Complementing the industrial-style materials and original features, Big River Armourpanel was essential in the overall renovation.
“A key driving factor to the design was the use of Big River Spotted Gum Armourpanel, along with Blackbutt timber to create warmth and a material link through both levels,” says Alisia. “We used a combination of solid timber and plywood to create a contemporary take on a traditional public bar with the added detailing of routed patterns on inset plywood panels.”
To create a more social and cohesive layout, the three rooms that originally made up the front bar have been joined together, providing one large, open-plan space. Central to the new layout is the striking main bar made with locally sourced blackbutt timber and Big River Armourpanel plywood, “the detailing and inset panels are a contemporary take on traditional public house bar styles,” says Alisia.
Adding to the traditional industrial style of the design, Alisia describes how subtle patterns were used in the main bar to add dimension and character, “checkerboard tiling borders the bar, juxtaposed neatly against polished raw concrete flooring, and spotted fabric graces the upholstery,” she explains. “The dining area at the rear of the space is finished with a tan banquette and a diamond-patterned routed plywood wall.” This bold combination of brick, timber and steel with black highlights creates a warm, earthy and unpretentious interior, breathing new life into a popular, relaxed and modest watering hole.
Continuing the stylish story upstairs, new restaurant Harry & Frankie benefits from the building’s classic decorative detailing and arched windows, which inspired a pared-back palette of recycled timber, black steel and honed stone. “An Art Deco-inspired leadlight window welcomes visitors and subtly heralds the venue’s modern reconfiguration. Geometric elements continuing the contemporary update are replicated throughout the space in custom joinery, lighting and bar cladding,” says Alisia. “Rounding off the familial link is a hand-painted mural, reimagining the Port Melbourne venue’s ceiling graphic by illustrators Craig & Karl.”
