Stepping into the space at 23 Peel Street, you’re met with a fit-out that could only be from someone with an eye for design. Officially opening next week, Jane’s Fault is the moody, impressionist-inspired brainchild of interior designer Jane K.
After years in Sydney’s hospitality scene, including a stint behind the bar at the beloved Eveleigh Hotel, Jane missed the creativity and late-night buzz of slinging cocktails. So when a long-time friend floated the idea of opening a bespoke wine and cocktail bar together, it didn’t take much convincing. There was, however, one non-negotiable. Jane would take full creative control – and the blame if it flopped.
And so, Jane’s Fault was born.
Once home to Icarus Wine Bar and originally a warehouse, the heritage-listed site offered the perfect canvas for Jane’s vision. Compact, character-filled, and rich in texture. The original masonry remains, softened by dark timber, plush bench seating and a curated collection of mismatched artwork that Jane personally sourced from across Adelaide.
“It’s a 20th-century-inspired style – not overly themed, but with vintage touches and a contemporary feel,” she explains.
“The palette’s mostly browns, maroons and timber finishes. I’ve studied both interior design and art, so I’m really drawn to that impressionist aesthetic. I’ve already got a Monet print, and I’m sourcing more from that era.”
That art-driven sensibility runs through everything, from the perfectly matched chairs (sourced from multiple different locations) to the artwork, colour palatte, and intimate lighting. It’s a space that’s a full immersion into twentieth-century sophistication.
Behind the bar, the drinks list nods to the classics, leaning heavily on local makers. Expect staples like the Old Fashioned, Negroni, Margarita, and a Martini, plus inventive numbers like the Gin Bramble – “sharp and sweet” – with London Dry Gin and Blackberry Liqueur and Em’s Dark and Stormy – “tangy and refreshing” – with Black Spiced Rum and ginger beer.
There’s also a curated selection of South Australian wines, including featured from Barossa Valley’s Chaffey Brothers, a Nero d’Avola from Clare Valley, and a few sharp and acidic whites for good measure (and for the sunshine). There’s also whispers of a small curated food menu over summer.
The soundtrack is daytime jazz that shifts to a livelier beat as night falls, never loud enough to drown out conversation. The space itself has tucked-away corners that lend themselves to late-night conversations – and one too many cocktails.
Since quitting her full-time job just a few months ago, Jane has poured every ounce of energy into the project.
“The entire fit-out – from the bench seating to the panelling- is my fault,” she laughs. “But that’s the fun of it.”
With the finishing touches now complete, Jane’s Fault is ready to take its place among Peel Street’s intimate late-night haunts, an impressionist’s dream rendered in whisky, wood and soft light. A creative passion project that proves some mistakes are absolutely worth making.
Jane’s Fault is unofficially open now with official opening and full drinks list from October 23.
What: Jane’s Fault
When: Officially open October 23
Where: 23 Peel Street, Adelaide
For the Instagram, click here.
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