CHALLENGE

In partnership with Salter Brothers and Accor, WMK was engaged to design a unique bar and restaurant offering within the ground floor of the Ibis Styles Sydney Central, one of Sydney’s largest and busiest hotel properties. Establishing a distinct identity was pivotal to the venue’s success, making it a draw card for both hotel guests and the public in the Surry Hills area.

SOLUTION

Collaborating with Accor’s branding consultancy, The Paris Society, a restaurant and bar named “Mee So” was born, an Asian fusion venue inspired by the sensory overload of the vibrant streets of Seoul and Tokyo.

Rich colours meet contrasting textures, accented by pops of pastels and strategically placed lighting captures the essence of the ‘unexpected pairings’ - an ethos at the heart of the Ibis Styles brand.

The insertion of materials was used to create visual interest and transition between zones and the intimate pockets for private dining incorporate traditional Japanese charm, complete with lanterns, neon signs and rich terrazzo tabletops, enveloped by deep red mesh curtains.

OUTCOME

WMK achieved maximum impact through thoughtful design with minimal intervention and waste. The existing bar ceiling which comprised of inconsistent levels and irregular geometry was cladded entirely with a large-scale custom graphic of illustrations of east Asian streetscapes, hiding the imperfections of the ceiling whilst creating a prominent design feature.

The bar speaks to the power of design and its ability to fully immerse users in a space. This project demonstrates that a venue can be holistically transformed through innovative design choices backed by a creative approach to problem solving while still allowing the space to embody a unique brand experience.