This new interior by design studio Sans-Arc has transformed an old tram shed on the Karrawirra Parri (River Torrens) in Adelaide’s Thebarton into a relaxed cafe space with natural materials and a rustic flavour. Bloom Cafe offers a contemporary fusion menu and also makes use of its riverside location for functions and outdoor dining.
Even though the clients took on a 10 year lease, Sans-Arc wanted to take a light approach, preserving the shell of the building so it can be transformed again for future tenants. “In a world of venues being demolished and re-fit regularly, we dream of coming into spaces where our process is simplified by the existing building, a beautiful envelope, where a few simple moves inside create a space perfect for the offering,” says the design statement.
To this end, the walls are a textured white render while the floors are a hardwearing stone. The layout is simple, with an arched open-wood grill and bar visible occupying the centre of the space. Tables and seating in warm Victorian ash are also central, with circulation around the edges of the space.
Decorative elements include wall niches and wooden shelves for jars and other objects, with pendants dotted throughout the space. Joinery elements are curved and objects like a gramophone and a carriage clock bring a retro feel. Overall a clean design that combines the simplicity of layout with the textural layering of objects, while being functional and hard-wearing.
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