builder - F.Inman & J.Sfameni
photographer - Tatum Sfameni
Located in the redeveloped, historic Soap Factory building in Port Melbourne, the men’s grooming & apparel retail fit-out takes inspiration from the building’s industrial origins by embracing and elevating exposed brick, structural steel, industrial lighting & polished concrete as an integral part of the design.
The soaring 4m high industrial style windows and open two-storey shell demanded creative planning to visually activate what could have been a lifeless open space. The strategy was to draw the space in with the introduction of a mezzanine level that helps reduce the scale of the high open volume, wrap the lower shop level with warm Cedar panelling to give instant warmth & richness and locate a curved recycled brick front counter at the centre of the space as a much needed focal point.
When combining the rigorous space planning requirements for a busy barbershop & retail space with additional industrial & masculine inspired materials, such as Cherry timber, natural leather & aged brass, the result is a highly functional space that suits the historic building, oozes an industrial sophistication and provides an urban vibe that’s uber cool.