2026… here we go!
Sticking true to my previous post, I’m determined to be more active and visible on LinkedIn this year. To kick things off, I thought I’d share a before and after from a fun little project completed the week before Christmas — quick, fast-paced and extremely satisfying.
The Fiddler is a small (but perfectly formed) authentic Irish bar right in the heart of Auckland. In need of an update, we created a new, timelessly styled back bar along with a new bar top, fancy new beer taps and a new bar façade - all while maintaining the traditional moulding and corbel details. The aim was to deliver a refreshed look while staying true to the character that make the space what it is.
The old versus the new was swapped over in an incredibly short timeframe of just a couple of days. Datum Projects Limited were on board to make this happen in a seamless, stress-free manner. Thanks to Datum for the smooth transition — The Fiddler now has a revitalised new look and most importantly, a very happy client.
Every so often, a project comes along where you get to think outside the box and have a little fun. For Burning Red Design that was John Barleycorn’s Taphouse—a place where tradition meets innovation and where great times are always on tap. At John Barleycorn’s Taphouse the mission is simple: to offer an atmosphere that honours the tradition of coming together over a pint. Every story matters here and every visit strengthens the bonds of friendship. It’s a place for everyone, with a warm, laid-back vibe that encourages great conversations and the kind of memories that last long after the last drink.
It’s always exciting to see a place we love get a facelift and Mr. Illingsworth’s revamp is no exception.
Gone are the large louvres and bold red painted wall that once defined the space. In their place is some warm, rich timber panelling that adds an inviting texture and depth to the space. The transformation also features an impressive antique mirror that draws the eye and enhances the bar’s elegant yet laid-back vibe. The overall aesthetic is cozy, charming and designed to make you want to settle in for awhile.
If you haven’t stopped by lately, now’s the perfect time to check out the changes and experience the warmth and charm of the new atmosphere!
Thanks Datum Projects Limited for turning Mr. Illingsworth’s interior into something truly special. With a tight timeframe of just 2 days, your expertise and efficiency ensured that this bar not only looks fantastic but also offers a fresh, vibrant appeal for patrons.
Something & Social, a new bar and restaurant, has recently opened its doors in Albany, offering a serene and aesthetically pleasing environment. The interior is beautifully designed with soft and calming tones, featuring oak timber detailing and its signature colour palette of navy blue and biscotti. Lush plants and stunning hand-cast glass pendants add an organic touch to the space.
Beyond the indoor beauty, Something & Social also boasts several outdoor areas perfect for relaxation. A large courtyard is available for patrons to enjoy a variety of drinks, while various seating pockets seamlessly flow into the interior, creating a harmonious indoor-outdoor experience. With its fantastic design and inviting atmosphere, Something & Social promises to be a delightful destination for everyone.
A big thank you to all involved with this project: Steve Mann from Conpro, Andy and his team from Unique Creative and everyone else who contributed. Thanks Paul: Chester Hospitality for the opportunity to be included in this quick, fast but fun project. Good luck to the Something & Social team, I’m sure you’re going to be busy!
If you're looking to unwind or catch up with friends while enjoying some delicious treats, Sparrow and Sweet cafe in Pukekohe is a fantastic addition to the cafe scene!
With a combination of calm and tranquil vibes, along with great coffee, hot drinks and a variety of cabinet food, this is the place to relax and enjoy.
… and Sparrow & Sweet Gelato is right next door. A connected opening with Sparrow & Sweet Cafe provides a seamless experience for visitors to enjoy both treats. Homemade gelato in creative and delicious flavours is a wonderful offering, especially with summer on it’s way. The Gelato interior palette of soft pink and brick white, along with the contrasting black and white striped awning, adds a touch of fun and playfulness to the Gelato shop's ambiance. The café interior has a soft paint palette, old-style brick walls and timber floors that create a warm and cosy atmosphere.
With a consistent design approach from Burning Red Design, both Sparrow & Sweet Cafe and Sparrow & Sweet Gelato are designed to provide an enjoyable experience. The blend of offerings and design elements makes Sparrow & Sweet a sought-after destination for both locals and visitors alike.
Burning Red Design recently had the pleasure of working with the amazing SkyCity team to refurbish the SkyCafe. Located on level 50 of Auckland’s iconic Sky Tower, the new SkyBar offers unparalleled panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide guests with a stunning vantage point to admire the city skyline, rolling hills and serene waterfront. The design maximizes these vistas, ensuring that every seat offers an impressive view.
The design elements of SkyBar draw inspiration from the scenic surroundings. Natural materials like wood, stone and lush fabrics create a harmonious ambiance, connecting guests with nature and evoking a sense of tranquility. The lighting is strategically placed to create an inviting and warm atmosphere.
While SkyBar exudes opulence, it does so without being pretentious. Luxurious furnishings, plush seating and beautiful oak timber detailing add a touch of sophistication to the space. The bar area showcases an impressive selection of premium spirits, fine wines, champagne and craft cocktails, inviting guests to indulge in a refined drinking experience.
SkyBar provides an elevated experience where guests can unwind, savor delicious drinks and immerse themselves in the beauty of the surroundings. So, sit back, relax and enjoy the breath-taking views, where nature and luxury seamlessly intertwine.
This was another successful project working alongside Design and Build partners Complete Construction Ltd. Thank you for your exceptional work and here’s to many more amazing projects in the future!
It’s been a rough start to the year for the Hawkes Bay community so it’s great to see a stunning new bar emerge in the heart of Ahuriri.
Winifred’s Bar and Kitchen has finally opened its doors for everyone to enjoy.
This bar offers a unique experience with a variety of different seating areas both inside and outside in the lush garden courtyard and louvre roof extension. Whether you are looking for a cosy indoor spot or a breath of fresh air in the outdoor areas, this bar has something to offer for everyone.
As you step inside your greeted by a serene and tranquil atmosphere with soft tones and a calm, soothing vibe. The interior design features bespoke timber detailing and a beautifully crafted tiled bar, creating a warm and inviting ambience that will make you feel right at home.
So why not come down to Ahuriri’s West Quay and check out this exciting new bar for yourself. Whether you’re looking for a place to unwind after work or a fun night out with friends, Winifred’s is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy some great food, drinks and fine company.
A huge thanks to everyone who was involved in making this project a success including Hawke's Bay Construction Company and Your Solutions Ltd
Clients Tony, Nadine and Sara... thanks for your patience and perseverance. Wishing you all the very best with this exciting new venture. l’m sure your restaurant will become a beloved destination for food lovers and diners alike.
Congratulations and good luck for the busy months ahead!
Hot on the heels of The Good Home Prebbleton December opening comes The Prebbleton Villages’ latest hotspot – 1855 Barbershop.
This Barbershops name is rich in history as 1855 was the year the Prebbles broke ground in the area as the earliest settlers, then shortly after in 1862 the Prebbleton village was established.
The shop interior gravitates towards an industrial feel with exposed structural columns, old brown rustic brick wall cladding and polished concrete floors. Adding a touch of warmth to the space is the rich timber planking on selected walls and the beautifully crafted solid oak work tops.
There’s also a hint of kiwi culture with some classic Gordon Walters prints and some bold coloured Shane Hansen skateboard decks providing a feel-good New Zealand celebration.
With 5 work stations and a wash station, this is the place to go for a quick trim or tidy-up.
Already a bustling hive of activity within the village, 1855 provides a friendly face and quick, efficient service for busy customers.
Thanks to everyone involved with this project including IMAGE Projects for their hard work and dependable service. It was a pleasure working with your team again to get this shop up and running!
It’s been a few years since we’ve seen a new Good Home emerge however The Good Home Prebbleton has now opened it’s doors in the heart of Prebbleton Village.
This design is full of fun and interesting elements from the impressive double height oak timber arched back bar to the quirky nooks and crannies for patrons to explore.
A lush garden atrium greets you through the front entry, this then sprawls into the open courtyard that is perfect for the summer months ahead.
A sports den with large screen TV’s, a generous dining room tucked behind the main bar and wild and amusing wallpaper selections all blend together to create an eclectic mix.
Soft and cosy banquette seating invite people into the rear dining room where the history of Prebbleton transpires. With some smart designing, this space can also be glimpsed at through the ground floor bar and from the mezzanine level above.
Head up the elegant staircases to a larger, open planned mezzanine space complete with it’s own bar and sunny balcony. Enjoy the view onto Prebbleton Village or down into the dining lounge below. The interesting use of the ground floor back bar signage also acts as the back drop to the mezzanine… very clever.
Drop by and check out this amazing new gastropub. Enjoy the relaxing environment, soak up the stunning atmosphere, energetic vibe and enjoy the great food and drinks on offer.
And as the main bars feature neon sign says, have ‘a toast to the Prebbles of Prebbleton’.
A big thanks to all that were involved with this project including Andy, Brad and family and IMAGE Projects.
Cellar Bar at Danny Doolans is the newest addition to the Viaduct. Located on the side walkway of Danny Doolans, this basement bar is the perfect place to enjoy a late night out or to book a function. With faux brick lined walls, moulded panelling and oak timber highlights this space radiates warmth and comfort. Sit amongst the luscious plant walls with pops of neon signage, enjoy the plentiful seating options and dance the night away to Cellar Bars personal DJ.
Thanks Geoff and the Good Spirits Hospitality team, Jamin Brandsupply.com, Jake and Troy from Datum Projects Limited and everyone else involved that got this project turned around and looking amazing in a short time frame, it really was a great combined effort and brilliant outcome.
It’s always refreshing to do something a little different and Ponsonby Doctors is definitely a ‘first’ for Burning Red Design.
This new healthcare and accident and urgent care service in Ponsonby is a welcome addition to the neighbourhood. A small friendly boutique practice, Ponsonby Doctors aim to deliver high-quality, personalised medical care in an empathetic, caring and professional manner.
The interior is rich with striking graphics, warm timbers and contemporary lighting so this clinic has that little bit extra than most other healthcare services.
What an interesting project to be involved in… there was definitely plenty of learning curves along the way however we now have a vast wealth of knowledge of all things healthcare!
Thanks to Paul and his team from Retail Connection and Andy, Mike and his guys from Gulf Projects for pulling this project together and providing an impressive end result.
Congratulations to the SkyCity Capital Development team for taking out a Merit Award in the Holmes Group Tourism and Leisure Property category at this year’s Property Industry Awards.
Burning Red Design and Complete Construction Ltd joined forces to provide a Design and Build solution for SkyCity’s world-class employee restaurant 24/7.
Hosted by Property Council New Zealand the Property Industry Awards is the most prestigious property awards programme in New Zealand, celebrating excellence in design and innovation in the built environment. Well done, what an awesome achievement!
