Taking cues and inspired by traditional espresso bars, Banco adapts this aesthetic to set the scene for a modern Australian wine bar in Manly. The design leans into the intimate scale of the site to create a space that is equal parts warm, familiar and fresh.

Tom Mark Henry played with a restrained use of colour and focused on rich, warm hues such as burgundy and brown, seen through the use of Italian tiles which are complemented by the timelessness of the brass gantry, coming together to elevate the space. A more traditional and refined aesthetic is balanced with equal parts of playfulness and kitsch, such as checkerboard metals and tiles, stone look laminate tables and chrome details, which also lend the space a sense of nostalgia.

Textural and natural materials such as cork and timber are juxtaposed with glossy tiled surfaces and sleek accents of brass and mirror. Banquette seating with brass wall lights overhead creates an intimate, familiar feeling and a welcoming space to unwind and enjoy the culinary offering at Banco, whilst a curved stone bar provides the perfect spot to catch up and explore the extensive wine list. An unexpected jolt of deep electric blue, via the bathroom vanity brings a bold moment of surprise to the space, paired with a rust and cream checkerboard tiled floor. Banco is both confident and refined, with an unabashed sense of kitsch at its core, delivering the Manly locals and those visiting, a new and unique experience.

Photography Damian Bennett