The Spice Temple

–1:1 Architects, in association with Grant Cheyne, were influenced by Chinese street hawker food markets for the design of Spice Temple, whose menu was inspired by the cuisine of Sichuan, Yunnan, Jiangxi, Guangxi and Xinjuang.

–Rawness and simplicity reverberate throughout the understated fit-out, and the emphasis is on comfort and experience rather than a certain theme, décor or iconic statement. The arrival experience is a journey of discovery through a sequence of spaces. The warm, theatrically lit dining areas are defined by a perimeter timber ‘curtain’. All furnishings, joinery and decorative light fittings were custom designed for Spice Temple to further embellish the atmosphere.

–Two major dining areas of similar sizes were created both with slightly different interpretations of the Spice Temple atmosphere, together with two semi private dining rooms. Spaces have been made intimate and seating fairly dense to enhance the atmosphere and relax the mood. The dramatic lighting and screening devices create a sense of personal space and privacy. Transforming the existing restaurant and bar split over two levels into one unified dining experience was a challenge. Major changes were introduced which involved significant redesign of the kitchen, dining areas and the introduction of a second service stair connecting the two levels. Amenities were relocated to one central location and back of house connections have been established with Neil Perry’s two adjacent venues; Rockpool and The Waiting Room.