Hospitality Spotlight – Casual Dining

Rocco’s Bologna Discoteca by Studio Co & Co

Fitzroy, Victoria, Australia

Inspired by the idea of creating a public dining space imbued with a personal touch, Studio Co & Co’s design combines a dark palette and warming timbers to soothe occupants as they gather to feast on Rocco’s famous meatball subs or other equally nostalgic and comforting treats. Upon entry, the checkerboard flooring prompts an ode to Italian homes of the post-war period, while around the timber bar, custom fixed barstools by Steve Edwards help to create a sense of spontaneity, as the surrounding booths provide a cosy option to either dine privately or eat with friends and family. Located in Fitzroy and intended to feel as if it’s always been there, Studio Co & Co’s material choices produce a public dining space that is reminiscent of a family home, evoking the essence of community spirit filled with old-Italia charm.

Upon entry, the checkerboard flooring prompts an ode to Italian homes of the post-war period, while around the timber bar, custom fixed barstools by Steve Edwards help to create a sense of spontaneity, as the surrounding booths provide a cosy option to either dine privately or eat with friends and family.

S’WICH by Studio Shand

Bondi, New South Wales, Australia

Located where the sun is always shining, S’WICH combines a selection of raw and refined materials that bring forth a gentle dining experience in the heart of Bondi. Peeling back the layers of previous unsympathetic modifications, Studio Shand invigorated the heritage building with use of cost-effective and robust materials to reflect the laid-back coastal atmosphere. Amongst the muted interior, the joinery comprised of aluminium, acrylic, solid surface and cement panels references the S’WICH logo – a rounded rectangle against a circle. In addition to the interior design, Studio Shand also designed distinctive cutlery holders, tip jars, light pendants, cafe tables and small objects that mirror the built palette. Considered yet invitingly casual, it’s the ideal spot for guests to stop by for a bite to eat after a dip in the waters of Bondi Beach.

Bottega Bandito by studio gram

Prospect, South Australia, Australia

Bottega Bandito is a continental deli that exhibits boldness and confidence at every turn. Red Venetian blinds, combined varieties of marble, stained Tasmanian oak and inlaid geometric scraps – creating the effect of terrazzo flooring – all up the ante. As a base for neighbourhood gatherings, Bottega Bandito offers locals an experience that recalls its Italian roots. With a panini station built into the far end of the counter, guests can watch the labour of love as their orders are made in front of them. Exemplifying a modern take on the traditional experience, studio gram reignites the passion for taking a trip to the local deli, spending quality time with loved ones or simply enjoying the pleasure of a mortadella panini.

Throughout, CTRL Space’s contemporary take on the traditional delicatessen has been actioned using viewing windows and a brooding palette that enhances the dining space with a theatrical element.

Deli di Bossi by CTRL Space

Auckland, New Zealand

Located within the Pacifica Building Laneway in downtown Auckland, CTRL Space brings forth a getaway from the bustling city. Instantly, the exposed brick that surrounds Deli di Bossi reimagines the tight streets of Italy, where casual street-side dining is an integral part of the experience. Throughout, CTRL Space’s contemporary take on the traditional delicatessen has been actioned using viewing windows and a brooding palette that enhances the dining space with a theatrical element. Responding to its position within the Pacifica Building, Deli di Bossi enhances a sense of community by offering opportunities for guests to stop in and pick up ingredients or to sit and be immersed in cosmopolitan culture without leaving the comfort of home.