In the burgeoning dining landscape of Perth, an upscale seaside brasserie has emerged that steers away from the ordinary with its distinctive blend of high-end Parisian refinement and Californian leisure. Gibney, designed by Rezen Studio, marks a departure from the traditional coastal clichés found in the area.

The brief for the venue drew inspiration from a diverse array of sources: the illustriousness of California country clubs, the opulent lobbies of Parisian hotels and the maximalist movement, with an air of Old World grandeur. It’s an eclectic assortment that posed an intriguing challenge, one that Rezen Studio embraced with creative vigour.

The design process was iterative and collaborative, with an emphasis on aligning with the client’s vision while allowing the concept to evolve organically. The result is a seaside brasserie that blends classicism with modernity, offering patrons a dining experience that feels luxurious and convivial.

Given the panoramic locale, the emphasis was on creating a unique dining experience that blurred the lines between internal and external spaces. The design concept was anchored in three key pillars: Locality, Theatre and a little Voyeurism.

Related: 2024 WA Architecture Awards

“The design captures the essence of the location through the colour palette and material choices. The play on water reflections, fluid forms and sandy textures evokes a distinctly coastal experience,” says Zenifa Bowring, Director of Rezen Studio. The space is a masterclass in nuanced coastal design, featuring cool-toned, ocean-inspired hues and materials that conjure the beauty of the seaside. The sandy-textured natural stone floor tile, with its shimmering metallic accents reminiscent of sunlight dancing on water, fosters a tactile connection to the coastal surrounding context.

Bowring continues: “To imbue the space with gravitas and dynamic energy, the design embraces theatrical moments within a calm setting. Stages of sorts were created to elevate the main events – cooking, cocktail making, dining and enjoying champagne.” The layout ensures that every aspect of the brasserie experience is accentuated, from culinary expertise to the art of mixology, set against a vibrant atmosphere.

The design is not only about aesthetics but also interaction and engagement. “Creating an open and connected space, with a layering of views that changes, creates a lively collective atmosphere while offering discrete moments for diners,” Zenifa adds. This philosophy is evident in the layout, where tables and seating are arranged to maximise enjoyment of the beachside location, and a subtle sense of voyeurism encourages patrons to both observe and be observed.

Rezen Studio
rezen.com.au

Photography
Jack Lovel

Styling
Amy Collins-Walker

New Me is another Perth project by Rezen Studio