Jane Bar: Luchetti Krelle Transforms Historic Butcher Shop into Eclectic Sydney Hotspot

Sydney's vibrant dining scene welcomes Jane, a new bar designed by Luchetti Krelle, breathing new life into a former butcher shop on Bourke Street. This eclectic establishment masterfully blends 1970s nostalgia with contemporary design, offering a casual yet sophisticated counterpart to the nearby fine-dining restaurant Arthur.

Key Takeaways

• Luchetti Krelle designed Jane, a bar in a former butcher shop in Sydney.
• The design draws inspiration from 1970s aesthetics, French bistros, and indigenous Australian flora.
• Jane is the more casual sister venue to the tasting-menu restaurant Arthur, both run by chef Tristan Rosier.
• The bar retains elements of the original butcher shop facade while introducing bold colors and textures.

A Blend of Eras and Influences

Luchetti Krelle has curated a unique interior for Jane, weaving together diverse references. The design incorporates nods to the 1970s, reminiscent of the designer's grandparents' home, alongside the charm of French bistros and the vibrant hues of Australian wildflowers. This eclectic mix creates a warm and inviting atmosphere within the 70-square-meter space.

Preserving History, Embracing Modernity

The building's original facade has been carefully restored, with its tiled exterior, brass framework, and gold-leaf signage preserved. Tinted windows have been replaced with clear glass, inviting passersby to glimpse the interior. Inside, minimal structural changes were made, focusing instead on a rich palette of colors and textures. The concrete floor is painted in a eucalyptus green, and the ceiling features a natural red fiber finish, evoking the color of the indigenous Waratah flower.

Interior Design Details

The bar boasts a Rosso Levanto marble table and a vintage chandelier in the entrance seating area, complemented by mirror-clad walls. A caramel-colored corduroy banquette runs along one side, a subtle tribute to the 70s. Bespoke wooden tables with rounded corners ensure comfort, even during busy periods. The drinks bar features a Carrara marble countertop, with butter-yellow leather stools set against a floral tiled splashback, reminiscent of Parisian bistro floors.

A Space for Connection

The rear dining area, once accessed by steps, has been raised to create a seamless flow with the front. A new skylight and glazed back door illuminate this space, enhancing its ambiance. This area also features corduroy-lined furniture, maintaining the aesthetic continuity. The former salting room of the butcher shop has been repurposed for the toilets, adding another layer of historical integration.

Jane offers a unique dining and drinking experience, celebrating personal history, architectural heritage, and the spirit of the 1970s, all within the heart of Sydney.

Sources

• Luchetti Krelle creates eclectic bar Jane inside former butcher shop, Dezeen.
• Jane is a Swanky Smart Casual Restaurant in Surry Hills, Man of Many.