Project Team

Interior Design: Chris Connell Design

The approach was to offer the client with an alternative design to the glossy high end retail fit outs surrounding Caffe Moda. The objective was to stand apart from the crowd through a beautifully simplistic design of an effectively operating space.

The space had to achieve a flow; select, order, pay, eat and go. This no fuss principle for the function of the space became the design philosophy and translated into the design as clean lines and honest materials. However to achieve this minimalist space careful planning and detailing of operations was paramount.

Many hours were spent with the client resolving the functionality of the kitchen and bar to allow for ease of operation for staff. This was a challenging task given the long narrow nature of the tenancy, which could only facilitate a ‘gully’ style set up.

Honesty in materials and detailing revealed the design features of the space, particularly the raw cement sheeting which flows from the facia to the rear of interior and even onto the floor. The material gives the long space an industrial quality and guts.

The perforated circle detail in the ceiling alludes to the space beyond, yet conceals air conditioning ducts and sound system. This detail satisfied a requirement by Westfield for a ‘ceiling detail’ and gave us the opportunity to contribute to the graphic nature of the space.

The graphic element in the stripped black film on glass screens escalators and what is a bland outlook, without denying its existence. The stripped pattern continues to the rear of the interior and is articulated in black stained hardwood battens.