Marion

Blending the imperfect roughness of original features with beautifully-crafted fittings, shapes and textures, the rough and ready past of Melbourne’s oldest suburb is no more thanks to restaurateur Andrew McConnell’s fourth and latest venture in the neighbourhood: Marion Wine Bar

Interior of a stylish restaurant with diners at the counter from the Marion series.

Plate of gourmet salad and wine from Marion dining collection on rustic table setting.

Spanning two shopfronts on the corner of Gertrude and Deadman’s Lane, the room naturally divides into two parts. Both rooms offer a mixture of seating, standing and leaning space, with plenty of curb-side spots too.

The client’s vision for Marion was very specific with regards to the kind of environment they wanted to create for their guests. It was very important that Marion felt established, warm and welcoming; a neighbourhood local.

Cozy restaurant interior with a brick wall and wine display, part of the Marion series.

2016
Fitzroy, Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Land

Patrons

65pax

Floor Area

105m²

A total look and feel that, according to McConnell, “deformalises the experience”.

Wine bar interior with patrons seated and standing amidst shelves of bottles Marion.

Modern bar interior with copper counter and overhead wine rack in Marion design.

Modern bar interior with wine display and green floral arrangement, part of Marion.

A curved bar creates a conversation point between the guests and the open kitchen, inviting patrons to be an active part of the dining experience. Ceiling-high wine racks emphasise the owner’s intent of wine first, food second.

Close-up of a rustic window frame and textured wall from the Marion project.

Cracked red and gray textured surface from Marion.

The concept draws on the aesthetic of Wabi Sabi and the characteristics of asymmetry, simplicity, economy, modesty and intimacy with an appreciation of natural objects and processes. The design incorporates original white washed brick walls and the existing floor untouched since its days as a metal plating factory.

Various colorful eggs of different sizes displayed on a white surface for Marion.

Weathering cycle color changes over 25-30 years in the Marion project.

Stylish interior design featuring glassware and geometric patterns from Marion.

Curved metal sculptures inside a spacious industrial building, part of "Marion".

The emphasis then turns to polished, clean-lined craftsmanship, with stylishly curved fixtures and rich textures of leather, dark wood and copper which The Australian describes as “effortlessly stylish”.

Dining table with wine glasses and soft lighting from Marion.

Modern restaurant interior with wine bottles on shelves and tables from the Marion project.

Modern bar seating with a view of a wooden door in Marion interior design.

The environment is left uncluttered, with room for staff and patron movement through the venue, a feature that encourages a progressive and social engagement. The informality of the experience, the opportunity to engage with knowledgeable staff and the premium food and wine offering ensures repeat visits. Marion never sits still.