The rear of the pub was renovated this year from a tiny back area into what is essentially a play area for adults. The design work was completed by Techné Architects, who envisioned a space that was very visually connected, interactive and dramatic. They certainly achieved that effect with the help of their stunning concrete pipe facade. The three-story renovation makes use of 17 1/2 culvert pipes on the facade and both inside that serve as booths. Windows fitted into the pipes provide porthole views out onto the street. Meanwhile inside, one of the pipes serves as an elevated VIP booth for 10. Architect Justin Northrop tells The Cool Hunting, “Inside you are climbing over the pipes, sitting in them, or on them at various levels. They have a lasting impact on the space.”
The pipe booths are outfitted with leather upholstery and lined with recycled spotted gum slats and acoustic absorption mats. Reaching up three levels, patrons have a multitude of places to sit, chat with friends and watch the action unfold at the bar. An outdoor courtyard features a corrugated concrete wall and porthole windows, and it’s decorated with wall hangings by Ayus Botanical. The main bar is built from salvaged pipes and features concrete cast lamps. Daylighting from the courtyard and from the pipe windows fills the volume making it a far more welcoming space than your typical dingy, dark pub. Recycled spotted gum is also used for flooring and tabletops, and more plants are integrated into the design along the stairs and other wall hangings to fill the space with clean air.
Architects: Techné Architects
Photography: Prahan Hotel and Peter Clarke
