Interior Design Project | 2023

G-Free Bunker

About the Project

G-Free Bunker is a unique café located within the historical confines of World War II air raid shelters in Brisbane's Fortitude Valley. This café is dedicated to serving grab-and-go gluten-free food and coffee. Beyond being a culinary destination, it also serves as a creative homage to Brisbane's wartime history.

In this project, I took on the role of a solo designer, responsible for conceptualizing and executing every aspect, from the logo and design criteria to the floorplan, aesthetic, branding, and fitout.

The primary goal of G-Free Bunker was to raise awareness of coeliac disease while celebrating Brisbane's rich historical context. Simultaneously, the project aimed to boost tourism by offering a unique and immersive dining experience.

Being personally affected by coeliac disease, I approached this project with a deep passion for advocating awareness. My design process began with the creation of a digital model, followed by a meticulously crafted physical 1:25 scale model. This blend of digital and physical representation allowed me to refine the concept and bring it to life.

To capture the essence of the 1940s, I chose a modern aesthetic inspired by that era. The design features distinctive tile patterns and materials that pay tribute to the period's design sensibilities. Notably, the exterior glass showcases transparent green overlays of images from Brisbane's wartime history, serving as a visual connection to the past. G-Free Bunker offers both indoor and outdoor seating for a versatile dining experience.

The design was executed using various tools and software, including Revit for 3D modelling and space planning, Enscape for real-time rendering and visualization, and Adobe Suite for branding and marketing materials.

The project's execution was a resounding success, delivering a café experience that is not only a feast for the palate but also a historical journey through time. The attention to detail and the immersive design elements have made G-Free Bunker an attraction in itself.

The project commenced in September 2023 and was completed by October 2023, underlining the efficiency and dedication invested in this endeavour.