While spotting accidentally Wes Anderson locations has become a pastime for many thanks to the popular instagram account, Melbourne-based interior design studio Biasol have taken an intentionally Wes Anderson approach to their latest cafe. Inspired by the symmetry and whimsical use of colour in Anderson’s films, The Budapest Cafe in Carlton, Melbourne is Biasol’s second Anderson-inspired venture, following on from their debut venue in Chengdu, China, that utilised marble surfaces and a pale pastel green colour palette.
“Our design draws on Anderson’s meticulous, memorable and magical worlds to create an inviting destination with whimsical character and mythical scenes,” said Biasol founder Jean-Pierre Biasol. “We were also inspired by his symmetry and quirky set designs; vivid and nostalgic colour palettes; and the sentiment that infuses his films.”
Like its counterpart in Chengdu, The Budapest Cafe in Melbourne is similarly pastel, however takes on a warmer, earthier tone to adapt to the sensibility of its Carlton setting. The bubblegum pink exterior of The Grand Budapest Hotel is foregone in favour of darker hues like orange and terracotta, which are complemented by soft beige and sand shades. “We evolved the design and experience to an earthy colour palette reflecting our local sensibilities,” explained Biasol.
Upholstered banquettes in rust-red draw the eyes around the space, enveloping a long bar table that serves as the central seating area. Combining art with architecture, The Budapest Cafe offers patrons a visual delight, with the abundance of archways and shallow staircases that lead to nowhere sure to be a hit with cinema buffs and design lovers alike.
Words by Theo Rosen
Images courtesy of Derek Swalwell for Biasol
