Perched on the street edge in a semi-subterranean tenancy, Penelope Bistro was designed to transport visitors to another time, evoking the golden age of European supper clubs. This wasn’t just about designing a restaurant—it was about crafting an atmosphere that feels effortless, yet profoundly intentional. The site had a history of unsuccessful tenancies, struggling to integrate with the bustling James Street. The design approach was to break down barriers—physically and perceptually—drawing people in from the street and creating a seamless connection between the interior and the urban landscape.

From the moment you step inside, nostalgia takes over. Rich materiality, moody lighting, and thoughtful spatial layering create a world that feels both timeless and entirely new. By opening the space to the adjacent laneway, we allowed Penelope to spill outward, making passersbys feel like they are part of the experience even before stepping inside. The result is a unique hospitality venue that merges intimacy with urban vibrancy, redefining how a restaurant can interact with its surroundings.

Photography: Content Lion