A retro New York diner in the heart of Melbourne.
Built to complement the 2018 Marvel Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N exhibition in Melbourne, the Midtown Diner is an immersive dining experience for avid comic fans and the public alike. The Avengers might not stop in for post-battle shawarma here, but customers can order some for themselves, or try one of the burgers, paired with curly fries and washed down with a milkshake or a cocktail.
For a temporary space, Midtown Diner has a lived-in feel that transports you straight to the streets of New York. With spectacular views of the Melbourne CBD from its rooftop function space, and a considered blend of retro style and truck-stop grit in the main diner, Midtown Diner is unique blend of Melbourne and the Big Apple.
Design firm Ewert Leaf conceived the award-winning design, transforming the temporary space into a comfortable, casual destination that is far from the usual temporary dining space seen in exhibitions. Iconic checkered laminate lines the floor, false ‘windows’ look out across Avengers Tower and the New York skyline, and seating is a blend of retro bar stools, padded booths and freestanding table seating. A timber bar dominates the space, and the lighting is a combination of modern spotlights and retro pendants. The décor is typical of the stereotypical American diner or truck-stop – a blend of number plates, old photos, trophies and retro memorabilia. This layering of old and new is what gives Midtown its permanence and personality.
Lighting a temporary space can sometimes be a difficult prospect when taking into consideration the limitations surrounding power requirements, wiring and cost effectiveness – especially when the desired outcome is not merely functional. Ewert Leaf opted for an eclectic blend of spotlighting above the bar, and a combination of vintage-style pendants – including Fat Shack Vintage’s Chelsea Schoolhouse Pendant and Station Pendant Light. Outside, the Bunker Cage Wall Light illuminates the entrance. As with the rest of the décor, this blend of styles offers a false sense of history to the short-term location, which in turn lends to its authenticity.
Whether you are looking to create a temporary commercial pop-up or a permanent historic home, Fat Shack Vintage offers specialty lighting for all your needs.
Details:
Midtown Diner
The Midtown Diner was a temporary pop-up location operating out of The Paddock at Federation Square, Melbourne VIC. It is no longer available to visit.
Ewert Leaf
Website: https://ewertleaf.com.au/
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