Stokehouse, St Kilda

This iconic Australian restaurant, situated right on St Kilda beach. It’s position with glorious views of sparkling waters, sailing boats, beach bathers and activity along the adjacent board walk, is a vibrant place to dine.

PGMD was brought in to re-invigorate the fine dining restaurant, transforming the establishment in to an erudite yet fun place to be in; creating an ambience which suggested the luxury and sophistication of a fine dining restaurant at a coveted beach resort.

The lighting design followed suit. By day the top floor was bathed in natural sunlight. Lighting design ensured it didn’t compete, after dark, with the night time oceanic vistas. Hidden lighting emits a golden glow from within folded brass clad columns positioned between the banquette and tabled areas. LED lighting embedded in the existing coves lit up the ceiling in a soft wash of light. And the general illumination provided dimly lit scenes creating intimacy and allowed the night time view of the sea to come forth.

In the bar lounge PGMD designed a shiny brass bar which juxtaposed the new beachy off-white banquettes. The bar lounge leads to the vast balcony where an Aperitivo or a glass of champagne seemed always the natural drink of choice. Above the lounge area glossy surface mounted downlights provided lighting and added a decorative element on the striped timber ceiling.The lighting was integrated in to interior elements allowing the interior design and views to take precedence, and was a catalyst in creating this insouciantly luxurious retreat.

Designer: Pascale Gomes-McNabb Design (PGMD)
Client: Penfolds, Magill Estate
Photography: Murray Fredericks