The Adelaide venue with a harmonious blend of imperfection and excellence

Founded by Directors Dave Bickmore and Graham Charbonneau, the award-winning firm Studio Gram is known for creating compelling spaces with a blend of familiar comfort and the allure of the unexpected.

The inspiration for the design was drawn from the colours and textures of nature, where imperfections are admired and the authenticity of objects and materials is respected. Frayed fabric, worn ceramics, and knots in wood are all embraced and showcased throughout the space.

“Chef Jake Kellie’s concept of open-flame cooking was something that resonated with us and drove much of the concept behind the open-plan kitchen space, resulting in an adaptive environment offering experimentation with cooking concepts and the opportunity to showcase new techniques,” says Dave.

The open-plan kitchen at the heart of the restaurant allows the patrons to witness the spectacle of fire cooking, building anticipation and excitement directly in the dining room. Smoky blacks symbolise the ritual physically, while a selection of neutral tones and natural materials emphasise the celebration of a cooking format steeped in history. 

“The central kitchen isn’t hidden away; it is celebrated and elegantly materialised through native Australian spotted gum hardwood benchtops and custom joinery instead of the traditional commercial stainless-steel bench,” says Dave.

“This, coupled with locally sourced Juperana Granite featuring hand-chipped edges, oozes a welcoming warmth more akin to a domestic kitchen or a rural campfire’s edge,” adds Bickmore.

Throughout the project, several challenges needed to be solved. Working within a heritage-listed building presented its own set of constraints and considerations.

Additionally, the global pandemic brought about border closures, necessitating the sourcing of alternative materials and contractors. Managing these realities was crucial to ensuring the smooth construction of the space.

"The design also addressed the challenge of a 400 mm level change and activating a dark and narrow central section of the venue, which was naturally undesirable,” says Dave.

“However, this provided an opportunity to create a sense of arrival as guests rose through the space, leading to three distinct seating zones with unique experiences – a lounge area at the entry, the formal dining room connected to the open kitchen and courtyard, and the central ‘chef's table’ premium experience binding the two areas,” adds Bickmore.

Being on site at Arkhé is an experience that redefines conventional dining.

The reimagined commercial kitchen, constructed with natural stone and timber, evokes a sense of familiarity and engagement.

The lower kitchen floor encourages interaction, as guests can witness the captivating open-fire cooking, adding to the overall dining experience.

The materials used throughout the space play a significant role in celebrating and responding to the dining experience. From dark and moody areas with acid-blackened steel and deep, textural lime-plastered walls to handcrafted stone details and native Australian spotted gum hardwood benchtops in the kitchen.

Each material choice contributes to the restaurant's unique atmosphere. Reflective polished plaster with varying shades from warm whites to smoky blacks adds an organic and ever-changing element to the venue while defining the spaces.

What makes Arkhé genuinely unique is its holistic approach.

The project's meticulous attention to detail extends to every aspect of the guest journey, from design to branding, menus, uniforms, and food and drinks.