Gray and Gray by Peter Frederick Cole Architect

Transforming a solicitor’s office into an intimate restaurant and wine bar, Peter Frederick Cole Architect and Hearth Studio draw on Gray and Gray’s past to sensitively respond to the eclectic locale where it resides.

Gray and Gray (Bread and Wine) sits on Northcote’s High Street, a bustling precinct that reflects the vernacular of Melbourne’s north – an alternative area known for its mix of culture, arts, music and food. Since the 1930s, the building housed the office headquarters of Gray & Gray Barristers & Solicitors, with the gold leaf sign a much-loved addition to the streetscape for many years. Therefore, the decision was made to keep the front signage, which went on to inspire the restaurant’s name.

The design approach focused on delivering a cosy space that offered respite from the busy Melbourne neighbourhood beyond the restaurant’s walls.

The old solicitor’s office is now a 28-seat wine bar and restaurant serving Russian and Georgian food. The design approach focused on delivering a cosy space that offered respite from the busy Melbourne neighbourhood beyond the restaurant’s walls. Similarly, the brief sought to create a space that feels authentic and nurtures a sense of connection between the staff and diners.

From the street, Gray and Gray resembles a classic Melbourne facade: anonymous and rustic with undertones of grunge. Yet like so many of Melbourne’s hidden bars, stepping inside, the space offers a stark and unexpected contrast to the exterior. Vertical blinds signal the transition from the busy street to the calm interior, where one is met with a raised communal table that extends to the service counter, with tables for two scattered around the edges.

From the street, Gray and Gray resembles a classic Melbourne facade: anonymous and rustic with undertones of grunge.

The space feels moody and mysterious. Most of the interior is new, except for some detailing from the original office, including the staircase and timber panelling. Dim lighting features throughout; wall scones provide a soft glow, while a feature pendant in the middle of the space and simple black pendants perched above smaller tables provide a subtle ambience. Timber is used for the furniture, bar and cabinets, imbuing a sense of warmth, while the neutral, hand-tiled floor complements the hue of the walls. Fluted glass is used to separate the staircase from the ground level, once again heightening the sense of mystery.

A popular spot to gather on High Street, Gray and Gray injects fresh energy into Northcote’s thriving food and drink scene without neglecting the passing of time. Dropping in, whether it be for a drink or a meal, feels warm, inviting and captivating – a space with hidden pasts, secret corners and cosy enclaves.

Architecture by Peter Frederick Cole Architect and Studio Hearth Architecture + Design.