Agnes by Amok Studio

PROJECT NAME: Agnes
PROJECT TYPE: Commercial Hospitality
LOCATION: Fortitude Valley, QLD, Australia
PHOTOGRAPHER: Cathy Schusler
ARCHITECTS: Amok Studio
CONSTRUCTION: Apollo Property Group
COLLABORATORS: Tyron Simon, Ben Williamson, Frank Li

Text description provided by Amok Studio Architects. From the inception of Agnes, the focus was to create a venue that celebrates the theatre of wood-fire cooking and offers a genuine experience of sharing a meal. Our concept, “Back to Basics”, focussed on this, along with celebrating the raw beauty of the existing architecture. Guided by our concept and the budget, the design carefully integrated new contemporary elements within the existing building character. While respecting the old rather than replicating it, the design adopted a “bang-for-buck” approach and achieved an intriguing juxtaposition between raw rugged textures and simple yet elegant insertions.

The kitchen was a strong focus in the design process, with the dining spaces configured to maximise views to the impressive wood-fires. Surrounded by aged brick, concrete and render, the stairs constructed of steel and recycled timber connect guests to each of the unique spaces, some of which are encased within custom steel framing.

In the basement, the amenities adopt a controlled palette of rustic concrete, mirror and charcoal finishes. The carefully considered lighting design creates an atmosphere that is both moody and relaxing. At the same time, glimpses of the outside world are captured through steel windows, inspired by the industrial nature of the original architecture.