Old Joe’s | Northies Hotel

I delved into my own upbringing of beach culture in the 1970’s; striped umbrellas, washed out okanui boardies, tasseled terry toweling and ice cream from the milk bar at the end of a salty day meets the candy sorbet colours of Florida keys.

I worked with a talented team of builders, sign writers, blacksmiths, furniture makers, dyers, and print makers to create a detailed space that reveals both the history & legacy of Cronulla and universal seaside cultures.

After researching the local surf & social history, Old Joe’s milk bar appeared time & time again, namely some great social photographs of the exterior by John Veage. I used elements & finishes reminiscent of milk bars, such as terrazzo bar tops, soft sorbet colours, striped awnings & hand painted signage.

Much of my inspiration can be seen in the details; the recycled timber floor pays homage to coastal boardwalks, lighting made from vintage beach chair strapping, hand painted ping pong table, custom table tops & fabrics with colour blocking and colour palettes that reference faded surfboards & board short colours.

Previous Article

Next Article