Raw and Elemental – New Quarter by Ewert Leaf
With depth and tactility, New Quarter by Ewert Leaf redefines the dining experience of the iconic Hanoi Hannah New Quarter in Richmond – a reflection of the restaurant’s evolved and experimental approach to contemporary Vietnamese cuisine.
Inspired by the adventurous spirit of restaurateurs Commune Group, Ewert Leaf sought to celebrate the warmth and edginess of New Quarter‘s sharing-style menu and the vibrancy of Melbourne’s bustling inner-north. Having previously designed sibling restaurants Firebird and Tokyo Tina Private for the same client, Ewert Leaf understood the ethos and evolution of the brand. “We approached New Quarter as an opportunity to extend the company’s legacy and create a new narrative,” says lead designer Ana Calic. “It’s humble, textural, raw but refined.”
Ewert Leaf has carefully replanned the 160 square metre site to increase connectivity between dining areas while crafting an intuitive journey sequence throughout. Spread across three separate tenancies, a key tenet of the planning was to open up view lines. The demolition of a large brick column in the centre of the floor plate and widening of the kitchen pass effectively extends the sense of space, while the transformation of a previous take-away area into a new dining spaces enables each area to interact as a cohesive dining atmosphere.
On arrival, a central greeting desk finished in textured plaster and stained timber ensures patrons are met with friendliness. Above, a dramatic backlit rattan canopy anchors the layout, and tenderly references Vietnamese traditions of rattan furniture and basket weaving. “It’s a true hero of the space, bringing warmth, texture and a sense of direction,” reflects Ana.
Ewert Leaf has carefully replanned the 160m2 site to increase connectivity between dining zones, while crafting an intuitive journey sequence throughout.
Beyond, a linear bar is pared-back and carefully curated. Hand-trowelled and stippled white render to the rear wall and bar front is enlivened by a subtle interplay of light and shadow, while a floating shelf displays liquor with a casual refinement and ease. Locally-made fixed stools are dotted across the length of the bar, inviting patrons to drink, dine and dwell under the glow of the rattan canopy.
High-backed banquette seating and cork-topped tables brim the perimeter, focussing the restaurant‘s energy inward – while in the centre, a cluster of booth seats creates an unexpectedly cosy dining setting tucked towards the bar. “The effect of the revised seating arrangement has been transformative,” reflects Ana. “The centre now feels defined and purposeful – it’s been one of the most popular places for patrons to dine.”
An under-utilised takeaway area at the rear has been opened up with a custom steel screen, allowing the space to function as an extension of the greater restaurant. A linear timber bench creates an informal setting to dine and drink in small groups, while a row of booth seats invite patrons to settle in with a group. “This area gave us scope to craft different dining experiences in a single venue,” reflects Ana, “it gives flexibility and diversity, while maintaining a warm and intimate feel.”
Central to the New Quarter’s atmosphere is the thoughtful integration of artwork and brand identity. Ewert Leaf has given presence to the clients‘ collection of local fine art and photography through accent lighting and positioning, while finding moments to carefully embed New Quarter’s signature flower motif with intention. Balancing earthy clay, charcoal and sage green hues, Ewert Leaf has effectively bound together architecture, interiors, art and brand as a considered and cohesive whole, presenting a captivating evolution of a well-loved institution.
While Hannah Hanoi New Quarter once operated as a fast-paced and bustling institution, New Quarter conjures a more nuanced and layered experience, merging softened and elemental forms with a sober use of materials. Conceived as a series of connected touchpoints, the restaurant celebrates the rich and community-minded nature of the new menu – unpretentious, humble, and with a focus on coming together.
