Ponsford Atrium Bar

Through TableFive, Greater Group’s specialist hospitality division, Greater Group was commissioned by MCC and Delaware North to transform an underutilised atrium within the Ponsford Stand into a dedicated sports bar. The existing triple-height space functioned primarily as a circulation zone, with entry from both ends, existing escalators and no infrastructure to support a commercial hospitality operation.

The opportunity was to establish the atrium as a destination in its own right, creating a place for members and guests to meet, watch the action and spend time before, during and after an event. The environment also needed to accommodate peak event-day crowds, efficient food and beverage service and the changing atmosphere of AFL and cricket throughout the year.

Greater Group placed a 13-metre illuminated glass-brick bar at the centre of the experience, positioned against the triple-height glazing and views towards Melbourne’s CBD. A dedicated food station supports peak service, with circulation and queuing planned around the two atrium entry points to draw guests naturally towards the central bar. Digital screens positioned on the tall concrete walls keep guests connected to the live event throughout the space.

The design draws from the MCG’s raw architectural character through glass brick, reclaimed brick, timber, mesh and industrial detailing. Colour-changing LED lighting integrated into the bar and column cladding allows the environment to shift with the event, from team colours during AFL games to green and gold for cricket. Movable tables and flexible seating allow the layout to adapt across match days and functions, giving the atrium an atmosphere that changes with the stadium calendar.

The Ponsford Atrium Bar gives a previously underused part of the stadium a new role within the event-day experience. The central bar, live screens, flexible furniture and adaptable lighting create a social destination where guests can gather around the action and remain connected to the energy of the MCG.

The space has become a popular destination on game days and is also used for post-event functions, extending its role across the stadium calendar. The project was awarded Gold for Interior Design – Hospitality – On the Go at the 2024 Melbourne Design Awards, recognising the transformation of the atrium into a new hospitality experience within the MCG.