Nick and Nora's - Paramatta, NSW

Nick and Nora’s translates the scene of a classic film noir and catapults it into the 21st century. Velvet surfaces, smoky detective dining spaces and walnut timber paneling all work together to create an opulent environment that’s both mystifying and seductive.

We were briefed with a film, and that’s where it all started. Nick and Nora’s was based around W.S Van Dyke’s 1934 film ‘The Thin Mans’ main protagonists, aptly named Nick and Nora. Enshrining ourselves in film noir and an era of opulence between the two world wars, we were tasked to create a space that would feel like you stepped into the world on Nick and Nora, whilst still being a contemporary cocktail bar that avoids ‘kitsch’.

 The result is a space that nods to art deco, with at the same time adapting it to contemporary design. Brass detailing, Verde stone and walnut paneling builds the space whereas traditional accents like tiffany lighting and fluted glass helps create the scene.