Hightail | Wallpaper*

An overview of the bar counter in restaurant — (Image credit: Charlie Kinross)

In response to the expansive space of Melbourne’s new Hightail Bar, local design firm Techné Architecture took an unusual starting point for its design cues, by looking to Graeme Base’s children’s book, The Waterhole, for inspiration.

As a result, the quirky venue is layered with texture and colour, including columns covered in jungle murals; curved timber booths; and ceilings created using stalactite formations that impede sight lines, creating intimate zones.

There are two bars: the beer bar is finished in copper, cork, concrete and tiles laid in patterned waves like those found in 1930s Australian pubs; while the wine bar features timber, brass and royal blue carpeting. Fast fare from three vendors – Mr Burgers, Belle’s Hot Chicken and Super Taco – can all be ordered via an app and delivered to tables.

An image of sitting arrangement in restaurant with lamps hanging

INFORMATION
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ADDRESS

727 Collins Street

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Carrie Hutchinson is an Australian writer and editor for publications and clients around the world. A transplant to Melbourne, she loves nothing more than sharing the riches of her corner of the world with others through her stories and images. Otherwise, her happy place is the ocean, especially if it involves swimming with large marine creatures – yes, that does include sharks.