Hall Studio

MONA Faro

Designed as a response to James Turrell’s immersive piece, Unseen, Seen perceptual cell, this outward-looking hospitality offering plays on the principles driving perception, materiality and light. Set within the newly added Pharos wing of MONA (Museum of Old and New Art) by Nonda Katsalidis, Faro is a counterpoint to the strength, robustness and masculinity of its architectural framework. The layering of such a formally defined space, as a destination after entering through Turrell’s work, was key. The deliberate integration of softer elements, texture and the use of colour add a depth and richness, together with the niches of luminosity to engage the user within the space.

As a destination of divergence, the offering of a bar and tapas dining also acts as contrast to the contemplative and meditative work of Turrell. The space is designed for everyday dining as well as functions and custom events, and each piece needed to accommodate the alteration of the interior as needed. Custom pill shaped rose quartz tables were designed as jewels along with the luminous arabescata white marble tables, working with Kirsha Kaechele to compliment the bespoke tableware & cutlery and providing a creative match to the food and beverage offering by the talented MONA team As a destination and place of respite from the sensory chaotic engagement of the gallery, Pharos provides the ultimate milieu – a place of reflection.

MONA Faro Project Information

Project Type
Hospitality/Gallery
Location
MONA, Hobart, Tasmania
Project Size
280sqm
Completion
December 2017 (with further works 2019)
Designer
Hall Studio
Architect
Nonda Katsalidis/Fender Katsalidis Architects
Builder
Fairbrother
Artist
Unseen Seen by James Turrell
Photographer
Remi Chauvin, Brett Broadman, Jessi Hunniford, Matt Newton

Projects

Buxton Contemporary

MONA Faro

Portsea House

Melbourne Penthouse