Imagine stepping into a space where every detail whispers luxury, innovation, and a deep respect for human craftsmanship. That’s exactly what Brahman Perera has achieved in his second year designing the Lexus Cup Pavilion, now reimagined as LANDMARK by Lexus. But here’s where it gets controversial: Can technology truly enhance the soul of design, or does it risk overshadowing the very essence of human creativity? Let’s dive in.
Perera’s approach to design is nothing short of poetic—a quiet choreography that celebrates the tactile and the emotional. He believes in the power of materials like timber, stone, and fabric to ground us, and in the way shifting light can transform a space into something alive with character. As he puts it, ‘Technology is a powerful tool, but emotion and intuition remain uniquely human. The human touch is what gives design its soul, memory, sentimentality, and imperfection.’ And this is the part most people miss: It’s not about choosing between tradition and innovation but finding harmony between the two.
Returning as a key collaborator for Lexus, Perera brings his tactile philosophy to the three-storey hospitality pavilion at the Melbourne Cup Carnival. This year’s theme, ‘synthesis,’ perfectly captures his vision—a balance between human craftsmanship and technological precision. Inspired by the Japanese concept of Takumi, the pavilion pays homage to master artisans while showcasing Lexus’s commitment to personalized luxury. Every touchpoint is designed to evoke comfort, curiosity, and delight, proving that luxury isn’t just about opulence but about thoughtful experiences.
‘Synthesis, for me, is about finding that sweet spot where the warmth of the human hand meets the possibilities of innovation,’ Perera explains. Bespoke textiles coexist with intelligent systems like responsive lighting, interactive surfaces, and AI-driven installations. It’s not a clash of worlds but a symphony, where technology amplifies the human touch rather than replacing it. Here’s a thought-provoking question: In a world increasingly dominated by AI, how do we ensure that design remains a deeply human endeavor?
The pavilion experience is rooted in omotenashi, the Japanese art of anticipating guests’ needs before they even arise. Visitors are guided through a carefully curated journey. Level one welcomes them with a gifting suite and a mini bar offering coffee and champagne, while walnut floors set a warm, inviting tone. From there, they step into a restaurant helmed by chef Josh Raine, where dining becomes an integral part of the spatial experience. As guests ascend, the atmosphere evolves from intimate dining to expansive entertainment, culminating in a lounge with breathtaking views of the track.
Architecture and dining are seamlessly intertwined, ensuring that every meal feels like a theatrical moment. Tables inspired by Donald Judd’s minimalist geometry are softened by lighting that responds to movement, creating a dynamic rhythm that adapts to the room’s energy. ‘Food and design become inseparable,’ Perera notes. ‘The plate, the table, the room—they all work together to elevate the experience.’
The pavilion’s richness is a testament to collaboration. Florist Simone Gooch’s ikebana-inspired arrangements add bursts of color and form, while collage artist Simone Esterhuizen’s works come to life as animations on digital screens. Every texture and finish tells a story of sustainability, from the warmth of walnut and sisal flooring to the eco-conscious Kvadrat textiles and fabric light fixtures that cast a soft, organic glow. The result? A space that feels both ethereal and grounded, futuristic yet elemental.
For Perera, the emotional resonance of a space is just as important as its visual appeal. ‘I want people to feel inspired by the beauty of connection—between tradition and innovation, between human touch and technological potential,’ he says. ‘More than anything, I want them to feel cared for, as though every detail was designed with their comfort and delight in mind.’
This is the essence of LANDMARK by Lexus 2025: a pavilion where craftsmanship, innovation, and hospitality converge to create an experience that lingers long after the race day ends. But here’s the question we leave you with: In a world chasing the next big thing, how do we preserve the timeless value of human craftsmanship? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear your perspective.
This article is produced by Broadsheet in partnership with Lexus. LANDMARK by Lexus returns to Flemington Racecourse for the Melbourne Cup Carnival on November 1, 4, 6, and 8. Learn more about partner content on Broadsheet here.
