What is the ‘big (IDEA)’ behind this project?

Neil Perry’s desire for a more casual approach to high quality food. Bates Smart’s spatially minimalist approach included the removal of the existing sombre finishes and decorative elements to provide a clean background for vibrant feature lighting, carpets and art. A key concept was to enhance the natural light in the middle and rear dining rooms. The overall impact is a fresh, light and airy interior with elements of richness and texture well-suited to the next chapter of Rockpool.

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What is the ‘big (IDEA)’ behind this project?
The Kokoh Café project was driven by the café’s products: notably desserts handmade by the pastry chef/owner. The existing internal space was softened with a new wall curving into the ceiling, punctuated by feature flush lighting. This cool element was balanced by the highly polished Venetian plaster wall opposite, resembling chocolate cake batter. Enhancing the comfort factor is a softly whitened cedar floor and bar base, contrasting with the aqua of the main bench made of ‘light blocks’. Design detail included the coffee machine custom-coloured to match the benchtop. Minimalist style furniture flows out to the footpath, the red stools capturing the attention of the local shoppers.

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What is the ‘big (IDEA)’ behind this project?
The Albert Park Hotel successfully reinstates the concept of a pub being the ‘local’ within the ‘village’. Entry can be from a number of approaches. The ground floor is arranged in concentric circles creating distinct areas and definite traffic paths. Rather than demolishing entire walls to open up the upper floor, the design strategy was to punch large openings in the existing walls. These openings provide potential for human interaction by allowing sneak glimpses of the social environment.

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