Transforming Historic Venues through Innovative Hospitality
The National Trusts are Australia’s leading conservation organisations, dedicated to preserving the nation’s natural, Indigenous, and cultural heritage. The National Trust of Australia (Victoria) (NTAV), established in 1956, plays a pivotal role in conserving Victoria’s heritage, managing over 30 historically significant properties, including the iconic Como House & Garden and Labassa. These venues not only embody historical splendour but also serve as vibrant locations for public events, with proceeds supporting the ongoing preservation of these treasures.
Perfectly Paired is working closely with NTAV to seek proposals from values-aligned, creative catering partners to elevate the hospitality experiences at Como House & Garden and Labassa for a 5 year term, commencing in September 2024.
Como House & Garden
A Timeless Melbourne Icon for Unforgettable Culinary Experiences
Nestled in South Yarra, Como House & Garden offers a serene urban retreat just five kilometres from central Melbourne. Overlooking the Birrarung (Yarra) River, the property is surrounded by lush gardens and community parkland. Historically, it was home to the Armytage family for 95 years, and it was the first house museum in Australia acquired with its complete contents.
Built in 1847, Como House showcases a blend of Australian Regency and classic Italianate architecture. The gardens retain many features of their 1850s design, offering picturesque landscapes ideal for exploration and picnics.
Café / Restaurant
Situated in the former stables building, the café/restaurant exudes airy farmhouse charm and opens onto a sunny, secluded courtyard. The 110-square-meter space, including the kitchen, offers a welcoming environment for relaxed dining in a beautiful garden setting. While Como House itself is a historic, heritage-listed property, the stand-alone café/restaurant is not. This allows creative caterers to let their imaginations run wild, developing an entirely new concept, including the name, to transform this space into a destination in its own right.
Weddings & Events
Como House & Garden presents a variety of stunning backdrops for weddings and events, including magnificent gardens, the historic Ballroom, a modern Pavilion, and manicured grounds perfect for marquee celebrations. Previously, there has not been a concentrated focus on weddings and events, leaving significant untapped potential. This offers an exciting opportunity for an experienced caterer to develop and grow a vibrant functions business at this beautiful venue, transforming it into a sought-after destination for memorable celebrations.
Labassa
Unleashing Unique Event Experiences in a Heritage Masterpiece
Labassa, an opulent 19th-century mansion, is renowned for its French Renaissance architecture and lavish interiors. The mansion has a rich history, having housed a silent movie star, artists, and bohemians. Labassa’s interiors boast lavish Japanese wallpapers, ornate stained glass, and a rare trompe l’oeil ceiling. The mansion, redeveloped in the French Second Empire style by architect John A. B. Koch, stands as a testament to Victorian opulence.
Weddings & Events
Labassa offers a unique venue for weddings and events, featuring opulent interiors and a rich historical ambiance. The mansion's spaces include the glamorous Drawing Room for cocktail-style events, the Dining Room for corporate gatherings and intimate dinners, and the Music Room, renowned for its exceptional acoustics.
Alongside traditional gatherings, there's room for innovation, such as pop-up dining experiences. This offers an exciting opportunity for an experienced caterer to develop a thriving events business in this unique setting, tapping into Labassa's historic charm and creating memorable occasions for guests.
Partnering for Exceptional Hospitality
NTAV seeks a visionary catering partner to transform the food and beverage offerings at Como House & Garden and Labassa. The ideal partner will bring creative flair and a proven track record in high-quality retail food and beverage service, as well as expertise in catering for weddings and functions.
Reimagining Como House & Garden
Creative Innovation: Introduce fresh and imaginative culinary concepts, creating a Café / Restaurant that becomes a destination.
Local Flavours: Craft vibrant menus using seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, leveraging the kitchen garden at Como House.
Premium Events at Both Properties
Sophisticated Events: Develop high-end functions offerings, creating memorable and elegant events.
Exceptional Hospitality: Collaborate on special events, showcasing innovative spirit and dedication to curating unforgettable experiences.
Join Us in Redefining Hospitality
Embrace this extraordinary chance to transform Como House & Garden and Labassa into premier destinations for premium hospitality. As a partner with NTAV, you'll showcase your culinary creativity while contributing to the preservation and vibrancy of these historic landmarks for future generations.
To receive a copy of the Prospectus and register your interest in this exciting opportunity, please reach out to Perfectly Paired.
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