Hutch & Co / Biasol

Architects: Biasol
Area: 210 m²
Year: 2015
Photography: Ari Hatzis
City: Lilydale
Country: Australia

Hutch & Co, a modern restaurant and café designed by Biasol in Victoria’s Yarra Valley, combines historical charm with contemporary design. Completed in 2015, this 210 m² space features a mix of materials and finishes, engaging patrons through an open-plan kitchen and a refined palette. The design emphasizes the natural surroundings, creating a seamless blend of interior and exterior spaces. The bold branding pays homage to the site’s history, attracting locals and visitors alike.

Nestled amongst the vines of Victoria’s Yarra Valley, 35 km northeast of the city, Hutch & Co originated as the 1800s ironmongery store known as Hutchinson’s. Biasol transformed the site into a modern restaurant and café.

The project utilized Biasol’s full range of services, including interior, building, product, and branding design. The design aimed to contrast and compose materials, creating a playful effect. The architectural extension included an outdoor dining area and multi-zoning. The team removed all existing internal walls and linings, leaving only the exposed brickwork to introduce a refined palette of materials and finishes.

Pale American Oak timber features prominently at Hutch & Co, adorning the ceiling and walls in the main dining area. The pattern transitions from the timber to the tiling, giving the venue a unique personality. The open-plan kitchen encourages interaction between patrons and chefs. The mix of matte and gloss tiles on the bar contrasts with the raw wood and concrete finishes, softening the space. Newly designed lighting pendants for Meizai, paired with the Silho collection and grey felted upholstery, create a sense of intimacy.

The branding is bold and recognizable, reflecting the site’s history. The seven-meter-wide Hutch & Co insignia stretches across the black façade, attracting locals and visitors. The frontage, set back from the street, features an extruding tiled surface area and built-in bench seating, inviting pedestrian interaction.

Throughout the design process, the team remained conscious of the opportunity presented by the Yarra Valley, aiming to capture its views. White tiled walls with black steel details frame the scenery, complemented by greenery from Glasshaus. The design introduces transparency, allowing views through the building from either side. This approach maximizes natural light and visual access to the surroundings, creating a layered effect where the interior and exterior blend into a single expression.