Clifton Hotel by Luchetti Krelle, Grossi Group and PUBLIC

Prominently occupying one corner of Kew Junction – the Times Square of Melbourne’s affluent inner east – the 154-year-old Clifton Hotel has been revitalised by PUBLIC and Grossi Group and adorned with a new centrepiece: the classic Italian restaurant, Puttanesca.

Award-winning architecture and design firm Luchetti Krelle was responsible for the restoration of the interior, employing natural timbers and leather in concert with deep blues and reds to highlight the historical character of the building.

“The spaces we have created at Clifton Hotel are warm and inviting, so we look forward to welcoming locals and seeing the venue full of life.”

The project is a collaboration between esteemed restaurateur Guy Grossi – of Grossi Florentino, Ombra Salumi Bar, Settimo and Garum – and dynamic hospitality group PUBLIC, which has a diverse portfolio, from the Lady Hampshire to the Norfolk. “It is great to see our collective vision come to life with PUBLIC,” says Guy Grossi. “The spaces we have created at Clifton Hotel are warm and inviting, so we look forward to welcoming locals and seeing the venue full of life.”

History is at the heart of the new space. The building’s heritage features are put on show, accentuated by Luchetti Krelle’s tasteful additions. While the new fit-out is opulent, with natural materials and deep colours, Puttanesca is intended as a family restaurant, with Guy wanting to share his family’s personal history through the menu: “It celebrates family traditions, recipes and food that we grew up eating together, and we want to share this with the community.”

The building’s heritage features are put on show, accentuated by Luchetti Krelle’s tasteful additions.

A vibrant red door greets you on Studle  y Park Road, opening to the original front bar, restored to timeless elegance with walnut timber panelling, brass accents and pendant lights accentuating the splashes of dark blue. Other areas within the hotel are retained, such as the private dining room, outdoor terrace and sports bar.

Leaving the iconic bar aesthetic and entering Puttanesca, the design language is markedly distinct: polished concrete flooring, creams and reds, as well as dark leather evoke classic Italian panache. The warm colours are given depth through rich textures, while the off-white render over the heritage bricks and embellishments along cornices and skirtings are evocative of dining in the bustling streets of San Remo.

Family is at the heart of the new establishment. Guy invites you to bring your own family and share his lovingly passed-down recipes in a space that has seen many generations of the local community pass through its hallowed doors.

Interior design by Luchetti Krelle. Development by PUBLIC and Grossi Group.