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Island Radio by Etic | ArchitectureAu

Umito
Island Radio by Etic | ArchitectureAu

At Sydney CBD, new South East Asian restaurant Island Radio has revealed a dynamic, multi-level interior – a collaboration between House Made Hospitality and design studio Etic.

The initial goal of the project was simple but ambitious: to create a space that invites guests to discover, explore and feel transported. “We keep coming back to the idea of ​​constant discovery and playful exploration, whether through food, drink or music,” says Emilie Delalande of Etic. This theme of exploration resonates throughout the design, which invites guests to move through four distinct spaces, each offering its own unique atmosphere.

Island Radio by Etic

The building was an ideal canvas, with two main sections: a historic one and a contemporary one. The heritage district retains its charm with a remarkable element: the old bank vault door. The exposed ceiling rafters, curved volumes and an imposing presence on the street give character to this section. The newest structure offers high ceilings, textured brick and an open, airy feel that blends seamlessly into the surrounding enclosure.

Island Radio is divided into four distinct zones, each different in its ambiance and offering. To the right of the entrance is a kiosk, a casual takeout counter offering coffee, snacks and light meals. The next area, the Noodle Bar, features a bold monochrome design with terracotta walls and cork accents.

Beyond the Noodle Bar is the lower dining room, known as the Eating House. This space takes a bold leap in color with deep blue ceilings, mustard tiles in the kitchen, and bright orange walls and banquettes. The playful use of color creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for long, prolonged meals.

Finally, the upper dining room, nestled in the old bank room, is a stunning blend of past and present. Here, the same bold blue of the lower dining room ceiling ties the design together, creating a cohesive yet distinctly historic experience.

Island Radio by Etic

While the design is undeniably inspired by Southeast Asian culture, it avoids clichés and stereotypes. “We incorporated traditional colors in a modern way, using bold color blocks and groups of fixtures to create a dynamic, fresh and youthful space,” explains Emilie.

The design team prioritized aesthetics and functionality, carefully selecting materials that could withstand high foot traffic while creating a visually stimulating environment. In the Noodle Bar, terracotta walls and cork details exude a vibrant, modern energy, while in the Eating House, rich colors such as mustard, deep blue and bright orange come together to create a daring sensory experience.

Sustainability was also a major concern. “Sustainability is always a challenge, but it was an important consideration for this project. We’ve incorporated sustainable, eco-friendly materials, like ceiling flocking made from 80% recycled content and ultra-low VOC eco-friendly cork flooring, to help reduce waste. environmental impact of space,” explains Emilie.

Island Radio by Etic

One of the most striking aspects of the design is its ability to create a truly welcoming and versatile atmosphere, day or night. “I am particularly proud of the color balance and sensory experience in the lower dining room,” the designer shared. “Shades of yellow, mustard and orange combine so successfully to create a warm and vibrant atmosphere.”

The success of the project testifies to the strong collaboration between the designer and the client. House Made Hospitality, known for its commitment to creating memorable dining experiences, was deeply involved in every step of the process. “We spent a lot of time carefully selecting colors, textures and making sure everything was perfectly balanced,” explains Emilie. This attention to detail is evident in every corner of Island Radio.