Mixing it Up at Fugazzi
In Adelaide, studio -gram have fashioned the interiors of Fugazzi into a restaurant and bar where comfort and drama collide
studio -gram’s Graham Charbonneau and Dave Bickmore have drawn on their trademark playful yet refined aesthetic for the imaginative new interiors at Italian-inspired eatery Fugazzi. The destination bar and dining room reference both the past and present, with nods to the charm of Italy and the drama of New York. Combining modern elements with nostalgic accents, the one-of-a-kind venue offers both intimate moments, by way of cosy dining booths and banquettes, and relaxed snacks and drinks in a striking cherry-red drinks bar made from small scrap pieces of Rosso Levanto marble.
‘The bar is rich in its materiality, and much darker in its execution, allowing users to “hide” in the corners from day through to night,’ says Bickmore of the different zones. ‘The restaurant is much brighter, with carefully curated art and styling pieces, and a high level of comfort.’
Providing two different experiences, the areas complement each other thanks to the use of high-gloss custom cabinetry and circular details. With an artwork by Kaspar Schmidt Mumm, plant and floral arrangements by Emma Sadie Thomson and cheeky Fornasetti plates, the bold space also features luxe velvet and leather and marble elements. A custom carpet with geometric shapes alludes to Palladiana flooring with its terrazzo style finish and a range of lighting — from Anna Charlesworth’s bowl pendants and hand-blown sconces by Jardan to the modular Code fixtures by Nightworks Studio NZ — creates a moody, permeating glow throughout. It’s maximalism at its best, as luxurious materials unite in a fun fit out that combines houndstooth materials, checkerboard tiling, pastel-blue joinery and rich, buttery upholstery.
‘There’s a romantic, textural representation of the past that simultaneously manages to remain firmly rooted in the contemporary,’ says Bickmore. ‘Its bold character is a physical manifestation of the Italian’s age-old gift of making art out of life.’
Text / Karine Monié
Images / Jonathan VDK
