Hazel by Shantala Mack Interiors
Positioned within the grounds of Hazelhurst Arts Centre in Gymea, Sydney, Hazel by Shantala Mack Interiors merges historic sensibility with modern versatility.
Conceived as a multi-faceted hospitality venue, the project brings together a café, restaurant, function space, and wedding venue in a refined, art deco-inspired setting.
The initial ambition was to bridge the architectural disconnect between the Arts Centre’s heritage-listed cottage and the adjacent, more contemporary structure. Drawing from the deco detailing of the original cottage, the project takes cues from its arched façades and characteristic materials to create a cohesive interior identity. These influences are reinterpreted throughout the venue, from the curvaceous joinery at the kitchen and bar to the use of glass bricks that soften spatial transitions and provide sculptural interest.
Hazel occupies a central location between two exhibition galleries, acting as a communal anchor within the site. The hospitality program responds to this context, supporting a range of experiences from casual café visits to formal dining and private celebrations. The interiors are layered and calm, with a focus on tactile comfort and visual elegance, designed to enhance the art-focused energy of the surrounding precinct.
Operational flexibility was critical to the layout. Furniture selection plays a pivotal role in shaping the venue’s adaptive quality. Custom pieces by Sydney-based maker Contempo & Co allow for easy reconfiguration between café service and large seated functions, offering durability without compromising on aesthetic value. This commitment to using Australian-made products supports local manufacturing and contributes to the project’s sustainable ethos.
Hazel has quickly become a popular gathering spot for both locals and visitors, celebrated not only for its amenities but for its respectful connection to the history and spirit of its site. Balancing elegance with approachability, the project emerges as a considered contribution to Gymea’s evolving cultural landscape.
