Holy Hop Kingsland is situated in the previous site of Neighbourhood Bar. The bar was tired and felt unloved. The new owners wanted to create a local that included craft beers, local wines and an evolving food menu. 

In keeping with the neighbourhood vibe, the designers wanted to utilise local suppliers where they could. They commissioned a graffiti artist to bring their sketches to life and add an urban vibe to the signage - who doesn’t love a Nun drinking a dirty martini? Using neon lighting strips that are capable of colour changes when your favourite rugby team is playing (Go The Blues) allows for up-styling at zero cost.

The owner is an ex cabinetmaker and knew how important it was to have longevity in the products used. Using such varied materials and incorporating recycled and new adds to the relaxed vibe but at the same time it was important that the patrons felt they were getting a “new fitout”. The existing tables were repurposed, sanded back, lacquered, and the edges were solid-clashed with metal. Nobody believed they were the same tables. Recycled black timber complemented nicely with the sanded concrete and aged steel.

The vision and focus of the venue were to be one that could cater for all occasions. Live music, multiple sports being played simultaneously and a relaxed vibe that welcomed all age groups including the family dog. 

The existing layout hid the wide entrance and view beyond, of Eden Park, with a solid concrete wall. This was removed and garage roller doors opened up the space. A children’s play corner has made way for a cosy den with soft lighting, plush leather booths and velvet drapery. Close the doors and this can double as a private meeting room or an intimate function space. The mezzanine floor has been opened up and looks over to the front entrance and behind you are the twinkling lights of Kingsland. It provides a haven away from the bustling bar area. The courtyard has tables grouped in sections with carpet rugs to add sound protection and comfort underfoot. The existing outdoor pizza oven area was an unnecessary double up to the kitchen so an extra bar area was created. This area can be hired out for private functions with dedicated bar staff or copes with the overflow on a busy night!

A strong emphasis was put on creating an urban feel with multiple light-changing options. Adding dimmers on the lighting, including the strip lighting under the bar which can colour change. A mixture of neon and vintage lighting and outdoor candles to section off the mood and vibes. Concrete, timber, leather, heavy metals with rusted cages and grey paint tones keep a neutral tone. Adding artwork, lighting, greenery, blue velvet drapery and a splash of pink paint in the bathrooms to add texture.

There were numerous trips to vintage (junk shops) around the country including a road trip down to New Plymouth to purchase lighting salvaged from an old shipping yard. The metal crosses came from a Graveyard in France and are the real deal, adding weight to the Holy atmosphere.

Each fixture, piece of art, joinery and down to the last couch, has been carefully thought out to reflect the client’s vision, and to give a sense of not only somewhere familiar, but somewhere new.

The fitout met the vision and requirements, including the branding, that the owners had in mind and the project was completed within budget.