Techne Architecture and Interior Design is responsible for the transformation of some of Melbourne’s best-loved watering holes, such as the Prahran Hotel, the Terminus in Abbotsford and the Bridge Hotel in Richmond. When they turned their award-winning design minds to another Melbourne institution, O’Connell Centenary Hotel in South Melbourne, they selected ISM Objects’ Boss Pendants and Shady Table and Wall Lamps, which were modified to fit perfectly with Techne’s vision for the interior.

Techne is highly regarded for their hospitality designs. In addition to hotels, they have designed the interior of restaurants such as Lee Ho Fook, Jimmy Grants and Movida, and the studio is also highly regarded for their commercial and residential work.

The iconic O’Connells was one of Melbourne’s first ‘gastro’ pubs and Techne’s refurbishment shows great sensitivity to both the history of the venue and its current patrons. Its character has been enhanced through modern additions and refreshed traditional elements.

Lighting from ISM Objects has helped create the warm and welcoming atmosphere. Their Boss Pendants feature a circular pendant lamp and were made for this project in a custom bronze finish. The Shady Lamps, designed by Daniel Barbera, were also modified to suit the O’Connells interior design. The wall lamps were customised as double fixtures while the lamps were fixed directly into the joinery.

The refurbishment of this Melbourne institution shows great respect for the venue’s history.  Techne describes the interior design as ‘evolutionary’ rather than ‘revolutionary’.

ISM Objects