Whadjuk People of the Nyoongar nation
Western Australia
An adaptive reuse of a former C1920 warehouse in Fremantle’s West End heritage precinct, the Republic of Fremantle gin distillery pays homage to its local roots as social currency in a global market.
The fused hospitality and distillery concept provides guests with an experiential atmosphere, dining in a working distillery.
The design approach is a cocktail of reactivated heritage fabric overlaid with contemporary design expression that is embedded in place. The art of distilling and the interactive opportunity of the gin school are intrinsically connected to the architectural expression. The use of botanicals in gin making inform the verdant approach throughout.
The space is organized as a small bar to the street, with and outdoor ‘parklet’, the working distillery, open kitchen and dining area in the rear, with the gin school and function area on a mezzanine above the kitchen, creating a variety of possible experiences within the venue.
We wanted to create a home for the Republic of Fremantle, a distillery, a venue, as a platform to showcase our spirits and ‘from scratch’ ethos. Vodka, Gin, Bar & Kitchen a place to enjoy and learn about our craft.
We required flexibility within the venue to allow for the industrial nature of our business, making spirits, hospitality, gin school, tours and education, everything from scratch.
Spaceagency has delivered a beautiful design that meets all our requirements, a unique space that celebrates our location, our craft ethos and provides our guests with the opportunity to be immersed in our brand.
Dimmity Walker, Design Architect
Julia Kaptein, Architect
Michael Patroni, Design Architect
Tobias Busch, Architect
Gabriels Hearne Farrell PTY LTD, Acoustic Consultant
Kelly Structural Design, Structural Engineer
Resolve Group, Building Surveyor
Xero Fire, Engineer
The Australian Institute of Architects acknowledges First Nations peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the lands, waters, and skies of the continent now called Australia.
We express our gratitude to their Elders and Knowledge Holders whose wisdom, actions and knowledge have kept culture alive.
We recognise First Nations peoples as the first architects and builders. We appreciate their continuing work on Country from pre-invasion times to contemporary First Nations architects, and respect their rights to continue to care for Country.
