Victoria, Australia-based design firm Hecker Guthrie has channeled 1950s southern Italy with its design of Piccolina, a new gelateria recently opened along Smith Street in the Collingwood section of Melbourne. The existing storefront is gently retouched with cues inspired by the palette of the pre-existing patina. Restored original elements include a pressed metal ceiling, terrazzo flooring, and a stone archway.
Exposed brickwork unearthed layers of paint, including shades of green, cream, and brown, which became the foundation for the color palette. A 16-foot-long pozetti bench clad with rustic green Italian tiles showcases the store’s 24 gelato flavors, while highlighting a green hue inspired by the shade found in the Italian flag. The interior is anchored by a long bar appointed with round stools overlooking an open a kitchen framed by a traditional wood letter board. Low hanging pendant lights descend from the high ceilings, and glass shades feature a milky finish for a moonlike shine.
