Merrimu (a local Koori word meaning 'Meeting Place') is a venue focussed on hosting functions and receptions of all types. The original homestead was built in 1882 and converted into a reception venue in 1955, with the Grand Ballroom - seating up to 400 guests - added in the late 1960s.
Batziakis took over in 2005 and completely renovated the entire venue, working with interior designer Alistair Sarris from Kinetic Space.
Sarris had specified Anolis fixtures for several previous lighting schemes and knew the brand was reliable and high quality, and so repeated the process at Merrimu. The Anolis fittings were installed by the project's electrical contractors.
The venue features a combination of Anolis ArcSource 3 and 6 fittings. 65 ArcSource 6s downlight all four walls of the rooms, while 32 ArcSource 3s are ensconced into the coved ceiling centrepiece, illuminating the centre of the room. All of these are driven by four ArcPower 144 drivers, giving independent control over the two areas.
The impact of the lighting scheme has been remarkable. "It creates an amazing sense of atmosphere and occasion," enthuses Batziakis, who has many years experience in the event and hospitality business. "Ambience is crucial to the success and memorable nature of an event, and the lighting really makes this venue very special, imbibing it with its own character and life."
(Jim Evans)
