February 2012 – Café Otto – Glebe Point Road.
The owner of this neighbourhood institution had a long road ahead to re-open his restaurant after it was destroyed by fire in 2010. As the original building was heritage listed there were many issues and problems to be solved.
Interior Architects, Forward Thinking Design were engaged to design the new fitout.
Forward Thinking Design’s main aim was to retain and restore what remained of this historical building as well as bringing the restaurant into line with the vibrant, happening and competitive streetscape of contemporary Glebe.
Historical references are made within the materials used, with reclaimed timber and brick interiors and the reinstatement of the original façade design.
High ceilings with exposed beams meld with brick walls and warm wooden floors to convey the sense of a welcoming space. The sparkling bar display, and unusual graphic mosaic provide an edgy feel.
The time and effort put in by Forward Thinking Design and the owner has come to fruition, with Café Otto now up and running again. It was a lengthy design process, and build, but the outcome has reinstated Café Otto as a destination.
Quotes from:
“The rebuilding of Cafe Otto from beginning to end was such a long process. The creative team at Forward Thinking went far beyond delivering the interior design, as they were always ready to help, listen, encourage and advise through the various stages and council procedures. The designers’ re-use of materials, and sensitivity towards the Heritage-listed structure has delivered a warm and welcoming atmosphere that is helping to re-establish the business.”
…..Neil Mirani, Owner – Cafe Otto