SIBLING ESPRESSO BAR

in its details, with minimalist design features expertly curated to strike a balance between light and dark, inside and out, and organic and inorganic materials, say Ryan Guppy (above left) of communications agency 21-19 and architect Travis Walton who steered the 8 Degree Projects in Bali started a roasting business to bring their own premium coffee into their restaurants and sought an experiential space to hero the product. Set between its sibling venues in Seminyak, Bikini and Sisterfields, the site presented a prime opportunity to celebrate Sibling coffee in an experimental format. The compact 4sqm site required a strategic approach to encourage customer turnover while maximising space and maintaining a personalised experience. The interior is conceived as a single concrete element finished with mirrored panels that open up the bounding walls in multiple directions. An unobstructed window connects patrons to a courtyard, increasing the sense of space and enticing movement outside. There, a laser-cut external canopy casts Sibling’s dot-dash branded graphic motif throughout. The result is an immersive experience of branding as much as the coffee. We looked to Tokyo’s coffee scene for inspiration, particularly hole-in-the-wall spaces where the craft of roasting is focal. We established a narrative around authenticity and restraint, driving a minimalist approach to allow the coffee to take centre stage. We established an ‘inner skin’ of concrete, presenting a robust, brutalist aesthetic that immerses patrons on arrival. Concrete planes are softened by perforated natural oak panelling and warm concealed lighting, while the courtyard’s filtered shadows delight. Interior and urban exterior are inextricably linked, connecting Sibling to the gritty streetscape. The disruptive nature of the brand, crafted by 21-19, uses punchy phrases such as ‘straight up’ and ‘f-ck latte art’. Concrete seating, table, plinth and benches reduce the reliance on loose furniture. I love how the canopy results in a direct expression of the brand, yet maintains subtlety and nuance. It’s a joy to see people spilling into the courtyard, enjoying coffee and snacks perched above the street. The owners are delighted by the cohesion between the brand and interior experience. Patrons relish the daily ritual of visiting Sibling, which blends elegance and ease while honouring the finesse of Australian coffee culture.