Milk Beach Soho

Upon entering Milk Beach Soho, guests are taken on a journey into a bright and airy, coastal yet sophisticated environment that evokes thoughts of sandy summer days. A feast for the eyes, the interior is a well-considered mix of layered natural materials, textures, and styles tied together by a tonal palette of modern neutrals.

Grounding the interior is a strikingly elegant Palladiana terrazzo floor. A first for the studio, the floor was laid in-situ with each large piece of tonal marble arranged within the cement mix to achieve a balanced design and an organic natural look reminiscent of walking across rocks by the ocean. Walls are textured with stucco and limewash adding a soft warmth and summertime feel to the expansive space. Informed by Sydney’s seaside architecture, Art Deco detailing can be seen in the utilisation of cut out and relief wall panels. A textured ceiling with oak beams showcases 2-meter-wide pendant lights crafted from bamboo and made bespoke for the project by UK artisan David Barker of Lion Iron Lights.

A large 9 meter long central and curvaceous cocktail bar is a further nod to Art Deco architecture. The back bar, a highlight of the space, is a unique layered design which takes its design cues from the Sydney Opera House. Clad with a shimmering mix of glazed off-white tiles alternating between a plain and relief pattern, the textual design element is another example of the studio’s sophisticated understanding and use of materials.

With theatre in mind, an open kitchen adds a vibrant buzz to the relaxed restaurant’s design and atmosphere. Here A-nrd add visual cohesion with an oak and travertine counter. In the foundation of the interior A-nrd studio and Milne have created a highly original space.

With a layout heavily influenced by the buildings light well, seating has been positioned to view the exterior with a cosy corner booth sitting where the light well narrows. A signature of the studio, bespoke furniture fills the restaurant space. Hero pieces include bespoke solid travertine tables with sculptural oak legs. Tables are complimented by a rich mix of seating from cognac toned woven leather to natural undyed rattan and solid timber.

Islands of comfortable yet stylish bespoke sofa seating feature chunky oak bases and textured geometric fabrics which echo the overarching beachy aesthetic. A sweeping banquette crafted from slatted oak and upholstered with cream leather and textured cotton fabrics soften the rear corner of the restaurant and visually divide a large expansive wall. Here Japanese paper wall lights by artist Celine Wright provide a
delicate and enticing illumination whilst an Abaca fibre pendant from Pinch hangs over the intimate corner seating spot.

Native Australian plants such as two tall Foxtail Palms add character and life across the space and break the tonal material palette whilst artworks by Australian Janey Forbes, and UK based Frankie Throp and Ceicilia Reeve add splashes of vibrant colour to walls.

Design: A-nrd
Contractors: Bluecrow + Lights on lighting design
Photography: Charlie McKay