We’ve heard the talk about a newly opened wine bar which is unlike anything available in Wollongong’s city centre so off I headed with Birdblack Design’s new addition Taylor, our intern who helped in writing about this beautiful space.

The city of Wollongong is evolving into a social destination, especially with the emergence of new and interesting bar venues that offer a unique experience to relax and share a glass of wine or two.

The Throsby is one such bar which delivers this type of experience while complementing the city of Wollongong and surrounding areas. Opened in early December,  The Throsby fills the gap within the city by creating a space for people to meet and enjoy a common love – rich wines and delicious cheeses.

Owners Maddie Sullivan and Erick Zevallos are vast travellers who wanted to bring a wine bar like those from larger cities into the CBD of Wollongong and share their love of delicate foods and wines with the community.

There is great emphasis placed on the importance of the community and the journey of The Throsby which is why owners Sullivan and Zevallos sourced local materials, finishes and included their family’s skills and craftsmanship within the design of the space.

And this is how the name of The Throsby emerged, as it references British explorer and one of the first settlers within the Illawarra region, Charles Throsby.

The journey of The Throsby emerged when Sullivan and Zevallos walked past the vacant space on Kembla Street and knew it was perfect for their vision. The 70-year-old building, which has had various tenants, encompassed a richness which they wanted to maintain when designing the space.

The design responds to this by opening up the back of the space, with bi-fold doors, to create a continuity between the indoors and outdoors and exposing the original brickwork and as Zevallos said “let it be itself”. To complement this design feature a Scandinavian influence and minimalistic style emerged within the space.

When entering The Throsby you are greeted by a carefully detailed sandstone sign, created by Sullivan’s uncle that immediately evokes a sense of refined design that is mimicked throughout the entire space. The neutral colour palette creates a welcoming and comfortable space.

The design of the space is subtle and understated. Emphasis is placed on the collective details which add to the overall luxurious atmosphere of the wine bar. Sullivan and Zevallos are all about the details within the space and this is evident by the importance they have placed on all the intricacies which fill the space, creating moments of interest for all to enjoy.

Every item has been conscientiously selected and created which is evident by the concrete, steel and Tasmanian oak counter and service bar built by Sullivan’s father, the beautiful Rabbit Trap Timber cheese boards (sourced from Bowral) and graphic design work of  the  ‘‘small tool’’ inspired by a picture of Sullivan’s grandfather.

The depth of The Throsby journey and design is enhanced by all these personal influences and local involvement which is evident when you are in the space.

Sarah Nolen is a designer from Birdblack Design. Check out birdblackdesign.com.au