We’ve been wondering recently if the wine bar is clawing its way out of the grave of the 1980s, and establishments such as Cumulus Up suggest the answer is very much in the affirmative. Floating serenely above restaurant Cumulus Inc. in Melbourne’s artsy Flinder’s Lane ‘hood, this is one cloud you don’t mind appearing overhead
Cumulus Up occupies the second floor of the factory conversion, and architect Pascale Gomes-Mcnabb had suitably lofty dimensions to work with as a result. The unusual mirrors dotted about the walls are abstracted cloud shapes, but it’s down below that perhaps the most attractive features are to be found. The two-tone oak floor is attractive while still retaining the rough-hewn charm of the industrial setting, and a parquet elaboration around the counters are a nice counterpoint to the matte steel bar tops. Classic Thonet chairs and marble tabletops are old school touches to go with the modern lighting, leather banquettes and the surviving urban industrial features. As well as a thoughtfully-stocked, climate-controlled cellar, there’s a short menu from chef Andrew McConnell and the bar is open until 1am at the weekends.
