees – a crucial element to ensure projects advance efficiently. Four main approvals were required to sensitively fulfil functional requirements. These include Section 4.55 Approval, Heritage Section 60 approvals, Aboriginal approvals, and Construction Certificate Approvals.

The Bondi Surf Bathers' Life Saving Club gained DA approval with zero community objections – an incredible achievement for a project of this scale. Lockhart-Krause Architects undertook detailed consultation processes, stakeholder workshops, presentations, and interviews to fulfil the client’s requirements. Council staff, town planners, heritage experts, Aboriginal elders, design panels, and community groups were consulted to deliver a sensitive and practical result.

The rear of the Bondi Bathers' Life Saving Club is currently a forgotten space, accommodating only temporary buildings and car parking spaces. The proposed development builds upon this area; whilst the footprint of the overall clubhouse remains the same, the design significantly increases the amount of usable public parkland. The open green space will increase, achieved by consolidating three driveways into one loading area. This additionally manages conflicts between vehicle, pedestrian, and cycle movement.

Community access is enhanced by a new courtyard open to the public, providing a safe space for families, nippers, and visitors. Existing trees are retained. The building is low in height and designed to recede into the landscape.

• Women’s change rooms will almost double in size, reflecting the current needs of the club due to female membership growth.

• A new youth club room will provide a space for junior members and education programs.

• A surf museum will celebrate the club’s incredible history while providing a valuable cultural space for the public.

• The patrol room will be significantly expanded, better supporting frontline lifesaving services.

• A dedicated training and conference room will ensure education and skill development remains central to the club’s future.

• Three driveways will be consolidated into one, improving traffic flow and increasing open space.

• Storage capacity will increase.

• A new courtyard open to the public, enhancing community engagement and providing a safe place for families, nippers, and visitors.