Abacus

by Architects EAT

From The Architect

The project inspired an airy space exploiting the original infrastructure, highlighting the beauty of its bulky distress, and turning its obstacles into opportunities.

Entering from Chapel St, the chief dining and bar area is a reminder of an inner city garden sanctuary – affording space, light and outward views. All ground floor windows were exchanged with Bi-fold doors and windows allowing the area to be always open.

The area contains layers of timber, stone, dark tiles, brass details & wicker furniture that portray the tones and textures of a park landscape. Natural timbers, shrubs and playful lighting form the core feature of the design: a tiered platform, anchored by a 6 m tall tree, which people can dine around in an eccentric approach.

The original structure is bared in the backdrop, and new backlit timber uprights amplify height – a playful allusion to street lighting.

Illuminated spheres placed above the bar create a sculptural abacus – referencing the bank that used to be there.