The jury’s comment:

“This thoughtful and sensitive addition to a landmark building provides a soft, textured, light-filled space within a brutalist shell. The experience of the bar represents a journey of discovery to an elevated retreat above the city, where the designers’ carefully crafted and clever response offers warmth and sophistication in a Peter Beaven-designed modernist setting. Guests choose between niche, soft sofa seating or sitting at the ‘cliff edge’ of the building, with both experiences successfully executed within the dynamic site.” - Interior Awards 2022 jury.

PROJECT DETAILS:

Location: Ōtautahi Christchurch

Client: Tom Newfield

Building area (m²): 100m²

Project brief: The proposed site for the restaurant was the seventh floor of the Canterbury Terminating Building Society’s former offices and the last remaining large-scale building by local architect Peter Beaven. SemiCreative had to respect the landmark building while creating a dialed back space that entices you to sit down, open a bottle of wine amongst friends and stay for the evening.

Credits:

• Design - SemiCreative
• Lead Designer - James Irvine 
• Interior Designer - Dan Smith
• Brand Identity and Artwork - Scott Bolton

“Beavens’ modernist application of materials (concrete, steel, glass) results in a captivating yet brutal space. We added layers of warmth and softness through form, geometry and materials. Chocolatey hues of walnut, creamy tones of upholstery and curvaceous detailing are drawn out by dim, moody lighting creating a feeling of homeliness reminiscent of a domestic mid-century interior. A space enticing you to sit down with a bottle of wine amongst friends and stay for the evening.” - James Irvine.

Watch the finalist’s presentation here: 

 With thanks to our Interior Awards 2022 sponsors. Find out more about each of our sponsors here.