The Barrel by Interiors By George

Located in the small village of Hanwood, on the outskirts of Griffith, The Barrel by Interiors By George is a scaled replica of a wine barrel.

The winery holds sentimental value for locals and visitors alike, and as one walks through its double doors, guests are greeted by a respectful design that pays homage to the history of the building’s location. To ensure the authenticity of the design, Georgie Forlico from Interiors By George retains certain elements of the heritage structure while incorporating new design elements. One such example within The Barrel is the glass mural positioned above the entrance doors, visible from both the exterior and interior. This mosaic artwork not only pays tribute to the legacy of McWilliam’s Wines but also complements the new, contemporary interior design.

In choosing materials for The Barrel, Interiors By George remained true to the original design.

In choosing materials for The Barrel, Interiors By George remained true to the original design. As such, the team retained the 1970s textural bricks in the lower section of the building. However, the most notable alteration made was to the flooring. Interiors By George removed the outdated ‘70s carpet, unveiling the original concrete floor beneath, which was then finished and sealed to introduce a modern industrial aesthetic to the space. Adding to the ambience, eight barrels of McWilliam’s Wines adorn the rear of the venue, serving as decorative elements above the bar. Additionally, a vintage photograph capturing The Barrel nearing completion is a poignant reminder of the building’s history, allowing guests to reflect on its evolution. The image features Glen McWilliam planting a Morton Bay fig tree – now a striking feature of the building and its surroundings.

From a design perspective, it was important to create both intimate nooks and open gathering areas. Therefore, the inclusion of a fireplace between dining spaces emerged as the answer to this issue. Serving as a focal point, the cast iron hearth from Sculpt Fireplace Collection not only adds warmth but also delineates the seating zones. However, the distinctive shape of The Barrel also posed challenges that required collaboration to overcome. Working together, Interiors By George and Sculpt Fireplace Collection successfully integrated the curved roofline and chimney of the building, merging the two elements.

From a design perspective, it was important to create both intimate nooks and open gathering areas.

Catering for various groups, the interior layout features a lengthy concrete table, while two separate lounge zones are positioned centrally, near the fireplace. Towards the back, guests can find The Fryer, an area reserved for private wine tastings. Here, a reclaimed wooden art piece that was discovered in a scrap yard has been lovingly restored, adding character to the space. By preserving the authenticity of The Barrel’s design, Interiors By George has created a place where visitors can enjoy McWilliam’s Wines and unwind in a delightfully snug atmosphere.

Interior design by Interiors By George. Fireplace by Sculpt Fireplace Collection.