Australian practice GSBN Studio has revealed its design of the new Vietnamese bar and dining concept Forty Licks in Sydney. The subterranean eatery embraces both the radical transformation and preservation of the onsite heritage.
Its framework employs hand-welded stainless steel mesh and custom clamps which can be removed easily, if needed. Throughout the interior, the visual connection is maintained with the existing columns, beams, and walls, while a concrete plinth wraps the boundary wall, recalling the tiered formations of Vietnamese rice paddies, which the studio draws most of its design inspiration from.
The focal point is a sprawling, woven artwork called Apartment E, crafted by Australian architect and artist Richard Goodwin. Composed of steel and rattan, it aims to highlight the duality between nature and built environments.
