W Melbourne’s signature subterranean cocktail bar Curious has taken home two top awards for Overall Bar and Australia & Pacific Restaurant/Bar at the 2022 Restaurant and Bar Design Awards. Curious was recognised along with Hong Kong restaurant 1111 ONES as the overall winner of the prestigious awards at a ceremony in London last week.
Five overall regional winners were revealed at the Awards Ceremony held at Maison Francois and Park Row and attended by the world’s best designers. An additional 39 category winners were announced via Instagram with trophy presentations at Upstairs at Langan’s.
The two major awards add to Curious’ growing list of accolades, having already been named the category winner for Ceiling design at the 2022 Restaurant and Bar Design Awards announced in September this year, and shortlisted for notable design achievements across Hotel, Lighting and Club/Night Venue categories.
Since opening in February 2021, Curious has become known for its innovative design and elevated experience. The bar has shaken up the cocktail scene in Australia’s cultural capital – bringing a distinct bold atmosphere that defies expectations and invites guests to engage in a curious sensory space.
The unique and unexpected design by architecture and design group Hachem has been inspired by the contrasts of Melbourne city, bringing to life W Melbourne’s design narrative, reveal to revel.
Drawn into the subterranean bar by a secret laneway entrance on Market Street and down a spiral staircase, guests encounter a cocoon-like space. Established in large by a ceiling blanketed entirely in timber beams, creating an intimate space through the mesmerising use of parametric beams. The rich design palette of dark tones and earthy materials further evoke a seductive yet lively feeling and a sense of discovery.
The Restaurant & Bar Design Awards are the most important and influential design competition for food and beverage spaces worldwide. Now in its 14th year, the awards recognise and celebrate the world’s most creative spaces and the people behind them. Judged by a panel of some of the most influential personalities in design, hospitality and lifestyle globally, this annual edition of the Awards attracted 1220 entries from 66 countries.
