Every detail of the design at Kumo has been considered and reconsidered in an meticulous process of finding a whimsical yet true balance between: the beautiful bones of the historic building, which reflect the Japanese notes of its natural materials (stone, wood, concrete, steel & glass) and simple, modernist proportions; and featuring the natural synergy between industrial Japanese and Art Deco.

As the design evolved, we were inspired by the influence of Japanese art, primarily ukiyo-e woodblock prints on modernist architects (most notably Frank Lloyd Wright). The wood block prints that first arrived in Europe in the late 1880s were the seed of Art Nouveau – the new aesthetic that distinguished itself away from frilly Victorian detail & realism and towards flowing, natural, botanically-inspired shapes and simple 2D flat geometry. We saw the ‘borrowed’ patterns and shapes taken from the Japanese design and widely copied within Art Nouveau and, later, Art Deco an extension of Art Nouveau that simplified and moved toward a more machine-oriented and streamlined industrial aesthetic.

You’ll find many recycled ‘found objects’ from the original 1956 decor as well as great use of recycled Victorian Ash and Tassie Oak (in particular the eight metre communal table, which seats 26, and the 15 metre bar, seating 18). You’ll also find 1930s inspired, bespoke made bar stools and chairs (modelled on a traditional machinist’s chair) with hand-crafted iron frames, and dusky dark green and blue leather seats. Special care has been taken to source hand-painted lamp shades reminiscent of those found in the State Library Reading Room – which create pools of light that welcome intimate conversation. Many of the details at Kumo have been hand made by local craftspeople and artisan builders and we’re extremely proud of Kumo.

Whether your’re at the bar, on the communal table, or huddled in a booth, there’s something for everyone – including a 10-seater tatami room for private dining.