Saccharomyces Beer Cafe

Located on Fish Lane, Saccharomyces Beer Cafe was conceived as part of an initiative to establish new venues for a densifying residential area. Though the bar is part of a large development, it is operated independently by a small group of passionate craft beer drinkers dedicated to building a community united by good brews.

The shell of the space – designed by Cameron & Co Architecture – provided a utilitarian backdrop to work from. Deep red brick, polished concrete floors and an exposed roof were the foundation for us to build upon. With these textures already at play, our strategy was to keep the interior simple and connect with the laneway running alongside the bar.

An off-form concrete bar with an imprinted brandmark fulfills service requirements, with a blackboard for ease of updating taps. Low timber tables with upcycled brown leather seats are scattered throughout, while oversized high timber tables illuminated by custom light fittings create the convivial vibe of a beer hall.

Over time, the owners have gradually introduced posters, board games and arcade machines to create a dive bar feel that has endeared the venue to local beer aficionados.