The client wanted a big TexMex venue. Big on rock ‘n’ roll, big on Mexican flavours – a venue that would transport patrons to Texas.

As the venue is in a heritage listed building (The Argyle, The Rocks) the design had to comply to SHFA codes and be respectful of heritage conditions. Each element was designed with minimal impact and fixings to the existing building. The designers designed around the existing kitchen and back-of-house, as well as bars and bathrooms, with a focus on re-surfacing the existing to improve the sustainability of the project. They used found materials, including corrugated sheeting, hurricane fencing, timber fence palings, and old motor vehicle parts for decor.

The big TexMex design relied heavily on the low rider idea: impactful neon and the gaudy juxtaposition of “Mexican inspired” venues. The designers finished the bar with sprayed low rider flames, a canopy of railway sleepers bound in rusted barbed wire, and flocked with a murder of crows.

Neon skulls and lightning bolts greet one upon entry. Old Chevy bonnets create the DJ booth, flanked with vintage electric guitars and found Mexican license plates. Murals cover the walls. Everything is designed to overload the eye.

The main dining area has booth seating with vintage car upholstery and Mexican style hand-painted timber chairs. An arch of neon flames invites one to the Cactus Bar. The lounge area is designed in more of a traditional Cantina style. Talavera tiles mosaic the kitchen, and hand made Spanish mission bells pay tribute to the worn path of the El Camino. Car head lights are used to illuminate the room and are hung with thick rusted metal chain.