Oggi translates to ‘today’, and the space reflects this meaning as a modern interpretation of all things Italian.
The brief was simple, the client wanted a bright interior, with a kitchen on show, a direct reaction to the moody, dimly lit spaces of the local hospitality scene.
Oggi is a simple and subdued interior, with a playful personality, informed by the squares and piazzas of Italy. The repetition, the materiality and the formal nature of these outdoor spaces have all influenced the outcome.
Vaulted ceilings, archways and a long narrow bar are all presented by a shop front, where your focus is drawn to the rear of the space, where the play of light through its saw toothed roof, and the draped greenery from the produce garden capture the essence of Italy.
The pre existing shift of levels from the entry to the rear of the site helped drive the transition from bar to dining room. A split-level at the rear of the dining room, allowed for the re-interpretation of a raised shop-front displaying the kitchen, the butcher and the pasta shop. The cellar occupies the space below; it is dimly lit, wrapped in wine and produce, pasta production table by day and celebrations by night.
The integration of the space was key to its success. Local artists were enlisted to collaborate on the development of the signage components, and the custom ceramics used both for propping and styling.
A local permaculturalist was also engaged to assist in the development of the arbor, the greenery throughout the space, and the ongoing maintenance of the plants. The greenery was an important aspect of the restaurant, it establishes a connection to the outside, that isn’t often found indoors. It recreates the affinity for nature on a sub conscious level, grounding the concept of the piazza.
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