A man that brought Venice to California served as the inspiration for bringing fine Italian Coffee and bespoke pastries to Adelaide, all found within a shop that seemingly has a split personality.

The brief was set by Pastry Chef, Jonny Pisanelli, it consisted of two parts; a tribute to Abbot Kinney, a conservationist, developer, and Californian icon, who brought the magic of the Venice Canals to Los Angeles in 1905; and a celebration of Jonny's craft; which respects the traditions of a patisserie, with a contemporary twist, where the pastries take on a personality of their own. Duality, originality, and craft were the binding elements that formed the overall concept.

The space is split on the diagonal, one side, bespoke timber framing, free of any linings, revealing the structure and construction techniques that are often overlooked. The other side is flushed and painted black. Like Pisanelli’s trademark sfogliatelles, the patisserie is layered and exquisitely tailored. Every joinery item, including the leather-wrapped bin, are bespoke elements, every joint was measured against tradition, and expressed in a contemporary manner, a true reflection of the client’s craft.

Year: 2015

Location: Adelaide, SA

Country: Kaurna

Client: Jonny Pisanelli

Project team: Graham Charbonneau, Dave Bickmore

Collaborator: Dave Lawson, Alex Hall

Builder:: Contech

Photographer: David Sievers

Awards: Winner – Best Café Design – 2015 Eat Drink Design Awards

Commendation – 2015 Integrain Timber Vision Awards

Silver – Built Environment – 2015 DIA Awards

Commendation – Hospitality Design – 2016 Australian Interior Design Awards