5 & Dime Bagels was an established brand looking to expand into a larger workshop with an associated café. Located in a new precinct off a laneway in Melbourne’s CBD, it was important that its design created a destination that would activate the area and draw customers to visit. The design brings in unique elements of the Art Deco era and the traditional New York bagel store aesthetic with materials such as natural timber, tiles, butchers block benches, and brass details.

The curves of the ceiling and joinery welcome people into the space and draw the eye to the counter, making the bagels on display the focal point of the space. The large windows into the workshop showcase and encourage people to interact with the artisan process of baking and emphasize the freshness of the bagels.

Food is centre stage in this design, with the large curved counter making a statement as you transition through various parts of the space. The project advances contemporary hospitality practice, bringing the commercial kitchen close to its customers. The result is an innovative yet simplistic New York inspired upbeat café.

Design: BrandWorks
Photography: Brook James