The Black Groodle cafe is located at 55 Mountain St, Ultimo.

The current cafe is limited by space and had a limited number of layout options due to the existing range hood which would be too expensive to move. The building also has an exposed ceiling with a bulkhead over cooking areas. The long and narrow shape of the space means the back of the cafe is badly lit.

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The cafe owner, Karlos, wanted a complete redesign of his cafe that better utilised the space whilst maintaining the cafe's existing Brand Identity. He requested that the design include further storage, space for his gorgeous food to be diplayed and also discussed the opportunity to extend the cafe hours in order to open a wine bar. Karlos also mentioned he would like and Industrial space with the feeling of home and a touch of Middle Eastern inspiration. He also mentioned that the existing bi-fold doors at the front of the cafe couldn't be opened as it opens the cafe up too much to the elements.

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The Black Groodle is well loved Middle Eastern cafe known for its incredible food and delicious coffee. The locals include both business people and university students, each with an equal admiration for the space.

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I wanted to create a warm and inviting space with a hint of industrial inspiration. I wanted to open the space up in order to bring light into the space, I did this by adding an additional partition further back in the cafe which allows for the cafe to be opened up to the street when possible, increasing the number of seating available at the front of the cafe. The partition also separates the coffee and takeaway orders from sit-in diners, eliminating the issue of waiting space and decluttering the interior of the cafe.

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The front of the cafe has been transformed into an alfresco dining area with beautiful herringbone timber flooring and white brick walls, this in combination with a few hanging planters creates a light-filled and airy space. The interior of the cafe includes black leather booth seating as well as a communal seating area in the back of the cafe which creates the homey feel Karlos was looking for. The counter space has been joined into one, long bar and food service area and includes additional storage beneath the counter, in the private storage and wash-up area as well as in custom overhead shelving. The wine bar extension of the cafe includes addional wine storage above booth seating, a custom wine glass overhead storage shelf and counter space for beer taps and separate drinks service.