The overall design philosophy was to create a space where patrons could enjoy quality wine and food in an approachable, lively environment day or night – and to open a connection to the existing adjacent bottle shop.

Inspired by the existing heritage building, the locality and offering, the space (like the brand) delivers quality in a low-key environment. The bar is the hero and visible from all rooms, together with the variety of seating areas; lounges, communal tables, dining banquette and bar stools allows interaction and choice within the venue. The palette of black, white, timbers and greenery accentuates the century old limestone walls and floorboards whilst allowing the colourful offering and patrons to feature.

From its inception The Wine Store spoke of a need for a creative, personal approach. Unique design details are used throughout to give the space it’s own personality; upcycled 44 gallon drums, site-specific mirror wall handmade by Design Theory and a concrete swan planter filled with ferns – and as a result have returned this heritage space to itʼs status as an important meeting place for the community.

Locality and the building’s history and materials were a source of inspiration and influential on the design.

Located within Fremantle, an area that is known for itʼs rich blend of Australian and European cultures, a working Fishing Boat harbour and where the Swan River and Indian Ocean meet. The area’s lively energy was employed to address the brief for a relaxed space, a sense of community and breakdown any preconceptions associated with wine bars.

Constructed in 1905, the heritage-listed building proved a strong foundation for the design process. By keeping the existing features such as limestone walls, hard wood timber floors and underground cellar – the buildingʼs long history was respected and warmly embraced when adding the new wine bar elements.

The long bar - the cornerstone to the space. The solid timber bar top complements the strong monochrome feel and the leather banquette extending along the opposite original limestone wall provides a perfect space to enjoy an intimate drink with friends.

The furniture - it’s a mix of design classics, second-hand finds and custom pieces to give personality to the spaces. For instance, the communal table by Join is made from reclaimed brandy distillery oak barrel and still has the aroma of its past. The table in the cellar features three planks of 4.5m Jarrah and was sourced from the 1920’s Faulding’s department store.

The middle room - as you enter the bar the first thing you see is a Potence wall light in front of a larger than life black and white Holden Kingswood photograph.

The lounge room - the old corner store, has a more intimate feel with two-tone upholstered lounges, timber block tables and a variety of seating to settle in and make the space your own.

The bottle shop - an important sibling to the new wine bar. By opening up the previously blocked arch windows, the sounds, smells and energy now flow freely between two spaces.