‘The space is imagined as the found sanctuary of a harsh terrain traveller, creating refined resources which are of the land,’ begins Brad Mitchell, the student architect who scooped top honours in last year’s inaugural Mercedes-Benz Design Award by Broadsheet, of Mount Waverly café Poacher & Hound. ‘Brass objects scattered throughout the space are found treasured pieces, bridging between the natural elements and the fine graphic elements.’
It’s a poised synopsis from the burgeoning talent, whose efforts have been rewarded by Technē Architecture + Interior Design; the suburban Melbourne eatery is the first by the studio to feature the youngster’s work. ‘It is an important part of the Technē ethos to foster emerging architectural talents such as Mitchell,’ explains Technē senior associate Steve McKeag, ‘offering valuable and genuine experiences in the industry.’
And Mitchell’s efforts come together nicely in the award-winning studio’s cool interior — earthy materials like terracotta, brick, and granite gravel accompanying a rattan-finished planter in embodying that found sanctuary. The latest venture from dining entrepreneur John Scalzo, Poacher & Hound itself is a welcome addition to Mount Waverly, bringing a slice of the city’s famous style to an industrial setting; expect pretty fancy all day breakfasts and healthy lunches, influenced by European cuisine, and Sensory Lab coffee to tend to your caffeine fix.
