Amello Restaurant, St Kilda 

Interior design, Yoke Creative in collaboration

with Eliza Downes and Phoebe Whitman, 2007

Amello’s design aimed to make the most of the spectacular views of the foreshore and surrounding parklands. The central theme shifting views, based on the dichotomy between the inside and the outside, as well as drawing from the history of the Sea Baths,

Amello’s design incorporates a decorative motif inspired by the twinkling lights of Sandringham.
With a variety of dining options, and the absence of many solid partition walls, the interior ‘boardwalk’, which was inspired by the timber decks seen in picturesof the Sea Baths (c.1945), performs as a divide where smaller more intimate zones emerge, each with an individual feel to provide dining options for a range of clientele. Choices range from a more formal a la carte menu on the south side
to casual meals on the north side, such as hamburgers and chips. This distinction is reflected in the décor, which helps to define different areas that accommodate a variety of uses.
As the day turns into night the atmosphere within each zone of Amello changes to accommodate the change in pedestrians to the Baths. For example, in the mornings the front dining area is a great place for mothers with prams to sit for breakfast and at night the same space provides the opportunity for romantic dinners with views over the bay. The “Private Dining” area during the day provides communal seating but can be sectioned off with the use of retractable screens for private functions if requested.

The interior use of Amello shifts with
the changing view but over time Amello becomes known through its continuing ability to provide a place for all to come to enjoy the views of St Kilda