The vision for this café was to create something special for the growing Hanley Farm community—a place to gather, share stories, eat, drink, and connect. As Project Architect at Warren and Mahoney, I worked closely with the Client to deliver a social anchor for the neighbourhood.

The design draws inspiration from simple rural forms, echoing the idea of a contemporary farmhouse. A strong gabled structure and exposed timber portals give the café its character. These timber frames bring warmth, rhythm, and a sense of craft to the interior, helping the space feel grounded and inviting.

With a tight budget, every decision had to work hard. While we retained key architectural features like the glulam structure, savings were found through smart, robust materials. Acid-washed galvanised corrugate cladding gives a textural, utilitarian edge to the exterior, while a black-painted ceiling offers a simple yet effective backdrop.

The result is a space that feels casual yet considered—light-filled, comfortable, and unpretentious. It’s a place to linger, whether it’s over a morning coffee, a shared lunch, or an impromptu community meeting.