Inspired by the layers of time, from an 1880’s St. George and the dragon, through fleur de lieu hexagonal tile patterns of the 1920’s, to later versions as the Melbourne Wine Room, the George Hotel corner Bar has provided a rich history to inform this latest incarnation as a corner bar in St. Kilda.
The brief was to provide a refreshing refurbishment of the existing space addressing issues of noise, warmth and seating whilst encouraging a pub corner bar sentiment that welcomes all. With a limited budget, the design retained the existing bar layout and concentrated on enlivening the high ceilinged volume. Taking a cue from the intricate mosaic floor tiles, the ceiling hexagonal ply boxes provide sound attenuation and simply something to look up to. Symbolically drawn from the floor itself the patterned format is accentuated by a new central column as it twists to the ceiling. The St. George Red Cross is at the base cantilevering off the column to provide a new high bar focus in the room.
Custom designed fibreglass ‘honeycomb’ lights randomly enliven the ceiling. New ribbed timber batten linings have been applied to bar, column and wall surfaces to bring a new warmth to the interior as ply inserts shelving add to the bar display. Chiselled high benches are attached to the existing columns and the floor whilst rearrangement of the perimeter bench seating and stools offer better viewing to outside. The dragon slayer image of St. George hangs over a previous shelving display just near the dart board.
Project Team: Grant Amon, Lucas Amon
Builder: John Kolarik
Awards: Shortlisted in Restaurant & Bar Design Awards
Photos: Peter Bennetts
