With the coastline only a stones-throw away, a key consideration of the design was to create a strong relationship between inside and out. It would have been short-sighted to ignore the potential to capture not only the ocean views but prevailing breezes and the opportunity to reinforce the seaside atmosphere through the Hotel’s natural surrounds.

The outdoor lounge, featuring on the Hotel’s prominent street frontage easily takes advantage of this, with equal importance given to achieving a powerful connection that continues through to the internal spaces. A double height space was conceived for the main lounge/bistro area with full height glazing and bi-folding doors opening to the outdoor lounge. The large volume and abundance of natural light along with unobstructed views and natural breezes makes the internal space feel like an extension of the outdoors. This two-storey void provided the opportunity to install glazing to the mezzanine function rooms, allowing a visual connection to Moreton Bay to be enjoyed by the occupants of these spaces as well.

The palette of materials for Mon Komo Hotel was chosen to reinforce the main themes and remained consistent throughout, unifying the interior design concept. Minor variations of application and colour were employed to create individual identification of area function whilst keeping within the overall scheme. Subdued tones and natural materials dominate the palette with an emphasis on timber and stone. Highlights of colour were used in the upholstery selection and custom carpet design, evoking a sense of playfulness with a Caribbean undertone.

Lime-washed timber features heavily throughout the fit out, impressively spanning across the bulkhead over the main bar and servery. The bar’s timber countertop seemingly floats over a rough-finished stone front while the back bar display provides a mirrored recess that allows the stock to dominate. Large pendant lights hang from the generous void with broad, nautical ropes draped throughout the space, subtly adorning the ceiling and reinforcing the coastal motif. Floor finishes include large-format stone tiling, custom designed carpets and weathered timber boards. The predominant feature of the Sports Bar is the 40 custom-made craypots that hang from the ceiling. A darker timber was selected for the bulkhead over the bar itself, which along with the stone countertop and stacked timber bar front suggest a more intimate ‘den’ feel.

Throughout the Hotel, contemporary, comfortable furniture with clean lines was chosen, predominantly in light warm timber with colourful patterned fabrics on the chairs. Simple ottomans and wicker chairs scatter amongst the timber along with the occasional banquette, giving a varied choice of seating options. The outdoor lounge is bound by a sweeping upholstered seat, with the remaining terrace filled with resilient wicker furniture and white canvas umbrellas.

Mon Komo Hotel is a ‘breath of fresh air’ for the Redcliffe community, exemplifying a new design trend and setting precedence for forthcoming hospitality projects. This fit out hopes to encourage future design and planning in the region to place a greater impetus on the physical connection Redcliffe has to Moreton Bay and the themes associated with a seaside community.