WATT RESTAURANT REFURBISHMENT

Situated within the Brisbane Powerhouse – a heritage listed contemporary multi-arts venue, the Watt Restaurant refurbishment consisted of significant alterations and additions to an existing restaurant and bar. The works undertaken at Watt aimed to create a simplified planning arrangement and service sequence. The creation of a centralized concrete bar, and a series of event spaces which surround it were integral to enhancing the patron experience and the operational efficiency. The service elements (kitchen, service corridor, cold rooms & office) consume the deepest part of the restaurant’s plan, leaving the dining areas to the perimeter to have outward views to New Farm Park and the Brisbane River. These views were left uninterrupted by the use of finely detailed structural steelwork and hydraulic operable glass doors. A ‘folded’ acoustic mesh ceiling was introduced to absorb the noise within the venue and to unify/conceal the numerous ceilings which were originally eyesores within the space. A perforated brass sign with branding faces New Farm Park while concealing mechanical services for the kitchen.