The Bellagio Café

Location

46 Baywater Drive, Wentworth Point, NSW, 2127

Year

2022

Client Brief

Sue and Andy Baker (Le Velo Café)

Requirements:

Relaxed, casual, eclectic, playful environment
Local artist gallery
Maximise ceiling heights
Feature staircase
Make the most of natural light and waterfront views
Focus on recycled and sustainable materials
Bike and pet friendly
Integration of external terrace
Commission various local Australian street artists

Project Description

The Bellagio serves as a residential building on the waterfront in Wentworth Point. The commercial tenancy at the northern end of the development is currently inactive, with little infrastructure in place. It occupies prime waterfront position and sits adjacent to a strip of small local businesses.

The clients realised there was an opportunity to create a pit stop on a popular cycling route and want to bring a piece of the inner city to Wentworth Point. Utilising local artists and creating a seamless open plan to create a sense of community was crucial in the success of this design.

The vision for the space is a venue that serves multiple purposes to the local community. The lower level will host a café, local art gallery and takeaway where locals and visitors can order freshly prepared food and coffee. The upper level is home to a bike repair shop and more café seating. By incorporating indoor and outdoor dining as well hosting local art galleries, the café makes a connection with the location and furthermore community. Connecting the lower and upper levels respectively, the identity of the space is defined by the bespoke staircase. Featuring bamboo timber battens up the outer edge and a bike ramp, the staircase is a piece of art designed specifically for the client’s space. This design is welcoming, relaxed and fun encouraging patrons to become involved with the local community interests.

Skills Used: Revit, Photoshop, Hand Drawing

Click to Download: Documentation

SITE PLAN

Wentworth Point is an inner-harbour peninsular nestled between Sydney’s CBD, Paramatta’s CBD and Macquarie Park. It is a hub filled with retail, sporting and recreational facilities.

Figure 23. The Bellagio Exterior