Four Pillars Gin Laboratory in Surry Hills by YSG Studio.

Yasmine Ghoniem of YSG Studio describes her design for Four Pillars Gin Laboratory in Surry Hills “not as a replicate of a gin distillery, but rather, as a thriving gin emporium that brings patrons closer to the essence of the Four Pillars spirit”. The space unfolds with a welcoming warmth –moody lighting and dark colours combining to create an intimate atmosphere that’s simply irresistible.

The projects consist of three spaces – a street-side retail store selling house gins and other merchandise, an upstairs gin lab, and an experiential Eileen’s Bar. The design is adaptable, remoulding its self to suit its changing needs as a hybrid retail/hospitality space. A retractable louvered timber screen enables the shop’s merchandise to be protected after hours while also allowing for the opportunity to expand the bar when required.

The vivacious blue tone that colours the bar has been chosen to reference Four Pillars’ branding, along with cooper features and the signature four dots that float within the space. The main character is the V-shaped ‘juniper berry blue’-toned bar – a nod to the origin of gin – residing in the centre of the room. A line of illuminated gin bottles hang suspended from the ceiling, acting as a decorative feature. Integrated within the dark timber joinery are custom carved red cedar lamps fitted with hand-dyed linen shades.

The gin shop downstairs is all about timber. A mix of Australian hardwoods, micro-cement rendered walls, and Pandomo finished floors bring a textural warmth to the interior. A custom-designed 3.3m high display case with shelves crafted from Australian Red Cedar and Cambia Ash sits confidently in the room, an example of handsomely articulated joinery.

Related: Edition Roasters In Haymarket, Sydney by YSG Studo (formerly one half of Amber Road).

[Images courtesy of YSG Studio. Photography by Anson Smart.]