Nest is a Cafe, Cocktail Bar and Tapas Dining spanning over 2 levels. It is inserted within a section of the iconic Kangaroo Point Cliffs; acting as a cave bar. This project began as an exploration of surreal moments, images and experiences and how this notion is achieved. Philosophy To design a unique and memorable Bar that is inserted within a section of the Kangaroo Point Cliffs; acting as a surreal and comfortable refuge for passerby’s to form a separation from reality. Nest is inspired by and leverages principles from the notions of Narrative, Tree house & historical Cliff Dwelling. Aims / Objectives The primary objective was to provide a destination for inner city relaxation and enjoyment. I also wanted the design to be as unique and distinctive as the idyllic and iconic location. The projects aim was to use contextually relative materials and grounded yet humble elements that could pay respect to the sites deep history; at the same time accentuating Nest’s intimate nature. The utilization of both natural and artificial lights in conjunction with custom materials help to create an evolving space that embodies journey, secrecy and mystery. Target Clientele It is the established and preexisting traffic through the site that will be predominantly targeted by Nest. Nest will be an all encompassing bar and casual dining experience that can facilitate up to 300 people. It is the idyllic scenic backdrop that is the inspiration and motivation to entice patrons for casual drinking and dining from early morning to late night. There are no other Bars that cater to tourists, pedestrians and locals anywhere near this location. L1: Level 1 is aimed at being a casual coffee / cocktail lounge that takes full advantage of the views. Housed behind the large, framed opening is the interior of level 1. The large opening allows an abundance of natural light to filter through the space. The geometric shaped Sit down bar features individual seating in a casual bar setting. Nook seating is placed towards the back and is geared towards 2 people seeking an intimate and private space- secrecy and mystery is achieved. Cave seating features 2 large U shaped lounges that look out towards the beautiful view whilst making an intimate connection with the natural environment- the cliff itself. The sun deck is an ambient, open air space, taking full advantage of the Queensland climate and the iconic views. Peering out over the park land in front of the site, making this space family friendly. The sun deck has a function seating arrangement featuring a mixture of styles, catering to a variety of different user needs- Whether it be morning, afternoon or evening. The feature of the deck is a set of booth seating, incorporating a customised laser-cut panel roof, which allows air flow, whilst creating an evolving shadow play, to accentuate the ambient serenity of the sites location at any time of the day. L2 Interior of Level 2 is split into 2 zones. Firstly, the cocktail lounge features warm, sophisticated materials and structural elements whilst still embodying a cave-like feeling. Moody lighting enhances the mysterious and secret nature of the space. City views are framed through robust, angular openings which spill out onto the balcony’s. At the rear of this space, a Ramp has been carved out of the rock, leading you to the dining area- almost a if it were a secret passageway. The ramp has a two-fold purpose; 1. Providing wheelchair access 2. Access to the dining zone in a subtle fashion; directing traffic behind tables rather than through. The dining entrance is framed and therefore defines that particular zone. The booth, seating areas in the tapas dining space are designed to be semi-private embodying an element of secrecy. Surrounded by dark mesh and lit from within, a warm glow is filtered through the surrounding spaces. The quirky design experiments with lines of sight which allows the inside users to peer out in a secretive way whilst the outsiders only have a distorted view through the mesh Combining these philosophies and objectives with scenic and picturesque views, Nest hopes to inspire and entice patrons who are looking for casual drinking and dining at anytime of day.