"Billie's"

46- 50 Mountain Street

Ultimo, NSW

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"Billie's" is a concept for a university bar, located in the heart of Ultimo, Sydney. The bar will be located on the ground floor of the Wilcox Mifflin Building, which was originally a hide and skin warehouse, built in 1911. 

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The client put forward the idea of a bar which not only acts as a centre for the community, but a place which can show off student work, and engage students both current and future. The design had to be inclusive of the buildings heritage guidelines, and ideally incorporate aspects of the universities branding. 

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The concept was born out of the quote; "Don't grow up, it's a trap!"

I wanted to design a space that was playful, engaging and enticing, and that would serve as more of a community space than just a room to serve alcohol. 

With the use of the buildings industrial nature, combined with neon lighting, pink velvet and leather, the space is warm, inviting and fresh. The layout is split into three main sections; the arcade, the seating area and the bar. 

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The idea for the arcade games came from the desire to move beyond the traditional purpose of a bar, as well as the need to showcase student work. The neon lights draw the eye, and cast subtle shadows around the space. There is an element of mystery and secrecy which is juxtaposed by the whimsical nature of the pinball machines. These arcade games could feature student work - as a test station for the gaming students, and a way of engaging students from other areas in each others work. 

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Throughout the space feature large murals which could be another way of showcasing student artwork. Competitions could be run to choose student work to include in the space and the students could vote for the winner. This promotes the feeling of ownership and unity within the community. 

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"Billie's" has a warm, rustic charm that combines with cheeky, whimsical fun to create a space which is engaging, and enhances the student experience. 

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