For the recent redo of the Buena, a beloved century-old local watering hole in the Buena Vista Hotel in the Sydney suburb of Mosman, “It was essential that the pub appeal remain in this much-loved Mosman landmark,” explains Jonathan Richards, director of local firm SJB, which worked with Tess Regan Design on the project.

A new public entrance opens up the bar to the street for more public engagement. Once inside, the space has been restored to its historical original layout with a bar at the center, surrounded by a variety of seating nooks all done in dark timber, natural leather, and detailed paneling. Through the rear of the building, guests find a new glass conservatory extension with a courtyard that houses the second Australian outpost of restaurant and wine bar Bistro Moncur. It’s here where the designers took the most liberties, creating the small building “with the feel of an old corner shop” to further convey a greenhouse aesthetic. Lighter wood, hues of pink, gray, and blue, plantings, and intricate tilework complete the charming appeal. Says Richards: “We wanted the locals to love it and call it their own—and they happily do.”