Dough Pizza is located within a new, bustling hospitality precinct. Thus it needed to evoke a distinct atmosphere and personality reinforcing the cultural heritage behind the food and the team behind it. Using contemporary lines that intersect a rustic base, the design creates diverse spatial experiences within a tight footprint.
How is the project unique?
To unify the space and increase flexibility, a structured modular booth seat was designed. The structure of the sofa modules is housed within the cushioning and allows each independent seat and back module to shift along a carpeted platform.
In particular, this addressed the need for the private dining room to cater for smaller groups if necessary while maintaining the sense of a warm and inclusive space through the use of full and comfortable, upright lounge-style seating.
Why is it an example of good interior design?
The project demonstrates the power and atmospheric potential of a minimal interior design scheme considerate of spatial planning, material choices and cultural references. Using low budget, sustainably sourced materials, the design focus is on textural and tonal play. The scheme riffs on a traditional Italian restaurant typology to create a contemporary design language.
Describe the Interior Design Project
Like the name, Dough is straight to the point - timeless and no fuss with layers of distinct textural Italian references and rustic sophistication.
The client housed two restaurants within one tenancy (the clients other venue, Bombay Talkies, shares the tenancy). This created a need to condense the planning without compromising functionality. This was achieved via open plan kitchens and utilizing a communal corridor for shared functions.
The brief was for a flexible venue catering for a range of social scenarios and fluxes in pace and atmosphere from day to night. The central bar demarcates two distinct dining and atmospheric conditions, linked through a hospitable hearth. On one side, a sloping ceiling plane accentuates the light-filled space. The warming theater of the pizza oven is on view employing an Italian spatial vernacular that blurs the boundary between eating and cooking. On the other side, a hessian lined booth wall with buttery tones, encloses a more intimate zone for slower, private dining in acoustic warmth.
Due to the competitive nature of the location, the client required a dynamic frontage presenting a distinct atmosphere and personality. A tiled bar puncturing the facade activates the boundary and creates a playful entry. Clusters of long farmhouse-style tables support this sociability.
Material finishes unify diverse spaces in a palette of contrasting colours. Sharp edged geometries are softened by warm timbers and tobacco hued upholstery; both considered and casual.
The vernacular of the neighborhood Italian espresso bar is referenced in the eccentric collection of objects, lighting and washed out beach scenes.
What were the key challenges?
One of the project’s biggest challenges and where it’s strength lies, is meeting the brief from two clients with varied interests (Westfield and the proprietor). Westfield calls for an ‘on-trend’ aesthetic, while the client’s interest was in hospitality venue with longevity. A sense of timelessness was crucial, as was a space that appears casual and fresh yet true to the roots and values of the offering.
Key products used:
Ramon Chair by Santa and Cole
Arc Chair by Inclass
3rd RIS Counter Stool by Dvelas
Ginger 32 Pendant by Marset
Basica Minima Table Light by Santa and Cole
Aura Wall Sconce by Marset
